Progress update-

Static tested the new 29mm motor mount. Worked as designed and will allow me to use an F20-3w motor in the Booster/Carrier. The Orbiter will now carry an E15-P.

The catch/release mechanism now stays with the booster. I got the idea from looking at the upper half of a clothes pin. The torque on the hinge is provided by small magnets instead of a spring. A forward set attracting and an aft set repelling. Attached to the parachute piston/motor mount is a small clip that holds it all together during boost and coast. In the catch position, drag loads on the Orbiter are transferred to the mouse trap hinge pin and not the motor mount. Hopefully the photos below will help explain.

An additional 6" was added to the booster to get the C.G and C.P. to fall into the "stable" range (without adding a ton of nose ballast). Overall length is now 53 1/2 inches.

Next launch window will be March 20th. Hope for light winds.

Regards,

FlyBack

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