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Tripoli International High-Power Rocket Launch
Tripoli International High-Power Rocket Launch
By: © Nelson Taylor 2012
If you've seen the movie "October Sky," you already have a good feel for what this annual LDRS (Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships) gathering is all about. In fact, Quentin Wilson, one of the four boys portrayed in the movie, showed up at the 1999 gathering to give his nod of approval. This is the largest and most prestigious launching of rockets in America, held in July in various places around the nation every year. To call these rockets toys is an extreme understatement. Some stand 30 feet tall and are equipped with the same solid rocket fuel the space shuttle uses, propelling them to altitudes of 30,000 feet.
Event organizer and launcher Bruce Lee says, "Someday soon, probably in the next year, one of us is going to send a rocket into outer space." Launchers consider 50 miles up to be outer space. "Imagine," he says, "being the first nongovernmental body to leave the atmosphere." But this event isn't just for the big boys. Rocket launcher -- over 400 in all -- from every class are welcome. $35 is the annual registration fee for launching, but if you aim to be one of the 100-plus spectators the event is free.
Tripoli International High-Power Rocket Launch - When, Where and More Info Please
America Bizarro
The above snippet is just one of a collection of 240 off-beat articles on 2camels from Nelson Taylor's wonderful America Bizarro.
America Bizarro is a unique travel guide that celebrates humorously interesting, pop-culture kitschy and off-the-map odd festivals, out-of-the-way gatherings, kooky conventions, conferences and contests throughout the United States.
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