Uploaded November 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
ApogeeRockets.com -
Does the cold weather have you thinking about packing your rockets away for the season? For many of us, winter isn't an obstacle—it's the best time to launch, with wide-open fields and frozen lakes providing the perfect launch sites.
But launching in the cold presents a unique set of challenges. From components that turn brittle to batteries that suddenly seem weak, a drop in temperature can quickly turn a launch day into a frustrating experience.
In this comprehensive guide, Tim Van Milligan from Apogee Components draws on years of experience to share his essential tips and tricks for successful cold weather rocketry. He addresses the common problems that can plague a winter launch and provides practical, field-tested solutions to ensure your rockets fly perfectly, no matter how cold it gets.
In this video, you will discover:
The Parachute Problem: Learn the classic, time-tested method to ensure your plastic parachutes open reliably, even when they get stiff and stubborn in the cold.
Component Integrity: Find out which parts of your rocket are most vulnerable to cold-induced brittleness and how to handle them with care.
The Power Drain Secret: Uncover the simple, no-cost trick to keep your launch controller batteries performing at full power, preventing those weak ignition signals.
Motor Mastery: Understand the critical differences between black powder and composite motors in freezing temperatures and the proper techniques for handling and igniting each for a flawless liftoff.
On-the-Spot Repairs: What happens if something breaks? Find out which adhesive is your best friend for field repairs and the one crucial companion it needs to work effectively in the cold.
Staying Warm and Safe: Beyond the rocket, Tim shares his personal strategies for keeping yourself warm and comfortable on the launch field—from your hands and feet to protecting yourself from an unexpected winter hazard.
Don't let a little chill keep you from enjoying the hobby you love. Prepare yourself with the knowledge to make your next winter launch a soaring success.
As always, you can find all the kits, motors, building supplies, and electronics you need for your next project at www.ApogeeRockets.com.
ApogeeRockets.com -
Does the cold weather have you thinking about packing your rockets away for the season? For many of us, winter isn't an obstacle—it's the best time to launch, with wide-open fields and frozen lakes providing the perfect launch sites.
But launching in the cold presents a unique set of challenges. From components that turn brittle to batteries that suddenly seem weak, a drop in temperature can quickly turn a launch day into a frustrating experience.
In this comprehensive guide, Tim Van Milligan from Apogee Components draws on years of experience to share his essential tips and tricks for successful cold weather rocketry. He addresses the common problems that can plague a winter launch and provides practical, field-tested solutions to ensure your rockets fly perfectly, no matter how cold it gets.
In this video, you will discover:
The Parachute Problem: Learn the classic, time-tested method to ensure your plastic parachutes open reliably, even when they get stiff and stubborn in the cold.
Component Integrity: Find out which parts of your rocket are most vulnerable to cold-induced brittleness and how to handle them with care.
The Power Drain Secret: Uncover the simple, no-cost trick to keep your launch controller batteries performing at full power, preventing those weak ignition signals.
Motor Mastery: Understand the critical differences between black powder and composite motors in freezing temperatures and the proper techniques for handling and igniting each for a flawless liftoff.
On-the-Spot Repairs: What happens if something breaks? Find out which adhesive is your best friend for field repairs and the one crucial companion it needs to work effectively in the cold.
Staying Warm and Safe: Beyond the rocket, Tim shares his personal strategies for keeping yourself warm and comfortable on the launch field—from your hands and feet to protecting yourself from an unexpected winter hazard.
Don't let a little chill keep you from enjoying the hobby you love. Prepare yourself with the knowledge to make your next winter launch a soaring success.
As always, you can find all the kits, motors, building supplies, and electronics you need for your next project at www.ApogeeRockets.com.
