4" Custom Rocket Motor With Head-End Ignition - N2060

A two stage rocket is (often) an example of something that is more than the sum of its parts, as they can reach significantly higher than the total of the altitudes each stage could reach on its own. Matching the performance of a two stage rocket with a single stage one would usually require a significantly heavier and more expensive rocket, so they are an appealing architecture. They aren't without their own complications, though, as you typically need a different, larger motor for the booster stage, and a very reliable and quick igniter for the sustainer. This video documents the development of a 4" motor that will be the booster for the next 3" composite case rocket that Sam Austin and I are building, and an igniter that will light its sustainer. The motor performed exactly as hoped and doesn't require any changes. The igniter was a success as it lit the motor and didn't burn through, but wasn't nearly as fast as I would have liked to see. It is going to be revisited and tested again before the flight.