Vintage Launch Controller for Model Rockets

Vintage Model Rocket Launch Controller

Background:

This project began as a search for an Estes Electro-Launch controller like I bought and used in 1970. I wanted to share a similar launch experience with my grandson.

This launch controller was designed with separate upper and lower sections, similar to the original. I printed the upper section with its interior facing downward, in part due to the bulb shroud, and for a smoother outer appearance, with internal support added for the print. The internal support can be carefully removed after printing without damaging the upper section. The lower section was printed with its opening facing upward, without support, and with additional top layers added to the raft for a smoother outer appearance.

Launch Controller Internal Electrical Hardware:

The brass electrical hardware is fabricated. I was fortunate to have original brass hardware on loan, and I used the three pieces to trace templates on paper. The templates can be pr