I built this rocket specifically to certify Level 1 and Level 2 while on a family vacation to Brad's house. The launch day got complicated due to Brad having an appointment he couldn't get out of. As a result, we were cramped for time and every thing would have to go perfectly to get both flights in. We readied the Grimace the night before so we were ready to fly as soon as the range opened, which was about 1-1/2 hours later than normal. Once the range opened, we were the first ones out. Doesn't matter how many times you watched, or help some one else ready a complicated rocket, your first high power flight can be nerve wracking. Fortunately for me, I had several pros looking over my shoulder.

You'll notice I'm always wearing a bandana like a boy scout wannabe, but I found it to be the surest sun protection for my tender scandinavian dermis.

~70 Milliseconds after ignition: (Click Photo for Larger Image)	236 Milliseconds: Reflections of the fin fillets and the launch lugs are evident in this shot	402 Milliseconds: The Grimace cocked slightly to the east	568 Milliseconds: Billy Dahlberg's magnificent camera continues to get clear pictures	734 Milliseconds: 100% Resolution. Airframe and Exhuaust plume still visible

Rocket continued to about ~2500 Feet (2412, according to the altimeter). Both the altimiter charge and the motor charge went off. Not according to design ,the rear tube seperated at the altimeter bay instead of the at the afterbody, The altimeter bay was also driven forward into the the Main Chute bay, causing the that chute to deploy early, so it came down the full hieght on both chutes. The alimeter also correctly fired the main ignition charge at 300 feet, though the chute was already out.

Once on the ground, bits of the Grimace were spread about fifty feet apart. It was a nice soft landing. Unfortunately we discovered some minor damage, My Certification witnesses judged it suffiiciently minor to pass my cert, but because I'm such a stickler for cosmetics, I didn't want attempt the L2 with a gerry-rigged repair. We decided to hold off on the J350 for 2003 G. Harry Stine Launch.

Special Thanks to my Launch Crew, Especially Brad, who loaned me his casing, altimeter, chutes, and all kinds of gear to make this flight happen. Terrel Willard and Billy Dahlberg were my Certification witnesses. I'm especially grateful to Billy for the excellent photos (all the photos on this page are Billy's).

Bradley, Newly Certified Me and Billy Dahlberg, Cert Witness and Rocket Photographer Extraordinare

Me and Terrel Willard. I met him four years ago at my First SSS Launch. I see him but once a year , but he always remembers me! What a guy!