Hey, thought I might add an update on the hybrid rocket demo.

I've been working on completing a very basic ground support setup consisting of a hardwired single channel ignition system and pair of relays to operate the required solenoid valves at the pad. Last weekend, I was able to do some initial testing with filling and dumping the motor, allowing me to check that everything works as it should and find any leaks etc, and all has gone well. The solenoid manifold I've put together works way better than expected and could fill up to L2 hybrids fairly quickly, smaller hybrids like a 16" x 38mm fills in a matter of seconds.

I have been tossing up whether I should do a first launch this coming weekend ahead of the club launch on 14/7, however I'm heavily leaning towards saving it for club day as doing an extra launch would leave me one fitting short, and I'd have to hope that my next order from Contrail arrives before the club launch day. This will mean it is a maiden flight for the rocket and motor, so it will be a heads up flight.

I will likely not have a second motor in time for the club launch and the motor I do have is currently assembled, so I won't be able to show a couple of the internal parts of the motor just yet, but I'll print off a few copies of the instruction manual that the motors come with if anyone wants to have a look.

I'll also be taking a look at the club's old hardwired Wilson FX launch controller to see if it can be used or adapted to operate hybrids and have a couple of ideas on how that could be done. If this is possible, it would reduce the cost for the equipment needed quite a lot, as significant portion of the up-front cost of flying hybrids is the launch controller and pad box.