Calculating Distance from Model Rocket Photo

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating the distance of a model rocket from a photograph taken at its peak height. The key formula presented is: distance to the rocket = known distance * (unknown size / known size). The discussion emphasizes the importance of magnification and pixel measurement in determining the rocket's distance. By photographing an object at a known distance and comparing pixel sizes, users can accurately compute the distance to the rocket.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic photography concepts, including magnification
  • Familiarity with pixel measurement techniques
  • Knowledge of basic geometry for distance calculations
  • Experience with model rocketry and its parameters
NEXT STEPS
  • Research photographic magnification techniques for accurate measurements
  • Learn about pixel density and its impact on image analysis
  • Explore geometric principles related to distance and size calculations
  • Investigate software tools for image analysis and distance computation
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Model rocketry enthusiasts, photographers interested in distance measurement, educators teaching geometry, and hobbyists looking to apply photography in practical applications.

KevinMWHM
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Launched a model rocket with my 5 & 3 year old, have a photo of the rocket straight overhead at the approx peak. Can I figure out the distance? I know the length, and the magnification. What would the formula be?
 
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Depends what you mean by the magnification.

But if you photograph the same object a known distance away and note how many pixels it is on the image then you can work out the distance to the rocket by just comparing the number of pixel on your photo.

So distance rocket = known distance * unknown size/known size
 
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