How do I calculate the apogee of a rocket before launch?

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SUMMARY

To calculate the apogee of a rocket before launch, one must consider multiple factors including thrust curves, vehicle weight, and drag force. Ignoring air resistance is not a viable option, as it significantly impacts the rocket's trajectory. A differential equation can be used to model the flight, and numerical methods may be necessary to solve it for maximum height. For practical applications, utilizing an online model rocket height calculator is recommended for approximations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rocket thrust curves
  • Knowledge of drag force and its impact on flight
  • Familiarity with differential equations
  • Basic principles of rocket design and vehicle weight
NEXT STEPS
  • Research online model rocket height calculators
  • Study differential equations related to projectile motion
  • Explore the effects of drag force on rocket flight
  • Learn about thrust curve analysis for different rocket engines
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for amateur rocket enthusiasts, students working on aerospace projects, and anyone involved in model rocketry who seeks to understand the factors influencing rocket apogee calculations.

Matt-STIPA
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Is there any equation in order to know how high my rocket will go, before launching it? I suppose that if there is any, it will not take into account air drag and others, and there is no need for that. I just one to know an approximate, I am making a summer project with some friends and we had this question. Thanks in advance.
 
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There is not a simple equation, because the answer depends on many factors, ignoring air drag is not a reasonable assumption, and one needs to know the thrust curve also.

Do a search for

online model rocket height calculator
 
Dr. Courtney said:
There is not a simple equation, because the answer depends on many factors, ignoring air drag is not a reasonable assumption, and one needs to know the thrust curve also.

Do a search for

online model rocket height calculator
Complex equation? I wanted to present this project to a local organisation and the demonstration of the process had to be shown and we would like to have these sort of calculations done on our own...
 
Yes, but you have to know your rocket. In general, you can model the flight with a differential equation, solve that (worst case: numerically), and then find the maximal height.
 
ok, you can't just ignore air resistance to fly (drag force) since its is one main paramerer in addition to vehicle weight, trust force and vehicle accelaration(its mustly defened on type of engine and design choice).
 

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