Paper Rocket Parachute Deployment

[Boxlife27]

In AP Physics B, for our physics olympics, for one event, we are required to make a paper rocket that will be launched straight up in the air by an air compressor and pump. (60 psi)

We have already assembled the paper rocket, with one cylinder of paper, a cone paper nose, and a load of tape to ensure the top doesn't burst on launch.

My teacher warned that the winners and the losers always have parachutes, because either you nail it or you don't. (Parachute might deploy too early, too late, etc...)

How can I deploy a parachute when the rocket is at its peak point?

We have paper, string, plastic bags, and pretty much anything we can get our hands on.

Thank you, any help is very welcome.

 

[berkeman]

In AP Physics B, for our physics olympics, for one event, we are required to make a paper rocket that will be launched straight up in the air by an air compressor and pump. (60 psi)

We have already assembled the paper rocket, with one cylinder of paper, a cone paper nose, and a load of tape to ensure the top doesn't burst on launch.

My teacher warned that the winners and the losers always have parachutes, because either you nail it or you don't. (Parachute might deploy too early, too late, etc...)

How can I deploy a parachute when the rocket is at its peak point?

We have paper, string, plastic bags, and pretty much anything we can get our hands on.

Thank you, any help is very welcome.

What are your ideas so far? Do you know about how long it will take from launch to apex?

 

[Boxlife27]

No, I don't know that, but I believe we will try something like this. http://youtu.be/EQM3NvbK1fE
Creating a flap that will remain closed on the way up and open and deploy the parachute at its peak... Opinions? Thanks