Astron X-Ray
Kit# 1218
Rainbow Hang Tag - Large Letters
Purple Background Facecard
Images by Gerry Fortin
Designer: Unknown
Production Years: 1979-1980
Retail Pricing Range: $4.50-$4.75
Rarity: Scarce
Description: During the 1979-1980 time frame, the X-RAY kit continued to be available in Estes catalogs as a skill level 1 kit. However there was a significant kit packaging upgrade. The kit packaging was updated with a Version 2 rainbow hang tag paired with a new multi color purple and pink background facecard. The facecard continues to show the classice Estes rocket launch diagram as seen on all Version 2 skill level facecards. The kit number is updated to #1218. Estes marketed the Astron X-RAY as a single stage payload rocket with visible payload bay.
Kit Contents: The kit contains a main body tube, balsa nose cone, clear payload section, a balsa adapter, one sheet of balsa fin stock, 12" parachute, engine mount, launch lug, and instructions.
Availability: The rainbow hang tag version of the Estes X-RAY kit is scarce on eBay but will turn up if collector has patience and pays attention to weekly listing. The packaging artwork is very colorful and worth including in a serious kit collection. Be ready to pay between $50 to $80 for a nice problem free kit with undamaged rainbow hang tag.
Additional information can be found at the following links;
JimZ Kit Plan Link: Estes K18
Essense Model Rocket Reviews: Semroc X-Ray Clone Kit
Specifications: Length 16.75", Weight 0.7 oz, Body and Payload Diameters 0.736" and 0.950"
Recommended 18 mm Engines: 1/2A6-2, A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, B8-5, B14-5. C6-5
Estes Catalog Artwork
