World Federation Star Probe
Kit# 1342
Version 2 Rainbow Paper Hang Tag - Large Letters
Images by Gerry Fortin
Designers: Keith Niskern
Production Years: 1980-1981
Retail Pricing Range: $6.00-$6.50
Rarity: Very Scarce
Description: Estes World Federation Star Probe model rocket kit #1341 was marketed for only two years within the 1980 and 1981 catalogs. This is skill level 3 exotic kit with multiple body tubes and a large ring tail flight stabilizer. The World Federation Star Probe packaging includes a Version 2 rainbow paper hang tag (large letters) along with a purple and blue facecard with an overlaid World Federation Star Ship rocket in flight. The classic Estes launch sequence diagram is visible on the lower right side of the facecard and indicates a maximum flight altitude of 700 feet.
Estes markets the World Federation Star Probe as its concept vehicle for a deep space exploration craft with atomic fuel Nerva thrusters.
Kit Contents: The kit features two main body tubes with coupler, a large body tube, plastic nose cone, fin pattern sheet, balsa sheet, 18mm engine mount, 12" parachute, multi color decal sheet, launch lug and instruction sheet.
Availability: The World Federation Star Probe is a very scarce kit with few appearances on eBay. Five problem free kits were tally during the 2008 through 2011 time frame. Since the World Federation Star Probe is only found with a rainbow hang tag, then an additional challenge is brought about due to the poor paper quality of the rainbow hang tag. This paper is thin and easily cracks or curls with aging. The large ring tail body tube can also be easily crushed in kits are not properly stored. Currently a problem free kit may cost the collector between $100 to $175.
Additional information can be found at the following link;
Ye Olde Rocket Shoppe Kit Plan Link: Estes1341
Specifications: Length: 31.0", Diameter: 0.976", Weight: 2.5 oz.
Recommended 18 mm Engines: A8-3, B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, B14-5, C6-5, C6-7
Estes Catalog Artwork