S.S. Cassiopeia
Kit# 1369
Version 2 Rainbow Hang Tag - Large Letters
Image from eBay
Designer: Unknown
Production Years: 1981-1982
Retail Pricing Range: $6.00
Rarity: Very Scarce
Description: The S.S. Cassiopeia model rocket kit #1369 was offered only in the 1981 and 1982 Estes catalogs. The kit is packaged with a Version 2 rainbow hang tag (large letters) along with a multi color facecard including a blue S.S. Cassiopeia rocket overlaided against a yellow/rose/white background. The classic Estes launch sequence diagram is also printed on the facecard.
The S.S. Cassiopeia is a skill level 3 kit with futuristic interplanetary voyager design. It is powered with 18mm engines and Estes estimates that the furturistic rocket is capable of reaching 900 feet. The rocket employs a 12" parachute for safe recovery. This kit is definitely a skill level 3 challenge with front and aft main body tubes joined via intermediate connection tube and centering rings. Proper alignment of all tubes is paramount for a top class display model. I have built and flown the S.S. Cassiopeia. Take care during recovery as the ring tail and connecting balsa can be easily damaged during landing. I would not fly this model on a windy day for fear of having the rocket dragged on the ground upon landing and damaging the wood dowels or ring tail.
Kit Contents: The kit contains three main body tubes, plastic nose cone, adapter rings, die cut balsa for fins, three wood dowels, 18mm engine mount, rear stabilizing ring, multi color decal sheet, launch lug and instruction sheet.
Availability: This kit is quite scarce and highly desireable due to it's infrequent appearance on eBay and expensive pricing along with two years of catalog availability. During November 2009, the Ye Olde Rocket Forum community selected the S.S Cassiopeia as one of the Top 20 Exotic kits. As mentioned in other individual kit descriptions, finding problem free original kits with rainbow hang tags will be most challenges. The rainbow paper hang tag is thin and easily damaged with handling and age.
Additional information can be found at the following links;
JimZ Kit Plan Link: Estes1369
Essense Model Rocket Reviews: PD Rocketry Clone Link
Specifications: Length: 32.0", Diameter: 0.976", Weight: 2.2 oz.
Recommended 18 mm Engines: B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, B8-5, C6-5, C6-7
Estes Catalog Artwork
