BLOODHOUND SSC MODEL ROCKET CAR CHALLENGE
We are very pleased to announce the launch of the BLOODHOUND SSC Model Rocket Car Challenge.
The Challenge is open to individuals, groups, schools and colleges worldwide with the ultimate aim of
establishing a new World Land Speed Record for a model rocket powered car.
The Challenge is divided into four categories as stated below with the fastest in each category being
the World Record Holder for that particular category:
Length of Track (M)
Number of Rockets
Total impulse N – Sec
Age Group (in school
years)
25
1
2.5
Under 11
50
1
5.0
11 to 14
100
1
10
14 to 16
400
Unlimited
Unlimited
No Age Limits
DEFINITION OF THE RECORD
This record is for the fastest rocket powered model car in each category.
This record is to be attempted by an individual, team or organisation involved in full time education.
This record is measured in kilometres per hour (km/h) and the equivalent given in miles per hour
(mph).
GUIDELINES FOR THE FASTEST ROCKET POWERED MODEL CAR
1. For the purposes of the record a rocket-powered car is defined as self-powered model
cars that cannot be controlled from a distance using a specialised transmitter (remote
control).
2. For the purpose of the record a rocket engine is defined as type of reaction engine that
uses only propellant mass for forming its high speed propulsive jet. i.e. that does not draw
oxygen from the surrounding air and therefore can function in empty space.
3. The model car must be solely propelled by the rocket engine.
4. External stabilisation devices can be used but must not be used to propel the model car in
any way.
5. The record speed must be the average of two timed runs in opposite directions within one
hour. The speed is then calculated and reported in km/h and mph
6. The attempt must take place on level ground. A guiding wire must be used to ensure the
model car follows a straight path during the attempt.
7. The car must have a system to stop it at the end of its run to enable a second run. This
can be built within the car or integral to the guidewire track.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. The name of the individual, organisation or company making the record attempt must be
given, along with the date and place.
2. A team name must be created and the attempt lodge on the Bloodhound model rocket car
challenge community alongside Blast on www.bloodhoundssc.com/rocketcarchallenge
3. The event should take place in a public place or in a venue open to public inspection.
4. Speed must be measured using a speed trap consisting of an electronic sensor at the start of
the speed trap and a sensor at the end of the speed trap and a system to calculate the speed
between the two. This distance between the sensors must be TWO metres.
5. Accuracy of timing reported must be to 1/1000th of a second, timing gear will be supplied by
Bloodhound SSC, however, it is the responsibility of the challengers to set and reset the
equipment after each run.
6. If using own timing equipment, the equipment must be sourced from and operated by suitably
qualified professionals, who must submit a statement (on letterhead paper) after the event
confirming the record speed and how it was measured. This statement must include
information about the timing equipment used.
7. Confirmation of the speed should be provided by independent witnesses or a suitable
independent company. Failure to include the required documentation will ultimately delay the
outcome of your speed claim or lead to its rejection.
8. Details of the record attempt, a case study of the design process and video of the attempt
must be submitted into the Bloodhound rocket car challenge community.
EQUIPMENT LIST (To be sourced by entrant)
1. A model rocket car
2. Rocket engines
3. Igniters
4. Guide wire
5. Timing system
6. Risk assessment of track area
7. Independent witnesses
8. Independent timing accuracy verifier