ARC

The American Rocketry Challenge (ARC) rules for 2025-2026 have been announced (see www.rocketcontest.org). Major requirements include:

  • Rocket must carry one egg, in any orientation.
  • Target altitude is 750 feet for qualification flights.
  • At ARC Finals, target altitudes will change and will be between 725 and 775 feet.
  • Target duration is 36-39 seconds for all flights.
  • Rocket body tube must be the same diameter from nose cone to tail end.  Diameter of the rocket body tube must be at least 47 mm (1.85″).
  • Rocket must recover safely with all parts connected (tethered) together, using one or more parachutes for recovery.
  • Rocket must carry an altimeter: Perfectflite Pnut or Firefly, or Jolly Logic AltimeterOne or AltimeterTwo.
  • Rocket length must be 650 mm (25.6”) or greater.
  • Rocket mass at liftoff, including motor(s), must be 650 grams (22.9 ounces) or less.
  • Motor(s) maximum total impulse = 80 N-sec (F motor).

Safe operations are our top priority at DART launches. Requirements for flying TARC models at DART launches include:

  • Rail launch (6′ or longer) is required. 1/4″ launch rods (or similar) are not acceptable.
  • Positive motor retention is required. Taping motors or friction fit is not allowed. [Note: this is already a TARC requirement, and we will enforce this requirement.]
  • Minimum stability margin of 1.5 diameters is required. Inadequate fin size can lead to dynamic stability problem that adversely affects trajectory and performance.
  • Simulation report (Rocksim, OpenRocket, or similar) shall be presented documenting mass, CG, CP, max altitude, and time to apogee (i.e., make sure motor has appropriate delay).
  • Fabric parachutes are required. Plastic or “garbage bag” parachutes are not permitted.
  • Safety check. Demonstrate motor retention, shock cord attachment/strength, proper fit of coupler joints, etc.
  • Follow instructions from DART range personnel. Decisions by the DART Range Safety Officer are final.

Please contact DART for additional information regarding our support for TARC teams.