A DIY 3D Printed Rocket Launcher
After successfully launching a multitude of my 3D printed Bounty Towel rockets, my kids and I decided we needed a more badass rocket launcher than the bland and generic store bought mass manufactured versions. My biggest complaint with the generic store bought models is when you press the switch you get very little feedback on what is happening. This is especially concerning when the rocket doesn’t immediately launch. There is also ample opportunity for improvement in the aesthetics department on these devices.
If we wanted an awesome rocket launcher we were going to have to print, build, wire, and assemble it ourselves!
Model Rocket Launcher Plans
Bill of Materials (BOM)
- 3D Printed enclosure (cover + base are my design) <- Download here
- Battery Enclosure (8 AA Batteries)
- 12V Battery Voltage display
- 3 Indicator LEDs (for power, continuity and armed status)
- On/Off Key Switch
- 1 red cover toggle switch
- 1 red push button switch
- 4mm banana plug female terminals
- 3” Metal Handles (Qty 2)
- Optional Swag: Launch Key Lanyard
DIY MODEL ROCKET LAUNCHER CONTROLLER WIRING DIAGRAM
These are utterly amazing! Are you planning to sell them, or release the .stl files and detailed part list? I know a lot of my friends would love them.
Any chance you’d publish a wiring diagram?
Updated to include wiring diagram.
I would like to build one of these to use when my son and grandson are visiting. My son and I launched rockets when he was young, and I’m continuing the tradition.
Might you be willing to share the STL for the case? I can print it on my own Prusa 3D printer.
Thanks!
Website updated with download link for the enclosure.
Thanks for uploading the 3mf file. I paid for it and downloaded it. It comes in as one object, and I don’t think it will print that way. Can you give me any advice?
The .stl object files you need are embedded inside the .3mf files. At least with PrusaSlicer, when you open the .3mf file, it gives you the option to import just the .stl files. Then you can slice and save the g-code for printing.
Can you elaborate on some of the current and voltage ratings of the components? What’s to prevent the lower current rated parts (like the key switch) from getting overloaded when a large current is provided to the igniter? And do the LEDs blow out easily? They can handle so little current.
I dont know about rockets but in the mining world, the red cover toggle switch would be a second red button so that you have to push two buttons at the same time to initiate an explosion.
Matthew,
I found your launch system on line and decided to try building this myself, following your parts
With only the voltmeter and led light and key switch installed, I am melting the battery pack.
Thoughts on what would cause this???
The most likely cause of a melting battery pack is a short circuit or incorrect wiring somewhere in the system. If the wiring between the battery and the key switch, voltmeter, or LED is incorrect or if exposed wires are touching, this could create a direct connection to ground, leading to excessive current draw and overheating of the battery. Consider adding a 2A fuse. Add a fuse (1–2A) in series with the positive terminal of the battery to prevent overheating and protect against future short circuits. Test each component (key switch, LED, voltmeter) individually with a multimeter to ensure they are functioning correctly and not shorted.
Thank you!!!
Another question…the wire gauge size from the battery pack is 22.
Is using 18 gauge wire from some of the other components an issue ???
I am uncertain if mixing different sizes of wire creates problems with current flow…
Thoughts??
I think it should be fine.