7289 – LOW-BOOM SST

Expert Skill
(Formerly Skill Level 3)
The supersonic transport (SST) was the future until dangerously
loud sonic booms limited where these marvels could fly. The
super-quiet Low-Boom SST could begin a new era of supersonic
passenger flights. This highly detailed model rocket kit features
laser-cut balsa parts, including realistic under-wing “engines
pods” and a parachute recovery.

DESCRIPTION

In an era of aerospace marvels, the supersonic transport (SST)
stood out. By the mid-1960s, multiple nations were pursuing the
goal of an SST passenger jet. Imagine traveling from New York to
L.A. in less than two hours – it was the verge of a revolution in
air travel! But there were problems. Budget overruns and
projections of enormous operating costs were limiting the
passenger SST’s appeal. But the real death knell to an
international fleet of SSTs was the excessive sound – these
super-fast jets were simply too noisy.

The SST’s thunderous “sonic booms” – faster-than-sound shock
waves – were dangerously loud. So loud that SST activity over the
continental US was banned, with other nations following suit.
Eventually, supersonic flights were limited to ocean routes. Most
nations dropped their SST projects and a single model, jointly
developed by England and France, was produced in very limited
numbers. In the end, the revolution never came.

Fast forward to today. After decades of test flights and
analysis, a solution may finally be at hand: The Low-Boom SST. By
adjusting critical aspects of aircraft features like nose shape,
fuselage length, wing surface area, engine output, etc., the
duration and power of the sonic boom can be minimized. “Low-boom”
supersonic test aircraft are now being flown successfully, and
passenger jet designs are in the works.

Estes is looking ahead with its own Low-Boom SST – a sleek,
30-inch long, delta-winged model rocket of the next generation of
quiet, super-fast passenger jets. This Expert level kit is
loaded with features, including intricate, balsa-constructed,
underwing engine pods and a large sheet of detailed water-slide
decals to complete the scale-like look. Launch and watch as the
Low-Boom SST climbs to 400 feet on a C6-3, engine and gently
returns under a large 15 inch parachute. The SST revolution might
be on its way after all!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Recommended Engines
C5-3, C6-3

Projected Max Altitude
400 ft. (122 m)

Recovery System
15 in. (38.1 cm) Parachute

Length
30 in. (76.2 cm)

Diameter
1.33 in. (34 mm)

Estimated Weight
3.8 oz. (107.7 g)

Estimated Assembly Time
6 Hours (painting and glue drying time not included)

Fin Materials
Laser cut wood

Decal Type
Waterslide

Launch System
Porta-Pad II and Electron Beam Launch Controller

Launch Rod Size
1/8"

Age Recommendation
Estes model rocketry is recommended for boys and girls ages 10+
with adult supervision for those under 12, and rocketeers of all
ages.