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A skyrocket is a type of firework that uses a solid rocket motor to rise quickly into the sky. At the apex of its ascent, it is usual for a variety of effects (stars, bangs, crackles, etc.) to be emitted. Sky rockets use various stabilisation techniques to ensure the flight follows a predictable course, often a long stick attached to the side of the motor, but also including spin-stabilisation or fins. In the United Kingdom firework rockets are sold by weight, e.g.: 4 oz, 8 oz, 1 lb. This is not the weight of the rocket itself, but rather of a lead sphere whose diameter matches that of the rocket motor, officially defined as "The weight of a lead sphere that is just supported by a tube that the rocket motor will just fit into."citation needed
Skyrockets and their use in professional displays
A common misconception about professional fireworks displays is that skyrockets are used to propel the pyrotechnic effects into the air. In reality, skyrockets are more widely used as a consumer item. Professional fireworks displays utilize mortars to fire aerial shells hundreds of feet into the air, not rockets. There is however, a rising effect known as a "tail," which is attached to the outside of the shell to leave a trail of sparks during ascent, and is meant to give the look of a rocket rising into the sky. Mortars are used as opposed to skyrockets for safety reasons. Once the shell leaves the mortar it is no longer under propulsion; therefore, can not re-direct itself towards the crowd.
Gallery
 Skyrocket just after liftoff |
 Launching skyrocket |
 Flying skyrocket |
 Skyrocket at explosion |
External links
- http://www.cyber-heritage.co.uk/gallery3/ - examples of skyrockets, with data such as thrust, size, total mass, propellant (often black powder) and its mass, and burn time
- Picture of a street lamp hit by a skyrocket
- A pyrowiki on pyrotechics - more information on sky rockets.
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Wikipedia content modification information:
- This page was last modified on 23 June 2008, at 16:29.
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