LAUNCH CONTROL ASSISTANT (LCA) - INSTRUCTIONS

St. Louis Rocketry Association

* Assign pad numbers to the flyers and enter the pad numbers and rod diameters on the top of the Flight Data Cards. Always check the RSO's distance boxes at the top of the Flight Data Card. If the RSO has marked one of these boxes assign the pad number based on that distance.

* Only after the ignition of each rocket do the following:

  1. Enter the Lift-Off Time of the flight on the Flight Data Card. If you don't have a watch, borrow one.
  2. Assign each rocket that ignites a sequential Flight Number. Log the number in on the Flight Data Card. Keep the Flight Numbers in order. The next LCA has no chance to recover from your errors.
  3. Enter the LCO's name on the Flight Data Card. Use the LCO's first initial and last name and enter it on the line provided. If you don't know the LCO's name, ask them!

If a rocket does not ignite, give the flight card back to the flyer so it can be recycled. If a rocket does not ignite, don't assign a Flight Number and don't enter the LCO's name on the Flight Data Card.

* During launch operations inform the LCO of ANY AIRCRAFT that enters the operation area.

* During launch operations inform the LCO if you see any incorrect switch settings on the Launch Control Panel. Make sure the MAIN POWER SWITCH, the Relay Box REMOTE POWER SWITCH and STROBE LIGHT are OFF when the range is "OPEN", or if there are flyers in the pad areas. Do not perform any continuity checks while there are people in the pad areas.

* During launch operations, inform the LCO of the activities of the spectators, flyers and persons not associated with the launch.

* Assist the LCO in any way you can to improve safety during the launch.

V 2.0 08-12-97