This set of Micro Maxx ready-to-fly model rockets includes the Space Shuttle and the Saturn V and two display stands. These model rockets are both based on real spaceships, which were created and used by NASA. The Saturn V is the largest space vehicle ever created by the U.S. space program for a specific job, the lunar landing mission. Because of its mission, it is also known as the Moon Rocket. The three-stage Saturn V towers 363 feet high, including its Apollo Spacecraft payload. It weighs in at 6.1 million pounds, when fully loaded.

The Space Shuttle is officialy known as the Space Transportation System (STS) and is the first orbital spacecraft created by NASA to be reusable.

It is over 122 feet long, with a wingspan of over 78 feet. The total liftoff weight is an impressive 240,000 lbs, including dual boosters and external fuel tank, and can accommodate a crew of seven.

The Mirco Maxx versions are quite a bit smaller and well suited for flying on small fields. To launch either of these model rockets with the Micro Maxx silo-style launchers, be sure to insert the launch rod into position 2. All other ready-to-fly MMX rockets will use launch rod position 1.

Measurements

The Space Shuttle is about 3 1/2" (9 cm) tall and has a wingspan of slightly over 2" (5.2 cm).

Its companion, the Saturn V, is around 5 3/4 "(14.7 cm) tall. Both weight in under once ounce, according to Quest Aerospace.

Flight Data

As is the case with all plastic Micro Maxx rockets, the recovery system used is a streamer.

The Saturn V was great fun to launch. It went straight up and reached a respectable peak altitude, for a Micro Maxx rocket. Once the model rocket was recovered, it became clear that it suffered damage. The recovery device had popped out and could not be re-inserted, as shown in the image on the right. Sadly, this Saturn V won't fly again. The Space Shuttle starts by going straight up and tends to go off-course shortly thereafter. It doesn't go very high either, but is still fun to watch. While the streamer didn't fully deploy, this model rocket didn't suffer damage of any kind and is ready for additional launches.