Tampa Bay Rocketry Association

TBRA

​​​We currently have a very dedicated core of volunteers that show up each month and spend their time ensuring that everyone else has a safe and enjoyable day on the field. But we need more volunteers to allow these core people the opportunity to actually enjoy some time launching their own rockets.

VOLUNTEERS

​​No experience required. We will train you.    

​​TBRA launches are conducted entirely by volunteers. Without volunteers to setup and take down equipment, serve in Range Safety, Launch Control, and other positions, we would be unable to launch rockets.    

​​​Setup and Takedown

These people show up early and/or stay late. The setup crew comes out to the field early and sets up all the launch equipment, pads, speakers, PA system, and launch tent.  

The takedown crew stays after the launch and takes down all the equipment and re-packs it in the equipment trailer in a neat and orderly way. Launch rods and rails are wiped down with WD-40 and a clean cloth. Ensure the thread protectors are placed on the pads/pad legs prior to repacking in the storage bins. 

Both setup and takedown require someone with a vehicle equipped with a hitch ball in order to hook up and move the equipment and launch tower trailers around the field.

Launch Control Officer (LCO)

Operates the launch control system, launches rockets, and makes the launch announcements over the PA system. Arranges and reviews the flight data cards, noting any "Heads Up" or certification flights. Works with the Safety Check officer to ensure that unauthorized people are not allowed access to the range. Should be certified high power level 1 or higher, NAR or Tripoli.

Safety Check Officer

​This individual ensures that all rockets are safe to fly prior to launch. This function may be performed by the RSO, or delegated to another individual certified Level-2 or higher. The Safety Check Officer examines each rocket, and determines if it is constructed to be stable for flight, and if the rocket/motor combination are safe, as well as reviewing the flight data card to ensure it is completed correctly. Assigns the launch pad, noting it on the flight card. This individual has final authority to deny any rocket for flight, if in their judgement it is not flight worthy, violates any safety codes or launch site rules, or poses a possible safety risk. Works with the Launch Control Officer to ensure unauthorized people do not access the range. Requires a Tripoli Level 2 or 3 certification. 

​Pad Manager

Assists participants that require assistance in locating the assigned pad. Assists new and/or younger participants with placing the rocket on the pad, connecting the ignitor wires, verifies that all pad connections are complete prior to closing the pads for launch. Nar or Tripoli, certified at least Level 1. 

Registration Assistant

​Check in participants and spectators, verify that everyone entering the field signs in, verify that everyone has a Release of Liability on file or completes a new one. Verify NAR or TRA status of adult participants. Issue wristbands to participants and spectators.

If a position is not manned during any time block, we will cease launch operations until the next manned time block.

Launch Volunteer Sign-up.