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Apogee Components
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Skill Level 0
A stable pad for launching
mid-size model rockets

ORDER This Launch Pad NOW! Just click on the "Own It Today" button below.

Estes Porta-Pad® "E" Launch Pad

P/N: 07702
Price: $45.25

Price: $45.25*    Quantity:

Note: There is a freight surcharge due to the large size of the shipping carton and the additional cost of postage: $2 for US orders, $12 for international orders. The international charge may show up as a separate charge on your credit card statement.

Estes Porta-Pad® "E" Launch Pad

Are you looking for a launch pad to guide your bigger size model rockets? The Estes Porta-Pad® "E" is exactly what you are looking for. It was designed with a 4 foot long, 1/4" diameter launch rod for launching your mid-power rockets straight.

Estes Porta-Pad e for mid size rockets.

The first thing you'll notice about this pad is the honking-huge blast deflector disk. This thing is 10.5 inches in diameter! That means the flame of the rocket motor will always be impinging somewhere on the deflector, keeping the ground safe from the heat and the fire.

When you assemble the pad, you'll also notice that it has a very low center-of-gravity, and extra wide legs. The legs have a footprint of 32.5 inches in diameter, which means this launch pad will NOT tip over very easily. That gives you an added measure of safety when you are launching in breezy conditions.

And because the pad is low to the ground, you'll find it much easier to load the rockets onto the rod compared to other high power launch pads.

While the pad is very low to the ground, the launch head is fully adjustable. That means you can aim the rod in the direction of the wind, so the rockets won't drift so far downrange.

There is even a slot in the base to accept a 3/16 inch diameter "Maxi™ rod" (not included). This allows you to fly smaller rockets as well as the bigger ones. So this pad gives you a lot of versatility.

The launch pad has a detachable launch rod, and removable legs which means it can be stored in a small box when you are not using it. And the aluminum launch rod itself is made in three screw-together sections, so it can also be stored with the legs in the same box!

This pad works well for lighter weight models, like the Apogee Saturn 1B kit, the Apogee Aspire model, and the coming rockets from Dyna-Star Mid-Power Rockets.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is the biggest rocket that this pad can handle?

A. Estes hasn't given me any specs to answer this question. But my guess is that it can handle a rocket with a weight of 2 pounds (.9 Kg). I definitely wouldn't fly the Apogee Saturn V kit on this pad, as it weighs 3 pounds at lift-off. Also, I wouldn't use a high thrust "G" size motor on this pad. The high-velocity flame hitting the big blast deflector will put a lot of stress on the legs, and they could break.

Q. What can be done to make this pad handle higher power rockets?

A. First, you'd need to swap out the aluminum rod with one made of steel. Aluminum is good for lightweight rockets, but you'll get too much whip of the model if the wind is breezy. Second, you would need to put a block of wood under the middle of the pad to prevent it from flexing under the weight of a heavier rocket. You should also make sure the rocket is higher on the launch rod, so the flame doesn't pound the blast deflector too hard. Otherwise, it may flex and snap off the plastic legs. Most flyers use a cloths pin to hold the rocket higher up on the rod. But don't go too high, as you do need longer rods to hold the model until it reaches sufficient lift-off speed. You can check with RockSim software to determine what the minimum length you'll need for a safe launch.

Q. Does this pad come with a launch controller to ignite the motors?

A. No. You'll need to purchase the controller separately. For mid-power rockets, we recommend the Pratt Hobbies GO-BOX Controller. Click Here for more information.
Estes e-launch controller

Q. Is there a better pad than this for mid-power rockets?

A. Yes. While it costs a little bit more, the Aerotech Mantis launch pad has a lot more features than the Estes pad on this page. Click Here for more information.

Q. Is this Estes launch pad overkill for smaller models?

A. Yes. Most smaller rockets can be safely launched with the Sky Launch System. And you'll save money too, since it doesn't cost nearly as much as this one. Click Here for more information.

Q. Is there a bigger pad available for high power rockets?

A. Yes. If you are looking for a heavy-duty pad that can hold a rail and those big high-power rockets, then the Gun Turret pad is for you. With its all steel construction, and tilting head, this pad was developed specifically for people that want something that makes it easy to load and launch those oversize rockets.
LOC Onyx Rocket

Actual Customer Comment:

"We got our Apogee order of rockets and couldn't be more happy. Shipment came fast and in good condition. We went to a local launch last weekend and gave a couple newbies your name. Thanks for the help and hope to order again soon." -- Rob & Evan Fridge

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Our Tel: 719-535-9335
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Hours of Operation:
8:30am - 5.00pm

After Hours:
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Apogee Components, Inc.
3355 Fillmore Ridge Hts.
Colorado Springs, CO 80907 USA
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If you are not happy with the product you receive from Apogee Components, return it to us for a replacement, full refund, or merchandise credit -- Your Choice! If you have any other questions, please call us at 719-535-9335 or contact us by email us. Our goal is that you are 100% delighted with your order.

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This page last updated on: 6/22/10