CLINTONVILLE, Pennsylvania USA —The roar of the big rockets should be back this summer at the Interstate Rocket Launch Facility (IRLF) in southern Venango County.

After almost five years of new regulations following the attacks on 9/11, some restrictions on the high-powered motors used to launch the super models are being eased. That is good news for the individuals who operate the educational program.

They have not seen a giant rocket fly since June, 2003.
 
Despite the absence of the large vehicles, the program has continued offering smaller rockets and motors to enthusiasts of the hobby at no charge.

IRLF members have also joined forces with Clarion University-Venango Campus for their "Kids in College" program held every July.

How big, is big, when it comes to rockets that have been launched from the IRLF complex? A model towering over 30 feet once raced into the sky.
 
Standing by, waiting for the "all-is-go" signal are newer models including a six-foot diameter flying saucer based on a popular kit from Estes Industries in the mid 1960s.

The return of the big rockets will also mean more people coming to see the flights and learning about the hobby. According to April Britton of Pittsburgh, who acts as the activities director at IRLF, that will aid more than just the hobby. "When we would have our big launches we could also help some local non-profit groups. We supplied the food to them at no charge to set-up a concession stand. They kept all of the money for whatever project they wanted to put it toward," Britton said.

Another added benefit of going to a launch was all of the free NASA supplies that were handed out to everyone. Along with NASA, the Pennsylvania State Police conducted free fingerprinting of young children. Medical helicopters have flown in and set up educational displays. The National Guard thrilled spectators with awesome pieces of military equipment. Even a truck of the future paid a visit.

Flyers from New York, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia and other surrounding states came to launch and marvel at the facility constructed like a miniature Kennedy Space Center. Located along Route 208 between Clintonville and Emlenton, the launch site is complete with launch pads, towers, control centers, press center and more.

IRLF has been featured in at least two national magazines on rocketry and numerous newsletters from other rocket group chapters. If all goes according to plan, the first high-powered launch will be in mid-July. And that is an event Britton has been waiting for. "It's been a long time since I have seen a big rocket fly and feel it's power. I can hardly wait to experience it again."

So for now it's T-? and hoping.

Copyright © 2007, The Titusville Herald.