Rocketry Planet

SLIDESHOW: Ben Whitfield prepares a rocket for a test launch Friday.

PUEBLO, Colorado USA — Ben Whitfield prepares a rocket for a test launch Friday at the Southern Colorado Rocketeers' Hudson Ranch launch site.

The rocket leaves a trail of black smoke as it headed for the skies above the site about 10 miles west of Pueblo on Colorado 78.

Members of five Colorado rocket clubs are hosting the National Association of Rocketry annual meet that begins today and runs through Friday.

In addition to contests, demonstrations and displays, the group will host a 'Fly it/Take it' event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and Sunday where youngsters will receive free rockets and learn to fly them.

The events are open to spectators at no charge.

Rocket enthusiasts who are not members of the national rocket club may launch for a $10 fee.

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