The Research Express rocket from Apogee Components is a simple to build payload carrying rocket. It is great for science fair projects. It is the perfect size for launching an altimeter, some toy action figures, or other little gizmos. The kit is easy to build and features a slotted body tube that allow the tabs on the laser cut fins to mount perfectly straight on the rocket. This allows the rocket to fly straight and true and it is a step up from rockets with molded plastic fins, because you build it all yourself! With this kit, modelers will learn the advantages of having lightweight wooden fins. Not only does the model weigh less than a rocket with plastic fins, but the fins can be shaped (airfoiled), which lowers the drag and allows the rocket to achieve spectacular heights. Once this skill is mastered, it can be used on more complex model rockets. The rocket uses standard size rocket engines (18mm diameter: A, B or C size). It will never bore you because it can be used with a variety of rocket motors, so you can pick how much performance you want. This is a rocket kit that requires assembly. To launch this rocket, you'll also need rocket engines and a launch pad set.