Collection of rockets from beginner to high-powered models

HPR Lab

High-Powered Rocketry Camp — Build bigger, fly higher, prepare for certification

About This Camp

HPR Lab is designed for students ready to advance their rocketry skills and tackle more complex aerospace challenges. Over four evenings, participants will design, construct, and prepare a high-powered rocket while learning advanced building techniques, safety procedures, and certification requirements. Each session blends technical instruction with hands-on construction, guiding students through the process of building a rocket suitable for Level 1 High Power Rocketry certification.

This program offers a rigorous STEM experience that emphasizes precision, responsibility, and problem-solving. Students leave camp with a completed high-powered rocket and the knowledge to pursue certification through the National Association of Rocketry. With all materials included and instruction aligned to the NAR Safety Code, HPR Lab provides a structured environment where curiosity and skill converge to spark keen interest in aerospace.

Session Overview

High-Power Rocketry Fundamentals

Introduction to HPR, motor classification, NAR Safety Code for high-power, certification overview

Advanced Airframe Construction

Fiberglass techniques, motor mount assembly, precision fin alignment

Recovery Systems & Finishing

Parachute sizing, deployment charges, dual-deploy concepts, finishing techniques

Pre-Flight & Certification Prep

Final assembly review, pre-flight checklists, certification flight procedures and requirements

What's Included

High-powered rocket kit
All engines and construction supplies
Safety glasses
Classroom instruction materials
NAR certification preparation materials

Prerequisites

Students must meet one of the following requirements:

Completed LaunchPad Rocketry Camp
Earned the Civil Air Patrol Basic Rocketry Badge
Demonstrate prior model rocketry experience and a solid understanding of intermediate construction techniques and the NAR Safety Code

What Is NAR Level 1 Certification?

NAR Level 1 High Power Rocketry certification demonstrates that a rocketeer has the knowledge and skills to safely build and fly rockets using H and I class motors. Certification enables you to purchase high-power motors not available to the general public and fly at NAR-sanctioned launches across the country.

HPR Lab prepares students with the construction skills and knowledge needed for certification. The actual certification flight takes place at a separate NAR-sanctioned launch event under the supervision of a certified mentor. Learn more at nar.org.

New to Rocketry?

If you don't have prior model rocketry experience, start with our LaunchPad Rocketry Camp. Graduates automatically qualify for HPR Lab.

Learn About LaunchPad Camp →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between model rocketry and high-power rocketry?

Model rockets use small, commercially made engines and typically weigh under 1,500 grams. High-power rockets use larger, more powerful motors (H impulse and above), can reach much higher altitudes, and require NAR or Tripoli certification to purchase and fly. HPR Lab bridges this gap, teaching students the advanced techniques needed to build and safely fly high-power rockets.

Will my child get certified at this camp?

HPR Lab prepares students for NAR Level 1 certification by teaching them to build a certification-worthy rocket and understand the certification flight requirements. The actual certification flight is a separate event conducted at an NAR-sanctioned launch under the supervision of a certified mentor.

What additional costs are there beyond registration?

The registration fee covers all materials, kits, engines, and instruction. The only potential additional cost would be the NAR membership fee ($25/year for junior members) and a certification flight motor, which are needed if the student decides to attempt their official certification flight at a future NAR launch event.

How powerful are the rockets they'll build?

Students will build a rocket designed for H or I class motors, which can reach altitudes of 1,000 to 3,000+ feet depending on the motor and rocket design. These are significantly more powerful than model rocket motors and produce a dramatic, exciting launch.

Quick Facts

Ages: 11–18
Dates: June 15–18, 2026 (Mon–Thu)
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Downingtown, PA
Price: $500 Resident / $520 Non-Resident
Experience: Prior model rocketry experience required