Compressed air in a bottle turns into a powerful way to launch tube rockets with Pitsco’s AP Launcher, the air-
powered rocket launcher.
Perched on a tripod, the launcher collects air from a tire pump in a plastic bottle. Press the trigger button and
the air blasts out the tube where the rocket awaits its ride. Capable of launching 100 feet straight up – and
much farther if launched at an angle – the AP Launcher is a powerful and consistent tool for supervised aero-
space activities.
Using this tool, many math and science concepts can be covered including trajectory, velocity, aerodynamics,
pneumatics, force, and motion.
Liability
Pitsco, Inc. will not be liable for any personal or property damage resulting from the improper use of the
AP Launcher or from deliberate tampering with the device to obtain pressures above 20 psi.
Included Materials
• Launcher with trigger button
• Tripod
• Plastic bottle
Also Required (not included)
• Tire pump
• Tube rocket(s)*
• Safety glasses or goggles for everyone near the launch site
*We recommend the AP Rocket Class Pack (33515) for building rockets for the AP Launcher. However, Estes
or other rocket kits using the BT-5 body tube can be launched with the AP Launcher. Please note that the
rockets’ parachutes will not deploy during the flight.
Assembling the Launcher
1. Follow the instructions that come
with the tripod to set it up. Adjust
the height as desired. Pitsco rec-
ommends at least four feet above
ground or higher to avoid acci-
dentally hitting someone near the
launch site.
2. On top of the tripod is a plastic
bracket. Pull out the clip that holds
the bracket on (Figure 1). Remove the bracket.
3. Tighten the screw on one side of the bracket onto the launcher’s base
(Figure 2).
4. Replace the bracket onto the tripod (Figure 3) and push in the clip that
holds the bracket.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AP Launcher User Guide 33456 V0108
