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Everybody loves a good rocket launch, and these model rockets will be a good boost to your spacefaring dreams. There are deals galore for some starter sets and model rockets across many different skill levels.
The rocket sets below range from beginner to advanced, from air-powered to engine-powered, with some fun variations in between (like rocket-powered cars or rocket-powered bottles). Prices and deals on model rockets vary through the year so keep an eye on this page when you're looking for one. If you don't see something that catches your eye on this page then perhaps our best gifts for space fans , Lego space deals or our best space gifts and deals for kids pages will.
Model rocketry requires not only the rocket, but some accessories like wadding, fin straighteners, engines and batteries, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. We've included a selection of accessories to help you build out your rocket stable. Also make sure to follow all safety guidelines carefully when launching.
Rocketry is not only a fun activity, but it is a real-life inspiration to help youngsters learn about science, engineering, mathematics and technology (STEM). And many people who flew into space or who worked for space agencies or companies began just like you want to, with model rockets. Stay safe and have fun.
Great model rocket deals
Estes Taser Rocket Launch Set: $36.95 at Amazon
If you're looking for a smaller starter set, this easy-to-build Taser rocket from well-known manufacturer Estes includes a rocket capable of reaching 1,100 ft. (335 m). It comes with a brightly colored one piece body tube, a molded fin set and a bullet-shaped nose cone. Motors are sold separately.
24-pack of Estes C6-5 engines: $68.67 from Walmart.Running out of motors for your Estes rocket can be a drag, but you'll be hard-pressed to run low with this bulk pack of 24 motors for mid-range rockets.
National Geographic Rocket Launcher for Kids: $39.99 at Amazon
You can save $5 off this cool outdoors rocket from National Geographic. Unlike Estes, it needs no chemical motors to fly, just a rechargeable battery to get it off the ground in three different flight modes. The body opens up with three rotors to twirl back to Earth.
Stomp Duel Rocket Launcher Toy for Kids: $23.99 at Walmart
This stomp set that allows kids to experiment with angles, jumping and flight paths at a great price. You'll get 8 rockets in a pack with this set, enough to keep you're engineer in training busy on their own or at parties
Great Estes starter sets to start your engines
Estes Rascal and HiJinks Launch Set: $59.94 at Amazon
You can double your flying fun with the Estes Rascal and HiJinks launch set. Each rocket will require Estes engines (sold separately), which allows you to propel to 1,200 feet. They only take a couple of hours to assemble and are easily retrieved thanks to colorful parachutes.
Amazing replicas of real-life rockets to launch
Estes Rockets 1-200 Scale Saturn V Model: $69.99 at Walmart
A slightly taller Saturn V rocket is also available at Walmart, if you want something closer to the epic 363 feet this rocket spanned. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below). Stock is low, so order soon.
Estes Mercury Redstone Flying Model Rocket Kit: $25.49 at Amazon
Relive the first Mercury astronaut missions by NASA with this model rocket. It goes up to 200 feet in the air. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below). Stock is low, so order soon.
Estes Rockets Little Joe I Model Rocket Kit: $26.79 at Amazon
The Little Joe famously tested the Mercury launch escape system and heat shield before the first NASA astronauts flew into space. This model allows you to soar up to 400 feet. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below). Stock is low, so order soon.
Estes Leo Space Train Flying Model Rocket Kit: $29.72 $25.10 at NewEgg
This model rocket (which reminds us of the X-1 Experimental Spaceplane DARPA) will let you fly up to 300 feet. It also can be fitted with several kinds of engines. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below).
Wild model rockets straight out of science fiction
Estes Mav Flying Model Rocket Kit: $19.99 $18.13 at Amazon
This rocket is meant to be a representation of what could bring us to Mars. It's almost ready to fly out of the box, but you'll need to get a few things. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below).
Estes Quinstar Model Kit: $19.89 at Walmart
This spinning rocket will make your launches look more colorful than ever. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below). Stock is low, so order soon.
Estes Hyper Bat Flying Model Rocket Kit: $14.66 at Walmart
This is the next generation bat signal. With extreme altitude capabilities, this will get you soaring to 2,100 feet. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below).
Estes Explorer Aquarius Model Kit: $38.32 at Walmart
This is a perfect kit to fulfil your underwater and interstellar dreams. It flies up to 300 feet high. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below).
Estes Destination Mars Longship Model Kit: $34.99 at Amazon
Dream of flying to Mars by literally flying 500 fit in the air. This incredible model will get you a little bit of the way to the Red Planet. This does not come with engine or wadding, and you will have to buy that separately (links below). Stock is low, so order soon.
Crazy rocket-powered car sets
Estes Blurzz Rocket-Powered Dragster Mantis Toy: $34.99 $31.61 at Amazon
Get going at high speed with this rocket-powered car. Just make sure to pick up a motor and battery, sold separately. This also comes in blue if you prefer.
Estes Blurzz Rocket-Powered Dragster Storm: $34.99 at Amazon
Get going at high speed with this rocket-powered car. Just make sure to pick up a motor and battery, sold separately. This also comes in green. Stock is low, so order soon.
Cool model rockets powered by water and air
Not all rockets need chemical motors. Some run on air or water. Some you can stomp to launch. Here's some elemental rocket choices for younger kids to launch.
Weedstar Water Rocket Launcher: $26.99 at Amazon.
Just pump in water and launch! This durable rocket should last your kids a while and keep them entertained outdoors.
Genovega Water Bottle Stomp Model Rocket Launcher: $13.99 at Amazon
This super-simple design includes a water bottle and all the other parts you need to get launching. This is a tool that will encourage your youngster to enjoy space while getting wet.
Model rocket accessories: Motors, Wadding & more
Editor's note: If you're going to launch model rockets, you're going to need a range of motors. Be careful to check your rocket's instructions and guide to find out exactly which motors work best with it.
Below are a few standard sizes of motors to consider, but your motor needs may vary depending on the rocket.
Estes A8-3 Engine Pack: $12.97 at Amazon
Suitable for many A-rocket types. This engine is a standard engine designed for flights in rockets weighing less than 3 ounces, including the engine.
Estes Model B6-4 Engine Pack: $11.89 at Walmart
Suitable for many B rocket types. This engine is a standard engine designed for flights in rockets weighing less than 4 ounces, including the engine.
Estes Recovery Wadding: $7.99 at Amazon
This pack includes 75 sheets of flame-resistant material. It will allow you to get ready for most types of rocket launches.
Estes Fin Alignment Guide Model Kit: $18.99 $13.98 at Amazon
Get your fins aligned fast and accurately ahead of a rocket launch. This will get you flying safely in the air.
Estes AltiTrack Altitude Tracker: $19.99 $16.65 at Amazon
Want to know how high your rocket flew? This altitude tracker will measure your flight in hundreds or thousands of feet.
Be sure to check out Space.com's deals on Celestron telescopes and binoculars.
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Elizabeth Howell
Staff Writer, Spaceflight
Elizabeth Howell (she/her), Ph.D., is a staff writer in the spaceflight channel since 2022 covering diversity, education and gaming as well. She was contributing writer for Space.com for 10 years before joining full-time. Elizabeth's reporting includes multiple exclusives with the White House and Office of the Vice-President of the United States, an exclusive conversation with aspiring space tourist (and NSYNC bassist) Lance Bass, speaking several times with the International Space Station, witnessing five human spaceflight launches on two continents, flying parabolic, working inside a spacesuit, and participating in a simulated Mars mission. Her latest book, "Why Am I Taller?", is co-written with astronaut Dave Williams. Elizabeth holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota, a Bachelor of Journalism from Canada's Carleton University and a Bachelor of History from Canada's Athabasca University. Elizabeth is also a post-secondary instructor in communications and science at several institutions since 2015; her experience includes developing and teaching an astronomy course at Canada's Algonquin College (with Indigenous content as well) to more than 1,000 students since 2020. Elizabeth first got interested in space after watching the movie Apollo 13 in 1996, and still wants to be an astronaut someday. Mastodon: https://qoto.org/@howellspace
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