The Estes 1225 Alpha is the classic intermediate model rocket kit that has introduced generations of rocketeers to building, sanding and painting. It flies to a projected 1,000 feet, returns on a colorful 12-inch parachute, and accepts a wide range of 18 mm engines, so you can fly it on small fields or go for maximum altitude.
Key Features
- Intermediate skill level that teaches basic building and finishing (priming and painting)
- Projected maximum altitude of 1,000 ft (305 m)
- Laser-cut balsa wood fins and a 12-inch parachute
- Flies on 1/2A6-2 through C6-7 engines (A10-3T with an adapter, not included)
- An Estes catalog classic for decades
Specifications
| Skill level | Intermediate |
|---|---|
| Recommended engines | 1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7 |
| Projected max altitude | 1,000 ft (305 m) |
| Recovery | 12 in. (30.5 cm) parachute |
| Length | 12.3 in. (31.2 cm) |
| Diameter | 0.98 in. (25 mm) |
| Weight | 0.8 oz (22.7 g) |
| Fins | Laser-cut balsa |
| SKU | 78TE1225 |
What's Included
- Alpha rocket kit parts
- 12 in. parachute
- Step-by-step instructions
What You'll Need (Sold Separately)
- To build: scissors, pencil, ruler, fine sandpaper, carpenter's glue, hobby knife, masking tape, primer and paint
- Estes Porta-Pad II launch pad and Electron Beam launch controller
- Estes model rocket engines, starters and recovery wadding
- 4 AA alkaline batteries for the launch controller
Ideal For
Rocketeers stepping up from ready-to-fly kits, STEM classes and nostalgic builders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Estes Alpha good for beginners?
It's an intermediate kit. Beginners can build it with some patience, and it's the classic first build for learning sanding and painting.
How high does the Alpha fly?
About 1,000 feet on a C6-7 engine.
Need 12 of them?
The Estes 1756 Alpha bulk pack has 12 individually packaged kits.
Estes model rocketry is recommended for ages 10 and up, with adult supervision for those under 12.