Max Q Rockets

Max Q Rockets crafts high-performance, scale model rockets of most modern rockets designed for enthusiasts and hobbyists.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

This 3D-printed Saturn V actually flies.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Looks pretty good altogether. Still need to do
1. The shape of the nosecone doesn’t look quite right.
2. Some of the coloring bled a little. Need to add color backing on the inside.
3. Verify the position of the solar panel containers.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Lots of detail added to the Skylab OWS. Does anyone know if the solar arrays should be 180 degrees apart? Mine are 160 right now based on observations but doesn’t seem right.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

I realized that part of the black area is actually the fairing adapter. Redesigned and test printed the fairing. This is pretty close to final.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

If you haven’t noticed (I’m sure few of you have), I’m going to start regularly posting updates and challenges as I work to develop more scale model rockets with CAD and then 3d printed. If that interests you, please follow.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Testing out the white color. With rockets we want to make them as thin as possible but if the inside is black and the outside is white the result is a light grey look. The second print here has a thicker hull which makes is more white but still not good enough. I’m you g to have to paint the inside walls as well. Normally more weight is bad but this rocket needs nose weight so adding weight here is actually an advantage.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Failure to print the white core stage sections of the Saturn V. Its hard to tell but it looks like when the print file uploaded to the printer it lost a section in the middle. This resulted in the print skipping in the middle and then spaghetti. #fail

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Skylab payload fairing looking great. I added some fain details for the seams and other parts to match the real one.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

First test print of the upcoming Skylab variant of our Saturn V.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Starship orbital refueling: Tanker, Depot, HLS - built as one system. But make it 3D printed.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

First flights always teach you something.

After getting these Starship variants in the air, a few tweaks were obvious — redesigned mounts, adjusted fins, and testing what works better, not just what works.

Iterate. Improve. Fly again.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Every launch hits turbulence.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to bring a new 3D printed rocket to life. Delays, fixes, tweaks, and steady progress toward launch.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

The Starship fleet is on the printers. 3D printing a rocket isn't just hitting "print." Scale, tolerances, fit, and flight stability all matter. This one's worth the wait. Kits launching soon.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

The Raptor engines HAD to line up for an authentic Super Heavy Booster V3 - so, I engineered a solution.

This custom Raptor alignment tool keeps every engine straight, secure, and evenly spaced, making assembly cleaner and far less frustrating.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

So many tiny details go into each 3D printed rocket and a lot of trial and error.

Getting functional landing legs right on the Starship HLS was a must, and I’m thrilled with how these turned out.

Releasing soon.

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

All Starship variants officially tested 🚀
Great success across the board. A few final tweaks, then the full Starship suite is ready for launch on the site. This has been one of my favorite builds yet. #Starship #ModelRocketry

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Test flights are underway.
Both the Starship Depot and Tanker variants are flying well, with a few refinements remaining before release.
The Starship fleet is coming together. #modelrocketry #Starship #SpaceX

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

How I designed the New Glenn model rocket kit. Came out really nice!

https://t.co/V0vJTO61tY

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

@mrsteve31050 Thanks for the kind words!

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

Our New Glenn model rocket kit has just launched. Pick one up at https://t.co/BNdf3J3IWw

or what a video about it
https://t.co/1V3ukTosRR

[Max Q Rockets @maxqrocketscom]

@mrsteve31050 I worked to design it that way but this version was too small. Maybe the next, bigger, version.