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The Ares I rocket is NASA's newest rocket which will send astronauts into orbit. Ares I is an in-line, two-stage rocket configuration topped by the Orion crew vehicle and its launch abort system. In addition to the vehicle's primary mission -- carrying crews of four to six astronauts to Earth orbit -- Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations.

During launch, the first-stage booster powers the vehicle toward low Earth orbit. In mid-flight, the reusable booster separates and the upper stage's J-2X engine ignites, putting the vehicle into a circular orbit.

This approximately 1:260 scale model rocket kit includes printed wraps which minimize the amount of painting needed to make it look great.

• Length: 19.5"
• Recovery: Parachute
• Skill Level: 3

Recommended Motors: A8-3, B6-4, C6-7

Detail of Hans "Chris" Michielssen's Ares I