SystemsGo Rockets 2021 is already in full swing. The group met, February 5, to line out details for the upcoming spring launches. In attendance were SystemsGo team members, Rebekah Hyatt, Program Director; Scott Netherland, Executive Director; Doug Kimbrell, Board President; Tara Kitchens, Executive Assistant; with Phil Houseal, Communications Director; Kirk Moore, Regional Director for Southeast Texas; and Doug Underwood, Regional Director for North Texas joining on video. Also in attendance were volunteers, Steve Burow and Ginger Burow.
Necessities and logistics for all Texas launch locations were discussed. Venues for lodging, and all needed equipment for each launch site were decided and individuals lined out, to secure them . Travel plans were also lined out. Bear in mind that due to COVID some things will be different. The following changes and requirements will be in place for spring launches:
1. There will not be onsite concessions. We will provide boxed lunches each day and of course water and sodas throughout the day for our volunteers. Schools are responsible for their own food.
2. We are not having spectator tents to reduce the opportunity for people to congregate. We are encouraging schools to bring their own shelter and chairs. We are asking that all participants practice social distancing.
3. Wristbands are required for all. We have limited participating teams to 3 students per team. (****This is correct at time of publication but may be changing with COVID restrictions lifting in some areas.) We have closed the event to any and all spectators. We must limit and control the number of people on site so we are requiring all to wear a wristband and will be monitoring that throughout the day.
4. Face coverings are required.
5. Temp checks – we will do temp checks each day upon arrival/check in at Stage 1.
6. We recommend that all volunteers over 65 be vaccinated. This is not mandatory, just suggested.
7. All toilet facilities will have disinfectant spray. We are asking that everyone use the spray before and after use. There will also be handwashing stations available.
All schools have been notified of this change. Questions and concerns may be directed to info@systemsgo.org.
Dates for all events except White Sands Missile Range are as follows:
- New Mexico (Jal) — May 11-13th
- North Texas (North of Mineral Well/Jack County) — April 22-23, weather contingency day on the 24th
- Central Texas (Stonewall) — April 29-May 1, weather contingency day on May 2nd
- Southeast Texas (Anahuac/Smith Point) — May 6-8, weather contingency day May 9th
- WSMR – TBD
Current schedules for launches show about 150 vehicles expected for launch at the spring launch sites.
Excitement is building and plans are under way. Stay tuned for more updates as events get closer. More changes may be announced as plans and arrangements are completely finalized. Rockets will #RideTheSkies in just over two weeks. Welcome back to the Texas Rocket Trail, we will see you at lift off!
Event details will continue to be available here.
www.systemsgo.org as always is the place for more information on this program. You may also email them at info@systemsgo.org .Take the time to get your school involved; the future of your students will be greatly benefited.
Hope to see you at the launches! #RideTheSkies #texasrockettrail #Rockets2021
On the Wings of Angels 