Prior to flight, who must inspect all high power rockets?

The requirement for a high power rocket inspection prior to flight is to ensure safety and adherence to regulations. A CAR/ACF qualified rocket inspector is specifically trained and certified to evaluate the construction and assembly of high power rockets. This includes checking the structural integrity, recovery systems, and adherence to safety guidelines mandated by the Canadian Association of Rocketry.

Having this specialized inspection is crucial because high power rocketry involves significant energies and complexities not found in lower power models. A qualified inspector possesses the knowledge and expertise required to identify potential issues that could arise during launch, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents or malfunctions.

In contrast, a qualified rocket engineer may not necessarily be certified for field inspections, and licensed pilots typically do not have expertise in rocket safety inspections. The notion that no inspection is needed fails to acknowledge the safety protocols that are essential for high power rocketry operations.