Challenge...

I may not be able to write funny witty blog posts. I may not even be able to read them. However as an engineer, I do have a skill set of some kind. To find out whether my education has been worth anything at all, I propose an open challenge to all that read this:

Can you build a water rocket that will go higher than mine?

A class of sixth grade students in the Bronx failed to meet my challenge. I kicked their butts. (Although it was a very inspiring teaching experience and gave me hope for the future of America).

The competition details will be worked out and agreed upon but i propose something like this:

• everyone must use a bottle that will fit in my launcher (any less than 2L soda bottle should work but check with me)
• feel free to use any glue/tape/cardboard/paper materials/etc. as you please. (I will reject any dangerous knives sticking off your rocket but other than that...)
• everyone may choose how much water to put in their rocket (you must use some water for safety)
• pressure in the rocket may not exceed 80 psi
• height measurement will be completed by measuring angle to apogee from a known distance to the launcher. If this means nothing to you don't worry- I'll take care of the math.
• Loser buys a round!

Post in comments if you want in. You stand to lose a few beers. I stand to lose my dignity. It should be fun!