Estes Alpha III Beginner Model Rocket
Estes Alpha III Model Rocket
Estes Alpha III Packaging
Estes Alpha III Launch
Estes Alpha III Up Flame
Estes Alpha III Side Flame
Estes Alpha III Recovery
Estes Alpha III Altitude
Estes 1256 Alpha III Parts

Alpha III®

SKU: 001256
$24.99
Sale
Beginner

The Alpha III® by Estes Rockets is the perfect beginner’s model rocket, combining ease of assembly with impressive performance. Known for its sleek black body and vibrant orange nose cone, the Alpha III® is designed to make building and launching your first rocket simple and exciting. With its one-piece fin unit and straightforward construction, this classic rocket can be ready for launch in no time.

Capable of soaring up to 1,150 feet with Estes standard engines, the Alpha III® delivers thrilling flights and safe landings thanks to its 12-inch parachute recovery system. Whether you’re starting your rocketry journey or introducing students to STEM concepts, the Alpha III® is an engaging and reliable choice that has been a favorite among hobbyists for decades.

  • SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
  • RECOMMENDED ENGINES: 1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7
  • PROJECTED ALTITUDE: 1150 ft. (350 m)

In The Classroom

Estes Alpha III Launch

Join the hundreds of thousands of people who got their start in model rockets with this classic! The first rocket in the Beginner level series, the high-flying Alpha III was designed with beginners in mind.

Renown for its classic good looks, simple assembly, and excellent performance, the Alpha III beginner rocket is one of the model rocketry's best-known and most-loved designs. The black body tube, fluorescent orange nose cone and one piece fin unit makes this rocket easy-to-assemble and fun to fly! With nothing needed more then everyday household supplies and some glue, you'll be ready for liftoff in an hour.

Using Estes standard model rocket engines (sold separately), watch as the Alpha III soars to 1150 feet high. Once the rocket reaches its peak altitude, it will gently return to earth on its brightly colored, matching orange 12 inch parachute. Whether you're a first time rocketeer or a long time flyer, the Alpha III is a true classic that should be in everyone's collection.

WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD: Scissors, pencil, ruler, fine sandpaper, carpenter’s glue and hobby knife. (Tools, construction and finishing supplies not included.)

WHAT YOU NEED TO LAUNCH (sold separately): Estes Porta-Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller, Estes model rocket engines, starters and recovery wadding. Four 1.5V high quality AA alkaline batteries are also required for launch controller (not included).

Projected Max Altitude

1150 ft. (351 m)

Recovery System

12 in. (30.5 cm) Parachute

Length

12.1 in. (30.7 cm)

Diameter

0.98 in. (25 mm)

Estimated Weight

1.2 oz. (34 g)

Estimated Assembly Time

1 Hour (painting and glue drying time not included)

Fin Materials

Plastic

Decal Type

Self-stick

Launch System

Porta-Pad II and Electron Beam Launch Controller

Launch Rod Size

1/8"

Age Recommendation

Estes model rocketry is recommended for boys and girls ages 10+ with adult supervision for those under 12, and rocketeers of all ages.

What You Need To Build (Not Included)

  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Fine Sandpaper
  • Carpenter's Glue
  • Hobby Knife

What You Need To Launch (Not Included)

What You Need to Fly

Recommended Lesson Plans For Your Rocket

Technical Specifications

Beginner
  • Recommended Engines

1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7
  • Launch System

Lifetime Launch System
  • Launch Rod Size

1/8 in. (3.18 mm)
  • Projected Max Altitude

1150 ft. (350 m)
  • Recovery System

12 in. (30.5 cm) Parachute
  • Length

12.1 in. (30.7 cm)
  • Diameter

0.98 in. (25 mm)
  • Weight

1.2 oz. (34 g)
  • Fin Material

Molded Plastic
Estes model rocketry is recommended for ages 10+, with adult supervision for those under 12.

Customer Reviews

Based on 20 reviews
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K
Kimberly Edwards (Canton, GA)
Experience level: Beginner
Nice Beginner Rocket

This was my first rocket i got. The assembly was easy and understandable. Also the fact it could fly up at least 1000 feet is impressive.

M
Mark Haugen (City of Saint Peters, MO)
Experience level: Expert
R
RealRocketStudios (Marietta, GA)
Experience level: Expert
A REALLY GOOD 'UN

Amazing rocket. Fun to fly for the whole family. Tip: for a rocket that light, mounting a parachute increases the risk of it blowing away, so just glue the nose cone 2 the body and launch in an area that has grass (as a cushion)

Estes-LP2-06

Live, Online Training and 1:1 Support

Estes Education has been a leader in STEM education for over 60 years. We know that STEM is a vital interdisciplinary topic that requires hands-on and inclusive learning. Explore these supporting materials to take learning to new heights!

Should you have need, you can meet with a member of Education team for FREE, 1:1 online support to learn rocketry basics, how to apply our curriculum, and discover unique teaching strategies. Our team is eager to answer your questions!