ARC Guides

American Rocketry Challenge resources.

Practical guides for students and families at every stage of ARC preparation — from first-time competitors to teams refining their qualifying strategy.

Season Preparation

How to Prepare for ARC Season: A 12-Week Training Overview

A practical 12-week preparation roadmap for ARC teams — what to focus on each phase, from initial design through qualifying flights.

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Competition Strategy

ARC vs. Hobby Rocketry: What's Actually Different

Understand the key differences between American Rocketry Challenge competition rockets and standard hobby rocketry — and why those differences change how you design and train.

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Getting Started

Getting Started with the American Rocketry Challenge

A complete beginner's guide to ARC — who can enter, how teams form, key dates, and what you need to build your first competition-ready rocket.

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Design & Fabrication

Designing 3D-Printed Rocket Fins: A Student Guide to Aerodynamic Stability

Learn how to design, print, and test 3D-printed rocket fins using CAD and iterative prototyping. A practical guide for ARC-track students.

Flight Systems

Recovery System Basics: Parachutes, Ejection Charges, and Safe Landings

A practical overview of rocket recovery systems for students, covering parachute sizing, ejection charge testing, and competition-ready deployment.

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ARC Guides & Resources | SEALS Academy