Michael Koppelman, an iPhone developer and model rocket enthusiast, decided that it would be a good idea to launch his iPhone into the air in a rocket. This unique experiment combined his passion for technology with his love for rocketry, resulting in a fascinating and daring project.
Amazingly, the iPhone survived the launch. It even had its very own parachute to ensure it landed safely back on Earth. This precaution was crucial, as the iPhone needed to be protected from the impact of landing after reaching such a high altitude.
The Launch and Its Challenges
Launching an iPhone in a rocket is no small feat. The rocket went up to an impressive 1300 feet in the air. This altitude is significant for a model rocket, and it posed several challenges. The rocket had to be carefully designed to accommodate the iPhone, ensuring that it was securely fastened and protected from the intense forces during launch and ascent.
Michael had to consider the weight distribution and aerodynamics of the rocket. The iPhone’s weight could have affected the rocket’s stability and flight path, so precise calculations and adjustments were necessary. Additionally, the parachute system had to be meticulously planned to deploy correctly and bring the iPhone back to the ground gently.
Technical Aspects and Innovations
One of the most interesting aspects of this project was the technical innovation involved. Michael used his expertise as an iPhone developer to create a custom app that recorded data during the flight. This app collected information such as altitude, speed, and G-forces experienced by the iPhone. This data provided valuable insights into the rocket’s performance and the conditions the iPhone endured.
Moreover, the project showcased the durability and resilience of the iPhone. Despite the extreme conditions, including rapid acceleration, high altitude, and the subsequent descent, the iPhone remained functional. This experiment highlighted the robustness of modern smartphones and their potential for use in various unconventional applications.
Here’s a video of the rocket in action, and an interview with Michael.
iPhone Rocket Launch and Interview (from MobileOrchard.com) from Mobile Orchard on Vimeo.
The video provides a visual account of the launch, capturing the excitement and technical details of the project. It also includes an interview with Michael, where he discusses the inspiration behind the project, the challenges he faced, and the outcomes of the experiment.
The rocket went up to 1300ft in the air, check out Michael’s website, Lolife for more details.
Lolife via Mobile Orchard and Cult of Mac
This project not only demonstrated the potential for integrating technology with hobbies but also inspired others to think creatively about how they can use their skills and interests in innovative ways. Michael’s successful launch of an iPhone in a rocket is a testament to the possibilities that arise when passion and expertise come together.
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