The Orbital Trebuchet

Firing the model

Testing of the model trebuchet commenced successfully in the week of December 8, and several objects including tennis balls and grapefruit were fired successfully.

The first test of the initial 7-foot model Orbital Trebuchet commenced on the evening of December 15, 2002. The gravitational force simulation capsule was fired three times. Unfortunately, the capsule did not travel farther than 50 feet in any of these firings. It was later determined that the capsule weighed much more than the initial design anticipated, and the counterweight was not sufficient to throw the capsule beyond 50 feet.

However, this demonstration was still a success; after three firings, the capsule was still intact, along with its payload. Also, because this capsule is much larger proportionally for the orbital capsule (which, for this model, should be the size of a marble or smaller), the firing can still be considered a success.

The December 15 test was unfortunately, due to its night launch, not visually documented; no photos that were taken came out. The counterweight will be adjusted, and further firings will be commenced in the near future (before December 31) in order to provide photographs of successful firings.

As of this time, no investors have yet stepped forward to finance the next model, which will have a 70-foot throwing arm. Individuals or coporations interested in investing in this unique business opportunity should contact Orbital Trebuchet Enterprises or its founder immediately to get in the early stages of this surely profitable endeavor.

Disclaimer: The following presentation is (c) 2002 Orbital Trebuchet Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Images may have been reproduced without permission, but may not be reproduced without permission.