Historical Note: Model Missiles, Inc.

Model Missiles, Inc. was the first manufacturer of model rockets and model rocket engines. The company was founded by G. Harry Stine and Orville H. Carlisle in 1957. The two began a correspondence after the publication of an article in 1957 titled “The World’s Safest Business” for Mechanics Illustrated about rocket safety. From there, they collaborated in the development of model rockets. Stine guided Carlisle on propellant material suitable for Carlisle's designs and on safety measures that he should follow. Through this partnership they opened Model Missiles, Inc., a hobby rocket business based out of Denver, Colorado. They sold the Rock-A-Chute Mark II and a scale model of the Aerobee sounding rocket. Vern Estes later joined Model Missiles, Inc. developing a machine for the company that mass-produced rocket motors to keep up with growing popularity of the hobby. After Model Missiles went out of business, Estes formed his own eponymous model rocketry company.

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