When encountering a cloud cover that lowers the ceiling to below your predicted altitude, what action is not acceptable?

Selecting to fly the rocket with RSO (Range Safety Officer) approval when the cloud cover is below your predicted altitude is not acceptable because it places safety at risk. The key principle in rocketry is to adhere to safety guidelines that prioritize the well-being of both the launch crew and spectators. If the cloud cover is lower than predicted, it could lead to potential accidents, such as flying out of sight or losing track of the rocket, thus making recovery difficult and unsafe.

The other options promote caution and adaptability; waiting for the clouds to clear ensures visibility and safety for both the operators and the public. Re-prepping the rocket to stay below the ceiling indicates a proactive approach to ensure the flight remains within the permissible airspace. Changing the recovery system, while potentially altering safety dynamics, may be an attempt to align the flight parameters with the existing environmental conditions. In contrast, proceeding with the launch under restricted visibility conditions can lead to complications that could jeopardize a safe operation.