When is it permissible to catch a high power rocket?

Catching a high power rocket is an activity that is generally discouraged due to the inherent risks involved. The process of catching a rocket can lead to potential injuries or accidents, as the rocket may come in at unexpected angles or speeds. Recognizing this risk, safety guidelines typically state that it is never permissible to catch a high power rocket under normal circumstances.

This is because high power rockets are designed to reach significant altitudes and can carry substantial momentum upon descent. Their weight, velocity, and trajectory can make them dangerous to handle as they return to the ground. Therefore, emphasizing the need for safety, it is established that the only appropriate action is to let the rocket land safely without attempting to catch it.

While there are other conditions suggested in the alternatives, such as weight parameters or being deemed safe by a range official, these do not accurately capture the safety standard that dictates a zero tolerance for catching high power rockets. Safety first is the guiding principle in rocketry, and the policy reflects that.