Your rocket has landed right next to the pad that it was launched from. When is it safe to recover your rocket?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of safety protocols during rocketry events. It is crucial to wait until the range officials have announced that the range is open and have given permission for flyers to enter that area. This procedure ensures that all potential hazards have been addressed, including the possibility of other rockets still being launched or recovering from their own flights.

Following this protocol guarantees that the area is secure and free from any imminent danger, such as leftover rocket ignition or other recovery operations that could pose risks to individuals approaching the launch site. Adhering to such announcements prioritizes the safety of both the individuals handling the rockets and the overall event attendees.

Other choices lack consideration for established safety measures. For instance, recovering the rocket immediately after it lands does not account for the potential risks present during the recovery period. Similarly, waiting for a specific time without any official clearance could result in oversight of ongoing operations that may still pose hazards. Clearing all rockets from nearby pads also does not necessarily mean that it is safe to approach without explicit signals from range officials.