SARA is the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) section 545, formed in 1994 for those in Southern Arizona (e.g. Tucson and the rest of the state south of the Gila River). In October of 2005 SARA also became Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) prefecture 93.

Our mission is promoting the safe enjoyment of model and high power rocketry; encouraging interest by youth in science and engineering; increasing awareness of the hobby among the general public; and enjoying the sheer fun if it. We have members with a wide range of interests and skill levels. Some are beginners building their first model rockets and several are participating in high power rocketry (HPR).

Members donate countless hours working with youth groups and participating in educational science events.

Events

Most years since 2005 SARA has been hosting a 2-day rocket launch extravaganza called Desert Heat that includes fun, raffles, prizes and events for the whole family. This is the largest launch in Southern Arizona, and airspace as high as 6,500 feet above the launch field will be cleared by the FAA for the rockets. We have hundreds of rocketeers, their families, vendors and spectators from the Southwestern United States attending the launch each year, with nearly 1,000 rockets launched up to 6,500 feet. There are activities for all age groups at this launch which include a night launch and a mass launch with prizes for the kids. In recent years, volunteer shortages and the pandemic have cancelled Desert Heat,

In 1997 and 2015, we hosted the National Association of Rocketry Annual Meet (NARAM), the NAR's annual model rocketry championship. Attendance was good, the local television & print media covered us and the attendees had fun.

Build Sessions

See the SARA calendar for opportunities to come by to talk, ask questions, build rockets, get some help on your newest project. It's a great opportunity to learn from experienced model rocketeers!

Board Meetings

Board meetings will be held as required, locations are announced in advance on the SARA calendar.

General Meetings

A SARA general club meeting for the year will be held in December immediately following the club launch. Club Officers for the following year are elected at this meeting.