Where can I buy a kit so I can build a real rocket?

Question

So I am going to be going to college in the fall to major in aerospace engineering. This is pretty much rocket science. I figured a good gift for my parents to get my for Christmas is a rocket buildign kit.

Does anyone know of a place I can buy an actual rocket building kit? I am not interested in those childish rockets powered by water pressure and what not. I want to be able to buy a kit that will allow me to build a real life rocket powered by a dangerous chemical such as gasoline.

I want the serious type of rocket kit if it exists and not some electric helicopter rocket.

Thanks

Answer 1

I think a great way to get into this is to join a model rocketry club. They can teach you how to build and launch (safely) very sophisticated rockets. Link below.



Also, many aerospace types take up this hobby - it's a good chance to rub shoulders with some real rocket scientists!

Answer 2

Consider watching "October Sky", and duplicate the detail those guys went to.



You can start off with retail pyrotechnical engines, and design your own fuselage etc by checking out Estesrockets.com

Answer 3

Here are some of them

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?type=4&campid=5335971225&toolid=10001&customid=&mpre=http%3A%2F%2Fshop%2Eebay%2Ecom%2F%3F%5Fnkw%3Drocket%2Bkit