The BALLS Launch
BALLS is widely recognized as the premier Experimental Rocket Launch in the continental United States, with a history spanning more than 36 years. The event is held annually in the Black Rock Desert north of Reno, near Gerlach, Nevada.
BALLS brings together dedicated rocketry enthusiasts who are committed to advancing non-professional rocketry through experimentation, innovation, and technical excellence. It showcases cutting-edge designs, advanced technologies, and some of the largest non-professional rockets flown anywhere.
BALLS Is Not a Typical Tripoli Launch
BALLS exists to provide a venue for projects that should not be flown at other events or locations due to safety requirements, complexity, or extreme altitude potential. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Large or high-performance rockets
- Complex staging or clustering
- Metal airframes
- Self-designed or self-fabricated rocket motors
- New or experimental technologies under development or validation
Black Rock Dry Lake has long been recognized as an ideal location for large research launches. Its open terrain and vast recovery area make it uniquely suited for high-altitude flights.
Over the years, BALLS has become the premier showcase for non-professional research rocketry. The craftsmanship, engineering, scale, and technical sophistication displayed at the launch are unmatched. Equally important is the open exchange of knowledge, ideas, and methods among participants.
This event is primarily focused on research motors and potentially hazardous projects. Access to pad areas and away cells is restricted to Tripoli members and NAR members with an approved operational purpose. These rules are strictly enforced.
Registration and Attendance
Registration is mandatory for all attendees, including flyers and spectators.
Please note:
- BALLS is not a family-oriented event. Attendance by children is discouraged.
- All media personnel, including photographers, film crews, and video crews, must apply for accreditation in advance. For media inquiries, contact our Media Liaison, David Wilkins.
- All participants should carefully review the BALLS Rules and associated information before registering or attending. Understanding the rules ahead of time helps avoid delays and ensures a safe and efficient launch environment.
Volunteers Needed
Like any large launch, BALLS depends on volunteers to operate safely and efficiently. If you are interested in helping, your participation is welcome.
Volunteer requirements:
- Must be a registered flyer or spectator
- Must be a current Tripoli member
- RSOs and LCOs must hold at least Level 2 certification
If you would like to assist, let us know.