How to Make a Remote Control Rocket Launcher (Easy DIY)

Want a safer way to launch small rockets or fireworks from a distance? Here’s a simple DIY remote-control rocket launcher you can make at home using common parts. This design uses a TV/RF remote to trigger a nichrome-wire igniter held in a PVC pipe on a wooden stand.

Safety First –

This project involves heating wire and igniting small rocket engines or pyrotechnics. Only attempt it outdoors, away from people, buildings and dry brush. Wear safety goggles and gloves, follow local laws about fireworks, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Materials –

You will need:

• Nichrome wire (for the igniter) –
• A short length of PVC pipe (launch tube) – 
• Wooden stand or base to hold the launcher – 
• RF/IR remote control and matching receiver module –
• Lithium battery (appropriate voltage for your receiver/igniter circuit) –

Simple Circuit and How it Works –

The basic idea: the remote sends a signal to the receiver. The receiver activates an output that allows current from the battery to flow through the nichrome wire for a short time, heating it enough to ignite the rocket’s fuse. The PVC tube guides the rocket and the wooden stand keeps everything steady and aimed safely.

This is the Circuit Diagram of Receiver –

Assembly Steps (Concise)

Prepare the launch tube and stand — mount the PVC pipe upright on a sturdy wooden base so it won’t tip.

Make the igniter — securely wrap a short piece of nichrome wire so it spans the rocket’s fuse area. Fix the nichrome to the end of the PVC tube so the heated section contacts the fuse when the rocket is placed in the tube.

Wire the receiver and battery — connect the receiver output to the nichrome circuit so the battery can briefly send current through the nichrome when triggered by the remote. Add a manual safety switch between the battery and circuit for an added safety layer.

Test without propellant — first test the remote trigger on a bench with the nichrome in place but without a rocket. Press the remote and confirm the wire heats momentarily (use caution — don’t touch).

Final test and launch — when bench tests look good, move outdoors, place a small rocket in the tube, step back to a safe distance, and use the remote to initiate the ignition.

Tips & Precautions –

• Only use rockets and charges that you know are safe and legal to use in your area.
• Keep spectators well away and don’t aim at people, animals, or structures.
• Use an ignition time short enough to heat the nichrome but not overheat the wiring or receiver.
• Consider adding a delay/countdown feature (with an Arduino or timer circuit) so you can trigger a safe countdown before igniting.