SMART, as a local section of the National Association of Rocketry, is dedicated to the promotion of safe, fun, and educational activities for young people of all ages through model rocketry. All launches conform to the standards set forth in the NAR Safety Code, which, in place for almost 40 years, has allowed millions of launches without any serious injury.
SMART was founded by John and Iraiz Carson (a senior mechanical engineer for
NASA and an experienced educator for LAUSD, respectively) as a means to introduce
local area youths to the excitement and educational benefits of model rocketry.
Before starting SMART they taught a series of classes using model rocketry
to teach physics, mathematics, and basic engineering. The students enrolled in
those classes often learned more than expected and had a great time while doing
so.
SMART is an extension of those classes.
John and Iraiz wanted to offer a
similar program to the youths in their local area. They felt that starting a
rocket club would allow a greater number of kids to participate and they could
get as much out of the club as they desired, thus the Sierra Madre Area Rocket Team was born.
This page is still under construction and we hope to add to it very soon. Until then, if you have any questions or desire more information, we suggest that you come to a meeting or send us a message.
