Welcome to the Playa!

Welcome to Tripoli Gerlach #138, a unique Prefecture dedicated to research rocketry.

Founded by Tom Blazanin, Deb Koloms and Dave Rose, we are recognized by the Tripoli Rocketry Association and based in Gerlach, Nevada.



Our members span the globe, united by a passion for launching rockets in the Black Rock Desert. Join us and be part of an international community committed to innovation and adventure in rocketry.

BALLS is THE premier Experimental Rocket Launch in the Continental US and spanning over 35 years. Held in the Black Rock Desert, North of Reno, near Gerlach, Nevada.



BALLS brings together dedicated rocketry enthusiasts devoted to the leading edge of non-professional rocketry activities for the best demonstration of experimental design, using today's best technologies, and probably the largest non-professional rockets seen anywhere.