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Tripoli Gerlach





Tripoli Rocketry Association

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Welcome to Tripoli Gerlach

Conceived by Tom Blazanin and Dave Rose of Pennsylvania and Deb Koloms of New York, Tripoli Gerlach was born from the passion of avid Black Rock enthusiasts. The idea was to create a base group for the HAMSTER DANCE Research Launch they developed, and it has since grown into a much larger endeavor.

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National Prefecture of the Tripoli Rocketry Association

With the potential for more Research Launches, the vision of a Prefecture based in Gerlach, Nevada evolved into Tripoli Rocketry Association's only National Prefecture. Our members hail from all over the USA, the UK, Argentina, and Australia. Initially organized by six members, Tripoli Gerlach was officially recognized in January 2011 by Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc. as Prefecture #138.

A Community of Rocketry Enthusiasts

 Tripoli Gerlach is strictly a Research Rocketry Prefecture, aiming to become a National Prefecture by uniting members dedicated to launching Research Rockets at least once a year in the Black Rock Desert. Despite only one member residing in Gerlach, our membership spans the globe. 



We boast 2 uncertified Tripoli Members, 13 Level 2 members, 40 Level 3 members (16 of whom are TAP members), 7 National Life Time members, 10 current or past Board Members, and 6 past National Presidents. And we still have room for you!

A Work in Progress
As Tripoli Gerlach continues to grow, so will the direction and future of our Prefecture. For now, we are an international group of Tripoli Members dedicated to Research Rocketry and our love for the Black Rock Desert.


Our Mission

Our mission is to sponsor Research Launches in the Black Rock area of Nevada, starting with the annual HAMSTER DANCE, first held on September 29, 2011 as part of the BALLS launch. As we enter our 13th year, we are committed to continuing this small, fun Research Launch every September.

Join Us

If you enjoy launching rockets at Black Rock, or are considering the idea, we invite you to join Tripoli Gerlach. Be a part of a community that shares your passion for rocketry and the unique experience of the Black Rock Desert.