Why do solid-propellant amateur rockets generally surpass liquid rockets in achieving Kármán line altitudes?

Answer

Solid motors are simpler to engineer for maximum impulse delivery in a high-power setup.

The crucial difference lies in engineering focus for maximum altitude. Solid motors, particularly those using mixtures such as Ammonium Perchlorate Composite Propellant (APCP) or 'rocket candy,' are often engineered more simply to achieve maximum impulse delivery when configured for a high-power launch setup, enabling them to reach the edge of space. In contrast, amateur liquid rocketry involves extremely complex engineering due to the storage and handling of cryogenic or hazardous fuels and oxidizers. Consequently, liquid development often prioritizes research into propulsion system complexity, precision, and advanced testing rather than maximizing brute altitude performance, which is why no amateur liquid flight has yet breached the Kármán line.

Why do solid-propellant amateur rockets generally surpass liquid rockets in achieving Kármán line altitudes?

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