As with any other professional sport these days, success depends on sponsorship and media deals. Whitelaw said there’s a major TV network interested and a soft drink company is talking with the organizers. Hats, T-shirts and video games are also on the radar. There are even plans for a reality TV series on the selection and training of rocket racing pilots. Even the FAA seems enthusiastic about the idea. “The Rocket Racing League takes the public awareness of rockets to a whole new level,” said spokeswoman Patricia Smith. She said the agency is ready “to enable this business through an efficient and responsive regulatory approach.” A host of leading-edge technologies will be incorporated into the aircraft and race courses. Pilots will have a head up display showing them a GPS-based “tunnel” to guide them through the vertical 3D course. Viewers at home will also see a 3-D depiction of the action and be shown cockpit and wingtip camera views. Those on the ground will have Jumbotron screens to refer to when the action flies away from them.
…Lining Up Sponsors
Key Takeaways:
- The Rocket Racing League's success hinges on major sponsorship and media deals, including interest from a TV network, a soft drink company, merchandise, and plans for a reality TV series.
- The FAA is enthusiastic and ready to support the league with an efficient and responsive regulatory approach.
- The league will incorporate leading-edge technologies, such as GPS-based 3D course guidance for pilots with head-up displays, and advanced viewing experiences for audiences with 3D depictions and multiple camera views.
See a mistake? Contact us.
