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Jet Packs-Rocket Belts-JetLev Tam Rocket Belt , Jet Pack H2O2, Yves Rossy's Jet Pack / Wingsuit Jet Packs, Rocket Belts, JetLev are similar types of devices that are usually worn (by a single person) on the back, which expel various gases, air or water in order to propel the user into the air.
The devices known as Jet Packs are really a misnomer because they don't use jets (as we know them) but rather expel steam (as in a rocket) that's why they're also known as Rocket Belts. The typical Jet Pack operates on a simple and very basic propulsion concept. Introduce highly purified (85-90%) hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into a chamber were it comes into contact with a catalyst (typically a silver mesh). The ensuing catalytic exothermic reaction breaks up the 2 (H2O2) into 2(H20) + O2, expanding in volume (about 100 fold) and expelling the superheated steam (about 1400 degrees) and oxygen through the Jet Packs nozzles creating lift. It's a great idea, and very impressive when observed flying, unfortunately even the very best Jet Packs cannot stay in the air longer than 30-35 seconds.
So it now becomes obvious that these type of flying devices will never really become practical to use, unless a different propellant is found that will extend the flight duration.
But even though they're not practical, people are still fascinated with them, so it's not unusual to see these fly during parades or Grand Opening celebrations, or sports events. There is still a small group of enthusiasts that build these things and they're also offered for sale (from Jet Pack International, Tecnologia Aeroespacial Mexicana). The typical price is between $150,000 - $250,000 U.S. currency. Pretty expensive for a 35 second thrill! Assuming for a second that price is no object, let's take closer look at the device. First of all it's pretty dangerous because it's operates with relatively low impulse power, so even if you spend 15-20 seconds going straight up, you won't be able to get above a safe parachuting altitude. What does this mean? It means that even if you wear a parachute, you'll never get high enough to be able to open it and land safely during an emergency. So, if something goes wrong up there, it's going to be Asta La Vista baby! Anyway, I don't want to sound too negative because if I had the money I would probably end up buying one. Even if it's only a 35 second thrill! If, you're fairly handy with tools and have some spare change, you can buy plans to build these Jet Packs from scratch, and even units that need only partial assembly. So, for those of you who absolutely need one of these, hang in there because there's still hope! Below are several videos that these Jet Packs / Rocket Belts in action. Enjoy! This next video is a proposed consumer Jet Pack. Jet Pack man flying during Monster Jam.
So it's obvious that these are super cool devices, but definitely not even close to being practical. Why? Because the second you take off, you're thinking and looking for a landing place. In any case, at some point in time (perhaps even in the near future) these may be engineered to operate using a different propellant, making these flying machines as common as the 20th century motorcycle. I know I have my deposit ready! For those of you not willing to wait, there are other types of Jet Packs out there that are being designed, flown and planned for production, such as Jet Packs that have actual miniature Jets engines (typically from model airplanes) affixed to rigid wing (about 8 ft span). These cannot produce VTOL (vertical takeoff & lift) but rather the user jump out of an airplane wearing this, and the jets already turned on. The combination of wing lift and Jet impulse power can sustain a certain amount of horizontal flight, with no appreciable loss of altitude. These types of devices are also known as Jet Powered Wingsuits (see Video below). One of the very first, was designed and built by a Swiss ex-military & commercial pilot named Yves Rossy. He's made over 30 flights with this Jet Pack, and even flew across the English channel in 2008, flying over 10 minutes and reaching speeds of over 180 mph. He then deployed his chute at about 125 mph and landed safely. The videos below shows a flight by Yves with his Jet Pack. The video below shows Yves Rossy making his English Channel crossing. Needless to say, there seem to be some very practical aspects to this type of flying device, particularly for the military. Hopefully, the military won't stifle the design and production of these types of units for the consumer markets. Stay tuned!
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