Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Prefecture?
The Tripoli Rocketry Association is made up of local groups called “Prefectures.” These groups organize meetings, events, and launches for the benefit of their members and members of other Prefectures.
A Prefecture is a self-governing group of rocketry enthusiasts within a specific geographic area. It may be a club, a society, or simply a group of individuals. A minimum of three people is required to establish a Prefecture.
Through its membership and activities, each Prefecture must support and uphold the goals and future of the Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc. Except for ensuring compliance with the Association’s Safety Code, the national organization does not control a Prefecture’s activities.
What Is the Purpose of a Prefecture?
Flying rockets with a group of friends is often more enjoyable than flying alone. Prefectures allow members to combine their resources, knowledge, skills, and abilities. A unified group can also make participation in the hobby more personal and rewarding.
If you already belong to a group or club—or would like to form one dedicated to advanced rocketry—contact Tripoli Headquarters. The Tripoli Rocketry Association can provide a list of Tripoli members in your area.
Tripoli has experienced significant growth, due in part to the increasing number of Prefectures. Each Prefecture serves as a club or group for Tripoli members within a particular geographic area.
What Is a Prefect?
The leader of a Prefecture is called a Prefect. This person is often responsible for forming the Prefecture, although the role may also be filled by a local club president or another designated member.
The Prefect must:
- Be a responsible person who is at least 21 years old.
- Have been a member of the Tripoli Rocketry Association for at least one current and continuous year.
- Hold a Level 2 certification or higher from the Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc.
The Prefect’s duties include overseeing the Prefecture’s compliance with applicable rules and regulations. As an agent of the corporation, the Prefect is authorized to certify Tripoli Rocketry Association members at Levels 1 and 2, allowing them to purchase and use motors within the applicable power ranges.
The Prefect is also responsible for keeping the Association informed about the Prefecture’s activities and the individual advancement of its members.
Because the Prefect leads the Prefecture, this person must understand the rules of the Tripoli Rocketry Association, know how to maintain a safe rocket-flying environment, and be familiar with the laws and regulations governing high-power rocketry (HPR).
One of a Prefecture’s primary functions is helping new members earn their HPR certifications. The Prefect may conduct Level 1 and Level 2 certifications and administer the Level 2 certification examination.
**Note:** Level 3 certifications may be conducted only by members of the Tripoli Technical Advisory Panel (TAP).
Members should review the Range Safety Guidelines to better understand the various roles a Prefect may perform. In larger Prefectures, some duties may be assigned to other administrative members, such as the president or vice president.
How Is a Prefecture Named?
A Prefecture may use any name its members choose, but its official name must include “Tripoli.” The name generally represents the geographic area served, such as “Tripoli Nebraska” or “Tripoli Chicago.”
A Prefecture may also use a separate group name. For example, “L.I.A.R.S.—Long Island Advanced Rocketry Society” is officially known as “Tripoli Long Island.”
How Do You Start a New Prefecture?
Forming a new Prefecture requires at least three active Tripoli members. One member must meet the minimum requirements to serve as Prefect. Another member must serve as secretary and conduct an annual election for the Prefect.
The Prefecture must renew its registration each year beginning in January and submit the required annual fee.
In addition, the Prefecture must serve a unique geographic area that is not already served by an existing Prefecture. For example, two Prefectures generally would not be established in the same city.
If these requirements are met, a request must be submitted to Tripoli Headquarters for processing and approval by the Tripoli Board of Directors.
New Prefecture Start Up Request
Are There Any Costs Associated With a Prefecture?
Yes. An annual fee of $10 USD must be submitted with the Prefecture’s annual election results. This is generally due in January of each calendar year.
For a new Prefecture, the fee is due when the Prefecture is approved.
Can We Have More Than One Prefect?
No. However, if the Prefect cannot attend a specific launch event, the Prefect may delegate certification authority for up to five days. The delegation form and applicable conditions can be found here:
Temporary Certification Authorization.
When Can Prefecture Elections Be Held?
Elections may be held at any time if the current Prefect no longer wishes to serve or if the Prefecture’s members decide that an election is necessary.
What Election Process Should a Prefecture Follow?
Each Prefecture may determine its own election process. However, the process should be open and fair.
The Prefecture secretary is responsible for reporting the election results to Tripoli Headquarters.
Can I Submit My Prefecture Renewal Materials by Email?
Yes. Scan the materials at a resolution of no more than 300 dpi and email them to Tripoli Headquarters.