Self-taught rocket scientist eyes new launch date in Calif.
Daredevil/limousine driver Mike Hughes has built a steam-powered rocket out of salvage parts on a five-acre property that he leases in Apple Valley, California. Hughes plans to launch his homemade contraption at a speed of roughly 500 mph. (Waldo Stakes/HO courtesy of Mad Mike Hughes via AP)
In this Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 photograph, the homemade, steam-powered rocket built by daredevil/limosuine drive Mad Mike Hughes is shown on the property the man leases in Apple Valley, Cal. Hughes plans to launch the rocket at a speed of roughly 500 miles-per-hour. (Mad Mike Hughes via AP)
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Self-taught rocket scientist “Mad” Mike Hughes says he won’t let a little red tape stand in his way and plans to launch his steam-powered vessel on Monday in the ghost town of Amboy, California.
The 61-year-old limo driver and flat-earth believer was scheduled to blast off last weekend, but he didn’t have the proper permits from the Bureau of Land Management.
Hughes relocated his launch pad 4 miles from his original spot so he now takes off and lands on private property.
It may not be enough. The BLM says he still needs to fill out the permits. Hughes contends that shouldn’t be required since he’s flying on private land and has permission.
Hughes says he’s “moving forward” and adds: “I’m a daredevil. I’m not much for authority or rules.”
