There are many events that spark the interest of rocketry in Homer. Sputnik was probably the biggest influence on Homer. Miss Riley also played a very important role. Quinton helps Homer through the whole situation
The first time Homer becomes interested is when he first sees Sputnik fly over his house. He knows that a rocket took it up there. This starts his obsession with rocketry and Dr. Warner Von Braun. He even starts to write letters to Dr. Von Braun. He receives an autographed picture from him, which boosts his confidence in his hobby of rocketry.
Miss Riley gives the most support to the rocket boy. She gives Homer the most because she knows how much he does not want to work in the mine. If it weren’t for Miss Riley, the rocket boys would have never entered the science fair. She feels that if they go to college, her life would have meaning to it.
The third catalyst that kept Homer going was Quinton. He teaches Homer everything he knows about rockets. Quinton has nothing to lose since he already isn’t popular, so he was behind Homer one hundred percent. He is the one that Homer goes to when he needs help finding the rocket. Homer knows that Quinton will help him no matter what.
So in conclusion, there are many things that motivate Homer and his rocket building. From the first time Homer saw sputnik, he knew what he wanted to do with his life. He would not have been able to accomplish his goals if it hadn’t been for Miss Riley and Quinton. They supported Homer through thick and thin.