How high does the MK-79 flare go when launched?

• A. 50-100 ft
• B. 250-650 ft
• C. 1000 ft
• D. 1500 ft

Answer: (B)

Ground illumination from a flare is tuned to light a target area effectively, so the MK-79 is designed to rise to a mid-range altitude rather than very high or very low. It reaches roughly a few hundred feet in altitude, specifically about 250 to 650 feet, before its burn finishes. This height provides strong illumination over the ground while keeping the light within the observer’s view for the flare’s burn time. Heights much lower would limit the lit area, while much higher heights would spread the light too thinly and reduce brightness, so the 250–650 feet range is the optimal balance.