Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / April 2004

When I was much younger, I flew boost gliders with B and C engines.  I
haven't been into rockets for quite some time, but IIRC Estes made one for
"E" size engines, but since you're into high powered stuff, you may have to
design and build your own.  The main thing is making an airframe and control
surfaces that will stand the stresses high-powered rockets will put on it.
Maybe try a Rogallo design that will fold and fit into a standard rocket?
I'm not familiar with the high power engines, but I'd suggest you use an end
burner with a long burn and not a humongous amount of thrust if you choose a
standard design.  What makes for good gliding characteristics usually isn't
what makes an airframe survive the high stresses of rocket boost.  Another
idea is to rig up delta design that would act as the fins of your booster.
Again, you're going to have to be very careful of things like control
surface flutter, too.

Morris