Artemis I, Part 4 - Designing A Stable Model

In the last post of this build series, I outlined the many possible power and operational configurations for the model.

Each of these is going to require its own particular method to ensure stable flight, by carefully analyzing the CP/CG relationship, and lift-to-weight ratio even before actual building begins.

Since this is a finless prototype, I will likely need to make use of clear plastic fins.

For the configurations involving non-powered SRBs, the clear fins can easily be attached to protruding sections of body tube fitted into the SRB units, much the same way Estes has done with their 1:200 Space Shuttle model:

 For a configuration involving powered SRBs, the core rocket will need to be fitted with clear plastic fins attached directly to the airframe.

It is also quite likely that some CG adjustment will be necessary, involving the appropriate amount of nose weight. The trade-offs involve concerns about the model's total weight in relation to the lifting power of the selected motor(s).

Lots to think about when engineering the working parts of a rocket model 

that isn't designed or intended to fly.

Time to dig out the old shop-built tin-foil R&D helmet and git busy !

Cheers!