Pack 727 Space Derby
The Space Derby is similar to the Pinewood Derby
or Raingutter Regatta except that the models are miniature 'rockets'
-- propeller-driven and powered by two or three rubber bands
-- that travel along a heavy monofilament fishing line. The rockets
were carved by the boys, with the guidance of their parents or
other family members.
Cadets:
If you haven't started the construction of your Space Derby Rocket by now you may want to begin this weekend.
You may have to put in about 2 hours of time to complete it. This does not include paint or glue drying time.
If you haven't done one of these before, please permit us to give a few pointers on the lessons learned.
1. Use a couple of rubber bands to hold the two blocks together after you glue them with wood glue. Be sure to let the glue dry thoroughly before you begin shaping.
2. Even though balsa wood in very soft, it takes a lot of time to shape it using only sand paper. Use a sharp knife or potato peeler first to generally form your rocket. Make it somewhat round. Then use coarse grit (60-80) sandpaper to finish shaping it.
3. It takes no time at all to make it smooth if you use 100-150 grit sand paper. Place the paper in one and with the rocket in the other. Grip the rocket with both hands and twist. This motion is similar to ringing out a wet rag. Before you know it, the rocket is smooth.
4. Balsa wood absorbs paint freely. It can take three (3) or more coats of paint to cover
the rocket nicely. Be sure to allow the paint to dry betwen coats.
5. Next, place the fins into the rocket. After cutting the plastic pieces (supplied in kit) to look like the fins on the box, mark the rocket for placement with a pencil. You can then use a jeweler's screwdriver and a small knife to cut the fin slots into the rocket. Once the fins are placed into the rocket at a depth that seems stable, you can then glue them into place.
6. Place the hanger in the rocket the same way you did the fins. Just remember to put it in the correct direction as identified by the instructions. If it is placed in backwards the rocket will shoot out of the holder and not fly down the line.
7. Propeller. The instructions in the kit are perfect. It is recommended to use two (2) rubber bands. You may find it much easier to insert the rubber bands into the rocket if you tie a shoelace to the rubber bands and fed it through the rocket.
I hope this helps.
We look forward to seeing all of you at the Derby.
"To infinity and beyond!"
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