Designer's Challenge: Robert Staten Blends Symmetry, Style, and Performance

Estes designer Robert Staten approached the Design2Fly Challenge with an interest in symmetry, contrasting shapes, and a classic model rocket aesthetic. By combining multiple pod tubes, different fin arrangements, sharp angles, and a red, white, and blue finish, Robert created a custom rocket that looks distinctive while remaining designed for practical sport flying.

We asked Robert to share the inspiration, creative decisions, and planning behind his original Design2Fly Builder Kit creation.

What inspired the concept for your rocket, and how did that initial idea evolve as you began building?

I wanted to create a rocket that was more than just a central body tube, fins, and a nose cone. I wanted something more interesting.

I also love symmetry, so I decided to experiment with symmetrical designs that involved dissimilar components. For example, I put the first set of pod tubes directly onto the body tube, while a second set of pod tubes was placed on the outside of another fin set.

It was also fun to play with asymmetry, such as using a three-fin configuration on each outer pod while simultaneously using a four-fin structure for the main fins on the body tube.

I wanted this model to have a classic feel, so I went with the red, white, and blue paint job and used a lot of sharp and right angles.

I also wanted this to be a rocket that could be flown in a field with limited recovery space. Simulations show that, using a C6 engine, this rocket will reach heights of about 550 feet. Assuming the wind is light, this rocket can likely be launched in a typical park without getting lost.

How did the parts included in the Design2Fly Kit influence the shape, features, or overall direction of your design?

Having the combined nose cone and nozzle part was very helpful. The long nose cone is perfect for builds that have a lot of mass near the rear of the rocket and need the center of gravity adjusted, or if you are simply looking for a little more length in your rocket for aesthetic reasons.

Did any of the parts spark an unexpected idea or lead you in a direction you had not originally planned?

The technical manual is a great reference, but it can also be used as building material. As an example, I punched circles from the manual, painted them, and used them as windows for my rocket.

Originally, I was going to make all the details out of balsa, but the paper is lighter and much easier to work with for simple shapes.

While I chose not to use this technique, the cardstock provided for the shock cord mounts is a great material for making canards and detail parts because it is easy to shape and lightweight.

Which detail or design choice are you most proud of, and what makes it special to you?

I love forward-swept wings on aircraft, so I was thrilled to use this opportunity to make some reverse-swept fins.

The forward-swept fins, combined with the backward-swept smaller fins and canards, created an interesting negative space in the aft section of the rocket that I think gives it an exciting look.

What advice would you give someone opening a Design2Fly Kit and creating a custom rocket for the first time?

Using software to help you plan your design is huge. There are some free apps available online that are great design aids. Make sure you find one that can simulate flights so you can refine your designs based on your desired altitude.

I use OpenRocket and RockSim for my initial designs. Making sure your design is stable is the first step.

While building the rocket, be ready to make changes as you go, since you are bound to get new ideas. Just make sure you update your digital model and simulate flights with the changes to make sure the rocket will fly well.

Stay flexible and always leave room for design iteration. Finally, a swing test before any test flight is always a good idea.

From Digital Design to Finished Flight

Explore the gallery below for a closer look at Robert’s design and build process, including the layered pod structures, contrasting fin arrangements, handcrafted details, and classic red, white, and blue finish.

Follow Robert’s custom rocket from its early design stages to the completed Design2Fly creation.

What Will You Create?

The Design2Fly Builder Kit gives you an assortment of rocket parts and the freedom to experiment with shapes, structures, and details of your own. Take inspiration from Robert’s approach, plan your design, and create a custom rocket that brings your ideas to life.