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For NARAM-46, the Streamer Duration event is for B engine class. Streamer Duration combines the challenge of building a light rocket that can fly high (to a good altitude to descend from), with a streamer that can slow the descent as much as possible for a good duration time. In Streamer Duration, the model has to remain in one piece throughout the flight and cannot be staged. Multi-Round - This form of duration scoring involves "Max" times and three flights. For B Streamer, the maximum time is 180 seconds. As an example, if the model stays in the air for 216 seconds, it's official time is 180 seconds. However, 180 seconds is a hard to reach max time for models powered by 18mm black powder B engines (the only B's currently contest certified), even 120 seconds is difficult without major help from thermal activity. Models in multi-round scored events DO NOT have to be returned, but only two models are allowed. This means that you need to return one model to make your third flight . And if you make it to a flyoff, you'll need a returned model for the fourth flight round. For the full rules for this event, please see the Streamer Duration Rules on the NAR web page, as well as the multi-round rules (15.12). Scoring - For Multi-Round Streamer Duration, the scoring is the sum of all of the qualified flights. If there is a tie for first place at the end of round three (normally three maxes), there will be a fly-off round between those contestants who are tied, with the max time increased by at least 60 seconds. Design considerations - There are trade-offs between the model's performance and the streamer's size. Low-mass and low-drag models may not be strong enough to survive boost. Increasing the size of the streamer means the streamer will need more room inside your rocket. A bigger streamer is also heavier, which could weigh down the model too much. A list of plans and kits is included further down on this page. Streamers - Streamer choice and preparation is important. Simple crepe paper just doesn't do it. Some people use a certain grade of tracing paper, while others prefer to use 1 mil mylar. The tracing paper can perform well, but also can rip more easily than other materials. So, 1 mil mylar is recommended. For B power, 6" by 60" streamers are a good size.
Tips and info from other sources:
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Model Plans & Kits | Designer | Notes |
DarkStar PD/SD plan (18mm) (WOOSH website) | plan by Mark Talkington | PDF file of an 18mm model suitable for Streamer and Parachute Duration |
ASTRE PD/SD model plan (NAR website) | plan by Jeff Vincent | PDF file of 13mm and 18mm PD & SD models |
ASP "Streamer Duration" Kit #KSDT - 18 (18mm) | ASP (Aerospace Specialty Products), Andy Jackson | Good competitive kit for 18mm engines. |
QCR - "Straight Up I " Parachute/Streamer Duration kit for 18mm engines | QCR - Qualified Competition Rockets, Ken Brown | Good competitive kit for 18mm engines. |
Apogee "Blue Streak" sport model kit | Not designed for contest use, but can be a decent model when modified to use a good contest streamer. | |
ESTES- "Wizard" sport model kit. | Not designed for contest use, but can be a decent model when modified to use a good contest streamer. | |
Doug Pratt | A sport model kit that looks and flies like a contest model. |
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Last Updated 4/19/2004