The Nane Boosted Glider Project brings flight and experimentation to life through lightweight gliders, rocket boosters, and flight-control systems. Design, build, and launch rocket-boosted gliders while tracking performance and analyzing data — turning hands-on aerodynamics into a real aerospace experience.
Inspired by Nane, the Armenian goddess of wisdom and creativity, this project invites students, educators, and enthusiasts to explore aerodynamics, stability, and controlled descent through iterative design and real testing. Any space — classroom, lab, or open field — can become a flight environment where curiosity and STEM take wing.
Objective
Design, build, and safely launch a rocket-boosted glider, then use flight-control tools to monitor and analyze its performance from boost to landing.
Supplies
- Glider Kit – modular, lightweight design for all skill levels
- Rocket Booster – small, safe propulsion system
- Flight Dashboard (optional) – monitor altitude, speed, and glide performance
- Radios/Sensors (optional) – for telemetry and data collection
Steps to Launch
- Assemble the glider (wings, body, and payload if applicable).
- Add sensors or telemetry systems if desired.
- Attach the rocket booster and complete safety checks.
- Launch the glider, track its flight, and ensure safe landing.
- Record data—altitude, glide distance, flight duration, or payload results.
- Analyze performance and refine the design for improvements.
Project Outcomes
- Understand fundamentals of flight, aerodynamics, and stability
- Practice problem-solving and engineering through iterative design
- Learn to use flight-control tools for data analysis and planning
- Experience the full cycle of a rocket-boosted glider mission—hands-on
Extensions
- Test different wing shapes or weights to study effects on flight
- Simulate multiple launches to optimize booster and glider performance
- Integrate environmental sensors to study the impact of wind and weather on glide