This is the Estes 1/100 scale version of the mighty Saturn V which was used to send man to the moon. The kit is quite impressive as it stands over 43" high and 4" in diameter. I built the kit close to stock but, as usual, I had to make some modifications along the way. This particular Saturn represents SA-504, the first operational test flight vehicle launched in 1967.
The most notable modification I made is the inclusion of the engine 'bells' for flight. Estes uses this a display only option, but to me the Saturn doesn't look quite right on the pad without them. The center engine helps conceal the lengthened motor mount tube and is where most of the changes took place. I added an extra aft bulkhead made from balsa/cardstock laminate and epoxied the nozzles to that. Due to the change in engine location from the original plans I had to add some additional nose weight to keep the proper CG location. I also added two additional centering rings along the stuffer tube made from 1/8" balsa. The stuffer tube now has five centering rings equally spaced along it. These give the main body tube more rigidity. I also replaced the furnished shock cords with stronger and longer elastic ones. The fins now each have a balsa 'core' and are epoxied to the main body tube for added strength. Click here for additional details.
The model was intended to fly on 24mm D12 engines but the performance is anemic, at best, with those motors. I fly my Saturn on AT E18-4W motors. These give an extra amount of thrust and better altitude. The Saturn recovers in two sections. The upper SIVB stage and CM/SM stack recovers via an 18" 'chute in a sling harness fashion similar to my Saturn 1b. The SIC and SIIC booster section recovers via (2) 24" nylon 'chutes. The Saturn always gives an impressive performance and rounds out my collection of manned space boosters.
Specs. 43.25" tall, 3.93" dia, 12.3oz wt. |
