This week I’d like to announce the Nova – a scratch built RC airplane with a specific focus on carrying FPV and AP gear. This episode (while a little boring) details the design specifications and functions of the various sections of the airplane. A few key qualities/improvements over the GeekStar:

-Large interior (2.25in x 4.5in x 14in = 141 cubic inches, over 6 times larger than my GeekStar)
-Larger Tail Section (increased control for larger payload)
-Longer Tail Section (increase control authority over payload)
-Larger Control Surfaces
-Ailerons
-Taller fuselage to supper a 8×4 prop
-Reduced angle of incidence (to 3 degrees) of both motor and wing
-Top mounted wing (allow for various wing types/sizes)
-Large area directly under CG point for heavy gear
-Canopy covered with clear plastic to allow a good view for FPV gear while not reducing aerodynamics
-Tons of other small improvements in the build process for a stronger, lighter, higher quality build.

Equipment Used:
Motor: http://www.hobbypartz.com/75m42-optima450-2220-950kv.html
ESC: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=13429
Batt: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=6306
Servos: http://www.hobbypartz.com/topromisesg9.html
Prop: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idproduct=5437

Estimated Stats:
Weight: 26oz
Thrust: 21oz
Wing Area: 3.33 square feet
Wing Loading: 7.8 oz per sq ft

Will be building over the next 1 – 2 weeks…

I’ll be posting these plans on MyGeekShow.com in a few weeks after it’s maiden flight (I want to make sure I’ve got the CG point properly located, etc.).

What do you think? Anything I’m missing?