S1B Altitude Overview
S1 is the altitude event for FAI Spacemodeling. The winner of this
event is determined based upon the highest altitude (measured in
meters) of each competitor. Altitudes are determined by tracking
stations operated by the contest directors staff which triangulate on
the tracking powder ejected by the model (hopefully at apogee!).
These models are typically two stage models, although one stage models
can be used (and are sometimes necessary when there is a low ceiling
due to cloud cover.) Models must conform to the requirements for
length and diameter as stated in the rules. This results in a lower
stage of 30mm and an upper stage conforming to the 18mm requirement.
The competition event for S1 is held in three one hour rounds. Each
competitor is typically given the opportunity for one qualified and
tracked flight per round, but recently, due to logistical problems
created by large numbers of competitors, there has been more of an
open round format. Whatever the format, the object is the same.
Build models that are as aerodynamic as possible within the rules,
that are of optimum weight, and release enough tracking powder at
ejection to allow the trackers to triangulate in on the model. And
enjoy your flying!