How to Make the Super StratoSpectre Paper Airplane

Fast, long range and simple, the Super StratoSpectre is a paper airplane designed to be a more able development of the StratoSpectre. By strengthening the spars of the wings, wing strength has been increased and faster flights enabled. The aircraft's quick speed and long range enable the Super StratoSpectre to serve as a backyard buccaneer or a classroom cruiser easily.

The simplicity and sturdiness inherent in this design enable easy construction, modification and operation indoors, such as by students in classrooms. Educators could easily use this versatile paper airplane to demonstrate:

Glide ratio
Hangtime versus other aircraft
Weight and balance
Flight dynamics

TAA USAF Designation: A2-15

Step 1: Materials

Required:
1 Piece of 8.5 by 11 inch paper
Tape
Ruler
Pencil
Optional:
Scissors (for additional surfaces only)

Step 2: Length, Corner and Nose Folding

Begin construction of your Super StratoSpectre by folding your paper in half along its length. Then, whilst it is still halved, pull down two corners, one on each side of the half. Pull the tip of the nose back to the bottom of the corner folds. The fold the remainder of the corner folds down along their bottom line. From its previous orientation, flip your paper.

Step 3: Airfoil Folding

Pull the corners down to the center as shown. Once this is done, unfold the creases. Then pull the leading edge into the crease you just made as shown. Then fold the paper over itself as shown.

Step 4: Wing and Winglet Folding

Fold the aircraft in half along its center crease. Then measure 0.75 inches up from the center crease, and 0.75 inches down from the wingtip (each along the trailing edge). Fold at these marks by aligning the trailing edges with those of the wings.

Step 5: Taping

Apply tape to your Super StratoSpectre at its front, back and across its wingroot. This will complete the aircraft.

Step 6: Flight

The Super StratoSpectre is a simple and easy aircraft to fly. For flights of the best possible range, launches should be at a moderate speed at a neutral or slightly negative attitude. Additional applicable surfaces include slats, spoilers, spoilerons, elevators, ailerons, elevons, rudders, and air brakes. Enjoy!