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The AeroDactyl: A Paper Airplane That Flies!
Paper airplanes are a classic childhood pastime. They’re simple to make, fun to fly, and a great way to spend an afternoon. But with so many different designs out there, it can be hard to know where to start. If you’re looking for a paper airplane that’s both easy to make and flies well, the AeroDactyl is a great option.
The AeroDactyl is a simple design that’s perfect for beginners. It’s also a very versatile plane, able to fly long distances and perform basic maneuvers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of making an AeroDactyl, and we’ll also give you some tips on how to improve its flight performance.
Materials
- One sheet of standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper
Instructions
1. Fold the paper in half lengthwise. Make a sharp crease down the center of the paper.
2. Fold the top corners down to the center crease. These folds will create the wings of the airplane.
3. Fold the top flap down again. This will create the nose of the airplane.
4. Fold the wings up. Bend the wings upward along the crease lines you made in step 2.
5. Fold the airplane in half. Fold the airplane along the center crease, bringing the wings together.
6. Adjust the wings. You can adjust the angle of the wings to change the flight characteristics of the airplane. For a longer glide, bend the wings up slightly. For a shorter, more maneuverable flight, bend the wings down slightly.
7. Fly your AeroDactyl! Launch your airplane by holding it horizontally and gently tossing it forward.
Tips for Improving Flight Performance
- Use a smooth, even launch. A smooth launch will help your airplane fly straight and far.
- Experiment with different paper types. Some paper types are better suited for flying than others. For example, heavier paper will fly slower and more steadily, while lighter paper will fly faster and more erratically.
- Adjust the wing angle. As mentioned above, you can adjust the angle of the wings to change the flight characteristics of your airplane.
- Practice, practice, practice! The more you fly your AeroDactyl, the better you’ll get at launching it and controlling its flight.
The AeroDactyl is a fun and easy paper airplane to make. With a little practice, you’ll be able to launch it high and far. So grab a sheet of paper and get started!