Out of Balance: How Asymmetry Shapes the Flight of Gliders

Overview

This project investigates the relationship between the center of gravity and parasitic drag on the flight path of a glider. A glider was constructed using balsa wood, rubber bands, metal washers, and adhesives, and all procedures were completed under adult supervision. A standardized launch ramp was made from a fold-out table, clamps, and rubber bands. This ensured consistent launch velocity. The baseline flight path of the unmodified glider was recorded as a control flight. To examine the effects of a shift of the center of gravity, a flat weight was positioned at different locations along the wing, shifting the center of gravity laterally. Drag was then added by attaching balsa wood tabs of varying lengths to one wing, creating asymmetric drag. Flight displacement, time, and landing position were compared to the baseline control. Results show a proportional, counteractive relationship between increased drag and horizontal displacement, with the forces of drag and a shift of CG opposing one another and resulting in a straighter flight path. As both drag and shifts in the CG increased, stability in the results increased as well, illuminating the effects of aerodynamic damping. However, increased drag also reduced forward displacement, flight time, and overall efficiency by increasing sink rate and energy loss. Added weight primarily decreased the total glide range rather than direction. Our 3D line plot revealed nonlinear interactions between drag and weight, with drag identified as the dominant factor affecting performance. Optimal glide conditions occurred at low drag and moderate weight placement. This investigation demonstrates the tradeoff between control and efficiency in unpowered flight and highlights the importance of aerodynamic balance in glider design.

Competition history

• CSEF 2026 Applied Mechanics (Senior Division) · Entry S-02-06

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