This starter set is one of the Star Wars Episode I themed sets offered by Estes. The R2 D2 set in question is the mini version, which means it can be launched on 13mm mini engines. The set includes not just a flying model rocket, it offers a complete, Star Wars themed, launch system. A futuristic looking launch pad and R2 D2 shaped launch controller are included. The clear plastic fins on the bottom of the droid are very hard to see, this makes it appear R2 D2 is flying without any assistance.

Parts List

The starter kit comes in see-through plastic packaging which stands upright. You can see the R2 D2 rocket and launch controller in the front.

- R2 D2 rocket
- 2 clear plastic fins
- assembled parachute
- 3 launch pad legs
- launch pad hub
- launch rod
- blast deflector
- launch controller

The starter set also includes two rocket engines (A10-3T) with two sheets of recovery wadding and igniters, enough for two launches. The required 9V battery for the controller (shown on the right) is not included.

Construction

There really isn't anything to assemble, the rocket is ready-to-fly. Snap the fins into place and attach the (pre-assembled) parachute to the shroud line, you're done. The parachute is Star Wars themed, which is nice if you like that type of thing.

Assembling the launch pad is just as easy. Snap the legs into the base/hub and lock the launch rod into place.

Measurements

This little R2 unit (including fins) stands about 6" tall and weights 55 grams (1.9 oz).

Flight Data

The only model rocket motor suggest for use with this Mini R2 D2 is the A10-3T.

To launch the model rocket, unscrew and remove the engine retainer ring on the bottom of the R2 droid. Insert the engine, put the retainer ring back in place and insert the igniter into the motor when ready to launch.

The engines provided with the kit were used to gather flight data. Launch instructions say to use a single sheet of recovery wadding per flight. After the first flight, some melting was noticeable on the parachute (which didn't deploy).

Using two sheets of recovery wadding may be a better idea. This was done for the second flight. No additional damage to the parachute, however it didn't deploy again. No damage to the R2 unit. The face card says the rocket will go up to 100 feet, this R2 must be afraid of heights as it didn't reach that altitude, more like 50-60 feet.

The parachute doesn't deploy as the ejection charge fires a good deal past apogee, by then the rocket is too close to the ground for deployment.

These launches took place right before dark, so the flame of the motor was nice and noticeable. The flights veered off to one side a little, not enough to be a problem. Recovered very close to the launch pad both times. Great flier for small fields or even a backyard.