Space Derby

Space Derby General Rules and Information

The Space Derby has been around for a long time but Cub Pack 154 only recently brought it back to our pack. The Space Derby is more laid back than our Pinewood Derby but we still like to have fun!

What is the Space Derby?

The Space Derby is an rocket race held at the Fellowship Hall. Our Weblos and Bear scouts along with their parents build the space rocket our of balsa wood throughout the month of September. The process of building the space rocket with your scout is a bonding experience. Building a space rocket is more about spending time with your scout to create something unique they can be proud of.

Each scout will be given a zip lock bag with their name on it that contains their rocket and the parts. The rocket body has already been glued to save time.

When:

  • Rocket builds will start Thursday September 8th.

  • Race night will be held Thursday September 29th at 7:00pm.

Where: Fellowship Hall Basement.

Rules:

Included in every derby kit there are instructions with rules. Cub Pack 154 will enforce the following rules on race day:

  • Each rocket may not exceed 7 inches long. This excludes the propeller, fins, and dowel rod.

  • There is no restriction on the rocket weight or design.

  • Do not glue the nose cone to the rocket. This is the part the attaches the propeller.

  • Do not glue the rear rubber band dowel.

  • Each rocket will be hand wound the same amount of times to ensure each rocket has a fair chance.

  • Each rocket may use two rubber bands with the third as a spare.

  • Please bring your Scouts rocket in the plastic bag.

Needs some tips?

For general questions please see Cubmaster Andy. Read on below for some tips.


  • Using a potato peeler works well to take off larger amounts of wood. Then sand it smooth.

  • Check the balance of your plane.

-Find the center of your plane and determine where you think you will put the hanger. Then using a pencil sit your plane across it and see if it is balanced front to back. A event weighted plane will glide across the line easier.

  • Check your plane for symmetry. If you plane is heavier on one side or another is could wobble as it flies.

  • Generally the lighter weight the rocket the faster it will be.

  • Rounding the front nose of the place will cause less drag.

  • The smoother the rocket the more aerodynamic it will be.

  • Apply 2 -3 coats of paint. The more paint you use the heavier the rocket will be so be careful about using too much paint.

  • A notch in the rear of the plane for the dowel to sit in is recommended. This will keep the rubber bands from unwinding at the dowel and ensuring maximum energy to the propeller.

  • Lubricate rubber bands in castor oil or a glycerin/soap mixture. This makes them more flexible and less likely to break.