Hacker Tom Stanton built a supercapacitor-powered free-flight model airplane optimized for maximum flight time with minimal energy input. Unlike his 2023 attempt using a converted R/C toy, this new version is purpose-built for low-power flight — smaller, lighter, and using 3D-printed plastic structures with wings printed directly onto tissue paper to eliminate bonding steps. A single 10 F supercapacitor paired with a micro motor delivers 45 seconds of flight from just 4 seconds of hand-cranking. He also notes that supercapacitor energy density drops sharply below 10 F, which guided his component choice. Build files are available on Printables.
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