This model rocket kit allows you to find out through experimentation which fin shape performs the best on a model rocket. The rocket is designed to allow the fins to be quickly switched between flights so that the only variable being tested is the actual shape of the fins. This is a fun science project to test various fin shapes on a rocket to find out which one is best. The key to any good experiment is to limit the variables so that just one item affects the outcome. In this kit, the rocket is designed so that the main part of the rocket stays the same and only the fin shape changes. The shape is further isolated from of the size of the fin by making sure that the surface area is identical from one shape to the next, and that the fin span (how far it sticks out into the air) is also the same. There are four pre-cut fin shapes you can test, and another eleven patterns that you can choose from to make your own hand-cut fins. The fins on the rocket are generous in size so the rocket flies straight and true every time. You don't have to worry about the rocket going unstable because you changed to a different shape fin. Because the fins are slightly oversized, the shape plays a greater role in the altitude of the rocket, which should make it easier to see which shape has the best performance. To complete this project, your student will need the following items: Launch pad and controller Altimeter to measure the height and speed of the rocket Rocket Motors Recovery Wadding What makes this rocket practical is that the fin section (called the "fin can") is removable from the main part of the rocket. In between flights, you simply slide it off the rocket and install one of the other fin cans with a different shape fin. You can easily change out the test fins in just a few minutes. How do you find out the best fin shape? That's done by comparing either the altitude or the speed of the rocket using an electronic altimeter (not included).