Flying challenge

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Adam in diving kit

Underwater challenge

Could you create an ecosystem underwater? See if you can create life in a bottle with the underwater challenge.

The prospect of flying has always intrigued man. In Greek mythology Icarus made wings of wax and feathers, but flew too near the sun, melted his wings and plummeted to his death. Early pioneers of flying, including Leonardo da Vinci, studied bird flight and tried to scale it up for humans. They copied Nature’s example and built ornithopters or ‘flapping, flying machines’. In terms of human flight, they were all a resounding failure.

To increase your chances of success, follow the instructions exactly. Instant glue is used except where indicated. Be careful not to get any glue in the moving parts because even if they still move, the glue will cause friction. If any part of the model comes out wrong, fix it before continuing.

All measurements used in this model are Imperial, as most of the components are usually bought in Imperial units.

Stuff you need

Any hobby shop which sells model aeroplanes should have everything you need. Ask your hobby dealer for help if necessary, because substituting materials might result in an ornithopter that won't fly.