Event Format: S7 Scale Model is the most challenging of the space modeling events held on the international level. The models must be precise replicas with great detail and workmanship, and must be mechanically complex enough to perform  "special effects" during the flight.

Scoring: The score is determined by a numerous amount of aspects of the rocket: 

• Adherence to Scale = 200 points (160 for dimensions, 40 for colors and markings)

• Workmanship = 250 points

• Degree of Difficulty = 150 (110 for degree of difficulty and up to 40 for model uniqueness) 

• Flight = 300 points

Dimensional Scoring: The dimensional score is determined by:

• Overall model length

• Nose cone length

• Greatest measurable diameter

• Length of first stage

• Fin span

• Selected dimension greater than 10mm

Each dimension has a maximum score of 25 points

Data Package: A data package is required to document the model, but no points are directly awarded to the quality of it. The data package should include:

• The details and features

• Stability(CG/CP) and flight performance calculations for the model

• A "workmanship drawing" documenting the dimensions of the prototype and the ideal dimensions of the model. (Doesn't need to be 1:1 drawing)

Competition Models: Participants are to choose any prototype to model a scale rocket from. The list of highly competitive prototypes for the S7 Scale event has traditionally been fairly limited. To encourage more diversity amongst the rockets, a model will receive 40 points if it is unique, 20 points if 2 of the same model is entered, and 0 points if 3 or more of that rocket is entered. However, for the flyoff junior participants are asked to fly the Saturn 1B.

Construction Strategies: The strategy for S7 is to build a detailed scale model that is within 1% accurate of all the required dimensions. Some points to consider may be:

• Prototype Selection - Pick a prototype that you will enjoy and that will score well, but make sure that it is within your modeling abilities.

• Model Accuracy - Make sure that your model is accurate in the required dimensions.

• Details - Make sure all the details are neat and well done.

• Painting - Make sure to practice painting on scrap pieces before the actual model as you might ruin an otherwise great model.

Flight Points: Flight points can account for 300 of the maximum 900 points.  

• Basic Flight(nice liftoff? stable? weathercocking?) - 60 points

• Special Effects(separating boosters, radio control devices, glide recovery, etc.) - 0-60 points

• Staging - 30 points for each successful stage separation

• Clusters - 5 points for each engine that ignites up to the maximum

• RC Gliding Descent - 0 to 50 points 

• Recovery - 1st stage is 10 points per deployed parachute

• Recovery - Upper Stages are 10 points for each parachute and 5 points for each streamer

Competition Strategy: For S7, it may be helpful to enlist the help of a prep buddy to help you get ready to fly. Make sure that you are very prepared as the flying time will go by quickly. Always "go for broke" during the flight as there is a real danger of running out of time.