Home >> Hobbies >> Aviation

How to Build a Gas-Powered RC UFO

UFOs fascinate many people who are drawn to the mystery they represent. Strange flashing lights in the sky, eerie night noises and aerial craft that perform unexpected maneuvers all beg for an answer to the question of whether aliens are visiting our world. Of course, some people are equally fascinated by the thought of tricking other people into thinking they've seen a UFO. Mischievous hobbyists might decide to create a close encounter of the fun kind by souping up a gas-powered RC helicopter and doing a little night flying.

Things You'll Need

RC helicopter
Black spray paint
9-volt battery
Craft knife
Duct tape
Glue
RC car neon lights

Instructions

- 1
  Spray paint your gas-powered RC helicopter black. Pay special attention to the bottom of the chopper, which needs to be completely black. Use gloss paint so it will be reflective when dry.
- 2
  Cut a niche the size of a 9-volt battery in the bottom of the helicopter if the body is made of foam. If it's plastic, find a spot inside the fuselage, or tucked against the side and supported by one of the skids, to place the battery. Secure the battery with duct tape.
- 3
  Place neon-light strips and bulbs around the bottom of the helicopter. Hold the lights in place with plastic model glue if the helicopter body is plastic, or use white-craft glue if it's made of foam. You can get neon lights sized for RC vehicles at well-stocked hobby stores or online.
- 4
  Run wires from the neon lights to the 9-volt battery. Hold them in place with a small piece of duct tape. Do not attach the wire ends to the battery terminals until you're ready to fly.

Aviation