ARCAS
Kit# 1226
Version 2 Blue Skill Level Hang Tag
Version 1 Blue Skill Level Facecard
Images by Gerry Fortin
Designer: Unknown
Production Years: 1974-1977
Retail Pricing Range: $2.75-$4.00
Rarity: Moderately Scarce
Description: ARCAS kit number changed to #1226 during conversion to skill level packaging but the Estes catalog still lists the kit as K-26. The hang tag is Version 2 design with white unpriced oval coupled with Version 1 skill level facecard with ARCAS rocket over a blue background. Note that the kit is labeled as "semi-scale" rather than "scale" as on earlier facecard designs. Estes catalog states, "A precise reproduction of the well known Atlantic Research sounding rocket."
The precision scale ARCAS kits are rated a skill level 3 kit and uses a single 18mm engine for powered flights. Recovery is via a large 18 inch checkered Estes parachute.
The ARCAS sounding rocket has been a favorite scale model for model rocketry enthusiatists. Many model rocket companies offer the ARCAS scale model including Estes, Aerotech and Semroc. From the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Museum website image and Wikipedia;
The Arcas weather rocket system was used to obtain high altitude
weather information. Arcas was the designation of an American sounding rocket,
which was launched between July 31, 1959 and August 9, 1991 at least 421 times.
The Arcas has a maximum flight altitude of 52 kilometers, a takeoff thrust of
1.5 kN, a takeoff weight of 34 kilograms, and a diameter of 11 centimeters.
The Arcas was 2.30 m long and had a fin span of 0.33 m.
Kit Contents: The kit contains a single body tube, balsa nose cone, balsa fin stock, 18mm engine mounting system, 18" plastic parachute, pattern sheet, single ARCAS decal, launch lug, and instructions.
Availability: The blue skill level kit version is definitely the easiest to locate and is considered scarce. Frequent checking of eBay listings across a six month timeframe should turn up one to two listings.
Additional information can be found at the following links;
JimZ Kit Plan Link: Estes K26
Specifications: Length 22.8", Weight 1.4 oz, Diameter 1.325"
Recommended 18 mm Engines: A8-3, B6-4, C6-5
Estes Catalog Artwork
