Finally circumnavigated Kerbin in an aircraft.

[SSgt Baloo]

After many attempts, my best previous being approximately 3/4 of the way around kerbin using a U-2 clone powered by a Rapier (no oxidizer), and using the climb until flameout, level off, accelerate when the engine comes back, climb again, lather rinse repeat method. Same this time, but instead of bringing 480 units of fuel, the new plane had 600 units. I used the Mk1 inline cockpit, three Mk 1 structural fuselages, an adjustable ramp intake, a J-X4 Whiplash Turbo Ramjet engine, a PB-NUK Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (several previous planes ran out of juice at one point, so I wasn't taking chances), two Big-S Delta Wings (full of fuel, thus, 6000 units), two , and four Tailfin vertical surfaces.

When the initial design proved somewhat unstable, I added a very slight amount of dihedral (took it off Angle Snap and did a very slight adjustment), and I canted the vertical surfaces inward one click (using angle snap). Gear was three of the smallest retractables. I made it with a bit more than 50 units of fuel to spare.

 

I wouldn't think this sets a record, but some tips on how to be more fuel efficient (or faster) or how to build lighter/fly smarter would be nice. Also, if you have done similar feats, please share your experiences.

The "U-2 Clone" had to have its wings moved back for the rapier to balance properly.

I kind of like the Big-S Delta wing, because of its fuel capacity.


Looking at it from this angle, I can't imagine how I landed it at the end of the mission, without breaking something?

Edited not just to get the &^%$# pictures correct (after much frustrated fussing about), but also because I forgot to mention that I landed on the grass next to the runway. It's a much easier target.

 

Edited December 30, 2015 by SSgt Baloo

[Vanamonde]

Congratulations. I have yet to make a plane that can do this.