Tips for a VTOL and Engine Clustering

[WaitingCynicism]

Hi all, I am currently trying to build just a basic VTOL SSTO/spaceplane/space fighter. I understand aircraft design and have seen the basic aircraft design guide, yet I just can't seem to get the VTOL even when I balance around COM and COL. Do you all have any tips for a VTOL?

 

On another note, what engines do you all like to use for clustering for a lifter? I'm trying to work on some clustered rockets.

[Aegolius13]

2 hours ago, WaitingCynicism said:

I just can't seem to get the VTOL even when I balance around COM and COL

Are you looking at just COM and COL, or also center of thrust?  That's the one that takes a lot more work on a VTOL than a normal plane.  To get the thing to go straight up, you need the COT to go right over the COM.  And ideally, you want the COM to stay in the exact same place as you burn fuel, so you don't run into torque later in flight.

[WaitingCynicism]

18 hours ago, Aegolius13 said:

Are you looking at just COM and COL, or also center of thrust?  That's the one that takes a lot more work on a VTOL than a normal plane.  To get the thing to go straight up, you need the COT to go right over the COM.  And ideally, you want the COM to stay in the exact same place as you burn fuel, so you don't run into torque later in flight.

I hadn't checked COT but I will! Thanks!