Project Overview

This project involved the design and construction of a glider specifically engineered to carry a camera payload while adhering to strict static and dynamic stability constraints.

For this project, I designed and built a lightweight glider capable of carrying a camera payload while meeting strict stability constraints. I used MATLAB to evaluate different wing and body configurations, ultimately choosing a design that maximized flight distance and efficiency. I modeled the glider in SOLIDWORKS, fabricated it with lightweight PLA using a 3D printer, and successfully launched it over 75 feet. This hands-on experience gave me a deep understanding of aerodynamic tradeoffs and rapid prototyping for flight hardware.

Key Features

• Material choice: Lightweight Foaming PLA for fuselage and Foam Core for wings.
• Fuselage length: 0.75 m; Wingspan: 1 m; Wing Area: 0.1312 m²; Wing Average Chord Length: 0.13 m.
• Center of gravity: X_cg = 0.26 m; Aerodynamic Center: X_ac = 0.221 m.
• Tapered, high mounted wings (better stability and AR for better glide performance, less chance of wing damage on impact).
• Narrow fuselage section between tail and wings (lighter weight).
• Rounded fuselage (better aerodynamics w/ less drag).
• Forward mounted camera housing (better adjusted center of gravity).

Performance Summary

Project Video

Role & Responsibilities

Vice President | Intern | Member
August 2023 – May 2025

As Vice President of SASE, I served on the executive board and helped organize events that brought together students, companies, and diverse campus groups. I led fundraising efforts, securing over $5,000 in sponsorships. One of my highlights was directing volunteers and coordinating logistics for our campus-wide AAPI celebration, where we managed 10+ booths and welcomed over 500 attendees. My work focused on building an inclusive community and providing professional development opportunities for our members.

Event Photos

Role & Responsibilities

Lead Space Minor Ambassador
August 2021 – May 2025

In my role as Lead Space Minor Ambassador, I organized outreach events that connected students with leading voices in the space industry, including retired astronaut guest speakers. I planned and led the university's largest stargazing event, overseeing telescope operations and volunteer coordination for more than 100 attendees. I also advised student teams on integrating sensors and software for atmospheric experiments using Arduino, helping foster a hands-on, collaborative environment for space exploration enthusiasts at CU Boulder. Additionally, worked as a TA for a class under Chris Koehler called Pathway to Space.

Award Details

University of Colorado Boulder
2025

This award is in collaboration with the Dennis Small Cultural Center at CU Boulder and recognizes my efforts to enhance cross-cultural awareness and foster a greater appreciation for diversity and inclusion. "I have gone above and beyond in advocating for and facilitating cultural programming, and my impact has extended far beyond its original scope."

Award Details

Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers
2025

Helped lead the organization and planning of a Diwali celebration that brought together over 300 students from diverse backgrounds to explore South Asian culture through interactive booths, creative crafts, and traditional cuisine. Collaborating with other student organizations, we created an inclusive, hands-on experience that encouraged cross-cultural learning and engagement. Our event set a new standard for campus cultural programming and fostered a strong sense of community and appreciation for diversity.

Award Details

Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers
2024

The "Student Organization of the Year" award celebrates an outstanding student group that has demonstrated exceptional leadership, community impact, innovation, and commitment to its members and the wider university. This organization excelled in its mission through impactful events, strong member engagement, and significant contributions to campus life.