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Description
The Arcos MK I is rated as a spacecraft with atmospheric capabilities, and for this reason it features optional flight control surface elements. Although it can fly with no problem at all in most atmospheres, there are certain classes of atmospheric environs where having just a little more drag can dramatically improve the flight characteristics of the vehicle.

In this diagram we see the flight control surfaces fully deployed (Mode C) as to have the most dramatic impact on airflow relative to the shape of the vessel's hull. Despite appearances, the flight control surfaces are not fully flat, and are angled in such a way as to create considerable drag against the airflow, while directing the air that does pass the vessel to the mid-aft of the craft where it creates turbulence in its wake.

The narrative and artwork presented here remains the intellectual property of Jonathan Bluestone © Copyright Bluestone 1979-2022.

Description
The Arcos MK I is rated as a spacecraft with atmospheric capabilities, and for this reason it features optional flight control surface elements. Although it can fly with no problem at all in most atmospheres, there are certain classes of atmospheric environs where having just a little more drag can dramatically improve the flight characteristics of the vehicle.

In this diagram we see the flight control surfaces fully deployed (Mode C) as to have the most dramatic impact on airflow relative to the shape of the vessel's hull. Despite appearances, the flight control surfaces are not fully flat, and are angled in such a way as to create considerable drag against the airflow, while directing the air that does pass the vessel to the mid-aft of the craft where it creates turbulence in its wake.

The narrative and artwork presented here remains the intellectual property of Jonathan Bluestone © Copyright Bluestone 1979-2022.