Skywalker X8
FPV • Autonomy • Long-range • Documented Step-by-Step
Introduction
Welcome to Project-X8, my personal journey into designing, building, and optimizing a custom Skywalker X8 RC plane. This project combines FPV flying, autonomous flight systems, and custom hardware modifications to create a reliable, high-performance RC aircraft. I’ve always wanted to build this model ever since its release, and this project is my chance to finally bring that long-held idea to life.
The goal is to document every stage of the build, from initial planning to test flights, so other enthusiasts and makers can follow along, learn, and share feedback.
Project Objectives
- Design and build a custom RC plane based on the Skywalker X8 platform.
- Integrate autopilot systems (BeagleBone Blue / ArduPilot / Pixhawk).
- Test VTOL vs fixed-wing configurations.
- Optimize for long flight time and stable FPV signal.
- Experiment with sensor integration (GPS redundancy, LiDAR, airspeed sensors).
- Document results for the RC community.
Build Outline
1. Planning and Design
- Selecting the Skywalker X8 airframe.
- Choosing motor and propeller setups.
- Calculating AUW and CG.
- 3D printing & CNC-machining custom parts.
2. Electronics and Hardware
- Flight controller setup.
- Dual GPS testing (BN-880 & BN-220).
- CAN bus & I²C sensor integration.
- RX5808 diversity + ESP32.
3. Power System
- Battery config (LiPo vs 18650).
- Power distribution & redundancy.
- Run-time efficiency testing.
4. Flight Control & Autonomy
- Autopilot firmware install.
- Waypoint navigation.
- Sensor calibration (compass, gyros, airspeed).
- Safety failsafes (RTH, failsafe triggers).
5. FPV & Telemetry
- Long-range FPV (5.8 GHz, 2W VTX).
- Ground station integration.
- RSSI tracking & antenna optimization.
6. Testing & Iteration
- Glide and balance tests.
- Maiden flight.
- Autonomous flight trials.
- Performance reviews & upgrades.
Project Updates
I’ll post regular blog updates as each milestone is reached. These posts auto-embed below.
Project-X8: 3D Printed Modular Plates and Canopy Lock for the Skywalker X8
Building a Skywalker X8 for long-range FPV and autonomous flight is basically a balancing act between strength, serviceability, and weight. The EPO foam fuselage is roomy and forgiving, but mounting electronics, batteries, and accessories usually means…
Project-X8: Why We’re Flying with ExpressLRS
When it came time to choose the brains behind the sticks — the radio link — we faced the classic question: Which control system actually deserves to fly the Skywalker X8? There are plenty of contenders…
Project-X8: Reinforcing Wings, Smarter Servo Mounts, and Wire Choices
When it comes to wings, the Skywalker X8 is already a chunky flying Dorito. But once you start adding fiberglass cloth, polyurethane varnish, FPV gear, and dreams of long-range stability, the stock foam just doesn’t cut…
Project-X8: Battery Choices – LiPo vs 18650 (and Why We Went with LiPo)
If there’s one debate that can split an RC hangar in half, it’s the question of LiPo vs 18650 cells. Both are great. Both are annoying. And both will get you long lectures on RC forums…
Project-X8: The Joys of AUW, Maths, and a Lucky Motor
Every RC plane build eventually runs into the AUW question: “How heavy is this thing actually going to be… and will the motor laugh at me, or cry?” For Project-X8, that meant sitting down with a…
Project-X8: Giving the X8 Some Armor (Foam Protection & Wing Rigidity Upgrade)
Foam planes are brilliant. They’re light, forgiving, easy to fix, and come in kits that make you feel like you’re getting away with something suspiciously affordable. But let’s be honest: EPO foam is basically the avocado…
Project-X8: Why We Decided to Give the X8 Even More Wings (and a Tail)
There comes a point in every RC plane build where you look at your perfectly serviceable Skywalker X8 and say:“Yeah, but what if it was bigger?” For us, that moment came while staring at the x8…
Quick Links to Key Updates
- Update 1: Airframe preparation and modifications
- Update 2: Electronics wiring and setup
- Update 3: First GPS integration test
- Update 4: Power system evaluation
- Update 5: Maiden flight results
Conclusion (When Project is Completed)
The final section will summarise the outcomes of Project-X8, including lessons learned, challenges, and performance results.