Build a Blimp

Everything you need to build the ARC robotic blimp — the parts we provide, and a starter purchase list based on our reference design.

What We Provide

Registered teams receive the core hardware and software designed by ARC, so you can focus on building, programming, and flying your blimp.

Custom PCB - Raspberry Pi Expansion Board

A custom Raspberry Pi expansion board that integrates the motor drivers, servo headers, and power management for the blimp. Provided to every registered team.

Blimp Software Package

The flight and control software stack that runs on the onboard Raspberry Pi, including motor mixing, sensor handling, and communication.

Mobile Control App

A mobile application to pilot and tune the blimps wirelessly, so teams can fly right away without building their own control interface.

3D-Printable CAD

CAD files for all 3D-printed parts of our reference design — gondola, motor mounts, and structural pieces — ready to print and customize.

Starter Purchase List

This is a starter pack for two blimps based on our reference design. Teams are welcome to customize the build and substitute parts as they see fit. Prices are approximate and may vary.

BLIMP Components (Required quantity in parentheses) - Approx. $350.64 for 2 blimp kits.

2.54mm 2x20 Female Pin Header Socket Connector Strips (2)Requires 1 per blimp. The listing sells in a 10-strip pack, so a single order is plenty for both blimps.
M2 × 4 mm Plastic Black Nylon Screws One assortment pack has more than enough screws for both builds.
Dual Male Headers Comes as a 10-piece pack — one order covers both blimps.
JST-GH Cables and Connectors One order covers both blimps.
Carbon Fiber Rod — 4 mm Square Tube (2)Each blimp uses 1 rod (2 total), and this listing ships 8 per purchase.
Brushless Motor (4)Each blimp uses 2 motors (4 total), and this listing ships a 4-pack — so one order covers both blimps.
Micro Servos (4)Each blimp needs 2 servos (4 total), and this listing ships 2 per purchase.
Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) (4)Each blimp uses 2 ESCs (4 total), and this listing ships a 4-pack — so one purhcase covers both blimps.
Grey Propellers (4)A single 12-pack leaves plenty of spares for both blimps.
Raspberry Pi Zero W (2)One Pi runs each blimp.
Memory Cards — for Raspberry Pi (1)Ships as a 2-pack — one card per Pi, so a single purchase covers both.
2S Batteries (2)Two are required so each blimp has its own battery.
Battery Charger (1)One charger handles the batteries for both blimps.
Balloons (2)Colors: Red · Blue · Black · GoldEach blimp needs at least 1 balloon — the listings come as 3-Packs.
Helium Tank (1) - Recommended brand: Balloon TimeFind them on: Michaels · Walmart · Target
Play-Doh (2)One container is required for each blimp to balance buoyancy so the blimp floats neutrally — the listing comes as a 10-pack.

Have questions about parts or substitutions? Reach out via our Contact page.