The mission score is divided my the empty weight of the aircraft and that includes batteries. They call it RAC (rated aircraft cost). Sacrificing a bit of speed and power for mission 1 and 3 will be worth it in the end but for right now, im not sure exactly what the ratios are. Will need to test. I will definitely try different power combinations to see what the results are before the actual completion.

Great references to the Gossamer Albatross and wing sailing. Will definitely read up on those. I do like canard designs but due to having to land in one piece and strong winds, ill take your advice on not using it.

The main problem with the plane last year is that we could not get much trust out of the motor. We could only get about 1.5 lbs of force compared to other teams getting 6-8lbs. Even in the air, the pilot had to fly it sideways even with small winds. I will also try to make the design more aerodynamic this year. maybe adding balsa sheets around fuselage to give it more of an airfoil shape. Any advice as to construction methods are appropriated.
....
Jester, great explanation.