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Scale Sailplanes
| Scale gliders are miniature
models of full-size sailplanes. Most scale
sailplanes are very large (1/4 scale or bigger)
since the larger the model, the more efficient
the wing, and the greater the realism. The size
and realism of a large scale sailplane gives it
an air of majestic serenity and beauty. One can
only appreciate the pleasure of piloting a scale
sailplane and no words can describe it precisely.
Of course large models need a powerful method
of launching. The best way of towing a large scale
glider to height is with a towplane - this is
called aerotowing.
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Aerotowing is the marriage of
motorless and powered flight. Although many of the
towplanes involved are scale, this isn't a
requirement. In the simplest terms a powered
plane, under the direction of its pilot, pulls
the sailplane by way of a towline to altitude
where it released by a flick of a switch on the
sailplane pilot's transmitter. The towplane
returns immediately for another tow while the
sailplane searches the sky for a thermal or
perhaps begins an aerobatics routine on its
downward flight. |
Recommended Kits
Flair
1/4 scale Ka-8b |
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S2G
1/6 scale ASH-26 |
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