SEMI-DYNAMIC THERMALLING

Authors

  • Branko Stojkovic

Keywords:

Atmospheric physics, Aerodynamics, Coaching

Abstract

Computer analysis of three-dimensional flight of a sailplane climbing in a thermal has been done. Special attention was paid to consideration of the dynamic energy exchange between a sailplane and a thermal. It was found that in strong and narrow thermals the circling flight is not optimal. In this case, the "semi-dynamic" thermalling gives a higher rate of climb. This way of climbing in a thermal entails some almost aerobatic manoeuvers; thus it is delicate to perform it in practice. Some ideas about the instruments necessary for the propor semi-dynamic thermalling are also given.

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Issue

Vol. 12 No. 1 (1988)

Section

Articles

License

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