Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / January 2009

You'd actually get much higher acceleration (and for much longer) from a
high end electric setup.  The LMR (limited motor run) glider guys can get up
well over 2000' in 30 seconds.  In the video, it looks like they were using
six rocket motors, and other than the pyrotechnics, the results weren't all
that impressive.

PCPhill

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From: "Michael Austin" <maustin@firstdbasource.com>
Sent: Friday, January 09, 2009 9:29 PM
Newsgroups: rec.models.rc.air
Subject: Let's try this again... (introduction)

In this family, too.  Welcome!

Awesome!

As some of the comments said, that really isn't a lot
of altitude, but the coolness factor is undeniable.

They probably have to tilt the rockets down so as
not to burn the fuselage--or else to resemble the
Fat Albert package.

I would try to get the thrust pointed straight
back, if possible.  A glider's wings will provide
all the lift you need to get up and start hunting
thermals in short order.  If you've seen pix of
gliders being towed up by a bungee or by a winch,
you'll understand what I mean.

Seems to me that trying to lift such a light aircraft
by rocket power alone means you're fighting the top
surface of the wing instead of getting the wing to
work for you.

I've got a Great Planes Spirit.  When we're done
playing with it as-is, maybe it will be time to
try some of those long-burn rocket pods also mentioned
in the comments.

Of course, if you get a misfire on one side of the
fuselage, it will be game over.  :-O

                Marty

Welcome to here. Welcome back to the hobby. (I miss golf)

Sail planes, that's right down Doug's alley.
I still have my first, an Ace something.

That is pretty cool.  try it for fun but I don't think you'll get long
flights out of it.  A folding prop and lithium batt would be my better guess
for getting up there.

I'll bet you could have pics of your building up on a website in about 10
min.
(hint hint)
mk