Tsubasa maiden flight

Pierre Rondel
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In the air !!!

I managed to make the Tsubasa's maiden flight last Sunday before the wind picked up and the competition started. The launch site wasn't ideal for a first flight, as a cliff doesn't forgive the slightest mistake, and landing at the bottom is impossible. Furthermore, if the wind is too strong, landing behind the ridge is impossible; you have to walk 500 meters into the valley behind the slope, which is inconceivable with a small 1-meter wing.

I judged the wind wasn't too strong for a first flight and asked Pascal to launch the wing for me. The wind was between 8 and 9 m/s. The launch was a bit bumpy, but the Tsubasa quickly stabilized and gained airspeed.

My first impression was that the elevator was extremely responsive, and since I had to use a few clicks of trim to pitch down, I concluded that the wing's center of gravity was too far back. Jeremy had advised me to start with a 46mm center of gravity. I promise I'll do that for the next flight!

Despite the sensitivity of the elevator, I managed a few runs along the slope. The flight speed is fast, especially for a wing under 400g! The Tsubasa glides extremely well, penetrates the winf with ease and has excellent control. The high rudder gives the wing very good stability, and its trajectory is impeccable.
For the roll, not axed, I'll need to review my settings once I find the center of gravity.

In short, the first flight only lasted 3 or 4 minutes, but the Tsubasa already showed impressive acceleration and glide capabilities. I can't wait to fly it again and fine-tune it properly, then try the DS light.

I also plan to add a ballast tube.

To be continued!







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