Field and Flying

Center of Gravity Location
Mark DrelaPublished on January 1, 2001

Contrary to popular myth, airfoils do not have “ideal” CG locations – airplanes do. The CG location should mainly depend on the wing planform, the tail arm, and the tail size. The wing airfoil is secondary.

Using the Rudder in Thermal Flying
Mark DrelaPublished on January 1, 2001

Maximizing the performance of your aileron sailplane when thermal flying requires effective use of the rudder.