Soaring in Huntsville

Modern sailplanes are made out of very strong composite materials similar to the kinds found on airlines and jet fighters. A single place glider weights approximately 550 lbs and has a speed range of between 45 and 170 mph. Because sailplanes do not carry a motor they are designed to minimize aerodynamic drag, giving them a sleek smooth look. Very high performance sailplanes can go 60 feet forward to one foot down and cover 60 miles in one glide without help from updrafts from only 5,000 feet.

More Gliding on Next Page.

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