-----Original Message----- From: Gary  [mailto:gandpchatters....] Sent: Monday, April 11, 2005 8:23 PM To: Andre Zeman Subject: GPS

Hello Andre,

We’re getting your snow now, but I got about 10 flights in so far this year with total time of about 32 hours. The WJ machine is working wonderfully. I was wondering what you use for an altimeter and have you had any trouble with it or what you might recommend? I plan to go into controlled airspace this year and require a GPS to relay my position and altitude. There are allot on the market and I’m really not sure what would be the biggest bang for the buck. I thought you might have some ideas.

Gary,

I have Etrex Summit but it is 4 yrs old and there is better stuff out there for less money. I did not look into it lately as I have no need for new one. Any GPS will give you position, altitude but having having maps would be beneficial.

Also, do you have any tips for entering/exiting thermals? The reason I ask is because spring time is ripe for these and on my flight on Sunday, I lifted off at 09:30. Instead of checking the ADDS on the computer, I simply checked the weather station on TV the night before for what the winds were supposed to be and they said no more than 5 km/h.

Mistake. Always check just before you drive out to fly.

Anyway I got back to my field at 11:00 and I know the wind was more than 5 km/h and the thermals were very strong. I came in on the upwind leg to my windsock at approximately 60-70ft just to check out the sock. I planned to overshoot the sock and in my turn downwind to begin my circuit back into the wind and land, I hit a very strong thermal with a strong gust of wind at the same time. It then caused an Asymmetrical Collapse on the right side. I pumped the shoot on instinct and re-inflated at approximately 20ft or so off the ground. I walked out the landing, turned and dropped the shoot. After I cleaned out my shorts, I read up on Asymmetrical collapses as well as upon returning home rechecked the weather and realized that the winds were forecasted much stronger than the night before. At 20kms/hr gusting 30 in late afternoon vice 5km/h. My entire flight was relatively calm (few thermals) until I returned to my field and the weather conditions really changed fast. I just wanted to share my experience with you and get your thoughts.

This time of the year thermals are very strong. Early in the day say around 11 the turbulent air is close to the ground but it is still calm 1500 ft up. By 2 pm it is turbulent in all altitudes. You should stick with the 4 hour rule if you want to be super safe. Fly up to 4 hours after sunrise and 4 hours before sunset. Also if it is thermally and turbulent minimize time close to ground.

General rules as far as flying in rough air:

1. When flying in rough air keep brakes on 3 inches on both sides.
2. When you enter thermal the angle of attack increases so release brakes.
3. When you exit thermal the angle of attack decreases so apply brakes.
4. If glider collapses do not over-correct - for example do not pump the inflated side. You can stall it and enter negative spin. Either go hands up or GENTLY brake on the still inflated side to prevent turning and pump on the collapsed side to re-inflate.
5. Stay high

Just remember that if conditions are very rough there is nothing that will eliminate the danger of collapse. So use the 4 hour rule.

Glad you managed this one. Keep me posted

Andre

I can analyze my mistakes and see how they can multiply, but it is good to have another perspective on these things. Talk to you later.

Gary