Questions tagged [thermals]
Columns of rising air that are formed on the ground through the warming of the surface by sunlight, used by gliders to gain altitude
7
questions
4
votes
2answers
231 views
What are the best places to gain the most altitude in a glider?
I'm a beginner pilot and I started with gliding. How to spot the best thermals and what is the most efficient way to climb?
3
votes
2answers
582 views
Does wind provide lift for hang gliders in the air?
Basically, if there are no thermals, but a strong wind, is there a way to use that wind to gain altitude?
16
votes
5answers
5k views
Could a big plane glide significant distances, same a ordinary glider (1000 km or about)?
Seems that a usual glider is not limited by its glide descent rate and can fly much more than this. It uses air masses that move upward to gain the altitude.
Are these effects limited by the size of ...
12
votes
1answer
535 views
How is close formation flying possible with things like thermals and turbulence?
This weekend the Blue Angels came to town. The weather was less than perfect. A quick look at SkyVector during their show indicated there was an active AIRMET for moderate turbulence.
This made me ...
12
votes
3answers
2k views
Do thermals stop rising when clouds are formed?
Glider pilots know that one indication of thermal lift is the formation of cumulus-type clouds.
My question is: Does the rising air (that lifted the moisture to form the the cloud) stop rising after ...
5
votes
2answers
376 views
Can a gyro-copter soar?
If one centers the gyro-copter in a thermal and then simulates a hover facing headwind; can the gyro-copter climb up like that ?
Is it technically possible or is it advisable....
13
votes
2answers
7k views
How are thermals found?
As far as I understand glider pilots like to look out for thermals. I assume that when you are in one, you can perceive that and you can make roughly sure to stay in it.
But what if you're not in a ...
