From Newfoundland Scotland 26 hours August 21 1998 first unmanned autonomous flight across Atlantic completed historic event primarily work small research company called Insitu Group led founder Dr Tad McGeer vehicle used groups model-sized Aerosonde meteorological RPVs Remotely Piloted Vehicles dubbed Liama after Latvian goddess good fortune launch point Bell Island Airport just off southeast tip Newfoundland Canada August 20 759 am local time 959 UTC [Coordinated Universal Time] Recovery made grassy field South Uist Outer Hebrides Scotland 26 hours 45 minutes later 144 pm local rime 1244 UTC transatlantic flight sponsored consortium Environmental Systems Services Australia Australian Bureau Meteorology US Office Naval Research additional support University Washington Boeing Co L-3 Communications Neither Aerosonde nor Insitu Group Insitu means site new pages Model Aviation published overview Aerosonde development project May 1996 issue Readers may 10 Model Aviation 4U Rick Allison Tad McGeer ill-fated Piper Hes head lnsitu group principal designer Aerosonde project Photos Ron Rennntt Rill Vantianti Granhic flesion Carla Kunz Left One four Aerosondes cartop rack awaiting launch recall direct links Aerosonde has its aeromodeling ancestry wing box-stock 900-square-inch Genesis thermalduration glider wing Selig 7037 airfoil RnR Products Milpitas California rest airframe designed Jnsitu Group also produced RnR pusher power plant substantially modified Enya 120R running 100 low-lead avgas airplane gasoline direction engine rotation reversed allow use regular tractor propeller APC 20 x 8 pusher configuration Walbro WT332 carburetor used custom intake maaifold custom-made inflight mixture control small 30-volt brushless generator modified electric Radio Control RC car can motor turned engine drive washer belt-and-pulley arrangement capacitive discharge ignition system C&H Electronics paired custom ignition-timing system provide spark flight control surfaces actuated stock Futaba JR servos hookups April1999 11 Postflight inspection Greg Lipski middle Steve Huffman right trying remove Llamas nose cone Leff Ross Hoag Kip Jakcson powerup avionics box tape nose cone Below Tad McGeer van rented mobile launch-control center Aerosonde configuration twinboom pusher inverted V-tail allows correct weight distribution relatively heavy fuel avionics payload provides all-important sensors up front clear air work operational weight range 16-26 pounds depending fuel load avionics package carried Aerosonde launched under manual control RC pilot specially designed launch rack affixed roof moving car altitude control passed autonomous portion flight-control systembasically PC personal computer program An RF modem handles receiver job ground-control unita laptop PC patched another RF modem amplifier/antenna unitis used input GPS Global Positioning System waypoints altitudes create flightpath Aerosonde track its onboard GPS receiver altitude sensors As long ground-control system within range aircraft new waypoints may entered time flightpath may modified Once aircraft passes out range becomes truly autonomous Recovery reverse launch stored GPS waypoints lead aircraft within radio range ground control system new waypoints entered bring Aerosonde within visual range ground station Once recovery pilot acquires aircraft visually control passed program buddy box console landing Aerosondes primary role gather meteorological data may collected stored transmitted back base via downlink telemetry system aircraft within range Engineering data includes engine rpm cylinder head temperature exhaust gas temperature commanded servo positions servos true airspeed barometric altitude aircraft altitude position GPS receiver battery voltage battery charger status generator output voltage avionics box temperature Meteorological data standard configuration includes wind speed direction calculated differential GPS inside outside temperature barometric pressure relative humidity stunning accomplishment robot Lindbergh should doubly gratifying modelers Besides Liamas model aircraft heritage extensive off-the-shelf modeling technology products used construction two key members sixman Insitu Group transatlantic crew accomplished RC modelers AMA members Senior test pilot mechanic Kip Jackson well-known Seattle-area RC modeler longtime FAI Federation Aeronautique Internationale RC Pattern competitor launch pilot record flight helped develop Aerosonde mechanical systems Aeronautical engineer backup pilot Bill Vaglienti former RC Pattern competitor won AMA scholarship 1991 graduated second class University Washington joined Jnsitu Group January 1997 Bill recovery pilot brought Liama home safely cant think better way let share trials troubles ultimate feeling exultation include Kips Bills accounts flight As told Kip Jackson Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group electrical engineer Ross Hoag arrived Bell Island Newfoundland Friday August 14th News attempt preceded us reception very warm fine hospitality continued through week Special thanks should go Gordon Marilyn Shea run Island Hideaway Bed Breakfast base operations Early Saturday morning Ross unpacked assembled first two aircraft called Thumper Piper ready go following morning Sundays weather good enough attempt put Millionaireour test-bed aircrafttogether headed runway Bell Island Airport some radio testing also just fly around get used place wind heavy would week straight down runway launched flew Millionaire around awhile look nulls radio link found almost immediately Off east end runway turned downwind base temporarily lost control aircraft unpleasant moment two before Millionaire popped out other side blind spot regained control landed cutting approach closer shutting off downwind leg short blind spot made mental note stay out area headed back wait out weather 430 am Monday weather looked better headed up shop old trade school building located hill overlooking runway loaded 12 Model Aviation re -K Thumper car-top launcher before driving runway greeted press spectators After usual last-minute checks launched Thumper turned autopilot Tad flew aircraft laptop ground station doing some standard speed sweeps check autopilot gains Everything checked out activated program sent Thumper way out sea Afew hours later brought Piper down runway launch idea behind multiple launch double chances making across pond maximize least waste weather opportunity Unfortunately just after takeoff Piper experienced software bug never seen before crashed sea right front us assembled press onlookers Very embarrassing such life experimental RPV business Tuesday Wednesday weather bad over Atlantic Ross got bullet number three Liama ready go also prepared test-bed aircraft Millionaire Atlantic attempt changing engine moving wing position aft weight-and-balance purposes Thursday weather good repeated Mondays double-launch scenario happy exception crashing Liama Millionaire headed out sea work done So headed ferry ultimately home get started vacation About 325 am Ross called news Liama made couldnt go back sleep despite having up 27 hours straight DERA Defense Evaluation Research Agency missile test range landing site South Uist Hebrides some 3200 kilometers Bell Island landing crewInsitu Group aeronautical engineer Bill Vaglienti University Washington aero/astro department electrical engineer Greg Lipski University Washington aeronautical engineering gfp RIC SERVICE AT ITS BEST OOONTRGLSales Service Anything Radio Controlled KMI 7420 Seven Mile Rd Northville Michigan 48167 Ph 248-486-4800 Fax 248-486-1603 Repairs Updates Custom Modifications Frequency Changes 6 Send Legal sized SAE 1997 Meter conversions ACE Airtronics Aristo-craft Cirrus EK Catalog containing lists R/C maintenance hints Futaba Hitec Heathkit Hobby Shack JR Kraft KGL KSE Kline Discover MCard ViSA COD KoPropo Pro-Line RCD Tower Hobbies World Engines & others UPS USMA IL FEDEX etc Calibrated Equipment Quick Turnaround Walk-in daily service 800 am-500 pm Send E-Mail PTWaters@junocom 14 Model Aviation ant field box just add accessories GO flight line carry-all modelers arent building ready-to-use field box Dynaflite 2 Attach handle j3Lo1IP&tketofie. tre orior too Oyna7ito dealer neoreor yoi pirore al 1-800-682-8948 ood nrerriorcooeAfldl5P UoA Oiorooorerr eoclooew rrrmogfl GROAT PLANES MODEL OISYRIROTORO COMPANY PO 600 902r COIAMPAION IL 61800-9021 CopyriOhi 1907 3138003 lough lightweight polyetoylene plastic easy clean opacloas 12 o 7 drawer ideal holdiog tools props etc Easy moaoting aoy standard power panel ao well oo starter starter battery fuel pawp orw,,r ro, acc,s,,,ori,I,dd AIRPLANE FACTORY INC 1135 FLORIDA MANDEVILLE LA 70448 Radios Engines BASIC TRAINER $8495 $595 P&H NEW AT THIS want gentle sport plane need KOMBAT 40 BASIC TRAINER spend days weeks months building trainer just see SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS learning Fly hour Everything except radio engine box No Gluing No Covering No Sanding No Tears CRASH required 40I4 size engine four channel radio big 80 wing span tricycle gear weighing 5-1/2 pounds BASIC TRAINER easy land can take some real punishment Most crashes usually result just couple broken nylon bolts can easily replaced minutes keep flying hours Available Red Yellow Orange Blue Order today Sport model KOMBAT 40 available $7495 VISA/MC/AMEXICOD 1-800-264-7840 FREE CATALOG 504 626-7840 INCORPORATED IAiPa WORLDS LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF SUPERIOR EPOXY-GLASS COWLS WHEEL PANTS SSORIES CALL NOW 810677-0213 8106770414 orders gP4rir4wniJxuwumuIL.. Send $100 $200 $300 OutOlut dvantage Using top-quality componen s eveloped refined over quarter century ________________ experience RED MAX fuels specially engineered Maxunum Performance Power Protection RED MAX known soldFHS oil internationally best fuel can use model engine affordable prices have excellent customer service call us Visit website informationlpricing l activities Racing Pattern Fun etc Fuel types Plane Helicopter Boat Car Jet etc Engine types 2 or4 cycle Glow Diesel Nitro Power blends O0/o 75% 5% Oil blends RED MAX Synthetic / Syn-Castor **Customer special blends avaiIable Minimum gal Standard 4-gal 20-qt Cases Shipping UPSto door 12 gal motorfreight commercial address Price breaks 41220 60124 gal Soecial discount Dreoaid club orders Congratulations Red Max 1st place Winners AMA Air Nationals 1998 IDA Combat Larry Driskill 1998 /DA JrCombat Skyler Skelly 1998 /DA Open Bob & Andy Meats 1998 Free Flight Bob Johannes MAC Scale Aerobatic Nationals 1998 Advanced Michael J Kuper 1998 World Record Breaker Bruce Bennett NAMBA Boat Nationals 1998 B-Stock Tunnel Russ Nachtweih 1998 Stock OPC Tunnel George Wittman 1998 A-OIB Mono Elden Huntling Numerous other awards year FHS Supply lncPO Box 9CloverSC 29710-0009 Sales 800 742-8484 Voice 803 222-7488 Internet FHSoil@aolcom Fax 803 222-7285 Website httpllmembersaolcomIFHSoil RED MAX Shirts Hats & stickers available graduate student Steve Huffmanwas place waiting Thumper long overdue presumed lost over ocean tension heavy growing Bill Vaglientis account long crossing took Liama well out communications range leaving us no way tracking over ocean would have trust autonomous nature Aerosonde fly prep rogrammed course designed take full advantage prevailing North Atlantic winds simulations predicted midday arrival vagaries weather could easily alter several hours prepared waiting tensely early morning 21st forecast indicated landing weather would dismal best 25-knot winds low cloud base worried spotting aircraft would problem Fortunately forecast wrong wind skies CAVU [Clear Air Visibility Unlimited] About 1 pm local ground station uttered beep heads swiveled watch computer nobody breathed next few minutes waited learn status aircraft soon clear Liama Out good health Hearts pounding now Everyone else done jobs up us Greg used laptop set Liama up offshore holding circuit Steve headed out set up mobile ground station landing area waited long enough make sure Liama way grabbed gear followed Steve landing zone Greg kept us updated hand-held radio finished setting up mobile station ready Liama position radio link transferred mobile station few quick computer commands Liama feet dry over land first time 26 hours would overhead afew seconds wind kept up steady roar wouldnt possible hear Enya 120 would have depend telemetry tell us overhead did turned looked overwhelming pride relief visually acquired aircraft first time engaged manual control aflip switch standard Futaba transmitter much line wasn t tempted try anything fancy Aerosonde complex aircraft model standards fast heavy underpowered 26 pounds 900 squares 120 power short downwind pass smooth turn set up final took wide-open grass field shut engine down concentrated flying smoothly Steve called out airspeeds Afew seconds later Liama slid stop belly barely 16 Modei Aviation ARE THE BEST manufacture ver II fine scale radial blend old worki hip high techAology ibination produces engines e powerful realiable erve very best ne scale radial engine Technopower II fhree five seven nine cylinder engines 1/6 1/5 scale TECHNOPOWER II INC 610 North Street Chagrin Falls OH 44022 phone 440 564-9787 http//wwwteehnopowercom Complete brochure US $300 other $500 & MC Accepted 73 C Magnum four stroke engines made best materials CNC machined have dual ball bearing supported crankshafts run good better similar engine market Now can save whats like about Magnum XL-8ORFSXL-9lRFs Dual Ball Bearing Ringed 4-Strokes Rear updraft dual needle valve carhs chokes XL-SOius SPECSXL-9lius SPECS Displacement 080 ciDisplacement 093 ci Stroke 235 mmstroke 250 mm Bore 265 mmBore 280 mm Prop Size t2x8 13x6Prop Size 13x8 t4x6 Shaft 5/16-24Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000 11000RPM 2000-tt000 Weight 22 4 oz 149~ XL-16Oius Twin 2BB Ringed 4-Stroke Ram-induction 2NV carb Macbined engine mount SPECIFICATIONS Disolacemeet 160 ci 259 cc 235 mm Bore 265 mm crop Size t5 x 810 t6 x 6-8 Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000-10000 43999 Copyright 1998 Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier circle Fountain Valley CA 92728-8610 scratch erupted celebration few tired sighs Liama first unmanned aircraft smallest aircraft type cross Atlantic overwhelming majority trip flew alone unassisted programming sensors guidance Posiflight analysis indicated 8-10 hours journey heavy rain future long-range satellite communications become available such oceanic crossings may become routine now have satisfaction doing what no else has done transatlantic flight conceived demonstration Aerosondes operational capability capped impressive list recent accomplishments including first autonomous flight including takeoff landing February 25 1998 some 350 hours successful field missions various groups meteorological services past year Concept testing complete Aerosonde project process developing more-flexible robust aircraft routine commercial use first aircraft scheduled begin operation year Since four aircraft launched completed Atlantic crossing increased reliability major goal Since enroute communication telemetry available attempts reasons Thumper Millionaire lost Piper fell victim software bug during pass manual automatic control known However several low-reliability parts included design assumed responsible facts Liamas 26 hour 45 minute journey 39 kilos fuel about 15 gallons burned 30cc oil used 2031 miles traveled average speed 75 mph about 1350 miles per gallon Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group individuals organizations tnvolvedincluding Kip Jackson Bill Vaglientican proud accomplishment Aerosonde future skies look CAVU indeed odel Aviation lenge Get Strokes Money kits law uae cowling ipiaiw *101 hr Video before buy Bees have money back guarantee Rick Allison 26405 SE 1 60th St Issaquah WA 98027 k1W1~ vivure1E Telephone 6024491534- Fax 602-649 9040 1Aom4pmMST
Edition: Model Aviation - 1999/04
Page Numbers: 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18
Edition: Model Aviation - 1999/04
Page Numbers: 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18
From Newfoundland Scotland 26 hours August 21 1998 first unmanned autonomous flight across Atlantic completed historic event primarily work small research company called Insitu Group led founder Dr Tad McGeer vehicle used groups model-sized Aerosonde meteorological RPVs Remotely Piloted Vehicles dubbed Liama after Latvian goddess good fortune launch point Bell Island Airport just off southeast tip Newfoundland Canada August 20 759 am local time 959 UTC [Coordinated Universal Time] Recovery made grassy field South Uist Outer Hebrides Scotland 26 hours 45 minutes later 144 pm local rime 1244 UTC transatlantic flight sponsored consortium Environmental Systems Services Australia Australian Bureau Meteorology US Office Naval Research additional support University Washington Boeing Co L-3 Communications Neither Aerosonde nor Insitu Group Insitu means site new pages Model Aviation published overview Aerosonde development project May 1996 issue Readers may 10 Model Aviation 4U Rick Allison Tad McGeer ill-fated Piper Hes head lnsitu group principal designer Aerosonde project Photos Ron Rennntt Rill Vantianti Granhic flesion Carla Kunz Left One four Aerosondes cartop rack awaiting launch recall direct links Aerosonde has its aeromodeling ancestry wing box-stock 900-square-inch Genesis thermalduration glider wing Selig 7037 airfoil RnR Products Milpitas California rest airframe designed Jnsitu Group also produced RnR pusher power plant substantially modified Enya 120R running 100 low-lead avgas airplane gasoline direction engine rotation reversed allow use regular tractor propeller APC 20 x 8 pusher configuration Walbro WT332 carburetor used custom intake maaifold custom-made inflight mixture control small 30-volt brushless generator modified electric Radio Control RC car can motor turned engine drive washer belt-and-pulley arrangement capacitive discharge ignition system C&H Electronics paired custom ignition-timing system provide spark flight control surfaces actuated stock Futaba JR servos hookups April1999 11 Postflight inspection Greg Lipski middle Steve Huffman right trying remove Llamas nose cone Leff Ross Hoag Kip Jakcson powerup avionics box tape nose cone Below Tad McGeer van rented mobile launch-control center Aerosonde configuration twinboom pusher inverted V-tail allows correct weight distribution relatively heavy fuel avionics payload provides all-important sensors up front clear air work operational weight range 16-26 pounds depending fuel load avionics package carried Aerosonde launched under manual control RC pilot specially designed launch rack affixed roof moving car altitude control passed autonomous portion flight-control systembasically PC personal computer program An RF modem handles receiver job ground-control unita laptop PC patched another RF modem amplifier/antenna unitis used input GPS Global Positioning System waypoints altitudes create flightpath Aerosonde track its onboard GPS receiver altitude sensors As long ground-control system within range aircraft new waypoints may entered time flightpath may modified Once aircraft passes out range becomes truly autonomous Recovery reverse launch stored GPS waypoints lead aircraft within radio range ground control system new waypoints entered bring Aerosonde within visual range ground station Once recovery pilot acquires aircraft visually control passed program buddy box console landing Aerosondes primary role gather meteorological data may collected stored transmitted back base via downlink telemetry system aircraft within range Engineering data includes engine rpm cylinder head temperature exhaust gas temperature commanded servo positions servos true airspeed barometric altitude aircraft altitude position GPS receiver battery voltage battery charger status generator output voltage avionics box temperature Meteorological data standard configuration includes wind speed direction calculated differential GPS inside outside temperature barometric pressure relative humidity stunning accomplishment robot Lindbergh should doubly gratifying modelers Besides Liamas model aircraft heritage extensive off-the-shelf modeling technology products used construction two key members sixman Insitu Group transatlantic crew accomplished RC modelers AMA members Senior test pilot mechanic Kip Jackson well-known Seattle-area RC modeler longtime FAI Federation Aeronautique Internationale RC Pattern competitor launch pilot record flight helped develop Aerosonde mechanical systems Aeronautical engineer backup pilot Bill Vaglienti former RC Pattern competitor won AMA scholarship 1991 graduated second class University Washington joined Jnsitu Group January 1997 Bill recovery pilot brought Liama home safely cant think better way let share trials troubles ultimate feeling exultation include Kips Bills accounts flight As told Kip Jackson Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group electrical engineer Ross Hoag arrived Bell Island Newfoundland Friday August 14th News attempt preceded us reception very warm fine hospitality continued through week Special thanks should go Gordon Marilyn Shea run Island Hideaway Bed Breakfast base operations Early Saturday morning Ross unpacked assembled first two aircraft called Thumper Piper ready go following morning Sundays weather good enough attempt put Millionaireour test-bed aircrafttogether headed runway Bell Island Airport some radio testing also just fly around get used place wind heavy would week straight down runway launched flew Millionaire around awhile look nulls radio link found almost immediately Off east end runway turned downwind base temporarily lost control aircraft unpleasant moment two before Millionaire popped out other side blind spot regained control landed cutting approach closer shutting off downwind leg short blind spot made mental note stay out area headed back wait out weather 430 am Monday weather looked better headed up shop old trade school building located hill overlooking runway loaded 12 Model Aviation re -K Thumper car-top launcher before driving runway greeted press spectators After usual last-minute checks launched Thumper turned autopilot Tad flew aircraft laptop ground station doing some standard speed sweeps check autopilot gains Everything checked out activated program sent Thumper way out sea Afew hours later brought Piper down runway launch idea behind multiple launch double chances making across pond maximize least waste weather opportunity Unfortunately just after takeoff Piper experienced software bug never seen before crashed sea right front us assembled press onlookers Very embarrassing such life experimental RPV business Tuesday Wednesday weather bad over Atlantic Ross got bullet number three Liama ready go also prepared test-bed aircraft Millionaire Atlantic attempt changing engine moving wing position aft weight-and-balance purposes Thursday weather good repeated Mondays double-launch scenario happy exception crashing Liama Millionaire headed out sea work done So headed ferry ultimately home get started vacation About 325 am Ross called news Liama made couldnt go back sleep despite having up 27 hours straight DERA Defense Evaluation Research Agency missile test range landing site South Uist Hebrides some 3200 kilometers Bell Island landing crewInsitu Group aeronautical engineer Bill Vaglienti University Washington aero/astro department electrical engineer Greg Lipski University Washington aeronautical engineering gfp RIC SERVICE AT ITS BEST OOONTRGLSales Service Anything Radio Controlled KMI 7420 Seven Mile Rd Northville Michigan 48167 Ph 248-486-4800 Fax 248-486-1603 Repairs Updates Custom Modifications Frequency Changes 6 Send Legal sized SAE 1997 Meter conversions ACE Airtronics Aristo-craft Cirrus EK Catalog containing lists R/C maintenance hints Futaba Hitec Heathkit Hobby Shack JR Kraft KGL KSE Kline Discover MCard ViSA COD KoPropo Pro-Line RCD Tower Hobbies World Engines & others UPS USMA IL FEDEX etc Calibrated Equipment Quick Turnaround Walk-in daily service 800 am-500 pm Send E-Mail PTWaters@junocom 14 Model Aviation ant field box just add accessories GO flight line carry-all modelers arent building ready-to-use field box Dynaflite 2 Attach handle j3Lo1IP&tketofie. tre orior too Oyna7ito dealer neoreor yoi pirore al 1-800-682-8948 ood nrerriorcooeAfldl5P UoA Oiorooorerr eoclooew rrrmogfl GROAT PLANES MODEL OISYRIROTORO COMPANY PO 600 902r COIAMPAION IL 61800-9021 CopyriOhi 1907 3138003 lough lightweight polyetoylene plastic easy clean opacloas 12 o 7 drawer ideal holdiog tools props etc Easy moaoting aoy standard power panel ao well oo starter starter battery fuel pawp orw,,r ro, acc,s,,,ori,I,dd AIRPLANE FACTORY INC 1135 FLORIDA MANDEVILLE LA 70448 Radios Engines BASIC TRAINER $8495 $595 P&H NEW AT THIS want gentle sport plane need KOMBAT 40 BASIC TRAINER spend days weeks months building trainer just see SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS learning Fly hour Everything except radio engine box No Gluing No Covering No Sanding No Tears CRASH required 40I4 size engine four channel radio big 80 wing span tricycle gear weighing 5-1/2 pounds BASIC TRAINER easy land can take some real punishment Most crashes usually result just couple broken nylon bolts can easily replaced minutes keep flying hours Available Red Yellow Orange Blue Order today Sport model KOMBAT 40 available $7495 VISA/MC/AMEXICOD 1-800-264-7840 FREE CATALOG 504 626-7840 INCORPORATED IAiPa WORLDS LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF SUPERIOR EPOXY-GLASS COWLS WHEEL PANTS SSORIES CALL NOW 810677-0213 8106770414 orders gP4rir4wniJxuwumuIL.. Send $100 $200 $300 OutOlut dvantage Using top-quality componen s eveloped refined over quarter century ________________ experience RED MAX fuels specially engineered Maxunum Performance Power Protection RED MAX known soldFHS oil internationally best fuel can use model engine affordable prices have excellent customer service call us Visit website informationlpricing l activities Racing Pattern Fun etc Fuel types Plane Helicopter Boat Car Jet etc Engine types 2 or4 cycle Glow Diesel Nitro Power blends O0/o 75% 5% Oil blends RED MAX Synthetic / Syn-Castor **Customer special blends avaiIable Minimum gal Standard 4-gal 20-qt Cases Shipping UPSto door 12 gal motorfreight commercial address Price breaks 41220 60124 gal Soecial discount Dreoaid club orders Congratulations Red Max 1st place Winners AMA Air Nationals 1998 IDA Combat Larry Driskill 1998 /DA JrCombat Skyler Skelly 1998 /DA Open Bob & Andy Meats 1998 Free Flight Bob Johannes MAC Scale Aerobatic Nationals 1998 Advanced Michael J Kuper 1998 World Record Breaker Bruce Bennett NAMBA Boat Nationals 1998 B-Stock Tunnel Russ Nachtweih 1998 Stock OPC Tunnel George Wittman 1998 A-OIB Mono Elden Huntling Numerous other awards year FHS Supply lncPO Box 9CloverSC 29710-0009 Sales 800 742-8484 Voice 803 222-7488 Internet FHSoil@aolcom Fax 803 222-7285 Website httpllmembersaolcomIFHSoil RED MAX Shirts Hats & stickers available graduate student Steve Huffmanwas place waiting Thumper long overdue presumed lost over ocean tension heavy growing Bill Vaglientis account long crossing took Liama well out communications range leaving us no way tracking over ocean would have trust autonomous nature Aerosonde fly prep rogrammed course designed take full advantage prevailing North Atlantic winds simulations predicted midday arrival vagaries weather could easily alter several hours prepared waiting tensely early morning 21st forecast indicated landing weather would dismal best 25-knot winds low cloud base worried spotting aircraft would problem Fortunately forecast wrong wind skies CAVU [Clear Air Visibility Unlimited] About 1 pm local ground station uttered beep heads swiveled watch computer nobody breathed next few minutes waited learn status aircraft soon clear Liama Out good health Hearts pounding now Everyone else done jobs up us Greg used laptop set Liama up offshore holding circuit Steve headed out set up mobile ground station landing area waited long enough make sure Liama way grabbed gear followed Steve landing zone Greg kept us updated hand-held radio finished setting up mobile station ready Liama position radio link transferred mobile station few quick computer commands Liama feet dry over land first time 26 hours would overhead afew seconds wind kept up steady roar wouldnt possible hear Enya 120 would have depend telemetry tell us overhead did turned looked overwhelming pride relief visually acquired aircraft first time engaged manual control aflip switch standard Futaba transmitter much line wasn t tempted try anything fancy Aerosonde complex aircraft model standards fast heavy underpowered 26 pounds 900 squares 120 power short downwind pass smooth turn set up final took wide-open grass field shut engine down concentrated flying smoothly Steve called out airspeeds Afew seconds later Liama slid stop belly barely 16 Modei Aviation ARE THE BEST manufacture ver II fine scale radial blend old worki hip high techAology ibination produces engines e powerful realiable erve very best ne scale radial engine Technopower II fhree five seven nine cylinder engines 1/6 1/5 scale TECHNOPOWER II INC 610 North Street Chagrin Falls OH 44022 phone 440 564-9787 http//wwwteehnopowercom Complete brochure US $300 other $500 & MC Accepted 73 C Magnum four stroke engines made best materials CNC machined have dual ball bearing supported crankshafts run good better similar engine market Now can save whats like about Magnum XL-8ORFSXL-9lRFs Dual Ball Bearing Ringed 4-Strokes Rear updraft dual needle valve carhs chokes XL-SOius SPECSXL-9lius SPECS Displacement 080 ciDisplacement 093 ci Stroke 235 mmstroke 250 mm Bore 265 mmBore 280 mm Prop Size t2x8 13x6Prop Size 13x8 t4x6 Shaft 5/16-24Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000 11000RPM 2000-tt000 Weight 22 4 oz 149~ XL-16Oius Twin 2BB Ringed 4-Stroke Ram-induction 2NV carb Macbined engine mount SPECIFICATIONS Disolacemeet 160 ci 259 cc 235 mm Bore 265 mm crop Size t5 x 810 t6 x 6-8 Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000-10000 43999 Copyright 1998 Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier circle Fountain Valley CA 92728-8610 scratch erupted celebration few tired sighs Liama first unmanned aircraft smallest aircraft type cross Atlantic overwhelming majority trip flew alone unassisted programming sensors guidance Posiflight analysis indicated 8-10 hours journey heavy rain future long-range satellite communications become available such oceanic crossings may become routine now have satisfaction doing what no else has done transatlantic flight conceived demonstration Aerosondes operational capability capped impressive list recent accomplishments including first autonomous flight including takeoff landing February 25 1998 some 350 hours successful field missions various groups meteorological services past year Concept testing complete Aerosonde project process developing more-flexible robust aircraft routine commercial use first aircraft scheduled begin operation year Since four aircraft launched completed Atlantic crossing increased reliability major goal Since enroute communication telemetry available attempts reasons Thumper Millionaire lost Piper fell victim software bug during pass manual automatic control known However several low-reliability parts included design assumed responsible facts Liamas 26 hour 45 minute journey 39 kilos fuel about 15 gallons burned 30cc oil used 2031 miles traveled average speed 75 mph about 1350 miles per gallon Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group individuals organizations tnvolvedincluding Kip Jackson Bill Vaglientican proud accomplishment Aerosonde future skies look CAVU indeed odel Aviation lenge Get Strokes Money kits law uae cowling ipiaiw *101 hr Video before buy Bees have money back guarantee Rick Allison 26405 SE 1 60th St Issaquah WA 98027 k1W1~ vivure1E Telephone 6024491534- Fax 602-649 9040 1Aom4pmMST
Edition: Model Aviation - 1999/04
Page Numbers: 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18
From Newfoundland Scotland 26 hours August 21 1998 first unmanned autonomous flight across Atlantic completed historic event primarily work small research company called Insitu Group led founder Dr Tad McGeer vehicle used groups model-sized Aerosonde meteorological RPVs Remotely Piloted Vehicles dubbed Liama after Latvian goddess good fortune launch point Bell Island Airport just off southeast tip Newfoundland Canada August 20 759 am local time 959 UTC [Coordinated Universal Time] Recovery made grassy field South Uist Outer Hebrides Scotland 26 hours 45 minutes later 144 pm local rime 1244 UTC transatlantic flight sponsored consortium Environmental Systems Services Australia Australian Bureau Meteorology US Office Naval Research additional support University Washington Boeing Co L-3 Communications Neither Aerosonde nor Insitu Group Insitu means site new pages Model Aviation published overview Aerosonde development project May 1996 issue Readers may 10 Model Aviation 4U Rick Allison Tad McGeer ill-fated Piper Hes head lnsitu group principal designer Aerosonde project Photos Ron Rennntt Rill Vantianti Granhic flesion Carla Kunz Left One four Aerosondes cartop rack awaiting launch recall direct links Aerosonde has its aeromodeling ancestry wing box-stock 900-square-inch Genesis thermalduration glider wing Selig 7037 airfoil RnR Products Milpitas California rest airframe designed Jnsitu Group also produced RnR pusher power plant substantially modified Enya 120R running 100 low-lead avgas airplane gasoline direction engine rotation reversed allow use regular tractor propeller APC 20 x 8 pusher configuration Walbro WT332 carburetor used custom intake maaifold custom-made inflight mixture control small 30-volt brushless generator modified electric Radio Control RC car can motor turned engine drive washer belt-and-pulley arrangement capacitive discharge ignition system C&H Electronics paired custom ignition-timing system provide spark flight control surfaces actuated stock Futaba JR servos hookups April1999 11 Postflight inspection Greg Lipski middle Steve Huffman right trying remove Llamas nose cone Leff Ross Hoag Kip Jakcson powerup avionics box tape nose cone Below Tad McGeer van rented mobile launch-control center Aerosonde configuration twinboom pusher inverted V-tail allows correct weight distribution relatively heavy fuel avionics payload provides all-important sensors up front clear air work operational weight range 16-26 pounds depending fuel load avionics package carried Aerosonde launched under manual control RC pilot specially designed launch rack affixed roof moving car altitude control passed autonomous portion flight-control systembasically PC personal computer program An RF modem handles receiver job ground-control unita laptop PC patched another RF modem amplifier/antenna unitis used input GPS Global Positioning System waypoints altitudes create flightpath Aerosonde track its onboard GPS receiver altitude sensors As long ground-control system within range aircraft new waypoints may entered time flightpath may modified Once aircraft passes out range becomes truly autonomous Recovery reverse launch stored GPS waypoints lead aircraft within radio range ground control system new waypoints entered bring Aerosonde within visual range ground station Once recovery pilot acquires aircraft visually control passed program buddy box console landing Aerosondes primary role gather meteorological data may collected stored transmitted back base via downlink telemetry system aircraft within range Engineering data includes engine rpm cylinder head temperature exhaust gas temperature commanded servo positions servos true airspeed barometric altitude aircraft altitude position GPS receiver battery voltage battery charger status generator output voltage avionics box temperature Meteorological data standard configuration includes wind speed direction calculated differential GPS inside outside temperature barometric pressure relative humidity stunning accomplishment robot Lindbergh should doubly gratifying modelers Besides Liamas model aircraft heritage extensive off-the-shelf modeling technology products used construction two key members sixman Insitu Group transatlantic crew accomplished RC modelers AMA members Senior test pilot mechanic Kip Jackson well-known Seattle-area RC modeler longtime FAI Federation Aeronautique Internationale RC Pattern competitor launch pilot record flight helped develop Aerosonde mechanical systems Aeronautical engineer backup pilot Bill Vaglienti former RC Pattern competitor won AMA scholarship 1991 graduated second class University Washington joined Jnsitu Group January 1997 Bill recovery pilot brought Liama home safely cant think better way let share trials troubles ultimate feeling exultation include Kips Bills accounts flight As told Kip Jackson Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group electrical engineer Ross Hoag arrived Bell Island Newfoundland Friday August 14th News attempt preceded us reception very warm fine hospitality continued through week Special thanks should go Gordon Marilyn Shea run Island Hideaway Bed Breakfast base operations Early Saturday morning Ross unpacked assembled first two aircraft called Thumper Piper ready go following morning Sundays weather good enough attempt put Millionaireour test-bed aircrafttogether headed runway Bell Island Airport some radio testing also just fly around get used place wind heavy would week straight down runway launched flew Millionaire around awhile look nulls radio link found almost immediately Off east end runway turned downwind base temporarily lost control aircraft unpleasant moment two before Millionaire popped out other side blind spot regained control landed cutting approach closer shutting off downwind leg short blind spot made mental note stay out area headed back wait out weather 430 am Monday weather looked better headed up shop old trade school building located hill overlooking runway loaded 12 Model Aviation re -K Thumper car-top launcher before driving runway greeted press spectators After usual last-minute checks launched Thumper turned autopilot Tad flew aircraft laptop ground station doing some standard speed sweeps check autopilot gains Everything checked out activated program sent Thumper way out sea Afew hours later brought Piper down runway launch idea behind multiple launch double chances making across pond maximize least waste weather opportunity Unfortunately just after takeoff Piper experienced software bug never seen before crashed sea right front us assembled press onlookers Very embarrassing such life experimental RPV business Tuesday Wednesday weather bad over Atlantic Ross got bullet number three Liama ready go also prepared test-bed aircraft Millionaire Atlantic attempt changing engine moving wing position aft weight-and-balance purposes Thursday weather good repeated Mondays double-launch scenario happy exception crashing Liama Millionaire headed out sea work done So headed ferry ultimately home get started vacation About 325 am Ross called news Liama made couldnt go back sleep despite having up 27 hours straight DERA Defense Evaluation Research Agency missile test range landing site South Uist Hebrides some 3200 kilometers Bell Island landing crewInsitu Group aeronautical engineer Bill Vaglienti University Washington aero/astro department electrical engineer Greg Lipski University Washington aeronautical engineering gfp RIC SERVICE AT ITS BEST OOONTRGLSales Service Anything Radio Controlled KMI 7420 Seven Mile Rd Northville Michigan 48167 Ph 248-486-4800 Fax 248-486-1603 Repairs Updates Custom Modifications Frequency Changes 6 Send Legal sized SAE 1997 Meter conversions ACE Airtronics Aristo-craft Cirrus EK Catalog containing lists R/C maintenance hints Futaba Hitec Heathkit Hobby Shack JR Kraft KGL KSE Kline Discover MCard ViSA COD KoPropo Pro-Line RCD Tower Hobbies World Engines & others UPS USMA IL FEDEX etc Calibrated Equipment Quick Turnaround Walk-in daily service 800 am-500 pm Send E-Mail PTWaters@junocom 14 Model Aviation ant field box just add accessories GO flight line carry-all modelers arent building ready-to-use field box Dynaflite 2 Attach handle j3Lo1IP&tketofie. tre orior too Oyna7ito dealer neoreor yoi pirore al 1-800-682-8948 ood nrerriorcooeAfldl5P UoA Oiorooorerr eoclooew rrrmogfl GROAT PLANES MODEL OISYRIROTORO COMPANY PO 600 902r COIAMPAION IL 61800-9021 CopyriOhi 1907 3138003 lough lightweight polyetoylene plastic easy clean opacloas 12 o 7 drawer ideal holdiog tools props etc Easy moaoting aoy standard power panel ao well oo starter starter battery fuel pawp orw,,r ro, acc,s,,,ori,I,dd AIRPLANE FACTORY INC 1135 FLORIDA MANDEVILLE LA 70448 Radios Engines BASIC TRAINER $8495 $595 P&H NEW AT THIS want gentle sport plane need KOMBAT 40 BASIC TRAINER spend days weeks months building trainer just see SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS learning Fly hour Everything except radio engine box No Gluing No Covering No Sanding No Tears CRASH required 40I4 size engine four channel radio big 80 wing span tricycle gear weighing 5-1/2 pounds BASIC TRAINER easy land can take some real punishment Most crashes usually result just couple broken nylon bolts can easily replaced minutes keep flying hours Available Red Yellow Orange Blue Order today Sport model KOMBAT 40 available $7495 VISA/MC/AMEXICOD 1-800-264-7840 FREE CATALOG 504 626-7840 INCORPORATED IAiPa WORLDS LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF SUPERIOR EPOXY-GLASS COWLS WHEEL PANTS SSORIES CALL NOW 810677-0213 8106770414 orders gP4rir4wniJxuwumuIL.. Send $100 $200 $300 OutOlut dvantage Using top-quality componen s eveloped refined over quarter century ________________ experience RED MAX fuels specially engineered Maxunum Performance Power Protection RED MAX known soldFHS oil internationally best fuel can use model engine affordable prices have excellent customer service call us Visit website informationlpricing l activities Racing Pattern Fun etc Fuel types Plane Helicopter Boat Car Jet etc Engine types 2 or4 cycle Glow Diesel Nitro Power blends O0/o 75% 5% Oil blends RED MAX Synthetic / Syn-Castor **Customer special blends avaiIable Minimum gal Standard 4-gal 20-qt Cases Shipping UPSto door 12 gal motorfreight commercial address Price breaks 41220 60124 gal Soecial discount Dreoaid club orders Congratulations Red Max 1st place Winners AMA Air Nationals 1998 IDA Combat Larry Driskill 1998 /DA JrCombat Skyler Skelly 1998 /DA Open Bob & Andy Meats 1998 Free Flight Bob Johannes MAC Scale Aerobatic Nationals 1998 Advanced Michael J Kuper 1998 World Record Breaker Bruce Bennett NAMBA Boat Nationals 1998 B-Stock Tunnel Russ Nachtweih 1998 Stock OPC Tunnel George Wittman 1998 A-OIB Mono Elden Huntling Numerous other awards year FHS Supply lncPO Box 9CloverSC 29710-0009 Sales 800 742-8484 Voice 803 222-7488 Internet FHSoil@aolcom Fax 803 222-7285 Website httpllmembersaolcomIFHSoil RED MAX Shirts Hats & stickers available graduate student Steve Huffmanwas place waiting Thumper long overdue presumed lost over ocean tension heavy growing Bill Vaglientis account long crossing took Liama well out communications range leaving us no way tracking over ocean would have trust autonomous nature Aerosonde fly prep rogrammed course designed take full advantage prevailing North Atlantic winds simulations predicted midday arrival vagaries weather could easily alter several hours prepared waiting tensely early morning 21st forecast indicated landing weather would dismal best 25-knot winds low cloud base worried spotting aircraft would problem Fortunately forecast wrong wind skies CAVU [Clear Air Visibility Unlimited] About 1 pm local ground station uttered beep heads swiveled watch computer nobody breathed next few minutes waited learn status aircraft soon clear Liama Out good health Hearts pounding now Everyone else done jobs up us Greg used laptop set Liama up offshore holding circuit Steve headed out set up mobile ground station landing area waited long enough make sure Liama way grabbed gear followed Steve landing zone Greg kept us updated hand-held radio finished setting up mobile station ready Liama position radio link transferred mobile station few quick computer commands Liama feet dry over land first time 26 hours would overhead afew seconds wind kept up steady roar wouldnt possible hear Enya 120 would have depend telemetry tell us overhead did turned looked overwhelming pride relief visually acquired aircraft first time engaged manual control aflip switch standard Futaba transmitter much line wasn t tempted try anything fancy Aerosonde complex aircraft model standards fast heavy underpowered 26 pounds 900 squares 120 power short downwind pass smooth turn set up final took wide-open grass field shut engine down concentrated flying smoothly Steve called out airspeeds Afew seconds later Liama slid stop belly barely 16 Modei Aviation ARE THE BEST manufacture ver II fine scale radial blend old worki hip high techAology ibination produces engines e powerful realiable erve very best ne scale radial engine Technopower II fhree five seven nine cylinder engines 1/6 1/5 scale TECHNOPOWER II INC 610 North Street Chagrin Falls OH 44022 phone 440 564-9787 http//wwwteehnopowercom Complete brochure US $300 other $500 & MC Accepted 73 C Magnum four stroke engines made best materials CNC machined have dual ball bearing supported crankshafts run good better similar engine market Now can save whats like about Magnum XL-8ORFSXL-9lRFs Dual Ball Bearing Ringed 4-Strokes Rear updraft dual needle valve carhs chokes XL-SOius SPECSXL-9lius SPECS Displacement 080 ciDisplacement 093 ci Stroke 235 mmstroke 250 mm Bore 265 mmBore 280 mm Prop Size t2x8 13x6Prop Size 13x8 t4x6 Shaft 5/16-24Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000 11000RPM 2000-tt000 Weight 22 4 oz 149~ XL-16Oius Twin 2BB Ringed 4-Stroke Ram-induction 2NV carb Macbined engine mount SPECIFICATIONS Disolacemeet 160 ci 259 cc 235 mm Bore 265 mm crop Size t5 x 810 t6 x 6-8 Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000-10000 43999 Copyright 1998 Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier circle Fountain Valley CA 92728-8610 scratch erupted celebration few tired sighs Liama first unmanned aircraft smallest aircraft type cross Atlantic overwhelming majority trip flew alone unassisted programming sensors guidance Posiflight analysis indicated 8-10 hours journey heavy rain future long-range satellite communications become available such oceanic crossings may become routine now have satisfaction doing what no else has done transatlantic flight conceived demonstration Aerosondes operational capability capped impressive list recent accomplishments including first autonomous flight including takeoff landing February 25 1998 some 350 hours successful field missions various groups meteorological services past year Concept testing complete Aerosonde project process developing more-flexible robust aircraft routine commercial use first aircraft scheduled begin operation year Since four aircraft launched completed Atlantic crossing increased reliability major goal Since enroute communication telemetry available attempts reasons Thumper Millionaire lost Piper fell victim software bug during pass manual automatic control known However several low-reliability parts included design assumed responsible facts Liamas 26 hour 45 minute journey 39 kilos fuel about 15 gallons burned 30cc oil used 2031 miles traveled average speed 75 mph about 1350 miles per gallon Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group individuals organizations tnvolvedincluding Kip Jackson Bill Vaglientican proud accomplishment Aerosonde future skies look CAVU indeed odel Aviation lenge Get Strokes Money kits law uae cowling ipiaiw *101 hr Video before buy Bees have money back guarantee Rick Allison 26405 SE 1 60th St Issaquah WA 98027 k1W1~ vivure1E Telephone 6024491534- Fax 602-649 9040 1Aom4pmMST
Edition: Model Aviation - 1999/04
Page Numbers: 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18
From Newfoundland Scotland 26 hours August 21 1998 first unmanned autonomous flight across Atlantic completed historic event primarily work small research company called Insitu Group led founder Dr Tad McGeer vehicle used groups model-sized Aerosonde meteorological RPVs Remotely Piloted Vehicles dubbed Liama after Latvian goddess good fortune launch point Bell Island Airport just off southeast tip Newfoundland Canada August 20 759 am local time 959 UTC [Coordinated Universal Time] Recovery made grassy field South Uist Outer Hebrides Scotland 26 hours 45 minutes later 144 pm local rime 1244 UTC transatlantic flight sponsored consortium Environmental Systems Services Australia Australian Bureau Meteorology US Office Naval Research additional support University Washington Boeing Co L-3 Communications Neither Aerosonde nor Insitu Group Insitu means site new pages Model Aviation published overview Aerosonde development project May 1996 issue Readers may 10 Model Aviation 4U Rick Allison Tad McGeer ill-fated Piper Hes head lnsitu group principal designer Aerosonde project Photos Ron Rennntt Rill Vantianti Granhic flesion Carla Kunz Left One four Aerosondes cartop rack awaiting launch recall direct links Aerosonde has its aeromodeling ancestry wing box-stock 900-square-inch Genesis thermalduration glider wing Selig 7037 airfoil RnR Products Milpitas California rest airframe designed Jnsitu Group also produced RnR pusher power plant substantially modified Enya 120R running 100 low-lead avgas airplane gasoline direction engine rotation reversed allow use regular tractor propeller APC 20 x 8 pusher configuration Walbro WT332 carburetor used custom intake maaifold custom-made inflight mixture control small 30-volt brushless generator modified electric Radio Control RC car can motor turned engine drive washer belt-and-pulley arrangement capacitive discharge ignition system C&H Electronics paired custom ignition-timing system provide spark flight control surfaces actuated stock Futaba JR servos hookups April1999 11 Postflight inspection Greg Lipski middle Steve Huffman right trying remove Llamas nose cone Leff Ross Hoag Kip Jakcson powerup avionics box tape nose cone Below Tad McGeer van rented mobile launch-control center Aerosonde configuration twinboom pusher inverted V-tail allows correct weight distribution relatively heavy fuel avionics payload provides all-important sensors up front clear air work operational weight range 16-26 pounds depending fuel load avionics package carried Aerosonde launched under manual control RC pilot specially designed launch rack affixed roof moving car altitude control passed autonomous portion flight-control systembasically PC personal computer program An RF modem handles receiver job ground-control unita laptop PC patched another RF modem amplifier/antenna unitis used input GPS Global Positioning System waypoints altitudes create flightpath Aerosonde track its onboard GPS receiver altitude sensors As long ground-control system within range aircraft new waypoints may entered time flightpath may modified Once aircraft passes out range becomes truly autonomous Recovery reverse launch stored GPS waypoints lead aircraft within radio range ground control system new waypoints entered bring Aerosonde within visual range ground station Once recovery pilot acquires aircraft visually control passed program buddy box console landing Aerosondes primary role gather meteorological data may collected stored transmitted back base via downlink telemetry system aircraft within range Engineering data includes engine rpm cylinder head temperature exhaust gas temperature commanded servo positions servos true airspeed barometric altitude aircraft altitude position GPS receiver battery voltage battery charger status generator output voltage avionics box temperature Meteorological data standard configuration includes wind speed direction calculated differential GPS inside outside temperature barometric pressure relative humidity stunning accomplishment robot Lindbergh should doubly gratifying modelers Besides Liamas model aircraft heritage extensive off-the-shelf modeling technology products used construction two key members sixman Insitu Group transatlantic crew accomplished RC modelers AMA members Senior test pilot mechanic Kip Jackson well-known Seattle-area RC modeler longtime FAI Federation Aeronautique Internationale RC Pattern competitor launch pilot record flight helped develop Aerosonde mechanical systems Aeronautical engineer backup pilot Bill Vaglienti former RC Pattern competitor won AMA scholarship 1991 graduated second class University Washington joined Jnsitu Group January 1997 Bill recovery pilot brought Liama home safely cant think better way let share trials troubles ultimate feeling exultation include Kips Bills accounts flight As told Kip Jackson Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group electrical engineer Ross Hoag arrived Bell Island Newfoundland Friday August 14th News attempt preceded us reception very warm fine hospitality continued through week Special thanks should go Gordon Marilyn Shea run Island Hideaway Bed Breakfast base operations Early Saturday morning Ross unpacked assembled first two aircraft called Thumper Piper ready go following morning Sundays weather good enough attempt put Millionaireour test-bed aircrafttogether headed runway Bell Island Airport some radio testing also just fly around get used place wind heavy would week straight down runway launched flew Millionaire around awhile look nulls radio link found almost immediately Off east end runway turned downwind base temporarily lost control aircraft unpleasant moment two before Millionaire popped out other side blind spot regained control landed cutting approach closer shutting off downwind leg short blind spot made mental note stay out area headed back wait out weather 430 am Monday weather looked better headed up shop old trade school building located hill overlooking runway loaded 12 Model Aviation re -K Thumper car-top launcher before driving runway greeted press spectators After usual last-minute checks launched Thumper turned autopilot Tad flew aircraft laptop ground station doing some standard speed sweeps check autopilot gains Everything checked out activated program sent Thumper way out sea Afew hours later brought Piper down runway launch idea behind multiple launch double chances making across pond maximize least waste weather opportunity Unfortunately just after takeoff Piper experienced software bug never seen before crashed sea right front us assembled press onlookers Very embarrassing such life experimental RPV business Tuesday Wednesday weather bad over Atlantic Ross got bullet number three Liama ready go also prepared test-bed aircraft Millionaire Atlantic attempt changing engine moving wing position aft weight-and-balance purposes Thursday weather good repeated Mondays double-launch scenario happy exception crashing Liama Millionaire headed out sea work done So headed ferry ultimately home get started vacation About 325 am Ross called news Liama made couldnt go back sleep despite having up 27 hours straight DERA Defense Evaluation Research Agency missile test range landing site South Uist Hebrides some 3200 kilometers Bell Island landing crewInsitu Group aeronautical engineer Bill Vaglienti University Washington aero/astro department electrical engineer Greg Lipski University Washington aeronautical engineering gfp RIC SERVICE AT ITS BEST OOONTRGLSales Service Anything Radio Controlled KMI 7420 Seven Mile Rd Northville Michigan 48167 Ph 248-486-4800 Fax 248-486-1603 Repairs Updates Custom Modifications Frequency Changes 6 Send Legal sized SAE 1997 Meter conversions ACE Airtronics Aristo-craft Cirrus EK Catalog containing lists R/C maintenance hints Futaba Hitec Heathkit Hobby Shack JR Kraft KGL KSE Kline Discover MCard ViSA COD KoPropo Pro-Line RCD Tower Hobbies World Engines & others UPS USMA IL FEDEX etc Calibrated Equipment Quick Turnaround Walk-in daily service 800 am-500 pm Send E-Mail PTWaters@junocom 14 Model Aviation ant field box just add accessories GO flight line carry-all modelers arent building ready-to-use field box Dynaflite 2 Attach handle j3Lo1IP&tketofie. tre orior too Oyna7ito dealer neoreor yoi pirore al 1-800-682-8948 ood nrerriorcooeAfldl5P UoA Oiorooorerr eoclooew rrrmogfl GROAT PLANES MODEL OISYRIROTORO COMPANY PO 600 902r COIAMPAION IL 61800-9021 CopyriOhi 1907 3138003 lough lightweight polyetoylene plastic easy clean opacloas 12 o 7 drawer ideal holdiog tools props etc Easy moaoting aoy standard power panel ao well oo starter starter battery fuel pawp orw,,r ro, acc,s,,,ori,I,dd AIRPLANE FACTORY INC 1135 FLORIDA MANDEVILLE LA 70448 Radios Engines BASIC TRAINER $8495 $595 P&H NEW AT THIS want gentle sport plane need KOMBAT 40 BASIC TRAINER spend days weeks months building trainer just see SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS learning Fly hour Everything except radio engine box No Gluing No Covering No Sanding No Tears CRASH required 40I4 size engine four channel radio big 80 wing span tricycle gear weighing 5-1/2 pounds BASIC TRAINER easy land can take some real punishment Most crashes usually result just couple broken nylon bolts can easily replaced minutes keep flying hours Available Red Yellow Orange Blue Order today Sport model KOMBAT 40 available $7495 VISA/MC/AMEXICOD 1-800-264-7840 FREE CATALOG 504 626-7840 INCORPORATED IAiPa WORLDS LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF SUPERIOR EPOXY-GLASS COWLS WHEEL PANTS SSORIES CALL NOW 810677-0213 8106770414 orders gP4rir4wniJxuwumuIL.. Send $100 $200 $300 OutOlut dvantage Using top-quality componen s eveloped refined over quarter century ________________ experience RED MAX fuels specially engineered Maxunum Performance Power Protection RED MAX known soldFHS oil internationally best fuel can use model engine affordable prices have excellent customer service call us Visit website informationlpricing l activities Racing Pattern Fun etc Fuel types Plane Helicopter Boat Car Jet etc Engine types 2 or4 cycle Glow Diesel Nitro Power blends O0/o 75% 5% Oil blends RED MAX Synthetic / Syn-Castor **Customer special blends avaiIable Minimum gal Standard 4-gal 20-qt Cases Shipping UPSto door 12 gal motorfreight commercial address Price breaks 41220 60124 gal Soecial discount Dreoaid club orders Congratulations Red Max 1st place Winners AMA Air Nationals 1998 IDA Combat Larry Driskill 1998 /DA JrCombat Skyler Skelly 1998 /DA Open Bob & Andy Meats 1998 Free Flight Bob Johannes MAC Scale Aerobatic Nationals 1998 Advanced Michael J Kuper 1998 World Record Breaker Bruce Bennett NAMBA Boat Nationals 1998 B-Stock Tunnel Russ Nachtweih 1998 Stock OPC Tunnel George Wittman 1998 A-OIB Mono Elden Huntling Numerous other awards year FHS Supply lncPO Box 9CloverSC 29710-0009 Sales 800 742-8484 Voice 803 222-7488 Internet FHSoil@aolcom Fax 803 222-7285 Website httpllmembersaolcomIFHSoil RED MAX Shirts Hats & stickers available graduate student Steve Huffmanwas place waiting Thumper long overdue presumed lost over ocean tension heavy growing Bill Vaglientis account long crossing took Liama well out communications range leaving us no way tracking over ocean would have trust autonomous nature Aerosonde fly prep rogrammed course designed take full advantage prevailing North Atlantic winds simulations predicted midday arrival vagaries weather could easily alter several hours prepared waiting tensely early morning 21st forecast indicated landing weather would dismal best 25-knot winds low cloud base worried spotting aircraft would problem Fortunately forecast wrong wind skies CAVU [Clear Air Visibility Unlimited] About 1 pm local ground station uttered beep heads swiveled watch computer nobody breathed next few minutes waited learn status aircraft soon clear Liama Out good health Hearts pounding now Everyone else done jobs up us Greg used laptop set Liama up offshore holding circuit Steve headed out set up mobile ground station landing area waited long enough make sure Liama way grabbed gear followed Steve landing zone Greg kept us updated hand-held radio finished setting up mobile station ready Liama position radio link transferred mobile station few quick computer commands Liama feet dry over land first time 26 hours would overhead afew seconds wind kept up steady roar wouldnt possible hear Enya 120 would have depend telemetry tell us overhead did turned looked overwhelming pride relief visually acquired aircraft first time engaged manual control aflip switch standard Futaba transmitter much line wasn t tempted try anything fancy Aerosonde complex aircraft model standards fast heavy underpowered 26 pounds 900 squares 120 power short downwind pass smooth turn set up final took wide-open grass field shut engine down concentrated flying smoothly Steve called out airspeeds Afew seconds later Liama slid stop belly barely 16 Modei Aviation ARE THE BEST manufacture ver II fine scale radial blend old worki hip high techAology ibination produces engines e powerful realiable erve very best ne scale radial engine Technopower II fhree five seven nine cylinder engines 1/6 1/5 scale TECHNOPOWER II INC 610 North Street Chagrin Falls OH 44022 phone 440 564-9787 http//wwwteehnopowercom Complete brochure US $300 other $500 & MC Accepted 73 C Magnum four stroke engines made best materials CNC machined have dual ball bearing supported crankshafts run good better similar engine market Now can save whats like about Magnum XL-8ORFSXL-9lRFs Dual Ball Bearing Ringed 4-Strokes Rear updraft dual needle valve carhs chokes XL-SOius SPECSXL-9lius SPECS Displacement 080 ciDisplacement 093 ci Stroke 235 mmstroke 250 mm Bore 265 mmBore 280 mm Prop Size t2x8 13x6Prop Size 13x8 t4x6 Shaft 5/16-24Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000 11000RPM 2000-tt000 Weight 22 4 oz 149~ XL-16Oius Twin 2BB Ringed 4-Stroke Ram-induction 2NV carb Macbined engine mount SPECIFICATIONS Disolacemeet 160 ci 259 cc 235 mm Bore 265 mm crop Size t5 x 810 t6 x 6-8 Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000-10000 43999 Copyright 1998 Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier circle Fountain Valley CA 92728-8610 scratch erupted celebration few tired sighs Liama first unmanned aircraft smallest aircraft type cross Atlantic overwhelming majority trip flew alone unassisted programming sensors guidance Posiflight analysis indicated 8-10 hours journey heavy rain future long-range satellite communications become available such oceanic crossings may become routine now have satisfaction doing what no else has done transatlantic flight conceived demonstration Aerosondes operational capability capped impressive list recent accomplishments including first autonomous flight including takeoff landing February 25 1998 some 350 hours successful field missions various groups meteorological services past year Concept testing complete Aerosonde project process developing more-flexible robust aircraft routine commercial use first aircraft scheduled begin operation year Since four aircraft launched completed Atlantic crossing increased reliability major goal Since enroute communication telemetry available attempts reasons Thumper Millionaire lost Piper fell victim software bug during pass manual automatic control known However several low-reliability parts included design assumed responsible facts Liamas 26 hour 45 minute journey 39 kilos fuel about 15 gallons burned 30cc oil used 2031 miles traveled average speed 75 mph about 1350 miles per gallon Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group individuals organizations tnvolvedincluding Kip Jackson Bill Vaglientican proud accomplishment Aerosonde future skies look CAVU indeed odel Aviation lenge Get Strokes Money kits law uae cowling ipiaiw *101 hr Video before buy Bees have money back guarantee Rick Allison 26405 SE 1 60th St Issaquah WA 98027 k1W1~ vivure1E Telephone 6024491534- Fax 602-649 9040 1Aom4pmMST
Edition: Model Aviation - 1999/04
Page Numbers: 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18
From Newfoundland Scotland 26 hours August 21 1998 first unmanned autonomous flight across Atlantic completed historic event primarily work small research company called Insitu Group led founder Dr Tad McGeer vehicle used groups model-sized Aerosonde meteorological RPVs Remotely Piloted Vehicles dubbed Liama after Latvian goddess good fortune launch point Bell Island Airport just off southeast tip Newfoundland Canada August 20 759 am local time 959 UTC [Coordinated Universal Time] Recovery made grassy field South Uist Outer Hebrides Scotland 26 hours 45 minutes later 144 pm local rime 1244 UTC transatlantic flight sponsored consortium Environmental Systems Services Australia Australian Bureau Meteorology US Office Naval Research additional support University Washington Boeing Co L-3 Communications Neither Aerosonde nor Insitu Group Insitu means site new pages Model Aviation published overview Aerosonde development project May 1996 issue Readers may 10 Model Aviation 4U Rick Allison Tad McGeer ill-fated Piper Hes head lnsitu group principal designer Aerosonde project Photos Ron Rennntt Rill Vantianti Granhic flesion Carla Kunz Left One four Aerosondes cartop rack awaiting launch recall direct links Aerosonde has its aeromodeling ancestry wing box-stock 900-square-inch Genesis thermalduration glider wing Selig 7037 airfoil RnR Products Milpitas California rest airframe designed Jnsitu Group also produced RnR pusher power plant substantially modified Enya 120R running 100 low-lead avgas airplane gasoline direction engine rotation reversed allow use regular tractor propeller APC 20 x 8 pusher configuration Walbro WT332 carburetor used custom intake maaifold custom-made inflight mixture control small 30-volt brushless generator modified electric Radio Control RC car can motor turned engine drive washer belt-and-pulley arrangement capacitive discharge ignition system C&H Electronics paired custom ignition-timing system provide spark flight control surfaces actuated stock Futaba JR servos hookups April1999 11 Postflight inspection Greg Lipski middle Steve Huffman right trying remove Llamas nose cone Leff Ross Hoag Kip Jakcson powerup avionics box tape nose cone Below Tad McGeer van rented mobile launch-control center Aerosonde configuration twinboom pusher inverted V-tail allows correct weight distribution relatively heavy fuel avionics payload provides all-important sensors up front clear air work operational weight range 16-26 pounds depending fuel load avionics package carried Aerosonde launched under manual control RC pilot specially designed launch rack affixed roof moving car altitude control passed autonomous portion flight-control systembasically PC personal computer program An RF modem handles receiver job ground-control unita laptop PC patched another RF modem amplifier/antenna unitis used input GPS Global Positioning System waypoints altitudes create flightpath Aerosonde track its onboard GPS receiver altitude sensors As long ground-control system within range aircraft new waypoints may entered time flightpath may modified Once aircraft passes out range becomes truly autonomous Recovery reverse launch stored GPS waypoints lead aircraft within radio range ground control system new waypoints entered bring Aerosonde within visual range ground station Once recovery pilot acquires aircraft visually control passed program buddy box console landing Aerosondes primary role gather meteorological data may collected stored transmitted back base via downlink telemetry system aircraft within range Engineering data includes engine rpm cylinder head temperature exhaust gas temperature commanded servo positions servos true airspeed barometric altitude aircraft altitude position GPS receiver battery voltage battery charger status generator output voltage avionics box temperature Meteorological data standard configuration includes wind speed direction calculated differential GPS inside outside temperature barometric pressure relative humidity stunning accomplishment robot Lindbergh should doubly gratifying modelers Besides Liamas model aircraft heritage extensive off-the-shelf modeling technology products used construction two key members sixman Insitu Group transatlantic crew accomplished RC modelers AMA members Senior test pilot mechanic Kip Jackson well-known Seattle-area RC modeler longtime FAI Federation Aeronautique Internationale RC Pattern competitor launch pilot record flight helped develop Aerosonde mechanical systems Aeronautical engineer backup pilot Bill Vaglienti former RC Pattern competitor won AMA scholarship 1991 graduated second class University Washington joined Jnsitu Group January 1997 Bill recovery pilot brought Liama home safely cant think better way let share trials troubles ultimate feeling exultation include Kips Bills accounts flight As told Kip Jackson Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group electrical engineer Ross Hoag arrived Bell Island Newfoundland Friday August 14th News attempt preceded us reception very warm fine hospitality continued through week Special thanks should go Gordon Marilyn Shea run Island Hideaway Bed Breakfast base operations Early Saturday morning Ross unpacked assembled first two aircraft called Thumper Piper ready go following morning Sundays weather good enough attempt put Millionaireour test-bed aircrafttogether headed runway Bell Island Airport some radio testing also just fly around get used place wind heavy would week straight down runway launched flew Millionaire around awhile look nulls radio link found almost immediately Off east end runway turned downwind base temporarily lost control aircraft unpleasant moment two before Millionaire popped out other side blind spot regained control landed cutting approach closer shutting off downwind leg short blind spot made mental note stay out area headed back wait out weather 430 am Monday weather looked better headed up shop old trade school building located hill overlooking runway loaded 12 Model Aviation re -K Thumper car-top launcher before driving runway greeted press spectators After usual last-minute checks launched Thumper turned autopilot Tad flew aircraft laptop ground station doing some standard speed sweeps check autopilot gains Everything checked out activated program sent Thumper way out sea Afew hours later brought Piper down runway launch idea behind multiple launch double chances making across pond maximize least waste weather opportunity Unfortunately just after takeoff Piper experienced software bug never seen before crashed sea right front us assembled press onlookers Very embarrassing such life experimental RPV business Tuesday Wednesday weather bad over Atlantic Ross got bullet number three Liama ready go also prepared test-bed aircraft Millionaire Atlantic attempt changing engine moving wing position aft weight-and-balance purposes Thursday weather good repeated Mondays double-launch scenario happy exception crashing Liama Millionaire headed out sea work done So headed ferry ultimately home get started vacation About 325 am Ross called news Liama made couldnt go back sleep despite having up 27 hours straight DERA Defense Evaluation Research Agency missile test range landing site South Uist Hebrides some 3200 kilometers Bell Island landing crewInsitu Group aeronautical engineer Bill Vaglienti University Washington aero/astro department electrical engineer Greg Lipski University Washington aeronautical engineering gfp RIC SERVICE AT ITS BEST OOONTRGLSales Service Anything Radio Controlled KMI 7420 Seven Mile Rd Northville Michigan 48167 Ph 248-486-4800 Fax 248-486-1603 Repairs Updates Custom Modifications Frequency Changes 6 Send Legal sized SAE 1997 Meter conversions ACE Airtronics Aristo-craft Cirrus EK Catalog containing lists R/C maintenance hints Futaba Hitec Heathkit Hobby Shack JR Kraft KGL KSE Kline Discover MCard ViSA COD KoPropo Pro-Line RCD Tower Hobbies World Engines & others UPS USMA IL FEDEX etc Calibrated Equipment Quick Turnaround Walk-in daily service 800 am-500 pm Send E-Mail PTWaters@junocom 14 Model Aviation ant field box just add accessories GO flight line carry-all modelers arent building ready-to-use field box Dynaflite 2 Attach handle j3Lo1IP&tketofie. tre orior too Oyna7ito dealer neoreor yoi pirore al 1-800-682-8948 ood nrerriorcooeAfldl5P UoA Oiorooorerr eoclooew rrrmogfl GROAT PLANES MODEL OISYRIROTORO COMPANY PO 600 902r COIAMPAION IL 61800-9021 CopyriOhi 1907 3138003 lough lightweight polyetoylene plastic easy clean opacloas 12 o 7 drawer ideal holdiog tools props etc Easy moaoting aoy standard power panel ao well oo starter starter battery fuel pawp orw,,r ro, acc,s,,,ori,I,dd AIRPLANE FACTORY INC 1135 FLORIDA MANDEVILLE LA 70448 Radios Engines BASIC TRAINER $8495 $595 P&H NEW AT THIS want gentle sport plane need KOMBAT 40 BASIC TRAINER spend days weeks months building trainer just see SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS learning Fly hour Everything except radio engine box No Gluing No Covering No Sanding No Tears CRASH required 40I4 size engine four channel radio big 80 wing span tricycle gear weighing 5-1/2 pounds BASIC TRAINER easy land can take some real punishment Most crashes usually result just couple broken nylon bolts can easily replaced minutes keep flying hours Available Red Yellow Orange Blue Order today Sport model KOMBAT 40 available $7495 VISA/MC/AMEXICOD 1-800-264-7840 FREE CATALOG 504 626-7840 INCORPORATED IAiPa WORLDS LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF SUPERIOR EPOXY-GLASS COWLS WHEEL PANTS SSORIES CALL NOW 810677-0213 8106770414 orders gP4rir4wniJxuwumuIL.. Send $100 $200 $300 OutOlut dvantage Using top-quality componen s eveloped refined over quarter century ________________ experience RED MAX fuels specially engineered Maxunum Performance Power Protection RED MAX known soldFHS oil internationally best fuel can use model engine affordable prices have excellent customer service call us Visit website informationlpricing l activities Racing Pattern Fun etc Fuel types Plane Helicopter Boat Car Jet etc Engine types 2 or4 cycle Glow Diesel Nitro Power blends O0/o 75% 5% Oil blends RED MAX Synthetic / Syn-Castor **Customer special blends avaiIable Minimum gal Standard 4-gal 20-qt Cases Shipping UPSto door 12 gal motorfreight commercial address Price breaks 41220 60124 gal Soecial discount Dreoaid club orders Congratulations Red Max 1st place Winners AMA Air Nationals 1998 IDA Combat Larry Driskill 1998 /DA JrCombat Skyler Skelly 1998 /DA Open Bob & Andy Meats 1998 Free Flight Bob Johannes MAC Scale Aerobatic Nationals 1998 Advanced Michael J Kuper 1998 World Record Breaker Bruce Bennett NAMBA Boat Nationals 1998 B-Stock Tunnel Russ Nachtweih 1998 Stock OPC Tunnel George Wittman 1998 A-OIB Mono Elden Huntling Numerous other awards year FHS Supply lncPO Box 9CloverSC 29710-0009 Sales 800 742-8484 Voice 803 222-7488 Internet FHSoil@aolcom Fax 803 222-7285 Website httpllmembersaolcomIFHSoil RED MAX Shirts Hats & stickers available graduate student Steve Huffmanwas place waiting Thumper long overdue presumed lost over ocean tension heavy growing Bill Vaglientis account long crossing took Liama well out communications range leaving us no way tracking over ocean would have trust autonomous nature Aerosonde fly prep rogrammed course designed take full advantage prevailing North Atlantic winds simulations predicted midday arrival vagaries weather could easily alter several hours prepared waiting tensely early morning 21st forecast indicated landing weather would dismal best 25-knot winds low cloud base worried spotting aircraft would problem Fortunately forecast wrong wind skies CAVU [Clear Air Visibility Unlimited] About 1 pm local ground station uttered beep heads swiveled watch computer nobody breathed next few minutes waited learn status aircraft soon clear Liama Out good health Hearts pounding now Everyone else done jobs up us Greg used laptop set Liama up offshore holding circuit Steve headed out set up mobile ground station landing area waited long enough make sure Liama way grabbed gear followed Steve landing zone Greg kept us updated hand-held radio finished setting up mobile station ready Liama position radio link transferred mobile station few quick computer commands Liama feet dry over land first time 26 hours would overhead afew seconds wind kept up steady roar wouldnt possible hear Enya 120 would have depend telemetry tell us overhead did turned looked overwhelming pride relief visually acquired aircraft first time engaged manual control aflip switch standard Futaba transmitter much line wasn t tempted try anything fancy Aerosonde complex aircraft model standards fast heavy underpowered 26 pounds 900 squares 120 power short downwind pass smooth turn set up final took wide-open grass field shut engine down concentrated flying smoothly Steve called out airspeeds Afew seconds later Liama slid stop belly barely 16 Modei Aviation ARE THE BEST manufacture ver II fine scale radial blend old worki hip high techAology ibination produces engines e powerful realiable erve very best ne scale radial engine Technopower II fhree five seven nine cylinder engines 1/6 1/5 scale TECHNOPOWER II INC 610 North Street Chagrin Falls OH 44022 phone 440 564-9787 http//wwwteehnopowercom Complete brochure US $300 other $500 & MC Accepted 73 C Magnum four stroke engines made best materials CNC machined have dual ball bearing supported crankshafts run good better similar engine market Now can save whats like about Magnum XL-8ORFSXL-9lRFs Dual Ball Bearing Ringed 4-Strokes Rear updraft dual needle valve carhs chokes XL-SOius SPECSXL-9lius SPECS Displacement 080 ciDisplacement 093 ci Stroke 235 mmstroke 250 mm Bore 265 mmBore 280 mm Prop Size t2x8 13x6Prop Size 13x8 t4x6 Shaft 5/16-24Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000 11000RPM 2000-tt000 Weight 22 4 oz 149~ XL-16Oius Twin 2BB Ringed 4-Stroke Ram-induction 2NV carb Macbined engine mount SPECIFICATIONS Disolacemeet 160 ci 259 cc 235 mm Bore 265 mm crop Size t5 x 810 t6 x 6-8 Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000-10000 43999 Copyright 1998 Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier circle Fountain Valley CA 92728-8610 scratch erupted celebration few tired sighs Liama first unmanned aircraft smallest aircraft type cross Atlantic overwhelming majority trip flew alone unassisted programming sensors guidance Posiflight analysis indicated 8-10 hours journey heavy rain future long-range satellite communications become available such oceanic crossings may become routine now have satisfaction doing what no else has done transatlantic flight conceived demonstration Aerosondes operational capability capped impressive list recent accomplishments including first autonomous flight including takeoff landing February 25 1998 some 350 hours successful field missions various groups meteorological services past year Concept testing complete Aerosonde project process developing more-flexible robust aircraft routine commercial use first aircraft scheduled begin operation year Since four aircraft launched completed Atlantic crossing increased reliability major goal Since enroute communication telemetry available attempts reasons Thumper Millionaire lost Piper fell victim software bug during pass manual automatic control known However several low-reliability parts included design assumed responsible facts Liamas 26 hour 45 minute journey 39 kilos fuel about 15 gallons burned 30cc oil used 2031 miles traveled average speed 75 mph about 1350 miles per gallon Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group individuals organizations tnvolvedincluding Kip Jackson Bill Vaglientican proud accomplishment Aerosonde future skies look CAVU indeed odel Aviation lenge Get Strokes Money kits law uae cowling ipiaiw *101 hr Video before buy Bees have money back guarantee Rick Allison 26405 SE 1 60th St Issaquah WA 98027 k1W1~ vivure1E Telephone 6024491534- Fax 602-649 9040 1Aom4pmMST
Edition: Model Aviation - 1999/04
Page Numbers: 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18
From Newfoundland Scotland 26 hours August 21 1998 first unmanned autonomous flight across Atlantic completed historic event primarily work small research company called Insitu Group led founder Dr Tad McGeer vehicle used groups model-sized Aerosonde meteorological RPVs Remotely Piloted Vehicles dubbed Liama after Latvian goddess good fortune launch point Bell Island Airport just off southeast tip Newfoundland Canada August 20 759 am local time 959 UTC [Coordinated Universal Time] Recovery made grassy field South Uist Outer Hebrides Scotland 26 hours 45 minutes later 144 pm local rime 1244 UTC transatlantic flight sponsored consortium Environmental Systems Services Australia Australian Bureau Meteorology US Office Naval Research additional support University Washington Boeing Co L-3 Communications Neither Aerosonde nor Insitu Group Insitu means site new pages Model Aviation published overview Aerosonde development project May 1996 issue Readers may 10 Model Aviation 4U Rick Allison Tad McGeer ill-fated Piper Hes head lnsitu group principal designer Aerosonde project Photos Ron Rennntt Rill Vantianti Granhic flesion Carla Kunz Left One four Aerosondes cartop rack awaiting launch recall direct links Aerosonde has its aeromodeling ancestry wing box-stock 900-square-inch Genesis thermalduration glider wing Selig 7037 airfoil RnR Products Milpitas California rest airframe designed Jnsitu Group also produced RnR pusher power plant substantially modified Enya 120R running 100 low-lead avgas airplane gasoline direction engine rotation reversed allow use regular tractor propeller APC 20 x 8 pusher configuration Walbro WT332 carburetor used custom intake maaifold custom-made inflight mixture control small 30-volt brushless generator modified electric Radio Control RC car can motor turned engine drive washer belt-and-pulley arrangement capacitive discharge ignition system C&H Electronics paired custom ignition-timing system provide spark flight control surfaces actuated stock Futaba JR servos hookups April1999 11 Postflight inspection Greg Lipski middle Steve Huffman right trying remove Llamas nose cone Leff Ross Hoag Kip Jakcson powerup avionics box tape nose cone Below Tad McGeer van rented mobile launch-control center Aerosonde configuration twinboom pusher inverted V-tail allows correct weight distribution relatively heavy fuel avionics payload provides all-important sensors up front clear air work operational weight range 16-26 pounds depending fuel load avionics package carried Aerosonde launched under manual control RC pilot specially designed launch rack affixed roof moving car altitude control passed autonomous portion flight-control systembasically PC personal computer program An RF modem handles receiver job ground-control unita laptop PC patched another RF modem amplifier/antenna unitis used input GPS Global Positioning System waypoints altitudes create flightpath Aerosonde track its onboard GPS receiver altitude sensors As long ground-control system within range aircraft new waypoints may entered time flightpath may modified Once aircraft passes out range becomes truly autonomous Recovery reverse launch stored GPS waypoints lead aircraft within radio range ground control system new waypoints entered bring Aerosonde within visual range ground station Once recovery pilot acquires aircraft visually control passed program buddy box console landing Aerosondes primary role gather meteorological data may collected stored transmitted back base via downlink telemetry system aircraft within range Engineering data includes engine rpm cylinder head temperature exhaust gas temperature commanded servo positions servos true airspeed barometric altitude aircraft altitude position GPS receiver battery voltage battery charger status generator output voltage avionics box temperature Meteorological data standard configuration includes wind speed direction calculated differential GPS inside outside temperature barometric pressure relative humidity stunning accomplishment robot Lindbergh should doubly gratifying modelers Besides Liamas model aircraft heritage extensive off-the-shelf modeling technology products used construction two key members sixman Insitu Group transatlantic crew accomplished RC modelers AMA members Senior test pilot mechanic Kip Jackson well-known Seattle-area RC modeler longtime FAI Federation Aeronautique Internationale RC Pattern competitor launch pilot record flight helped develop Aerosonde mechanical systems Aeronautical engineer backup pilot Bill Vaglienti former RC Pattern competitor won AMA scholarship 1991 graduated second class University Washington joined Jnsitu Group January 1997 Bill recovery pilot brought Liama home safely cant think better way let share trials troubles ultimate feeling exultation include Kips Bills accounts flight As told Kip Jackson Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group electrical engineer Ross Hoag arrived Bell Island Newfoundland Friday August 14th News attempt preceded us reception very warm fine hospitality continued through week Special thanks should go Gordon Marilyn Shea run Island Hideaway Bed Breakfast base operations Early Saturday morning Ross unpacked assembled first two aircraft called Thumper Piper ready go following morning Sundays weather good enough attempt put Millionaireour test-bed aircrafttogether headed runway Bell Island Airport some radio testing also just fly around get used place wind heavy would week straight down runway launched flew Millionaire around awhile look nulls radio link found almost immediately Off east end runway turned downwind base temporarily lost control aircraft unpleasant moment two before Millionaire popped out other side blind spot regained control landed cutting approach closer shutting off downwind leg short blind spot made mental note stay out area headed back wait out weather 430 am Monday weather looked better headed up shop old trade school building located hill overlooking runway loaded 12 Model Aviation re -K Thumper car-top launcher before driving runway greeted press spectators After usual last-minute checks launched Thumper turned autopilot Tad flew aircraft laptop ground station doing some standard speed sweeps check autopilot gains Everything checked out activated program sent Thumper way out sea Afew hours later brought Piper down runway launch idea behind multiple launch double chances making across pond maximize least waste weather opportunity Unfortunately just after takeoff Piper experienced software bug never seen before crashed sea right front us assembled press onlookers Very embarrassing such life experimental RPV business Tuesday Wednesday weather bad over Atlantic Ross got bullet number three Liama ready go also prepared test-bed aircraft Millionaire Atlantic attempt changing engine moving wing position aft weight-and-balance purposes Thursday weather good repeated Mondays double-launch scenario happy exception crashing Liama Millionaire headed out sea work done So headed ferry ultimately home get started vacation About 325 am Ross called news Liama made couldnt go back sleep despite having up 27 hours straight DERA Defense Evaluation Research Agency missile test range landing site South Uist Hebrides some 3200 kilometers Bell Island landing crewInsitu Group aeronautical engineer Bill Vaglienti University Washington aero/astro department electrical engineer Greg Lipski University Washington aeronautical engineering gfp RIC SERVICE AT ITS BEST OOONTRGLSales Service Anything Radio Controlled KMI 7420 Seven Mile Rd Northville Michigan 48167 Ph 248-486-4800 Fax 248-486-1603 Repairs Updates Custom Modifications Frequency Changes 6 Send Legal sized SAE 1997 Meter conversions ACE Airtronics Aristo-craft Cirrus EK Catalog containing lists R/C maintenance hints Futaba Hitec Heathkit Hobby Shack JR Kraft KGL KSE Kline Discover MCard ViSA COD KoPropo Pro-Line RCD Tower Hobbies World Engines & others UPS USMA IL FEDEX etc Calibrated Equipment Quick Turnaround Walk-in daily service 800 am-500 pm Send E-Mail PTWaters@junocom 14 Model Aviation ant field box just add accessories GO flight line carry-all modelers arent building ready-to-use field box Dynaflite 2 Attach handle j3Lo1IP&tketofie. tre orior too Oyna7ito dealer neoreor yoi pirore al 1-800-682-8948 ood nrerriorcooeAfldl5P UoA Oiorooorerr eoclooew rrrmogfl GROAT PLANES MODEL OISYRIROTORO COMPANY PO 600 902r COIAMPAION IL 61800-9021 CopyriOhi 1907 3138003 lough lightweight polyetoylene plastic easy clean opacloas 12 o 7 drawer ideal holdiog tools props etc Easy moaoting aoy standard power panel ao well oo starter starter battery fuel pawp orw,,r ro, acc,s,,,ori,I,dd AIRPLANE FACTORY INC 1135 FLORIDA MANDEVILLE LA 70448 Radios Engines BASIC TRAINER $8495 $595 P&H NEW AT THIS want gentle sport plane need KOMBAT 40 BASIC TRAINER spend days weeks months building trainer just see SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS learning Fly hour Everything except radio engine box No Gluing No Covering No Sanding No Tears CRASH required 40I4 size engine four channel radio big 80 wing span tricycle gear weighing 5-1/2 pounds BASIC TRAINER easy land can take some real punishment Most crashes usually result just couple broken nylon bolts can easily replaced minutes keep flying hours Available Red Yellow Orange Blue Order today Sport model KOMBAT 40 available $7495 VISA/MC/AMEXICOD 1-800-264-7840 FREE CATALOG 504 626-7840 INCORPORATED IAiPa WORLDS LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF SUPERIOR EPOXY-GLASS COWLS WHEEL PANTS SSORIES CALL NOW 810677-0213 8106770414 orders gP4rir4wniJxuwumuIL.. Send $100 $200 $300 OutOlut dvantage Using top-quality componen s eveloped refined over quarter century ________________ experience RED MAX fuels specially engineered Maxunum Performance Power Protection RED MAX known soldFHS oil internationally best fuel can use model engine affordable prices have excellent customer service call us Visit website informationlpricing l activities Racing Pattern Fun etc Fuel types Plane Helicopter Boat Car Jet etc Engine types 2 or4 cycle Glow Diesel Nitro Power blends O0/o 75% 5% Oil blends RED MAX Synthetic / Syn-Castor **Customer special blends avaiIable Minimum gal Standard 4-gal 20-qt Cases Shipping UPSto door 12 gal motorfreight commercial address Price breaks 41220 60124 gal Soecial discount Dreoaid club orders Congratulations Red Max 1st place Winners AMA Air Nationals 1998 IDA Combat Larry Driskill 1998 /DA JrCombat Skyler Skelly 1998 /DA Open Bob & Andy Meats 1998 Free Flight Bob Johannes MAC Scale Aerobatic Nationals 1998 Advanced Michael J Kuper 1998 World Record Breaker Bruce Bennett NAMBA Boat Nationals 1998 B-Stock Tunnel Russ Nachtweih 1998 Stock OPC Tunnel George Wittman 1998 A-OIB Mono Elden Huntling Numerous other awards year FHS Supply lncPO Box 9CloverSC 29710-0009 Sales 800 742-8484 Voice 803 222-7488 Internet FHSoil@aolcom Fax 803 222-7285 Website httpllmembersaolcomIFHSoil RED MAX Shirts Hats & stickers available graduate student Steve Huffmanwas place waiting Thumper long overdue presumed lost over ocean tension heavy growing Bill Vaglientis account long crossing took Liama well out communications range leaving us no way tracking over ocean would have trust autonomous nature Aerosonde fly prep rogrammed course designed take full advantage prevailing North Atlantic winds simulations predicted midday arrival vagaries weather could easily alter several hours prepared waiting tensely early morning 21st forecast indicated landing weather would dismal best 25-knot winds low cloud base worried spotting aircraft would problem Fortunately forecast wrong wind skies CAVU [Clear Air Visibility Unlimited] About 1 pm local ground station uttered beep heads swiveled watch computer nobody breathed next few minutes waited learn status aircraft soon clear Liama Out good health Hearts pounding now Everyone else done jobs up us Greg used laptop set Liama up offshore holding circuit Steve headed out set up mobile ground station landing area waited long enough make sure Liama way grabbed gear followed Steve landing zone Greg kept us updated hand-held radio finished setting up mobile station ready Liama position radio link transferred mobile station few quick computer commands Liama feet dry over land first time 26 hours would overhead afew seconds wind kept up steady roar wouldnt possible hear Enya 120 would have depend telemetry tell us overhead did turned looked overwhelming pride relief visually acquired aircraft first time engaged manual control aflip switch standard Futaba transmitter much line wasn t tempted try anything fancy Aerosonde complex aircraft model standards fast heavy underpowered 26 pounds 900 squares 120 power short downwind pass smooth turn set up final took wide-open grass field shut engine down concentrated flying smoothly Steve called out airspeeds Afew seconds later Liama slid stop belly barely 16 Modei Aviation ARE THE BEST manufacture ver II fine scale radial blend old worki hip high techAology ibination produces engines e powerful realiable erve very best ne scale radial engine Technopower II fhree five seven nine cylinder engines 1/6 1/5 scale TECHNOPOWER II INC 610 North Street Chagrin Falls OH 44022 phone 440 564-9787 http//wwwteehnopowercom Complete brochure US $300 other $500 & MC Accepted 73 C Magnum four stroke engines made best materials CNC machined have dual ball bearing supported crankshafts run good better similar engine market Now can save whats like about Magnum XL-8ORFSXL-9lRFs Dual Ball Bearing Ringed 4-Strokes Rear updraft dual needle valve carhs chokes XL-SOius SPECSXL-9lius SPECS Displacement 080 ciDisplacement 093 ci Stroke 235 mmstroke 250 mm Bore 265 mmBore 280 mm Prop Size t2x8 13x6Prop Size 13x8 t4x6 Shaft 5/16-24Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000 11000RPM 2000-tt000 Weight 22 4 oz 149~ XL-16Oius Twin 2BB Ringed 4-Stroke Ram-induction 2NV carb Macbined engine mount SPECIFICATIONS Disolacemeet 160 ci 259 cc 235 mm Bore 265 mm crop Size t5 x 810 t6 x 6-8 Shaft 5/t6-24 RPM 2000-10000 43999 Copyright 1998 Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier circle Fountain Valley CA 92728-8610 scratch erupted celebration few tired sighs Liama first unmanned aircraft smallest aircraft type cross Atlantic overwhelming majority trip flew alone unassisted programming sensors guidance Posiflight analysis indicated 8-10 hours journey heavy rain future long-range satellite communications become available such oceanic crossings may become routine now have satisfaction doing what no else has done transatlantic flight conceived demonstration Aerosondes operational capability capped impressive list recent accomplishments including first autonomous flight including takeoff landing February 25 1998 some 350 hours successful field missions various groups meteorological services past year Concept testing complete Aerosonde project process developing more-flexible robust aircraft routine commercial use first aircraft scheduled begin operation year Since four aircraft launched completed Atlantic crossing increased reliability major goal Since enroute communication telemetry available attempts reasons Thumper Millionaire lost Piper fell victim software bug during pass manual automatic control known However several low-reliability parts included design assumed responsible facts Liamas 26 hour 45 minute journey 39 kilos fuel about 15 gallons burned 30cc oil used 2031 miles traveled average speed 75 mph about 1350 miles per gallon Dr Tad McGeer Insitu Group individuals organizations tnvolvedincluding Kip Jackson Bill Vaglientican proud accomplishment Aerosonde future skies look CAVU indeed odel Aviation lenge Get Strokes Money kits law uae cowling ipiaiw *101 hr Video before buy Bees have money back guarantee Rick Allison 26405 SE 1 60th St Issaquah WA 98027 k1W1~ vivure1E Telephone 6024491534- Fax 602-649 9040 1Aom4pmMST
