Flying for Fun
The article explores the relationship between engine development and aircraft design, highlighting historical examples like the Wright brothers and the Monocoupe series. It discusses advancements in model engines and their impact on model aircraft evolution.
World's Smallest Stits Jr
DESIGNED and built in 1950 by Ray Stits, Jr. of Battle Creek, Mich., the tiny Stits Jr. had a wing span of only 8 feet 10 inches-slightly more than the span of a man's outstretched arms. Overall length was 11 feet, and the total weight was 398 pounds. If statistics don't convey the unbelievable smallness of this aircraft, consider that the pilot could reach out either side of the cockpit and touch the ailerons, or that by twisting slightly, he could reach back and touch the tail surfaces. Twisting would have been a bit difficult, however, as the cockpit was only 16 inches wide. The Stits took off in 500 feet, landed in 800, and had a climb rate of 850 feet per minute. Top speed was 170 mph, cruise 150, and the power was only a 85-hp Continental. When parked, a bag of rocks had to be placed in the cockpit to prevent noseovers.
