Glider enthusiasts can now have the best of both worlds, powered flight
and a record-setting sailplane. The Stemme S10-vt motorglider is built
in Germany and distributed in North America from Colombia, SC. The
company demonstrator arrived this afternoon in preparation for the AOPA
fly-in which takes place this weekend. I was happy to get a chance for a
close look.
The airplane is powered by a 115hp Rotax turbocharged engine that is
installed behind the cockpit, which drives a concealable folding
propeller behind the nosecone. It can cruise comfortably at 120 knots,
and carries oxygen to go along with its service ceiling of 30,000 ft.
With a high aspect ratio wing, it has a 50:1 glide ratio in glider
configuration. The long wing is folded to enable it to make use of
normal storage.
The demonstration pilot gave me a big wave when he arrived.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Stemme+1.tif.html
I was impressed by the instrument panel.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Stemme+2.tif.html
I had seen pictures of the folding prop, but had never seen one up
close. The engine and prop can make normal takeoffs and climbs, can be
stopped and stowed in the air, and can be repositioned and restarted in
the air if necessary.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Stemme+3.tif.html
The wing hinges permit folding by one man, so that normal parking or
hangar spaces can be utilized.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Stemme+4.tif.html
This shows the right wing in the folded and stowed position.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Stemme+5.tif.html
All photos with the X-E1 and 27mm
Comments and critiques welcomed.
--
Jim Nichols
Tullahoma, TN USA
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