risk

I'm at the Australian 20m nationals at the moment, and the competition is really heating up. We've adjusted the handicaps & the Duo-Discus & DG1000s are really giving us new flapped machines a run for our money, so to speak! So far the weather has given us all blue conditions to approx 5000'. Like all competitions, I'll have to be smart to end up on the top step!

You've probably heard it over & over

Thermal Development

Thermal development is a fundamental concept in the soaring world that we must all grasp. It’s energy in the atmosphere that we use to stay aloft. Understanding how thermals form and evolve is crucial for any soaring pilot aiming to extend their flight, navigate cross-country, or enjoy the purest form of flying.

What is a Thermal?

A thermal is a column of rising air created by the

It’s not soaring, exactly that’s the risk. It’s sunlight. But unless you assemble and stage under an awning, unless you only thermal in cloud shadow, it’s as risky as any other situation when the sun shines on your skin. Caucasians in Australia have much more sun and much more damaged skin than in northern Europe. Sun angle.

It’s important that one can own a canopy – even a clear canopy – with UV protection.