Vaughn Simon wrote:
I was taught that the theoretical "ideal", perfectly-planned and
executed
pattern would have about 50% spoilers throughout the full pattern.

I've heard this before, and wondered about why it's "ideal" to have
spoilers open during the downwind and base leg. What was the reason your
instructors gave you?

I've always flown - and taught - the downwind and base legs with the
gear down, spoilers closed. This way, my turns to base and final are as
high as possible, and the final is longer, giving me more time to
stabilize it, to make corrections (especially big ones), and inspect the
landing area.

If you are
at 50%, then you have maximum authority to either increase or decrease your
glide angle as conditions warrant.

I agree with this technique, and it is what I strive for on final. I do
use somewhat less spoiler if the glider has a strong landing flaps (ASW
20, e.g.), or responds significantly to just cracking the spoilers.

--
Eric Greenwell - Washington State, USA
* Change "netto" to "net" to email me directly
* "Transponders in Sailplanes" http://tinyurl.com/y739x4
* "A Guide to Self-launching Sailplane Operation" at www.motorglider.org