Don is right in thinking that there should be one person in charge of the
launch.

Unfortunately the person he thinks should be in charge is at the wrong end
of the cable.

With high powered winches driving through auto transmission (Skylaunch) the
pilot has little control over the speed of launch, he just has to accept
what the winch driver gives him.

With a launch system that provides cable tension, by whatever control
system
is used, the speed is under control of the pilot. Ease off on the stick
speed increases, ease back speed reduces, just like in normal flight.

I've launched on both in the UK & I know which I prefer

PF

At 13:52 10 May 2013, Bill D wrote:
On Friday, May 10, 2013 7:21:55 AM UTC-6, wrote:
I just don't see the need for winching to 2-3k feet in a glider and if
you disagree you probably have some thermaling to learn.

Herb

Depends on the purpose of the flight. Early morning or late evening
student training flights can benefit from higher launches.