NASA - Lazy Eight

Lazy Eight

The model aircraft approaches in straight and level flight on a line parallel with the Judges’ line. After passing the judges’ position a smooth climbing turn is commenced away from the judges. At the apex of the turn the bank should be at least 60º. The nose of the model aircraft then lowers and the bank comes off at the same rate as it went on. The turn is continued beyond 180º to cross in front of the judges with wings level before intercepting and turning on to the reciprocal of the original approach track. This completes half of the figure, which is then repeated in the opposite sense to give the full maneuver. Intercepting the original approach track parallel with the judge’s line completes the Lazy Eight. A low powered aircraft would be expected to exe cute a shallow dive at full throttle in order to pick up speed before commencing the maneuver. The figure should be symmetrical each side of the judges’ position. This maneuver is essentially two Wingovers in opposite directions, and should be capable of being flown by most aircraft.

Faults:

Entry and exit paths not parallel with judges’ line.
Insufficient climb achieved.
Insufficient bank achieved.
Climb and descent angles not equal throughout maneuver.
Maneuver not symmetrical about judges’ position.
Arcs misshapen.
Start and finish positions not as indicated.
Overall size of maneuver not realistic for prototype.
Model aircraft flight path not smooth and steady.
Too far away / too close / too high / too low.

Click here to close this window.