After a few short flights with the somewhat temperamental first prototype of the Star kite, it seemed a better idea to pull out the small Canard...
Within 20 minutes or so of struggle in very light air, the average breeze strength finally ticked up. Treetops ruffled as light gusts cane through. The little canard was up in no time, flying steady but doing a slow wing-waggle when at it's lower wind speed limit.
For some minutes I just concentrated on getting more and more line out, until the kite was just small blue blob in the distance. A few firm tugs soon had the craft soaring way up in smooth airflow. In fact, the wind speed seemed absolutely ideal above 200 feet over the dead grass. The kite hung almost motionless against the clear blue expanse, throwing the occasional subtle swish in response to gusts.
Clearly, the thing wanted to go even higher...
I duly let out as much line as I dared. Well past the 400 feet marker! Due to line sag, the kite settled out somewhat below 400 feet altitude. Around 360 feet perhaps, with a good 45 degree angle to the kite from horizontal. That height is legal here, but not in the U.K. apparently!
About that Star kite mentioned earlier... Later versions of the MBK Skewer Star were more stable, so don't be afraid to look it up on my website and make one.
Read more flying stories...
- Tim P.