Any details on your upcoming "Reaper" HLG  flying wing?

I've heard about your handlaunch "Reaper" flying wing (from SEM). What can you tell me about this design? Is it a straight wing (ala a B2 Bomber) or something different?

Andrew, it's a secret. I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you!

I can say that it's a flying wing, and that its present configuration has no vertical surfaces. Otherwise it's extremely unconventional (that's spelled w-e-i-r-d), and the only thing more unconventional than its appearance is the aerodynamic theory behind it. Only a few folks involved in the development program have been allowed to see it (even Joe Hahn hasn't seen the latest version yet), the rest of you will have to wait till it's finished.

I've always heard that flying wings would make poor handlaunch gliders. What's been your experience so far?

I would put this statement in the same category with other blanket statements, like some of the gibberish about V-tails. It's important to avoid smearing entire catergories of designs with the same brush. SOME flying wings make poor hand launch gliders. Other concepts, PROPERLY DESIGNED, may make excellent hand launch gliders. Obviously we believe that the concept behind the Reaper will fit into that second category (otherwise we wouldn't be working on it); time and service record will tell.

On paper, the Reaper should be able to out launch and out penetrate a much heavier Wizard, and (at that same weight) out float a very lightweight Monarch 'D-lite'. The performance in the first round of flight tests looks very promising, but it's a bit too soon for final conclusions. At present we're sorting out a particularly tricky roll stability and control problem. Initial results suggest the latest set of experiments is on the right track to the final solution. As soon as we have solved the roll problem we should be able to do some more detailed side-by-side performance tests with the 'D' and the Wizard. I'd suggest regular visits to our website if you're interested, the first detailed info on the Reaper will probably be posted there. (ED  : here!?!)

Don Stackhouse @ DJ Aerotech