Soaring Over the Chihuahuan Desert in a Sailplane
In September 2006, I was looking for some new "angles" on Chihuahuan Desert photography. My good friends
came to the rescue, inviting me to take a ride in their new sailplane. Thus began my quest to get a
series of definitive photographs of the desert near Las Cruces, NM. The series concept is called "View
from the Cockpit," and will feature aerial views of the desert. Panoramic photos are a must, since only
a panoramic view can convey the great view from the cockpit.
The Sailplane is a Grob 103 III SL, a German-built self launching ship sporting an electrically
actuated mast mounted engine. The mast engine has a single blade propeller. This beauty has a
wingspan of 59 feet, and weighs 860 pounds empty. It carries two passengers.
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As we enter the hanger, the Grob awaits. This is a very sleek sailplane that
looks great even when its not flying!
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The sailplane is towed onto the runway. For the short trip, it is
equipped with wing wheel and a towing collar.
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As you can see, the cockpit instrumentation is quite ergonomic--
well designed, and easy to read. In the distance is a view
of the Organ Mountains, which I hope will be the subject of a great
"View from the Cockpit" panorama.
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The Grob begins its taxi down the runway prior to takeoff. Note the
wingspan. The engine has been deployed.
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With the engine deployed, the Grob takes off. What a cool way to fly--
no tow plane needed!
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We deploy the Grob's mast, and start up the engine. Its single
propeller starts up, and we get on the radio to announce a departure.
Gradully, the sound of the engine increases and we gain speed. The
take-off was absolutely amazing! I had expected a rough, choppy
ride, but it was almost as smooth as a commercial jetliner. This is
a view shortly after take-off.
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Once we reach altitude, the engine is turned off, and the boom is
stowed away within the fuselage. Suddenly,
I am struck by the sheer silence. There is little noise, except
for the slight "swoosh" of the air as we fly. This is a view of
the Organ Mountains as we turn north in search of thermals.
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We search for thermals to gain altitude. The search pattern is
somewhat circular. This view shows how green the desert has been this year
due to all the late summer rains.
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A view of the Las Cruces airport.
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As we search for thermals, we circle over a large area, and find a few
thermals which allow us to spiral up in altitude, somewhat like a corkscrew.
During this time, I attempt to create a series of images which will be
used to make the panorama I have visualized. Taking the photos is difficult, as
the sailplane is moving quickly and turning. I only hope that I am able to align
all the images to make the panorama. Nevertheless, a nice view of the Organ Mountains rewarded
us!
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A view of the Organ Mountains with the runway in the foreground.
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Another view of the Organ Mountains.
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One of the great features of the Grobe is that aside
from the instruments, it has a great view! This photo
was taken with the camera deliberately angled downward
to show the instruments.
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After enjoying the views and sailing over the desert, it is time
for the flight to end. This is a view of us coming in for a landing!
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View from the Cockpit-- The final panorama after stitching together four images. Many thanks to
my pilot for a great ride!
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