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Voyager - Manuel Schuetz
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download the full size plan here.
[1999] The World Record of 238 m was set with this boomerang by Manuel Schütz (Kloten 1999). It is obviously derived from the MegaQuirl and the Pathfinder II. Manuel says 150 m can be attained without the lead in the leading wing. In good conditions, he throws over 200 m. As you may know, the NASA Voyager (I and II) space probes, launched in 1977, are the most distant man-made objects. They are currently approaching the boundary of the solar system.
Manuel gave the details about how the airfoil needs to be carved. Download the full-size plan using the link for a detailed version, including airfoil crossections. As usual with Manu's booms, everything is perfectly rounded and smooth. The rough carving is carried out with a file, then sand paper is used from 40 to 1000 grain size. Manuel always works "wet" to absorb the dust. The airfoil is generally very sharp to minimize drag.
In a newer version of the airfoil, the trailing edges are carved concave, from the middle of the wing to its tip, the elbow region is not altered (The older version is shown shaded). This seems to bring about a significant reduction in drag, as we've noticed that the average velocity of the rang is much higher, especially in the last phase of the flight. Manu assumes that this airfoil reduces the wake (turbulence behind the airfoil) and thus the drag.
Tuning: a small positive dihedral on the leading wing (0.5-1 mm), possibly a small negative angle of attack (B WARE: the boom is very sensitive here - too much and you'll have a kylie.)
Throwing: wind angle 20 °, elevation 0-5 °, tilt angle 80 °, maximum spin and maximum throwing power !!! Hey, these are Manuel's hints ! If you know his throwing power, you can imagine what that means to "ordinary" people. At least I (Lorenz) am not able to throw the booms that Manu has adjusted to his throw; they tend to crash on their way back. By giving rotation, you stabilize the boom. In fact, Manuel usually throws 20 to 30 m farther with my rangs !
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