Discover Gliders: An Introduction to the World of Soaring

Did you know that the Air Force trains its pilots on gliders? Or that they can be launched from trucks or even engine driven winches? Or that the Space Shuttle is the world's largest glider? My mind, already weighed down with enough non-profit information to keep a 747 grounded, is nonetheless always stimulated by Niche A/V's well produced gliding videos (see Discover Soaring! A Transition To Gliders in VL-11/97). Although there is probably a limit to the number of gliding videos required by the general public, this one is, like its predecessor, well written, nicely filmed and intelligently narrated. Speaking from the perspective of someone who definitely likes to keep his feet on the ground, I was tempted by the "discovery flight" sequence in which a first time rider is initiated to the world of soaring, and if someone would explain the aerodynamics of landing a plane on what looks like the single wheel of a trash can cart, I'd pack my bags! Recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (R. Ray)