description Bölkow Phoebus C Overview
The Bölkow Phoebus C is a single-seat Standard Class sailplane developed in West Germany in the early 1960s by aerodynamicist Richard Eppler and manufactured by Bölkow GmbH in Ottobrunn near Munich. It was among the first production sailplanes built from glass-fiber reinforced plastic, replacing earlier wood-and-fabric construction and influencing subsequent composite aircraft design. The Phoebus C variant introduced a retractable main landing wheel, replacing the fixed wheel of earlier Phoebus A and B models.
help Bölkow Phoebus C FAQ
What makes the Bölkow Phoebus C different from other Phoebus sailplanes?
The Phoebus C is distinguished by its retractable landing wheel, a feature that improved the glider's aerodynamic efficiency over earlier fixed-gear models. It also featured a redesigned, longer rudder to improve spin recovery.
What material is the Bölkow Phoebus C constructed from?
The Phoebus C is constructed primarily from fiberglass, making it an early pioneer in composite sailplane design. This Bölkow innovation provided a smoother, more aerodynamic surface than traditional wood and fabric.
Who designed the Bölkow Phoebus C?
The Phoebus series was designed by Richard Eppler and Hermann Nägele in the early 1960s. It was subsequently produced by the West German company Bölkow, which later merged into MBB.
Is the Bölkow Phoebus C a two-seater?
No, the Phoebus C is strictly a single-seat sailplane designed for solo soaring performance. The Phoebus A and B were also single-seat models.
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