S3A Parachute Duration Overview
FAI parachute duration S3A has evolved over the years, like the streamer
duration event S6A, to become one of the most popular events to compete
in. However, landing in the winner's circle usually requires a very light
and reliable model. It is imperative that the latest building techniques
and flying strategies be used. The goal of the event is to get three
"maxes" or 5-minute flights. Only two models can be entered,
so one of the flights must be returned and maybe more if a fly off round
is required i.e. more than one competitor has successfully scored (3) max
flights. Additionally, each round has a fixed time limit, so procrastinators
beware! Recently, dt's have been incorporated into some models so as to
ensure recovery after a 5-minute maximum time has been recorded. Some
use a dt wick that is ignited using the motor's ejection charge. Others
have used formed music wire pulled through a tube of silly putty to release
the parachute lines after a set time limit has expired. More recently,
electronic dt's are being used that are built using either solid-state
components or microprocessor technology. The motor's used in this event
are of the "micro" type available from Apogee (web link: http://www.apogeerockets.com/)
or are made by Jiri Taborsky of the Czech Republic. These motors are smaller,
lighter and have a lower average thrust than your typical Estes mini motor.
So, as you can see, FAI parachute duration can be a very challenging and
interesting event.