The Ascender Mk III is a logical outcome for 5 year hypothetical experience with the Bristol Ascender MK I
(http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_DSCF3764~0.JPG)
Looks like the contractors are burning the midnight oil on this one. The placement of the underslung engines was problematic with reentry heat buildup so they were moved to the upper surface. Not a big issue as the Ascender will be subsonic by the time the engines are started.
(http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_Ascender_Mk_III_Prototype.JPG)
http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-1965
The work of an artist, Lou.
The upturned wingtips are cool.
Rafa
Thank you rafa. Have you gone to the Model of the Year and voted for Garet's best? Your Challenger will eventally make it there also.
Lou
Year end report 2008.
No more progress to date. I did drop it and break a wing tip which has been repaired. With advanced maturity, these accidents will happen.
Lou
The Ascender III was rolled out this afternoon.
(http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_DSCF5266.JPG)
(http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_DSCF5265.JPG)(http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_DSCF5264.JPG)
(http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/albums/userpics/normal_DSCF5263.JPG)
Some minor changes occurred in the final production and the center fin was deleted as being redundant and not contributing to stability on reentry.
http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-2475
http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-2474
http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-2473