Effect of Wing Aspect Ratio on the Aerodynamic Performance and Stability of a Balsa Wood Glider

Abstract

This study explores how the shape of a wing, specifically its aspect ratio (AR), affects the performance of a balsa wood glider in both smooth and turbulent air. We conducted a series of controlled flight tests in a closed room to ensure accurate results. By carefully changing the wing’s shape and recording each flight with a high-speed camera, we measured key performance metrics such as the lift-to-drag ratio and angular deviation (wobbling). Our data clearly show that wings with higher aspect ratios perform better in calm air. For example, when the AR increased from 5.35 to 10, the lift-to-drag ratio improved significantly from 1.853 to 13.25, and the glide angle decreased from -25.48° to -12.25°, resulting in a flatter flight path. This confirms the classic aerodynamic principle that long; narrow wings are more efficient. However, we found a major drawback: high-AR wings become much less stable in turbulent air. The wobbling increased nearly threefold, as the angular deviation rose from 1.042 to 2.991, leading to a noticeable drop in performance. This suggests that although high-AR wings are efficient, they are more sensitive to air disturbances. In conclusion, our research highlights an important trade-off in glider design: a higher aspect ratio provides better efficiency but worse stability in turbulent conditions. This finding is crucial for future designers, emphasizing that real-world performance must consider turbulence as well as ideal flight conditions.