Rolladen-Schneider LS9

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LS9
Role	18 metre-class motorglider
National origin	Germany
Manufacturer	Rolladen-Schneider
First flight	1995
Number built	10

The Rolladen-Schneider LS9 is an 18 metre single-seat motor glider launched in 2000 by Rolladen-Schneider. Production ended after just 10 gliders were built, when Rolladen-Schneider went into receivership.

Development[]

The LS9 was the sole self-launching glider developed at Rolladen-Schneider. The prototype first flew in 1995, powered by a Rotax 535 two-stroke engine. Production of this engine was discontinued by Rotax, putting the LS9 project on hold pending the development of a suitable engine.

The Solo 2625 engine and a two-blade propeller were finally selected. The engine installation, including the carbon composite propeller mast and folding exhaust system, was developed by the specialist firm , having nearly 100% commonality with the installation.

Design[]

• Wings from the LS6-18w moulds, with strengthened spars and leading edges.
• Fuselage shape adapted from the LS4 by broadening the tail boom to accommodate the engine.
• All-new structure combining a new safety glass/carbon cockpit with a full carbon composite fuselage behind the wing.
• Empennage from the LS4 with new carbon and aramid composite construction.
• Larger undercarriage (5” hub) set further forward to prevent nose-over with the engine at full power.
• Innovative 210 mm x 65 mm steerable tailwheel integrated into the rudder directly under the hinge axis.
• Single aerotow/winching hook.
• Carbon composite propeller mast deployed by electric screw jack system.
• Engine recessed into the fuselage with electric starter, fuel and coolant pumps.
• Drive belt transmission to the large propeller.
• Stall warning system activated during powered flight.

Specifications[]

General characteristics

• Crew: One
• Length: 6.84 m (22 ft 5 in)
• Wingspan: 18.00 m (59 ft 1 in)
• Height: 1.43 m (4 ft 8 in)
• Wing area: 11.4 m² (123 sq ft)
• Aspect ratio: 28.4
• Empty weight: 350 kg (770 lb)
• Gross weight: 525 kg (1,155 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 × Solo 2625 , 41 kW (55 hp)

Performance

• Maximum speed: 270 km/h (170 mph, 150 kn)
• Range: 550 km (340 mi, 300 nmi)
• Maximum glide ratio: >47
• Rate of climb: 4.0 m/s (780 ft/min)
• Rate of sink: 0.58 m/s (114 ft/min)

References[]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Rolladen-Schneider LS9.

• LS-Flugzeugbau website
• Newsletter of the Auxiliary Powered Sailplane Association
• Website of LS dealer Solaire Canada
• Thomas F, Fundamentals of Sailplane Design, College Park Press, 1999
• Ewald J, Flight Test of the LS-9, Sailplane and Gliding, Oct. 2000