Flow Control of the Kite

A comprehensive technical article about symmetric spinnaker trimming and aerodynamics. Drawing on wind-tunnel research at Cornell University, Ingham explains how wind flows through spinnakers in reach mode versus run mode, and provides detailed guidance on pole angle, pole height, sail trim, heel angle, and steering techniques for both modes. The article includes Thistle-specific notes about the boat's light weight and large sail area.

This is a summary. The full article text is © the Thistle Class Association — read the original scan via the link above.

• spinnaker trim
• sailing technique
• aerodynamics
• wind tunnel