If the performance is better on a sanded wet wing, my theory has been that
laminar flow might happen more easily over a sheet of water that is flexable
and easily conforming to the air flowing over it. Did you ever notice what
happens to a convertable top on a car when at cruise speed. I'm
Martin
You mention the performance loss on full scale sailplanes when flying thru
rain. Sanded wings (400-600 or finer) to remove the beautiful gloss finish
makes a huge difference when flying thru rain. The water spreads like a
sheet on the wing rather than clinging as individual droplets.
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