Some results from the use of a control augmentation system to study the developed spin of a light plane

A control augmentation system consisting of hydrogen peroxide rockets mounted on the wing tips of a light airplane has been developed and used to study spin recovery characteristics. Recovery from spins that were unrecoverable with aerodynamic controls was accomplished in less than one turn at maximum thrust in about three turns at minimum thrust. The rocket system at maximum thrust produced spin recovery characteristics similar to those obtained using a parachute. An advantage of using the control augmentation system on any airplane being used in a spin test program is its capability to demonstrate configuration effects on stall/spin characteristics at very high angles of attack and clearly determine the existence of all possible spin modes.