Quote:
Originally Posted by freebeard
Fair point.
Would it be faster backwards?
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Depends.
Blown from behind, the prop is in the wind shadow of its A-Frame mast support, which will induce the asymmetric loading. Not so good.
Exceeding the velocity of the tailwind though, the prop is now looking at the undisturbed air of a headwind. Favored by many aeronautical engineers. Some of the prop wash will impact the A-frame, compromising thrust efficiency.
Placing the prop in the rear gets rid of any structure impeding its slipstream, however you'd want it in a 'clean' environment, free of oncoming turbulence.
Jack Northrop tried to address this in his flying wings.
https://www.airway1.com/northrops-hi...crashes-in-us/