The SC Discovery is a Ukrainian single-place paraglider that was designed and produced by SC Paragliding of Kharkiv. It is now out of production.
Design and development
The Discovery was designed as an intermediate glider, plus a tandem version for flight training, referred to as the Discovery Bi, indicating "bi-place" or two seater.
The models are each named for their wing area in square metres.
Reviewer Noel Bertrand noted the Discovery series in a 2003 review for its low price, being one of the few gliders available in that time period under €1,000.
Discovery 23
Extra small-sized model for lighter pilots. Its wing has an area of 23 m
2 (250 sq ft), 53 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.1:1. The pilot weight range is 55 to 70 kg (121 to 154 lb).
Discovery 25
Small-sized model for lighter pilots. Its wing has an area of 25 m
2 (270 sq ft), 53 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.1:1. The pilot weight range is 65 to 85 kg (143 to 187 lb).
Discovery 28
Mid-sized model for medium-weight pilots. Its wing has an area of 28 m
2 (300 sq ft), 53 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.1:1. The pilot weight range is 70 to 100 kg (154 to 220 lb).
Discovery 31
Large-sized model for heavier pilots. Its wing has an area of 31 m
2 (330 sq ft), 53 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.1:1. The pilot weight range is 95 to 120 kg (209 to 265 lb).
Discovery 34
Extra large-sized model for heavier pilots. Its wing has an area of 34 m
2 (370 sq ft), 53 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.1:1. The pilot weight range is 115 to 145 kg (254 to 320 lb).
Discovery 39 Bi
Small-sized two-place model for lighter crews. Its wing has an area of 39 m
2 (420 sq ft), 47 cells and the aspect ratio is 4.9:1. The pilot weight range is 140 to 180 kg (309 to 397 lb).
Discovery 42 Bi
Large-sized two-place model for heavier crews. Its wing has an area of 42 m
2 (450 sq ft), 50 cells and the aspect ratio is 5.1:1. The pilot weight range is 160 to 220 kg (353 to 485 lb).
Data from Bertrand
General characteristics
Crew: one
Wing area: 25 m2 (270 sq ft)
Aspect ratio: 5.1:1
Performance
Maximum speed: 47 km/h (29 mph; 25 kn)
Rate of sink: 1.1 m/s (220 ft/min)
