English name: Mystery
TYPE: Tandem-seat kitbuilt.
PROGRAMME: Design work on series began in 1991. Prototype (C-FZHP) first flew as Rotax 912-powered S44 on 16 November 1996, and as S45 in 1998; total 50 hours flown by July 2001, when second prototype (C-GGYY), with Textron Lycoming engine, exhibited complete, but unflown, at AirVenture, Oshkosh. First flight eventually accomplished 4 October 2001.
CURRENT VERSIONS: Mystere Mark I: Retrospective designation, since 2003, for original aircraft. As described.
Mystere Mark II: Announced early 2003. Engine lin raised 10 cm (4 in) to allow fitment of 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) propeller; modified engine cowling.
Mystere Mark III: Proposed retractable landing gear version, announced mid-2003.
COSTS: Basic kit, excluding engine, propeller and avionics, US$27,500 (2003); can be purchased in three sub-kits.
DESIGN FEATURES: Configured to eliminate pitch-up associated with high thrust-line; horizontal stabiliser immediately above propeller slipstream counteracts thrust increases by exerting proportional pitch-down and additionally has increased effectiveness at lower airspeeds. Streamlined, pod-and-boom configuration, with T tail and sweptback fin with large fillet. Wings have constant-chord inboard sections and tapered outer panels. Engine and pusher propeller behind rear seat. Quoted build time 800 hours. Provision for 4 or 6° wing dihedral to be incorporated during manufacture.
FLYING CONTROLS: Conventional and manual. Aileron movements +30/-15°. Double slotted flaps, electrically actuated; positions 10/25/45°. Spade-type balance below each aileron. Flight-adjustable tab in elevator.
STRUCTURE: Generally of composites.
LANDING GEAR: Tricycle type; fixed. Cantilever sprung main legs of 2024-T3 aluminium; trailing link nosewheel. Speed fairings on all wheels. Hydraulic Cleveland brakes. Mainwheels 5.00-5; Azusa nosewheel 11x4.00-5.
POWER PLANT: One 119.3kW (160 hp) Textron Lycoming IO-320 flat-four, driving a PAC three-blade metal propeller. Fuel capacity 208 litres (55.0 US gallons; 45.8 Imp gallons).
ACCOMMODATION: Two persons in tandem, beneath two-piece canopy/windscreen. Dual controls.