Minimoa RC Glider: Scale Models of the Göppingen Gö 3
The Minimoa is a scale model of the Göppingen Gö 3, a classic German sailplane first flown in 1935, famous for its graceful gull wing and swept-back tips. RC versions come in many sizes: small 1:12 laser-cut wooden kits with a 1,422 mm span and about 320 g flying weight, large balsa kits around 112 inches, a 1/5 ARF (AP Models) with a 3.4 m span and 3.6 kg, and big scale models over 4 m. They fly slowly and gracefully, perfect for slope soaring or gentle thermal flying.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Available sizes
| Model | Span | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1:12 wooden kit | 1,422 mm | About 320 g; SD7032 airfoil; laser cut |
| Balsa kit (about 112 in) | about 2.8 m | Many laser-cut balsa and ply sheets |
| AP Models 1/5 ARF | 3.4 m | About 3.6 kg; built and covered |
| Large scale models | 4.25 m+ | Aerotow or slope |
From maker and retailer listings, checked October 2026.
Why the Minimoa is loved
The Gö 3 was one of the most elegant gliders of the 1930s, with a gull wing that gives a unique silhouette in the air. Its design included features advanced for the time, such as differential ailerons and water ballast. As a model, it looks stunning in slow, wide circles, and vintage glider fans enjoy flying it at scale events and slope meets.
Building tips
- Build the gull wing on a flat board with jigs for the correct dihedral angles.
- Keep the tail light; scale gliders easily end up tail-heavy.
- Cover with lightweight film, or tissue/fabric for vintage looks.
- Fit slim servos in the wings and route linkages cleanly.
- Balance carefully at the plan’s CG.
Kit building techniques are covered in RC balsa glider kits.
Flying
Vintage gliders fly slower than modern sailplanes and turn with gentle, coordinated rudder and aileron. On the slope, they float in light lift; in thermals, they circle lazily. Large versions are usually aerotowed. Avoid high speed, as the wings aren’t designed for it. Soaring basics are in RC gliders and sailplanes.
Launch options
- Hand launch on a slope for small models.
- Bungee (hi-start) for medium sizes.
- Aerotow behind a tow plane for large scale.
- Hidden electric motor in some versions.
The real Gö 3
Built by Schempp-Hirth in Göppingen, the Gö 3 Minimoa was produced in the 1930s and set records in its time. Surviving examples fly at vintage glider rallies today, and photos of them are a great reference for scale finishes.
Choosing a size
A 1:12 kit is a fun, affordable build that flies well on small slopes and in light thermals, and it fits in any car. Mid-size balsa kits around 2.8 m look more realistic and fly more smoothly but take longer to build and need slim servos and careful finishing. The 3.4 m and larger models are serious scale projects, usually aerotowed at club events. Pick a size that matches your building skill, launch method and transport space.
Scale finishes
Many Minimoas carry the cream or white schemes of the 1930s with registration letters on the fuselage and wing. Tissue and dope or fabric-style covering gives an authentic vintage look; film is lighter and easier. Research a specific aircraft for markings.
FAQ
What is a Minimoa?
The Göppingen Gö 3, a 1930s German sailplane with a gull wing.
What sizes of RC Minimoa exist?
From about 1.4 m kits to over 4 m scale models.
Is it good for beginners?
Small versions are gentle; build skills help.
How is it launched?
Hand, bungee, aerotow or a hidden motor depending on size.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
