XCSoar vs MyCloudBase

Disclaimer: Do not rely on this app for navigation or flight-critical decisions. XCSoar is an open-source flight navigation software designed for gliders and other sailplanes. It provides features like a moving map, task planning, airspace information, and thermal detection. The software helps pilots with route optimization and offers real-time data on altitude, speed, and location. It can be used on various devices, including tablets and smartphones, making it versatile for both recreational and competitive flying.

Learning to fly cross-country? This tool helps you answer the most important question: "Can I make it to that cloud?" MyCloudBase is a simple rangefinder that helps glider pilots—especially those new to cross-country flying—develop better distance judgment. Point your camera at a cloud base, and instantly see how far it is and how much altitude you'll lose getting there. WHY NEW XC PILOTS LOVE IT When you're starting out in cross-country soaring, estimating distances is hard. Clouds that look close might be 10 miles away. MyCloudBase takes the guesswork out by giving you real numbers you can use to make better decisions. "That cloud is 4.2 miles away" "I'll lose 1,850 feet getting there" "At my glide ratio, I can make it" Over time, you'll start calibrating your own eyes and building the intuition that experienced pilots have. HOW IT WORKS Set your cloudbase altitude (ask a towpilot or check the forecast) Set your glide ratio (start conservative—maybe 25:1 or 30:1) Point your phone at a cloud base Read the distance and altitude loss Decide: go for it, or find something closer? The green "Reachable Terrain" box shows you everything within gliding range. If the cloud base is inside the box, you can theoretically reach it. BEGINNER-FRIENDLY FEATURES Large, Easy Controls - Big picker wheels you can adjust with gloves on or in turbulence No Complex Setup - Just two settings: cloudbase height and your glide ratio Works Offline - No cell signal needed—works anywhere you fly Pre-Calibrated - Accurate right out of the box for most iPhones Visual Horizon Line - See exactly where level is, helping you understand pitch angles TIPS FOR NEW PILOTS Be conservative with your glide ratio. Your glider's best L/D might be 38:1, but in real conditions with headwinds and sink, 25:1-30:1 is more realistic. Use it on the ground first. Practice pointing at clouds from the airfield to get comfortable with the interface. Cross-check with your variometer. MyCloudBase is a planning aid, not a replacement for your instruments. A LEARNING TOOL MyCloudBase won't fly the glider for you, but it will help you learn one of the most important cross-country skills: knowing what you can reach and what you can't. With practice, you'll start making these estimates on your own—and that's when the real fun begins. Built by a glider pilot. Tested by glider pilots. Made for pilots who are ready to leave the pattern and explore.