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The Laser Class European Series

The latest events, creating a sustainable association, for sailors, by sailors, introducing the laser class.

Welcome to The Laser Class, established by concerned sailors with a desire to celebrate the iconic One-Design Laser boat and to reconstitute the original Laser Class as a world-class organization that represents and serves its community.

Join us today! Membership of the Association is free until 2022. You will also get a Members Card giving you access to exclusive discounts from our partners.

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ILCA (Laser) Sailing 101

What is the ilca (laser) class.

Note: In this article, the terms "Laser" and "ILCA" are going to be used interchangeably. Worldwide, the class is now officially known as the ILCA, despite originally being called the Laser .

The Laser class is a one design dinghy originally designed by Bruce Kirby and Ian Bruce in 1969. Although the original intent behind the design was a recreational, family-friendly boat, the Laser has gone on to become one of the most popular racing boats in the world, with over 220,000 produced.

What makes up a boat?

Being a one design and Olympic class, all Laser boats conform strictly to the Laser class rules. In order to compete at continental and international championships, you will need to ensure that your equipment is ILCA class certified, and complies with the measurement standards set out by the class. There is a number of non-class legal equipment available, and if you're just planning on sailing for fun, these are a great option for getting started. (Hint: google Intensity Sails)

A relatively lightweight hull for its size, the Laser is 4.23m long, has a beam of 1.42m and weights 57kg. All hulls are built from glass reinforced plastic (AKA fibreglass) and are known for their robust construction and light weight.

One of the unique features of the Laser class is the three different rigs which can all be used with the same hull. This allows sailors of different ages, weights and abilities to participate in a single class. The rigs are:

Laser Standard (ILCA 7)

Laser Radial (ILCA 6)

Laser 4.7 (ILCA 4)

Masts/Spars

Each Laser rig consists of three pieces - the bottom mast, top mast and boom. The bottom mast is specific to each rig size, but the same top section and boom can be used with all three rigs.

Similar to the bottom mast sections, each Laser rig also has its own sail, and they are all different sizes.

Control Lines and Rigging

In the early 2000s, the class introduced the Turbo Kit rigging, which made a significant difference in the techniques and ease of sailing the boat. Although the Turbo rigging is standard nowadays, the old systems can still be found, and can be used to race.

One thing that many sailors like about the Laser is the speed and simplicity of its rigging. The boat has only four main control lines: the mainsheet, vang (kicker), cunningham and outhaul.

Similar to the hull, ILCA foils are also made from fibreglass. The centreboard (daggerboard) is inserted in to the case aft of the mast step, and the rudder clips easily on to the gudgeons on the transom of the hull.

Accessories

Launching trolley - unless you will be beaching (not recommended) or storing your boat on a dock, you will need a trolley to launch your boat. Most boats are sold with these.

Road Trailer - if you would like to sail at different venues, or compete away from home, one of the easiest ways to transport your boat is with a road trailer. The Laser was originally designed to be loaded on to the roof of a car, and if you would like to find out more about transportation methods, we have a full article here .

Tiller and Extension - these come in both aluminium and carbon varieties, and both can be used to race.

Clothing - you can wear anything while sailing the Laser, but I would recommend getting at least a life jacket (better safe than sorry), and a pair of hiking pants. Hiking pants will protect the back of your legs from the deck, and allow you to sail for longer.

Who Can Sail the Laser?

Another great things to mention about the Laser is the range of uses and abilities the boat caters to. Lasers can be sailed on the weekend with your family for fun, or raced in the Olympics and everything in between!

What is the optimal weight for the Laser?

Thanks to the three rig sizes in the Laser class, the weight range in the Laser is quite large. Generally, the Laser Radial (ILCA 6) is suitable for sailors between 60kg and 75kg while the Laser Standard (ILCA 7) is suitable for sailors 75kg to over 90kg. The Laser 4.7 (ILCA 4) is designed specifically for younger and lighter sailors with an optimal weight range between 45kg - 60kg.

What ages are the sailors?

Laser sailing is a sport you can do for life, and nearly every Laser regatta there will be an age category catering to everyone from junior sailors through to master ages. Generally the age categories are U19, Open (20-35), and Masters (over 35). Depending on the regatta, there may also be additional age divisions including U17, and U15. It’s never too late to start sailing a Laser!

Where to Sail a Laser?

The Laser world is divided in to 6 different regions:

North America

Central and South America

Rest of World

with each region comprising of various member countries and districts. Being the most popular dinghy class in the world, there are Lasers in over 120 countries around the world, and it's likely there is a sailing club with at least one boat near you. For more information and contact details for an association in your country, ILCA have a directory of ILCA District Contacts .

Laser Racing

Since the inception of the class, the Laser has been considered one of the world's premiere racing classes thanks to its low-cost, availability and one design nature providing tight competition at all levels. Since 1996, Laser racing has been included at the Olympics, and many Olympic laser sailors have gone on to the pinnacles of high performance sailing. If you want to see the calibre of some of the sailors who have competed in the Laser, be sure to check out our ranking of the Top 10 Male Sailors and Top 10 Female Sailors of all time.

Outside of the Olympics, the ILCA class also organises World Championships for all rigs and age divisions on a yearly basis. These include the following regattas:

Masters World Championship (all divisions and rigs)

U21 World Championship (ILCA 6 and ILCA 7)

ILCA 4 Youth World Championship

ILCA 6 Women's World Championship

ILCA 6 Youth World Championship

ILCA 6 Men's World Championship

ILCA 7 Men's World Championship.

The full list and dates of upcoming ILCA World Championships can be found on the ILCA website .

Each ILCA region also hosts their own continental championships, and these also have a typically high attendance, and strong calibre of racing. The list of championships for each of the regions can be found here:

Oceania (out of date)

Starting Out with ILCA Sailing

If you're now feeling ready and excited to kick off your Laser journey, here's some things you might want to know before getting on the water

Getting a Boat

Due to their popularity, nearly every sailing club around the world will have at least one Laser lying around which you could try out before you buy your own boat. Many clubs also have rental programs where you can borrow or lease their boats for a minimal cost. This is a great way to get started and see if you enjoy the class.

If however, you're already at the point where you want to get your own boat, there will also be plenty of second hand boats which you could consider upgrading to. If you want some advice on looking for a used Laser, we have a complete second hand Laser Buyer's Guide .

Alternatively, I may have done such a good job convincing you to start ILCA sailing that you're ready to throw yourself in to it headfirst and buy a new boat. If that's the case, contact me at daniel.self@sail27 .com and I can help you find the best boat for you, or connect you with a great Laser dealer in your area.

Training and Coaching

Regardless of your ability, getting a coach is going to help you improve your sailing and much faster than you would by yourself. There are plenty of ILCA coaches all around the world, and the best resource I have found for finding a coach is ILCA's Coach directory . Another great option is to talk to your local sailing club or ILCA district association - they're sure to know someone in your area who can help you get started in the class.

Since the COVID pandemic, online Laser coaching has become more accessible, and the guys at the International Sailing Academy have some great courses which can help you get from an intermediate to advanced Laser sailor.

You may however still be more of a 'book person' (that's how I started as well). If that's the case, I would recommend the RYA Laser Handbook. Although its a little older now, this is the most comprehensive guide to Laser sailing that I've read. Even as I got further in to my sailing journey, I would often refer back to this book for new tips.

Wrapping Up

With all of that information, you should now be well versed on the ILCA class, and how you can get started in it. If you need any further information, feel free to comment below and I'll try to answer as well as possible. Otherwise, happy sailing and I'll see you on the water sometime soon!

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• 1 Introduction
• 2.1 The Laser 4.7 / ILCA 4…
• 2.2 The Laser Radial / ILCA 6…
• 2.3 The Laser Standard / ILCA 7…
• 3.1 Hull Specs:
• 3.2.1 Laser Standard / ILCA 7 Rig
• 3.2.2 Laser Radial / ILCA 6 Rig
• 3.2.3 Laser 4.7 / ILCA 4 Rig
• 4 The International Laser Class Association
• 5 The Laser Sailing Community
• 6 The Appeal of Laser Sailing
• 7 The Future of Laser Sailing
• 8 Conclusion

Introduction

The Laser Dinghy, a one-design racing sailboat, was designed by Bruce Kirby and unveiled to the public at the 1971 New York Boat Show. Since then 200,000+ Lasers have been built to date and are sailed across 140+ countries, with its popularity being primarily due to its simplicity and performance.

The original concept for the Laser centered on creating a boat that was easy to build, sail, and purchase, thereby making it accessible to a broad range of sailors. The Laser quickly gained popularity and became the boat of choice for many sailing schools and clubs worldwide. It also rapidly gained recognition as a racing boat and debuted as the single-handed open-class dinghy in the 1996 Olympic Games.

Racing is very competitive due to the one-design restrictions, which means sailors are truly able to test their ability, rather than rely on differences in hull shape, sails, and other gear to gain an advantage.

Besides being used for competition, the Laser is a popular choice for recreational sailing. You can spot these dinghies on lakes, rivers, and oceans worldwide. With its one-design nature, ease of use, and practicality, the Laser Dinghy is set to remain a popular sailboat for many years to come.

The Laser Dinghy – 3 Sailboats In 1

The laser dinghy comes in 3 rig sizes:

• 4.7 / ILCA 4
• Radial / ILCA 6, and
• Full/Standard / ILCA 7 rig

This means that sailors of just about any ability or age can enter the sport, and advance with minimal cost.

Rigging is easy using a sleeved sail over a mast with no stays, and can be launched and sailed single-handedly with ease. Minimal parts mean minimal breakages and maintenance.

The Laser 4.7 / ILCA 4…

utilizes a smaller sail than the Standard rig (4.7m 2 / 50.6 ft 2 which is 33% smaller) and a shorter pre-bent lower mast section.  It is ideal for lighter sailors (up to 121lb / 55kg) and beginners.

The Laser Radial / ILCA 6…

uses a smaller sail than the Standard rig (5.76m 2 / 62 ft 2 which is 18% smaller) and a shorter more flexible lower mast section. It is suitable for sailors between about 121lb – 154lb / 55kg – 70kg. The Radial is the most popular class of Laser, as it is suitable for the largest amount of people, including youth, women, and masters. The radial sail can easily be identified by the sail cut in a radial pattern emanating out from the clew.

The Laser Standard / ILCA 7…

has a 7.06m 2 / 76 ft 2 sail, and is more suitable for sailors above about 143lb / 65kg. This rig is suited to heavier sailors in windy conditions where weight, strength, and fitness are critical.

Summary of Key Laser Dinghy Specifications

Hull specs:.

• Length overall (LOA): 4.23m / 13ft 10.5in
• Length waterline (LWL): 3.81m / 12ft 6in
• Beam: 1.42m / 4ft 8in
• Hull Weight: 57kg / 125lb

Laser Sail Area Specs:

Laser standard / ilca 7 rig.

• Sail area: 7.06m 2 / 76 ft 2
• Luff: 5.13m
• Leech: 5.57m
• Foot: 2.74m

Laser Radial / ILCA 6 Rig

• Sail area: 5.76m 2 / 62 ft 2
• Luff: 4.56m
• Leech: 5.01m

Laser 4.7 / ILCA 4 Rig

• Sail area: 4.70m 2 / 50.6 ft 2
• Luff: 4.09m
• Leech: 4.54m
• Foot: 2.48m

The International Laser Class Association

The International Laser Class Association (ILCA), a global organization with regional sites, governs the Laser class of sailboats. The organization is responsible for developing and enforcing the class rules, which ensure that all Laser boats are built to the same specifications and are eligible to compete in official Laser regattas. The Laser Class Association also organizes and oversees major regattas and championships, including the Laser World Championships and the Laser Masters World Championships.

Membership in the Laser Class Association is open to anyone who owns or sails a Laser boat. Members have access to a wide range of benefits, including access to official class materials and publications, as well as opportunities to compete in official Laser events. The Laser Class Association also offers support and guidance for sailors who are interested in organizing their own Laser regattas.

The Laser Class Association plays a vital role in promoting and supporting the Laser class of sailboats and is a great resource for anyone who is interested in Laser sailing.

The Laser Sailing Community

The Laser sailing community is a vibrant and passionate group of sailors who share a deep love for the sport. From beginners and avid enthusiasts to professional athletes, this global community is bound by a common bond – the thrill of sailing the Laser. As one of the most popular sailing classes worldwide, Laser sailors come from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups, united by their shared passion for the sport.

Laser sailing’s popularity extends across various regions, making it a truly international phenomenon. From the shores of Australia to the coasts of Europe, and the lakes of North America, the Laser class has a widespread following. Its appeal lies in the boat’s versatility, allowing sailors to compete in a wide range of sailing conditions, from challenging regattas to more relaxed lake racing. This popularity has fostered a thriving competitive racing circuit, attracting skilled sailors to local, national, and international events.

One of the most cherished aspects of the Laser sailing community is the camaraderie and sportsmanship among its members. Whether on the water competing fiercely during races or on shore sharing stories and experiences, Laser sailors exemplify a strong sense of friendship and mutual respect. Sailors often support and encourage each other, both in victory and defeat, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for newcomers and seasoned sailors alike. The camaraderie extends beyond the racecourse, with events often turning into social gatherings where lifelong friendships are forged.

In the Laser sailing community, it’s not just about winning races; it’s about being part of a global family that shares a profound connection to the sea and the sport of sailing. The sense of unity and passion that emanates from this community is what makes Laser sailing not just a sport but, for many, a way of life. Whether you’re an aspiring sailor or a seasoned competitor, joining the Laser sailing community opens doors to an unforgettable journey filled with exciting challenges, lasting friendships, and the sheer joy of sailing.

The Appeal of Laser Sailing

Laser sailing offers a unique and attractive experience that captivates sailors of all levels. Its versatility, simplicity, and accessibility make it an ideal choice for both beginners dipping their toes into sailing and seasoned sailors seeking thrilling challenges on the water. The statement “It’s easy to learn but hard to master” describes it well and explains why it is so popular.

At the heart of Laser sailing’s appeal is the boat’s remarkable agility and responsiveness. The Laser’s lightweight hull and sensitive controls allow sailors to feel intimately connected with the water, empowering them to navigate with precision and grace. Whether cruising around or pushing the limits on a windy day, the Laser promises an exhilarating experience for all.

For those of us who are a bit more competitive, Laser sailing provides an unmatched thrill. The class’s popularity in local and global racing circuits opens up a world of exciting opportunities to test skills and compete against fellow enthusiasts. From local club races to prestigious international events, including the Olympics, the thrill of competitive Laser events creates an unforgettable sense of camaraderie and accomplishment that drives sailors to continually seek new challenges on the racecourse.

The Future of Laser Sailing

The Laser class continues to evolve with recent developments and potential future advancements. Technological innovations and advancements in materials are constantly being explored to enhance the boat’s performance while maintaining the strict one-design principle. As the class adapts to new challenges and opportunities, it remains committed to preserving the essence of Laser sailing – simplicity, accessibility, and competitive racing.

The Laser sailboat’s enduring popularity among sailors worldwide ensures that its future remains bright. With a strong and dedicated global community, the class continues to attract sailors of all ages and skill levels. The appeal of Laser sailing lies not only in its exciting on-water experiences but also in the lasting connections and friendships forged within the community.

As a class that thrives on inclusivity and camaraderie, Laser sailing’s relevance is poised to endure for generations to come. As new sailors discover the joy of Laser sailing and experienced sailors continue to push their boundaries, the future of Laser sailing remains a vibrant and promising one.

The Laser sailboat’s rich history, innovative design, and enduring popularity have solidified its place as one of the most beloved sailing classes worldwide. From its humble beginnings to becoming an Olympic icon, the Laser’s impact on the sailing world is profound, inspiring countless sailors to take to the waters and embrace the thrill of the sport. Its versatility, agility, and competitive edge make it a vessel of choice for sailors of all levels, from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned professionals.

As you dive deeper into the exciting world of Laser sailing, I invite you to explore further content on this website. Discover more about Laser sailing and the thriving global community that shares your passion. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first Laser dinghy , fine-tune your racing skills , or simply immerse yourself in the beauty of sailing, the Laser class promises a journey filled with excitement, camaraderie, and boundless possibilities. So, let’s celebrate the joy and passion of Laser sailing together.

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34 Comments

I am switching my boat from sailing 470 to sailing a laser now. I intend to sail laser primarily to qualify for the Olympics.

My question is if my height is good enough to sail laser standard. My height is 167 cm (5 ft, 6 inches) and weight is 68kgs.

Thanks, Vincent

Hi Vincent. Thanks for your question. I would say that at 167 cm and 68kgs, you would be at the lighter/shorter end of the scale for sailing a full rig laser. You may be able to put on some bulk before the next Olympics to handle it a bit easier. I think everyone has different opinions on what is the ideal weight for a laser. A lot depends on the conditions and your skill. Just for your info, I did some research on stats for Australia’s gold medalist at the 2012 London Olympics Tom Slingsby. He was reported to be 83kg & 186cm at the time. Good luck with it, and all the best. Brendan

My Grand daughter would like to switch froom sail Terra to Laser. What is the minimum height for the class

Hi Norman Thanks for your question. I’m not sure that there is a minimum height. It’s more about the weight. For a Laser 4.7, the ideal weight is around 110-130 lbs (50-58 kg). Any lighter and she may have trouble keeping it flat in a breeze. cheers Brendan

Hi, I am looking to buy a laser and am 5ft 10 (178cm) and around 68kg, I sail in a harbour so short chop is the worst condition, do you think I’m big enough for a standard?

Hi Giles I don’t think it’s as much about the height as it is the weight. At 68kg, you might be a little on the light side for a full rig. But it depends on how windy it tends to get also. If it’s generally pretty windy, you might struggle, but if it’s often fairly light, you may be ok. This thread has a good discussion on the ideal weight for laser standard sailor. Hope that helps. Brendan

Hi My sea scout troop has taken possession of a Laser 2. It lacks a suit of sails and a rudder. talking to others, no one is sure if the rudders are identical to Laser 1’s. Can you advise?

Hi Pete Thanks for your question. I am not very familiar with the Laser 2, so did some research. However, it was very hard to come up with information on the Laser 2 specs. From what I could tell, the rudders are different between the Laser & Laser 2, however, I was not able to find the actual specs on the Laser 2 rudder. For a measurement diagram for the Laser rudder, click here (click on the “Mast Top Section, Boom and Foils” tab). For an image of the Laser II rudder, check this out . As you can see, it looks slightly different to that of the standard Laser rudder . Sorry I can’t be of more help than that. Maybe some other readers can provide some more info. cheers Brendan

Hello, I am 6 feet tall and weigh 53 pounds, what laser whould be good for me?

Hi Alessandro Thanks for your question. I hope you mean 153lb, and not 53lb!! Opinions vary, and it depends on your fitness and ability. If you are just starting out, you may be best suited to a Radial Laser, but you are in the overlap zone between the Radial and Full rigs. So it depends a lot on your experience and fitness. It can also depend on where you live. If it tends to be quite windy on a regular basis, then you may opt for a smaller rig. Conversely, if it’s often quieter on the water, then a bigger rig may help. I’m a few lb/kg heavier than you, and I have a full-size / standard Laser rig. I find it’s great for the lighter days, but can be a bit overpowered on the heavier days. I don’t mind though, as it just makes it more exciting when you go around the top mark. cheers Brendan

Hi I’ve just brought a laser with a radial sail but a Standard mast. I was gonna make a Radial mast out of the right alloy tube but I need the measurements. Would anyone know what is The length of a radial mast?

Thanks Kaleb

Hi Kaleb Here are the measurements for the different Laser masts for each of the top and bottom sections. cheers

How tall is the mast on the “std” Laser? I had one once and it was fun getting it into the hole on the hull! Cliff

Hi Cliff Yes, it can take a bit of getting used to, when putting the mast into the mast step. Looking at this site , the total laser mast length should be approx.: – top section (including top plug) = 3600 – 305 = 3295mm – bottom section (including base plug) = 2865mm Overall laser standard mast length = 6160mm / 20.2 ft (approx.) Hope that helps!

Hi, I am 155 cm tall and weigh 49 kg. Am I suitable for sailing a laser 4.7 or should I sail a 420?

Hi D I’m not an expert with the 420. For a laser 4.7, I think you would be a bit on the light side, but it also depends on how fit, strong, and experienced in sailing you are. It may also depend, to some extent, on where you live (some places are windier than others)… if you have a strong sea breeze every afternoon, then this may be too much.

Hi, I’m a fairly experienced optimist sailor and I need to change my class due to my age. I am 157 cm tall and I weigh 46 kg. Would I be able sail a laser 4.7? The place I live can get very windy at times. Thank you

Hi Defne I think a 4.7 should be ok, but it would depend on your experience and level of fitness. Since you say that you are a fairly experienced optimist sailor, then that will definitely help. You might struggle a bit on the windy days though. If you can, ask around your local club and try to take a 4.7 out for a spin. Let us know how you go! All the best.

Hi I sail optimists and are looking into a laser as the next boat. I weigh 122 pounds and was wondering if I should get a radial or a 4.7 rig

Hi Noah Your situation is similar to the previous comment in June, so not sure if you saw that. It depends on a few things… including how experienced you are, how fit and strong you are, and what the typical conditions are like where you sail. At your current weight, you’re probably at the lower end of the ideal weight range for a radial. But if you are young and still growing, you might want to get the radial and grow into it over the next year or so. But you might struggle a bit at 1st on the windy days. See if you can take one of each out for a spin and give it a test for yourself. Best of luck with it!

Hello I have a Laser Radial sail with a “33” number above the boat sumber. the boat number is 177137 so its not an abbreviation of that … do you know what the 33 means? Thanks!

Hi Russ I’m not sure what the “33” about the boat number would refer to. Maybe some other readers may be able to help? Sorry I can’t help more than that. All the best with it.

Hi. I am currently building an El Toro dinghy. I do not want to have to handle the full 14 foot one-piece mast. I read somewhere that you can retrofit a laser 4.7 mast and sail onto an El Toro hull. A Sabot boom is marginally cheaper than a laser 4.7 one, and I was wondering if a laser 4.7 mainsail would fit a sabot boom. Thanks!

Hi Alexander I am not an expert on sabots, but from my research… The Laser 4.7 sail has a foot of 2.48m / 8.1ft. The sabot sail has a foot of 7ft and a boom of 7′ 3″. So the sabot boom looks too short for a Laser 4.7 sail.

Can anyone please tell me in what year Laser #66750 would have been made?

Hello Steve According to research that I had done previously, it looks like sail number 66750 would have been made in 1979. See this link for more info. cheers Brendan

Hi, I have sailed Sunfish sailboats, and years ago I crewed for a friend on his J24 in PHRF races. I love the idea of excitement when I sail, but I would also like to be able I sail with a passenger. Can a Laser be sailed with a passenger for entertainment? I did not see anything about the maximum capacity of the hull. Doug

Hello Doug A Laser sailing dinghy is designed as a single-handed boat, meaning it is typically meant to be sailed by one person. However, it is possible to sail a Laser dinghy with two people, although it may not be the most efficient or optimal way to use the boat. It is only a small dinghy, so the extra weight will affect the performance. There is not much room in the cockpit for 1 person, so for 2 people, it will be even more cramped. If you just want to go out and have some fun (and you and your passenger aren’t too big), then you can probably do that. But there are many other dinghies available that are specifically designed for two-person sailing that would be a better option.

Hello, I am looking for the width of the bottom part of the mast, to design a fitting for a wind indicator. Although I have looked through many sites (including the ones linked in the comments), I can’t find the specific measurements. James

Hello James The Laser mast diameter is approx. 2.5″ or 64mm.

I holiday in Finland and have just been given a laser to use but I need a hand trolley to get it over the stones on the shore. When I had a laser before many years ago, I had a light hand trolley made with plastic tubing. Do you or anyone else have a model on how to make one? I have wheels

Hello Brian I do not have any plans or instructions, but there are a few forums that discuss how to make a homemade dolly. Check out some examples here and here . Otherwise, there are new dollies for sale. Have a look at this page for more info. cheers

Hello, I’m from Brazil, and wind conditions here in Florianopolis where I live exceeds 15 knots easily. I sailed laser for several years, stopped some time ago and want to return. I am currently 59 years old, weigh 183 lb (83 kg) and I am 5’8 (1.74m) tall, being in good physical shape and codition. The question is: which laser rig would be suitable for competing, ILCA 7 or 6? Thanks!

Hello Estevao Thanks for your question. Since you have sailed a Laser dinghy before, you know how hard on the body they can be… especially on the thighs, abdominals, arms and back. If you are fit and strong, particularly in those areas, then in my opinion, you may be fine with an ILCA 7. But an ILCA 6 might be more manageable for you.

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Guide to Laser Sail and Rig Sizes

Over 200,000 Laser sailboats have been built over the last 40 years, more than most other small dinghy sailboats. In this article we are going to answer one of the most common questions we get: What size rig do I have?  This will help answer what size sail and/or rig you already have and what size sail and/or rig you need to purchase to update your Laser. 

What size rig / sail do I have? Standard vs. Radial vs 4.7 Explained

The Laser sailboat has had a number of different rig sizes, with the intention of making the boat sailable by a wide range of sailors (and different sailor weights) by simply swapping out the lower mast section and sail while keeping all other components the same. There are currently three different rig sizes and they are commonly referred to as 'Standard', 'Radial' and '4.7'. Below you will find an image that shows the three rigs side by side, and in the following section we'll explain each one.

Laser Standard / MK2 / ILCA 7

This is the most common Laser rig size, and the original rig on the boat when it was designed. It features a 7.06 square meter sail (about 76 square feet). In 2018, the Laser Class approved a new 'Standard' sail, which is referred to as the 'MKII' or 'Mark 2' to distinguish it from the first version. The difference, among other things, is in the panels. The original 'Standard' sail featured horizontal cut panels. The new MkII sail has radial cut panels. There is no difference in size between these two versions, and as of 2020 all new Laser Standard sails are available in this updated cut.  

How to tell if you have a 'Standard' sail:  The first and most obvious way to tell if you have a 'Standard' sail is to look at the panels. If they are horizontal, it is most likely a standard sail. Next, you can measure the luff (the front edge of the sail along the mast sleeve). This measurement should be about 5130 mm or 200 inches  from the top of the sail to the bottom.

How to tell if you have a 'Standard' lower mast section:  The 'Standard' lower mast section should measure about 2865 mm or 113 inches . It is a fairly stout mast section compared to the two smaller mast sections. 

Laser Radial / ILCA 6

Originally called the 'M' rig when first designed, the Laser 'Radial' sail is smaller than the 'Standard' sail at 5.76 square meters (62 square feet). At the time, it was the only Laser sail to feature the radial cut panels, which allowed the sail to be de-powered more easily in bigh winds. Per the notes about the 'Standard' rig above, both the Standard and Radial sail feature the radial cut design. Another typical indicator of a Radial size sail are the blue panels at the tack and clew of the sail.

How to tell if you have a 'Radial' sail:  The first and most obvious way to tell if you have a 'Standard' sail is to look at the panels. If they are radial, as in emanating out from the center, it is most likely a radial sail. Next, you can measure the luff (the front edge of the sail along the mast sleeve). This measurement should be about 4560 mm or 180 inches  from the top of the sail to the bottom.

How to tell if you have a 'Radial' lower mast section:  The 'Radial' lower mast section should measure about  2262 mm or 89 inches . It is also a bit smaller in diameter than the standard section. 

Laser 4.7 / ILCA 5

The Laser 4.7 (or ILCA 5) is the smallest of the three Laser sails and was designed for young sailors just getting into Laser sailing. The 4.7 lower mast section is also different from the others in that is has a pre-bend near the boom fitting, allowing the sail to depower much easier. This is the least common Laser sail size, and if you have an old one around, chances are it is not a 4.7 sail.

How to tell if you have a '4.7' sail:  The 4.7 is similar to the old 'Standard' sail as it has cross cut panels. Many 4.7 sails also have an obvious 4.7 logo somewhere on the cloth. Next, you can measure the luff (the front edge of the sail along the mast sleeve). This measurement should be about  4080 mm or 160 inches  from the top of the sail to the bottom.

How to tell if you have a '4.7' lower mast section:  The '4.7 lower mast section has a pre-bend in it and should measure about 1810 mm or 71 inches . The bend is the easiest way to tell it apart from the others. 

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Laser (International)

Laser (International) is a 13 ′ 8 ″ / 4.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Bruce Kirby and Ian Bruce and built by Performance Sailcraft and LaserPerformance starting in 1970.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

First selected as Olympic class in 1996.

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The Remote Control (R/C) Laser Model is a scale version of the famous "one design" Laser, the most popular "real boat" sailing class in the world.

The R/C Laser, however, does not require a trailer, life jackets, or hours of set-up time before you can be on the water and sailing. The R/C Laser was designed to be up and sailing out of the box in under 7 minutes. All you need is 2 feet of water, a desire to sail, and some wind. Just snap in the keel, mast, and rudder assemblies...slip in the batteries...clip on the sails and you are ready to go. It is that simple.

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Trending topics, navy to field high-energy laser weapon, laser dazzler on ships this year as development continues.

The Navy will field versions of both its highest-power laser weapon and its low-end non-lethal laser dazzler later this year, gaining operational experience with directed energy weapons that will continue to focus engineers’ efforts building out the Navy Laser Family of Systems (NLFoS).

The family of systems has four parts, including three weapon systems that will eventually go on ships: the Solid State Laser – Technology Maturation system (SSL-TM), which will eventually be a 150 kw laser weapon on amphibious ships; the High Energy Laser and Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS), a planned 60 kw laser weapon that will see its first test on an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in 2021; and the Optical Dazzling Interdictor, Navy (ODIN) that will also go on a destroyer.

Frank Peterkin, the Navy’s senior technologist for directed energy, told USNI News late last month that both SSL-TM and ODIN would see at-sea time this year to allow sailors and engineers to begin learning how the technology performs at sea and how to employ and maintain the weapon at sea.

“We’re not fielding these in large numbers, but we’re fielding them – and it’s an important step, I think, because we get a lot of operational feedback that we would never get otherwise,” he told USNI News during a DoD Lab Day at the Pentagon. “You can do everything in the world to understand how you think laser weapons are going to be used, but you put this controller in the hands of a sailor who’s going to play with it and do the thing they do with the operational interface, and then they’re going to decide to use it in ways we can’t imagine. Plus, we’re exercising logistics, training, the safety assessments that have to happen. So we burn down a lot of that operational learning and operational risk by forcing these out to the fleet. And they do provide some (warfighting) capability, it’s just not the capability of having one on every ship.”

The SSL-TM project by the Office of Naval Research has taken lessons learned from the 30 kw Laser Weapon System (LaWS) that was installed on the afloat forward staging base USS Ponce (AFSB(I)-15) and applied them to the 150 kw Laser Weapon System Demonstrator. The San Antonio class of amphibious transport dock (LPD-17) – and USS Portland (LPD-27) specifically – was chosen to host this highest-power laser weapon due to the ship’s available power and space margins. Other ships, like the Arleigh Burke DDGs that will host a smaller laser, had less margin to support this power-intensive weapon.

Peterkin said recent efforts to further develop the SSL-TM have focused on the beam director and spectral beam combining, which takes many lasers of different wave lengths and creates a more powerful beam by “ganging them up.”

The newest version of this weapon system is in late stages of integration at the Northrop Grumman facility in Redondo Beach, Calif. Most subsystems have been built and the laser itself has been fired in the lab, Peterkin said. The weapon system still needs to prove its tracking capability, and after tracking tests at the Northrop Grumman facility, it will be moved to land-based testing and then on to Portland later this year, he said.

Once installed on the ship, the Navy will learn much about laser weapons through SSL-TM testing. Though the laser installed on Portland won’t be the final iteration of this project, Peterkin said the Navy can start learning more about how the crew would decide when to use the laser weapon versus a kinetic weapon, how the laser and its optics hold up while in close proximity to the vibrations and gases coming from missile launches, and more.

“We don’t want to wait for the next step to learn this stuff that we can learn now,” Peterkin said. “This won’t change just because we go to a higher power laser. So we can burn down a lot of this operational risk, not just for the interactions and the interface but also being in close proximity to other weapons. And how do you coordinate, how do you decide what to shoot and when, things like that.”

With more support for directed energy weapons in the Fiscal Year 2020 budget request by the Navy – though the final budget is still being developed by Congress – as well as support from Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson to field this weapon “as soon as possible,” Peterkin said more money could equal more learning on Portland.

With LaWS on Ponce , he said, “if we faulted ourselves for anything, it was probably, we didn’t put enough focus on operational experimentation in the field. So if we were getting more resources – I have no idea whether we will or not – we have all kinds of areas we want to learn while we’re on that ship. Not just technical, but tactics and operations, logistics, the impact of the maritime environment. So yes, the bottom line is, the funding will allow us to learn more.”

Peterkin also told USNI News that the ODIN dazzler would go on an Arleigh Burke destroyer this year, but he could not say how many systems would go out, on what timeline, or on which ships.

HELIOS is under contract with Lockheed Martin and has moved from the research community into a program managed by the Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems.

All the components of the Navy Laser Family of Systems will be fed into an eventual Increment 2 and Increment 2 version of NLFoS as the technologies mature.

In parallel, another directed energy effort the Navy is undertaking is the High Energy Laser Counter- Anti-Ship Cruise Missile Program (HELCAP), Peterkin said. Though not formally part of NLFoS today, it seeks to provide area defense by tracking a cruise missile and burning a hole in the side of it as it passes by. Peterkin said using lasers for self-defense against a cruise missile will be harder – the nose of the missile is meant to withstand significant heat from its high speeds, meaning a laser’s heat wouldn’t be effective – but as the area defense capability and eventually self-defense capability come online, they will be fed into later increments of the laser weapon family of systems.

Megan Eckstein

Megan Eckstein is the former deputy editor for USNI News.

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Sun launches strongest solar flare of current cycle in monster X8.7-class eruption

The strongest solar flare in half a decade just launched off the sun from the same sunspot group that triggered dazzling auroras last weekend. But don't expect northern lights this time around.

The sun has just spat out the strongest solar flare of the current solar cycle, which began in 2019, according to a breaking report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center .

The monster flare is a category X8.7, making it considerably stronger than the X2.2 flare that erupted from the sun last week — triggering radio blackouts and widespread auroras on Earth that were visible as far south as Mexico. 

However, the latest flare is unlikely to result in any geomagnetic storms or aurora activity, as the sunspot group responsible for the blast is located at the very edge of the visible side of the sun , according to NOAA. However, high-frequency radio blackouts are still likely on Earth.

If the flare produces any coronal mass ejections (CMEs) — gigantic, high-speed plumes of charged solar particles — they are not likely to impact Earth directly, as was the case during last weekend's vibrant display of auroras. 

That said, the same monster group of sunspots — which is called active sunspot region 3664 and measures more than 15 Earths wide — is responsible for both last week's X2.2 flare and today's X8.7 flare, NOAA reported. The grouping has spat out numerous other X-class flares over the past several days, but it will soon be entirely out of view of our planet.

Related: No, you didn't see a solar flare during the total eclipse — but you may have seen something just as special

Solar flares are powerful bursts of electromagnetic radiation that result from magnetic disturbances on the sun. They occur when magnetic field lines in the sun's atmosphere tangle and snap, releasing large amounts of excess energy, including powerful X-rays and ultraviolet radiation. These twisted lines emerge from sunspots — darker, cooler regions on the sun's surface that form when magnetic fields from deep within our star push up to the surface. 

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CORRECTION to previous post:Flare magnitude 8.7, not 8.8. pic.twitter.com/NSdmhTWIYH May 14, 2024

— Solar flares created in the lab for 1st time

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— What if the Carrington Event, the largest solar storm ever recorded, happened today?

Solar flares can also launch CMEs outward into space, hitting any planets, satellites or other objects in their path. CMEs that hit Earth trigger geomagnetic storms, which can result in auroras,  as well as negative effects such as power grid failures and satellite malfunctions.

All of these extreme solar phenomena — solar flares, sunspots and CMEs — become more common during the peak of the sun's 11-year activity cycle, known as solar maximum. The current cycle, solar cycle 25, began in 2019, and scientists suspect that the sun may soon enter its solar maximum phase , if it hasn't already. Only after the maximum ends, and solar activity dies down again, will scientists know for sure when it peaked. 

The sun hasn't spat out any flares stronger than X8.7 since September 2017, when it emitted an X11.8 and X13.3 flare within a few days of each other, according to spaceweatherlive.com .

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

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'Extreme' geomagnetic storm that painted Earth with auroras this weekend was the most powerful in 21 years

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China and Russia Reaffirm Ties as Moscow Presses Offensive in Ukraine

BEIJING — Russian President Vladimir Putin thanked Chinese leader Xi Jinping for his effort to resolve the Ukraine conflict at a Beijing summit Thursday, where the two leaders reaffirmed a “no-limits” partnership that has grown deeper as both countries face deepening tensions with the west.

Putin’s two-day state visit to one of his strongest allies comes as his country’s forces are pressing an offensive in northeastern Ukraine’s Kharkiv region in the most significant border incursion since the full-scale invasion began.

The largely symbolic visit stressed partnership between two countries who both face challenges in their relationship with the U.S. and Europe.

“Both sides want to show that despite what is happening globally, despite the pressure that both sides are facing from the U.S., both sides are not about to turn their backs on each other anytime soon,” said Hoo Tiang Boon, a professor who studies Chinese foreign policy at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University.

While both leaders said they were seeking an end to the war in Ukraine, they offered no new specifics in their public remarks Thursday afternoon. China has significant influence as a key supporter of Russia its invasion.

The country claims to take a neutral position in the conflict, but it has backed Moscow’s contentions that Russia was provoked into attacking Ukraine by the West, and continues to supply Russia with key components that Moscow needs for its productions of weapons.

China proposed a broadly worded peace plan in 2023, but it was rejected by both Ukraine and the West for failing to call for Russia to leave occupied parts of Ukraine.

“China hopes for the early return of Europe to peace and stability and will continue to play a constructive role toward this,” Xi said, speaking alongside Putin.

His words were an echo of what China said last year when it first offered a broad plan for peace outlining general principles for ending the war in Ukraine.

Putin said he will inform the Chinese leader in detail about “the situation in Ukraine,” and said “we appreciate the initiative of our Chinese colleagues and friends to regulate the situation.” He added that the two planned to engage in further foreign policy discussions at an informal meeting later Thursday.

After Russia’s newest offensive in Ukraine last week, the 2-year-old war has entered a critical stage, as Ukraine’s depleted military waits for new supplies of anti-aircraft missiles and artillery shells from the United States after months of delay.

Before their remarks, the two leaders signed a joint statement on deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between their two nations on their 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, after their initial meeting. Xi said China and Russia will continue to uphold a position of non-alliance and non-confrontation.

Thursday’s meeting was yet another affirmation of the friendly “no limits” relationship they signed in 2022, just before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Since then, Russia has become increasingly economically dependent on China as Western sanctions cut its access to much of the international trading system. China’s increased trade with Russia, totaling $240 billion last year, has helped the country mitigate some of the worst blowback from sanctions.

Moscow has diverted the bulk of its energy exports to China and relying on Chinese companies for importing high-tech components for Russian military industries to circumvent Western sanctions.

“I and President Putin agree, we should actively look for convergence points of the interests of both countries, to develop each’s advantages, and deepen integration of interests, realizing each others’ achievements,” Xi said.

In their meeting, Xi congratulated Putin on his election to a fifth term in office and celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations forged between the former Soviet Union and the People’s Republic of China, which was established following a civil war in 1949. Putin faced no credible opposition in the presidential race, and, like Xi, has not laid out any plans for any potential successors.

On the eve of the visit, Putin said in an interview with Chinese media that the Kremlin is prepared to negotiate over the conflict in Ukraine. “We are open to a dialogue on Ukraine, but such negotiations must take into account the interests of all countries involved in the conflict, including ours,” Putin was quoted as saying by the official Xinhua News Agency.

Putin said a Chinese proposal made in 2023, which Ukraine and the West rejected, could “lay the groundwork for a political and diplomatic process that would take into account Russia’s security concerns and contribute to achieving a long-term and sustainable peace.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said any negotiations must include a restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, the withdrawal of Russian troops, the release of all prisoners, a tribunal for those responsible for the aggression and security guarantees for Ukraine.

Putin has blamed the West for the failure of negotiations in the opening weeks of the war and praised China’s peace plan.

Russia-China military ties have also strengthened during the war in Ukraine. They have held a series of joint war games in recent years, including naval drills and patrols by long-range bombers over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea. Russian and Chinese ground forces also have deployed to the other country’s territory for joint drills.

China remains a major market for Russian military, while also massively expanding its domestic defensive industries, including building aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.

Putin has previously said that Russia has been sharing highly sensitive military technologies with China that helped significantly bolster its defense capability. In October 2019, he mentioned that Russia was helping China to develop an early warning system to spot ballistic missile launches — a system involving ground-based radar and satellites that only Russia and the U.S. possessed.

Bodeen reported from Taipei. Wu reported from Bangkok. Associated Press researchers Yu Bing and Wanqing Chen in Beijing, and AP writer Jim Heintz in Tallinn, Estonia contributed to this report.

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