[Leav]

I think that the effect that makes the boomerang turn is the difference of air speed across it's wings cause by the rotation.

(see attachment)

The center of mass is moving forward at speed V
the left side has an effective speed relative to the wind V1
the right side has an effective speed relative to the wind of V2

the speed hold the relation: V1<V<V2

thus the right side would have more lift, causing the boomerang to rotate around it's axis (the axis which is pointing in the direction of V).

This only creates a corkscrew effect. (similar to pushing the joystick left in an airplane)

To explain the banked turn I believe you must consider the Boomerang as a flying wing, which is always creating lift perpendicular to the surface it's rotation describes.

Since the wing is curved, the center of this force is off the center of gravity, creating another rotation motion - this time similar to that created in an airplane when the stick is pulled back.


I believe these two phenomenon, not only explain the Boomerang's behavior here on earth but also serve to explain why the same effect would occur in space.

-Leav