The exhilarating freefall in skydiving is a question many ask before taking the plunge. The duration isn't a fixed number; it significantly depends on several factors. This comprehensive guide will delve into the specifics, answering common questions and providing a clear picture of what to expect during your freefall.
What Altitude Do You Jump From in Skydiving?
Most tandem skydives, where you jump with an experienced instructor, begin around 10,000 to 14,000 feet. This altitude allows for a substantial freefall period. Higher altitudes, often used by experienced solo skydivers, extend this time even further. The higher you start, the longer you fall.
How Long is the Average Freefall in Skydiving?
The average freefall lasts approximately 45 to 60 seconds. However, this is just an average. Several variables, discussed below, impact the exact duration.
What Factors Affect Freefall Time?
Several factors influence the length of your freefall:
1. Altitude of Jump:
As mentioned, the starting altitude is paramount. A higher jump means a longer fall. A jump from 14,000 feet will naturally yield a longer freefall than one from 10,000 feet.
2. Body Position:
Your body position drastically affects your freefall speed and, consequently, the duration. A streamlined, belly-to-earth position maximizes speed, resulting in a shorter freefall. A more relaxed, less aerodynamic position will slow your descent, lengthening the freefall time.
3. Wind Conditions:
Wind plays a significant role. Strong headwinds can slow your descent, while tailwinds will speed it up. This means that on different days, even with the same altitude and body position, your freefall time might vary slightly.
4. Deployment Altitude:
The altitude at which your parachute is deployed is crucial. This altitude is determined by safety regulations and the skydiving center's protocols. Once the parachute deploys, the freefall ends.
What About Experienced Skydivers? How Long Do They Free Fall?
Experienced skydivers often jump from significantly higher altitudes, sometimes exceeding 14,000 feet. They also perform various maneuvers that impact their speed and freefall time. Some might even delay deployment to achieve extended freefall periods. Their freefalls can last much longer than the typical tandem jump.
How Long Does it Take to Reach Terminal Velocity When Skydiving?
Terminal velocity, the constant speed reached when the force of gravity equals the air resistance, is typically reached around 12 seconds after exiting the plane. This speed is usually around 120 mph in a stable, belly-to-earth position.
Can You Control Your Speed During Freefall?
To a certain extent, yes. Experienced skydivers can use body positioning to manipulate their speed and direction. However, for a tandem jump, the instructor maintains control to ensure safety.
Conclusion:
While the average freefall in a tandem skydive hovers around 45-60 seconds, this time is subject to various factors. Altitude, body position, wind conditions, and deployment altitude all play a role. For the average skydiver experiencing their first jump, anticipating approximately one minute of freefall is a reasonable expectation. Remember, the thrill of the experience goes far beyond just the duration of the freefall itself!
