Laskuvarjohypyssä

Laskuvarjohypyssä, known in English as skydiving, is a recreational and competitive activity in which a person jumps from an aircraft and descends to the ground under the control of a parachute. The jump typically begins at a high altitude, often between 8,000 and 14,000 feet. After exiting the aircraft, the skydiver experiences a period of freefall, during which they fall at terminal velocity, reaching speeds of up to 120 miles per hour. This freefall phase is a significant part of the skydiving experience, allowing for maneuvers and the sensation of flight.

During freefall, skydivers often wear specialized jumpsuits and helmets. They are trained to control their body position and can communicate with their instructors or fellow skydivers using hand signals. After a predetermined period of freefall, the skydiver deploys their parachute. This is usually done at an altitude of around 3,000 to 5,000 feet. The parachute, a large canopy designed to create drag, slows the descent significantly, allowing for a controlled landing.

The landing process requires skill and attention, as skydivers must steer their parachute towards a designated landing area, avoiding obstacles. Tandem skydiving is a popular option for beginners, where an experienced instructor is attached to the student, sharing a single parachute system and guiding them through the entire jump. Solo skydiving requires extensive training and certification. Skydiving can be done for various reasons, including sport, recreation, military operations, and even as a form of therapeutic activity. Safety is paramount in skydiving, with rigorous training protocols, equipment checks, and adherence to weather conditions being essential components of the sport.