Parachutes

A parachute is a device designed to slow a person or object as it falls through the atmosphere, using drag or lift produced by a fabric canopy attached to a harness via lines. Parachutes come in two broad canopy styles: round canopies, which generate drag to descend at a steady rate, and ram-air canopies, which are flat wings providing lift and steering for controlled descents. A typical system includes a pilot chute, deployment bag, suspension lines, risers, a harness, and a reserve parachute.

History and development: The idea of controlled descent emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries, with practical demonstrations and aviation-related use following in the 20th century. Early parachutes used simple round canopies, while later designs introduced controllable shapes and lines. The modern sport and many military applications rely on ram-air wings, which inflate to an airfoil during descent, allowing glide and directional control.

Construction and operation: A parachute canopy is packed into a container; during deployment, a pilot chute is released, pulling the deployment bag and canopy free. Ram-air canopies are inflated by air pressure as they fall, forming a rigid wing whose shape is controlled by suspension lines and toggles. Reserve lines connect to a secondary canopy carried as a backup.

Deployment and use: Parachutes can be deployed from aircraft via static-line or freefall methods, or used as emergency bailouts. Primary uses include sport skydiving, military operations, and cargo or equipment drops. Training and equipment checks are essential to ensure proper deployment and safe landings.

Safety and performance: Modern systems employ reserve parachutes and, in some cases, automatic activation devices. Performance depends on canopy size, weight, and design, and is described by descent rate and glide ratio. Risks include opening shock, line tangling, equipment malfunctions, and weather-related limitations.