## How Long Does it Take to Skydive from 12,000 Feet?
Skydiving is an exhilarating experience that involves jumping from an airplane at a high altitude. The time it takes to skydive depends on several factors, including the height from which you jump, the speed at which you fall, and the type of skydive you’re doing.
### Factors Affecting Skydive Duration
1. Height of Jump: The higher the jump, the longer it takes to reach the ground. This is because you have more distance to travel before you reach terminal velocity.
2. Speed of Fall: The speed at which you fall depends on your body position and the air resistance you encounter. A belly-to-earth position creates more air resistance and slows your descent, while a head-down position minimizes air resistance and increases your speed.
3. Type of Skydive: The type of skydive you’re doing can also affect the duration. A freefall skydive involves jumping from the airplane and falling freely until you deploy your parachute. A tandem skydive involves jumping with an instructor who controls the parachute, allowing you to enjoy the experience without worrying about deploying the parachute yourself.
### Time Taken from 12,000 Feet
A typical skydive from 12,000 feet can take around the following time:
Freefall: 60-70 seconds
Parachute Descent: 5-7 minutes
Total Skydive Time: 65-77 seconds
### Detailed Breakdown of the Skydive
1. Exit and Freefall (60-70 seconds): You exit the airplane at 12,000 feet and immediately begin falling. During this phase, you’ll experience a rush of adrenaline and various sensations such as tumbling, spinning, and floating.
2. Parachute Deployment: When you reach a predetermined altitude, usually around 5,000 feet, you’ll deploy your parachute. The canopy will quickly open, slowing your descent.
3. Parachute Descent (5-7 minutes): You’ll glide through the air under the parachute for several minutes, enjoying the scenic views. You may have the opportunity to control the parachute and steer it towards the landing zone.
4. Landing: As you approach the landing zone, you’ll gradually descend until you touch down softly on your feet.
### Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that these time estimates are approximate and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the skydive. Factors such as wind speed, temperature, and your own weight can influence the duration.
Safety Precautions:
Always skydive with a licensed and experienced instructor.
Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and jumpsuit.
Follow all instructions given by your instructor.
Be physically and mentally prepared for the experience.