## How Many Seconds of Freefall in Skydiving from 13,500 Feet?
Introduction
Skydiving, the exhilarating sport of jumping from an aircraft and experiencing a thrilling freefall, attracts adrenaline junkies worldwide. One of the critical elements of skydiving is the length of freefall, which significantly impacts the overall experience. If you’re planning a skydive from 13,500 feet, understanding how much freefall time you’ll have is essential.
### Determining Freefall Time
The duration of freefall primarily depends on two factors:
Altitude: The higher the altitude, the longer the freefall time.
Divespeed: The speed at which you fall affects the amount of time spent in freefall.
Freefall Calculation Formula:
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Freefall Time = Altitude (feet) / (Divespeed (feet per second) x 2)
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### Freefall Time from 13,500 Feet
Assuming a typical divespeed of 120 feet per second (fps), the freefall time from 13,500 feet can be calculated as follows:
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Freefall Time = 13,500 feet / (120 fps x 2)
= 13,500 feet / 240 fps
= 56.25 seconds
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Therefore, you can expect approximately 56 seconds of freefall when skydiving from 13,500 feet.
### Effects of Altitude and Divespeed
Altitude: Higher altitudes result in longer freefall times. For example, if the altitude increases to 15,000 feet, the freefall time would increase to around 62.5 seconds, assuming the same divespeed.
Divespeed: Adjusting your divespeed can also influence freefall time. Increasing your divespeed reduces freefall time, while decreasing it extends it. However, it’s crucial to maintain a divespeed within a safe range to prevent injury or equipment malfunctions.
### Terrain Considerations
The terrain below the drop zone can also affect freefall time. If the drop zone is located over water or a flat surface, you may have more time for freefall before needing to deploy your parachute. Conversely, if the drop zone is mountainous or has obstacles, you may need to deploy your parachute sooner to ensure a safe landing.
### Additional Factors
Besides altitude and divespeed, other factors can slightly influence freefall time, such as:
Wind Speed: Strong winds can affect the speed and direction of your freefall.
Body Position: Your body position can impact drag and alter your divespeed.
Equipment: The weight and design of your parachute system can influence freefall time.
### Conclusion
The freefall time in skydiving from 13,500 feet is approximately 56 seconds, assuming a typical divespeed of 120 fps. Factors such as altitude, divespeed, terrain, and equipment can affect the freefall time to some extent. Understanding these factors and adjusting your skydiving plan accordingly will allow you to maximize your freefall experience and ensure a safe and exhilarating jump.