## What Does HALO Stand for in Skydiving?
HALO is an acronym for High Altitude, Low Opening. It is a skydiving technique that involves jumping from an aircraft at a very high altitude (typically 25,000 feet or higher) and delaying the opening of the parachute until very close to the ground.
History of HALO Skydiving
HALO skydiving was first developed by the military in the 1960s as a way to insert troops into enemy territory without being detected. The technique was later adopted by civilian skydivers looking for a new challenge.
Why Skydive HALO?
There are several reasons why skydivers choose to do HALO jumps:
The view: HALO jumps offer breathtaking views of the Earth from above.
The challenge: HALO jumps are technically demanding and require a high level of skill and experience.
The adrenaline rush: HALO jumps provide an incredible adrenaline rush that is unlike anything else.
How to Do a HALO Jump
HALO jumps are typically done in teams of two or more skydivers. The first skydiver jumps out of the aircraft and begins to freefall. After a few seconds, the other skydivers follow, maintaining a loose formation.
The skydivers continue to freefall for several minutes, reaching speeds of up to 120 miles per hour. As they approach the ground, they begin to deploy their parachutes.
HALO jumps are typically done at night, as this makes it more difficult for the skydivers to be detected.
Risks of HALO Skydiving
HALO skydiving is a dangerous activity and there are a number of risks involved, including:
Hypoxia: HALO jumps can cause hypoxia, which is a lack of oxygen to the brain. This can lead to dizziness, confusion, and even unconsciousness.
Decompression sickness: HALO jumps can also cause decompression sickness, which is a condition that occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the blood and tissues. This can lead to pain, swelling, and even paralysis.
Hypothermia: HALO jumps can also cause hypothermia, which is a condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. This can lead to shivering, confusion, and even death.
Training for HALO Skydiving
HALO skydiving requires specialized training. Skydivers must be trained in the following areas:
High altitude physiology: Skydivers must understand the effects of high altitude on the body.
Freefall techniques: Skydivers must be proficient in freefall techniques, including body position, stability, and maneuvering.
Parachute deployment: Skydivers must be proficient in parachute deployment techniques, including canopy control and landing.
Conclusion
HALO skydiving is a challenging and rewarding activity that is not for the faint of heart. However, for those who are properly trained and prepared, HALO skydiving can be an unforgettable experience.
## Additional Information
In addition to the information above, here are some additional facts about HALO skydiving:
The highest HALO jump ever recorded was from 135,760 feet by Joseph Kittinger in 1960.
The current world record for the longest freefall from a HALO jump is 5 minutes and 32 seconds, set by Patrick de Gayardon in 2017.
HALO skydiving is used by the military for a variety of purposes, including inserting troops into enemy territory, conducting reconnaissance, and delivering supplies.