PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Cirrus descent rate under parachute less with wind?
Old 3rd Apr 2020, 16:36
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RatherBeFlying
 
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Toronto
Posts: 2,559
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Impact Angle

Horizontal velocity allows friction with the ground to dissipate kinetic energy at a gentler rate than happens with a completely vertical impact. Much depends on ground, vegetation and obstacle (rock, potholes, agricultural equipment, stone walls...) characteristics.

In the best case wheels contact an even firm surface with a vertical component that the airframe can tolerate.
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