The Potential of FlySight: The Essential GPS Tracker for Skydivers
Introduction
FlySight is a high-precision GPS tracking device designed specifically for skydivers. Unlike conventional GPS units, FlySight provides real-time feedback on glide ratio, speed, and altitude, helping skydivers improve their flight performance and safety. This tool has become a must-have for wingsuit pilots, canopy pilots, and freefall enthusiasts who want to analyze their jumps with precision.
What Can FlySight Do?
FlySight offers a range of features that make it an indispensable tool for skydivers:
Real-Time Audio Feedback: FlySight provides immediate auditory cues on glide ratio, speed, and descent rate, allowing skydivers to adjust their body position mid-flight. This real-time feedback is especially useful for wingsuit pilots optimizing their glide efficiency.
High-Precision GPS Tracking (GNSS): Equipped with a high-frequency GNSS receiver, FlySight records positional data at 5 Hz or higher, offering detailed insights into flight paths, speed, and altitude changes. The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) includes GPS, GLONASS, and other satellite-based positioning networks, ensuring accurate tracking even in challenging environments.
Inertial Sensors for Motion Tracking: FlySight incorporates an accelerometer and gyroscope to capture motion data:
Accelerometer: Measures linear acceleration, helping to track changes in velocity and movement forces. This data can reveal dynamic maneuvers, such as rapid turns or deceleration.
Gyroscope: Detects rotational movements, assisting in determining body orientation and angular motion, which is particularly useful for analyzing flight stability and maneuvering techniques.
Barometric Altimeter for Enhanced Accuracy: While GPS provides altitude data, FlySight also includes a barometric sensor to measure air pressure. This improves altitude accuracy, particularly during canopy piloting and in situations where GPS altitude can be less reliable (e.g., under a parachute near terrain).
Data Analysis and Performance Evaluation: After a jump, users can download GPS and sensor data to visualize flight trajectories using software such as Paralog, Google Earth, or specialized data analysis tools. This helps skydivers refine their technique and track improvements over time.
Compact and Durable Design: The device is lightweight and built to withstand the harsh conditions of skydiving, including high-speed freefall and canopy deployment forces.
Advantages and How to Get Started
Advantages
Real-Time Decision-Making: Unlike traditional GPS devices that only provide post-jump data, FlySight enables skydivers to make in-air adjustments based on immediate auditory feedback.
Highly Accurate Data: The combination of GNSS, accelerometer, gyroscope, and barometric sensors allows for precise motion tracking, surpassing most standard action cameras and sports trackers.
Perfect for Training and Progression: By reviewing jump data, skydivers can identify areas for improvement, compare flights, and fine-tune their technique.
Easy to Mount and Use: The device can be mounted on helmets or other gear without interfering with skydiving equipment.
Installation and First Steps
To start using FlySight, follow these steps:
Purchase and Unbox: Order FlySight from an authorized dealer or the official website.
Charge and Set Up: Connect the device to a computer via USB to charge and configure settings.
Mount on Helmet: Use the provided Velcro or mounting kit to attach FlySight to your helmet securely.
Jump and Listen: Once turned on, the device will start tracking automatically, providing real-time auditory feedback during your flight.
Analyze Data: After landing, download the GPS and sensor data to your computer and visualize it using Paralog or Google Earth.
Limitations of FlySight
Why It’s Not a Full Flight Computer
FlySight is an incredible tool, but it has some limitations:
No Built-In Display: Unlike some advanced altimeters, FlySight does not have a visual screen; all feedback is auditory or requires post-jump analysis.
Limited to GPS and Motion Sensors: While it includes multiple sensors, it does not measure wind speed or provide direct aerodynamic analysis.
Dependent on External Analysis: Users need additional software to interpret and make full use of the data.
Practical Applications
FlySight is widely used in different skydiving disciplines:
Wingsuit Flying: Optimizing glide ratio and horizontal flight efficiency.
Canopy Piloting: Analyzing landing approaches and performance under the canopy.
Freefall Training: Tracking fall rates and horizontal movement to refine body positioning.
Comparison with Other Devices
Feature FlySight Garmin GPS Altimeter (VISO/Ares) Real-Time Audio Yes No No High-Frequency GNSS Yes Limited No Accelerometer & Gyroscope Yes No No Barometric Altimeter Yes Yes Yes Post-Jump Data Analysis Yes Limited No
Summary of FlySight Extras
The FlySight website also provides useful extra tools and documentation to enhance the user experience:
Data Logging Formats: Information on how FlySight logs and structures data for seamless integration with analysis software.
Custom Audio Profiles: Users can customize FlySight’s real-time audio feedback, tailoring it to personal flight goals.
Firmware Updates and Configuration: Guides to keep the device updated with the latest features and performance enhancements.
Community Contributions: Access to user-generated tools and tips for maximizing FlySight’s potential in different skydiving scenarios.
Conclusion
FlySight is an invaluable tool for skydivers seeking to optimize their flight performance with real-time feedback and precise GNSS tracking. By integrating accelerometers, gyroscopes, and barometric sensors, it provides detailed motion and altitude data that enhance jump analysis. While it is not a full-fledged flight computer, its ability to provide instant auditory feedback and highly accurate data makes it a favorite among serious skydivers. Whether you're a wingsuit pilot, canopy flyer, or freefall enthusiast, FlySight is a game-changer in skydiving performance tracking.
