What is the primary function of the skydiving altimeter?

The primary function of the skydiving altimeter is to measure altitude and indicate when it is time to deploy the parachute. This device is critical for skydivers, as it provides a real-time reading of their altitude during freefall and when they are descending under the canopy.

The altimeter gives the skydiver an awareness of how high they are, allowing them to know the appropriate time to deploy their parachute, which is typically around 3,000 feet above the ground, depending on jump protocols and safety considerations. Properly using the altimeter is essential for ensuring a safe and successful skydive, as it directly impacts the deployment time and helps to avoid dangerous situations that could arise from deploying too late.

While other functions like calculating jump speed, monitoring weather conditions, or assisting with navigation can be important in different contexts of skydiving, they do not represent the primary role of the altimeter. The essential task of indicating altitude is what makes the altimeter an indispensable tool for every skydiver.