Atmonauti MOPs and PASA

1. GENERAL



1.1 THE CATEGORY TESTS ARE DESIGNED FOR

1.2 ATMONAUTI COACHES

1.3 TEACHING FORMAT

1.4 COACHING CRITERIA & LAYOUT OF INSTRUCTIONAL COURSE

>2. EQUIPMENT



2.1 CONTAINER

2.2 DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM

2.3 ALTIMETERS

2.4 CLOTHING

2.5 AAD (AUTOMATIC ACTIVATION DEVICE)

2.6 RESERVE HANDLES

2.7 GOGGLES

2.8 HELMET

3. PROCEDURES & RULES OF THE SKY



3.1 DEFINITIONS

3.2 GROUP LOADS

3.3 FLIGHT PATTERNS

4. CATEGORY TESTS AND REQUIREMENTS



4.1.a FRONTMONAUTI

4.1.b CATEGORY II

4.2.a BACKMONAUTI

4.2.b CATEGORY III

4.3 FLIGHT NAVIGATOR

4.4.a FOOTMONAUTI

4.4.b CAT IV

5. LICENCE REQUIREMENTS

6. COACHES

1. GENERAL

Atmonauti, unlike traditional freefall - including tracking and flocking - (that utilises the relative gravitational wind from “below” to achieve a multitude of stable body positions at terminal velocity) is the term given to the technique that intentionally utilises lift to compensate for the effect of gravity, in order to achieve relative wind (or a custom “tube”) at an angle of between 30deg - 75deg, where after the atmonaut (atmosphere navigator) introduces a multitude of three dimensional body positions, transitions, and docks, while “falling” at greatly reduced speeds (70mph – 110mph), resulting in extended free-fall time and increased safety.

Atmonauti, due to the reduced air speeds, is a social discipline, which is accessible to the masses.

Atmonauti incorporates Frontmonauti, Backmonauti, Footmonauti, and Inverted Footmonauti.

The Atmonauti coach is the navigator in the group jumps, is capable of coaching single jumpers and/or groups of jumpers at ground-school level specific to safety, technique, navigation, slot positioning and break-off etc. and is furthermore responsible to fly as base navigator in the formation, while communicating body position improvements and general flight path direction and break-off.

It will be necessary that the coaches are involved in the management of the activity at the centres and be responsible for all activities different from vertical fall, specific to flight planning.

The logical progression of skills is:

1. understanding the concept of flight vs. fall,

2. understanding the concept of no-fly zones and flying on “level”,

3. “flying” the tube (frontmonauti and backmonauti),

4. adjusting speeds,

5. adjusting levels,

6. rotating around two of the three axes,

7. transitions into the various body positions,

8. break-off direction and altitudes.

As soon as a student has successfully completed ISP progression, such a student can choose to progress to Atmonauti.

An Atmo ISP programme is designed to assist ISP Students who wish to progress to Atmonauti CAT II and CAT III.

Jump 1 - one on one with coach

Jump 2 - one on one with coach

Jump 3 - one on one with coach

Jump 4 - one on one with coach

Jump 5 - group jumps, with maximum 2 Cat I students

Jump 6 - group jumps, with maximum 2 Cat I students

Jump 7 - group jumps, with maximum 2 Cat I students

B licence and above may join coaching groups without the Cat II requirement.

1.1 THE CATEGORY TEST JUMPS ARE DESIGNED FOR

The student who has obtained Category I status through the successful completion of the Intermediate Skills Programme.

1.2 ATMONAUTI COACHES

The Atmonauti category system is instruction based. In order for students to progress safely and without learning bad habits, it is essential that coaches actively participate. Current and competent PASA rated Atmonauti Coaches, who need not be PASA instructors, can teach it. Provided that the teaching is standardised (taken directly from the manual) the student should be able to visit any drop zone in the country and receive the same coaching and information. The holder of a current coach rating must sign off Category II, Category III and Category IV tests.

CATEGORY SYSTEM COACH’S OBJECTIVES

• To provide information before, during and after the skydive

• To teach basic Atmonauti and further discipline skills, as laid down in this section

• To teach SAFE Atmonauti flying in any one of the disciplines in a way that both the coach and student never loose sight of having fun

• To communicate in the air by using “in air” signals

• To teach and remedy mistakes as they happen in order that the student may carry on learning throughout the skydive

• To give the student a good deal



NOTE: Acknowledge if you have made a mistake – the student will appreciate an honest coach.

1.3 TEACHING FORMAT

Before the jump:


• Check student’s logbook - look for indication of a student’s ability.

• Talk through student’s objectives - applicable to the skydive.

• Talk through the jump sequence and show a video if possible.

• Teach each new skill in turn - applicable to the skydive.

• Discuss importance of flying minimum 45 degrees off jump run, and following the Coach/Navigator at all times.

• Dirt dive the jump sequence as best as possible from exit to pull (talking the student through).

• Dirt dive the jump sequence as best as possible from exit to pull (the student talking you through).

• Confirm in air signals (practice these with student).

• Confirm break off altitudes and direction of break-off.

• Confirm emergency procedures.

• Check equipment and dirt dive more.

In the Aircraft:


• During the climb (approximately 5000ft) ask the student to talk you through the skydive from exit to pull.

• Suggest that the student mentally dirt dives periodically until run-in.

• On run-in and before exit check pins and puffs.

• Take student to the door and observe the spot.

After the Jump:


• Debrief – first the student’s version then the coach’s (dirt dive exactly what happened from exit to pull)

• Corrective training – establish the student’s weak points and give corrective training. Advise the student what to practice on the next jump.

• Logbook – student to fill in the logbook making comments on each part of the jump sequence. Coach must write in their recommendation for a repeat or pass on the skydive.

NOTE: It is recommended that the coach jump with a camera. Video is one of the best training tools.

NOTE: The next coach can obtain valuable information if the logbook has been filled in correctly.

1.4 COACHING CRITERIA & LAYOUT OF INSTRUCTIONAL COURSE

1.4.1 Introduction

Atmonauti is the term given to the technique that intentionally utilises the torso (as an aerofoil) to generate lift, while ‘diving’ at an angle of between 30deg – 75deg to generate relative wind required for lift.

1.4.2 Comparison Freefall vs Atmonauti/Flight (including tracking)

Freefall = no lift attempted. Tracking = spilling air. ATMO = lift generated with angle + torso.

1.4.3 Concept of lift, how to use the torso as an aerofoil, including angle

Discuss aerofoil, relative wind striking leading edge travelling over torso, importance of angle.

1.4.4 Round vs Square canopies (drag vs flight)



• Round = Drag, no lift, freefall

• Square = angle of attack to generate air speed, use of aerofoil to create lift, front/rear risers

1.4.5 Body Positions – Frontmonauti only, Backmonauti as reference



• General Body Position - Chin Down, Arms Forward, hips back, retaining curvature

• Control surfaces – Arms and legs to speed up and down, use of hips to change angle

• Backmonauti position discussed briefly for reference only.

1.4.6 Fly Zones, flying on head level



• General set up above and ahead, seeking opposite horizon

• Discuss head level at angle in relation to the ground

• Discuss no fly zones and reasons

1.4.7 Exit – placing in door, count, exit order, correct body position on exit

1.4.8 Flight path – 45 min deg to jump run (safety 1st)

Discuss importance of flying off jump run and staying with group to avoid risk of collision, move to centre on opening i.e. after break-off return to common centre away from jump run until other canopies open.

1.4.9 Break-off and varying altitudes of break-off for groups

Maintaining position in group, breaking off with angle of 45 deg between jumpers “fanning out”

1.4.10 Signals

Turn left/right, speed up, increase angle, break off, other

1.4.11 Equipment including audible altimeters

1.4.12 Log book and reference to Manual of Procedures, briefing and debriefing of jump, signing of logbook, informing NSTO of category qualifications, etc.

2. EQUIPMENT

Every skydiver’s nightmare is a premature opening. Firstly, the jumper may be transitioning and become entangled; secondly, they will be going faster than the recommended canopy opening speed; potentially fast enough to hurt, seriously injure or even blow up the reserve.

2.1 CONTAINER

Containers must be tight fitting and should never allow for exposure of risers, pins and most importantly the bridle and pilot chute. Exposed risers are not recommended. Ensure that all pin protection flaps and riser covers are secure as with AE container requirements.

2.2 DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM

Bottom of container (BOC) throwaway or a pullout deployment are vital as the pilot chute and bridle must be stowed tightly away from the airflow. NO leg strap throwaway’s allowed. Keep your closure loop tight and in good condition, inspect it for wear on a regular basis (every pack job) and check Velcro for wear.

2.3 ALTIMETERS

It is advisable for every participant to wear not only visual, but audible altimeters on all Atmonauti flights.

However, it is a compulsory requirement that a minimum of 50% of the atmonauts on the same formation wear audible altimeters.

2.4 CLOTHING

It is important that clothing does not restrict movement and that it does not cover cut-away / reserve handles

2.5 AAD (AUTOMATIC ACTIVATION DEVICE)

An AAD is recommended to all those who can afford it. The potential for collisions exists.

2.6 RESERVE HANDLES

Ensure that Velcro is in a good condition. One can also decide to change the metal D – handle to a puff the same as the cutaway puff. However if you prefer to jump with your alti on your palm the D – handle is the preferred option.

2.7 GOGGLES

Should not limit visibility and should be securely tightened, as the varying body positions and higher speeds easily dislodge them.

2.8 HELMET

A hard shell helmet (and goggles – for open face helmets) is compulsory for all Atmo skydivers excluding “D” licence holders.

3. PROCEDURES AND RULES OF THE SKY

3.1 DEFINITIONS

Student refers to the person performing the test

Coach refers to the coach of the test, as well as the reference point or Navigator for the student. It is the responsibility of the student to appoint a capable coach / cameraperson and confirm it with the CI.

Navigator refers to the person in the sky toward whom the student or the rest of the formation is working towards, who sets angle and speed, and who’s responsibility it is to fly minimum 45 degrees off of jump run.

Atmonauti Relative Work (ARW) refers to Sequences and Blocks, including transitions and inters, to include Frontmonauti, Backmonauti and Footmonauti positions.

Backmonauti refers to the performer flying on heading on his back with his back towards the earth.

Frontmonauti refers to the performer flying on heading on his belly with his back towards the sky.

Footmonauti refers to the performer flying on heading feet-first with his back towards the ground.

Break Off refers to separation in the sky prior to opening altitude. Minimum break off altitude is 4500ft AGL to allow for good separation and time to slow down. Please see 3.2 Group Loads for additional information specific to Group break off minimum requirements.

Grip is a recognisable stationary contact of the hand(s) of one competitor on a specified part of the body or harness of the other competitor, executed in a controlled manner.

Dock is a recognisable stationary contact of the foot (feet) of the one competitor on a specified part of the body or harness of the other competitor, executed in a controlled manner.

Atmonauti position: objective is to achieve head-on relative wind (or a custom “tube”) at an angle of between 30deg – 75deg to the ground, with horizontal movement in relation to the ground, whilst searching for lift with the torso - freeing up the limbs to achieve hand grips and foot docks.

Heading refers to the direction in which the “leading edge” of the performer faces.
Leading edge refers to a specific body part of the performer (either head or feet) which is the first point of contact with the relative wind generated from the angle of attack.

No Fly Zone Frontmonauti: Behind, below, and not on head level during the approach

No Fly Zone Backmonauti: Ahead, above, and not on head level during the approach
Head level: The level of the approaches - utilising the head as reference in relation to the angel of attack set by Navigator.

3.2 GROUP LOADS

Groups from 2 – 3 jumpers will break off at an altitude of 4500 feet AGL, in accordance with the break-off pattern as briefed by the coach/navigator.

Groups from 4 – 7 jumpers will break off in two phases, with 4 jumpers breaking off at 5000 feet AGL and the remaining jumpers breaking off at 4500 feet AGL, in accordance with the break-off pattern as briefed by the coach/navigator.

Groups from 8 – 11 jumpers will break off in three phases, with 4 jumpers breaking off at 5500 feet AGL, 4 jumpers breaking off at 5000 feet AGL, and the remaining jumpers breaking off at 4500 feet AGL, in accordance with the break-off pattern as briefed by the coach/navigator.

Groups from 12 – 15 jumpers will break off in four phases, with 4 jumpers breaking off at 6000 feet AGL, 4 jumpers breaking off at 5500 feet AGL, 4 jumpers breaking off at 5000 feet AGL, and the remaining jumpers breaking off at 4500 feet AGL, in accordance with the break-off pattern as briefed by the coach/navigator.

Minimum exit altitude for Atmonauti jumps is 7000 feet AGL.

3.3 FLIGHT PATTERNS

Flight patterns are in accordance with aircraft exit patterns as briefed by the coach or navigator, but whereby in general it is important to note that experienced navigator groups exit first and whereby inexperienced solo jumpers/groups will exit last (excluding wingsuit jumpers), and should be discussed prior to boarding with the pilot.

In general the Atmonauti groups fly at minimum 45 deg to run-in so as to fly away from, and create separation to, freefall jumpers exiting closer to the dz.

In the event that more than one Atmonauti group is present on the aircraft, the first group will exit at 45 deg to right and the second group 45 deg to the left and third group 45 deg to right (as with first group) and so on.

Inexperienced groups exiting last should be aware that a flight pattern of 130 deg might be required in order to avoid flying away from the recommended landing area. Attention should be paid to the direction of the preceding Atmonauti loads to avoid opening close to such preceding groups.

4 CATEGORY TESTS AND REQUIREMENTS

Cat I and B, C & D licence jumpers may commence a Cat II and Cat III Atmonauti progression course.

One-on-one instructionals are not obligatory but highly recommended.

4.1.a Frontmonauti



• have passed a theory exam on the basic Frontmonauti rules and techniques.

• have passed a test that consists of performing a flight with the instructor who, during the flight, will perform changes of speed, of angle and of trajectory.

• the candidate will have to demonstrate the ability to always remain at a constant distance in relation to the coach, and never be in the “no fly zones”.

• have passed practice jumps that consists of being able to synchronize with the formation and remain at a constant distance, and on level with it, for the duration of the flight, while never going into the “no-fly zone”.

• have shown the ability to correctly separate in frontmonauti at break off.

• to execute the above test correctly on three consecutive flights.

4.1.b CAT II



• have successfully passed Frontmonauti brevet/license requirements (see above).

• have passed a test of exiting the aircraft 1 second after the coach, taking a stable dock from the fly-zone within 10 seconds, holding the dock for 5 seconds, releasing and crossing over the coach to the opposite side, taking a stable dock and holding the dock for 5 seconds.

Once the Atmonauti CAT II is obtained, the candidate will be free to participate in large Atmonauti groups utilising the Frontmonauti body position exclusively without a recognised coach present.

4.2.a Backmonauti



• have passed a theory exam on the basic Backmonauti rules and techniques.

• have passed a test that consists of performing a flight with the coach who, during the flight, will perform changes of speed, of angle and of trajectory.

• the candidate will have to demonstrate the ability to always remain at a constant distance in relation to the coach, and never be in the “no fly zones”.

• have passed practice jumps that consists of being able to synchronize with the formation and remain at a constant distance, and on level with it, for the duration of the flight, while never going into the “no-fly zone”.

• have shown the ability to correctly separate in backmonauti at break off.

• to execute the above test correctly on three consecutive flights.

4.2.b CAT III



• have successfully passed Backmonauti brevet/license requirements (see above).

• have passed a test of exiting the aircraft 1 second prior to the coach, taking a stable dock from the fly-zone within 10 seconds, holding the dock for 5 seconds, releasing and sliding under the instructor to the opposite side, taking a stable dock and holding the dock for 5 seconds.

Once the Atmonauti CAT III is obtained, the candidate will be free to participate in large Atmonauti groups utilising the Frontmonauti and Backmonauti body positions, including transitions, without a recognised coach present.

4.3 Flight Navigator

The navigator qualification allows the navigator to navigate group Atmonauti loads of recognised Cat II and Cat III atmonauts. This qualification is not a coach qualification.



• Must have a JM rating

• Must pass a theory exam on Atmonauti Navigation rules and techniques.

• Must exit the aircraft stable, and maintain a stable and consistent frontmonauti body position.

• the candidate will have to demonstrate the ability to fly and maintain a safe and correct flight path.

4.4.a Footmonauti



• have passed a theory exam on the basic Footmonauti rules and techniques.

• have passed a test that consists of performing a flight with the coach who, during the flight, will perform changes of speed, angle and trajectory.

• the candidate will have to demonstrate the ability to always remain at a constant distance in relation to the coach, and never be in the “no fly zones”.

• have passed practice jumps that consists of being able to synchronize with the formation and remain at a constant distance, and on level with it, for the duration of the flight, while never going into the “no-fly zone”.

• have shown the ability to correctly separate in footmonauti at break off.

• to execute the above test correctly on three consecutive flights.

4.4.b CAT IV



• have successfully passed Footmonauti brevet/license requirements (see above).

• have passed a test of exiting the aircraft 1 second prior/after the coach, taking a stable footmonauti position from the fly-zone within 10 seconds, holding the position for 5 seconds.

• Demonstrate the ability to transition safely (180 side transition) into backmonauti.

• Demonstrate the ability to transition safely (180 side transition) from backmonauti to footmonauti

Once the Atmonauti CAT IV is obtained, the candidate will be free to participate in large Atmonauti groups utilising the Frontmonauti, Backmonauti and Footmonauti body positions, including transitions.

5. LICENCE REQUIREMENTS

A-Licence:

As per section 2 of the MOPs.

B-Licence:

As per section 2 of the MOPs.
CAT II & CATIII qualification in Atmonauti - signed off by a recognised Atmonauti Coach.

C-Licence:

As per section 2 of the MOPs.
Flight Navigator and Coach qualification in Atmonauti - signed off by a recognised Atmonauti Coach.

D-Licence:

As per section 2 of the MOPs.
CAT IV qualification in Atmonauti - signed off by a recognised Atmonauti Coach.

6. COACHES

The coach rating is designed to give a formal qualification to those who teach Atmonauti jumpers up to Cat IV level. All applicants for coach ratings must be recommended by a CI and endorsed by the Atmonauti sub committee of the SSA (see Form 19).

The Atmonauti coach is the navigator on the coaching group jumps, and is capable of coaching single jumpers and/or groups of jumpers at ground-school level specific to safety, technique, navigation, slot positioning and break-off etc.

The coach is qualified to fly as base navigator in Instructional Formations, while communicating body position improvements and general flight path direction.

The candidate should know perfectly all the rules specific to Atmonauti, as well as general club rules, and general knowledge of the MOPs and above all he should be able to explain them in an easy and correct manner.

An applicant for an Atmonauti Coach Rating must:



• Have a minimum of 200 jumps?

• Hold a PASA B, C or D licence?

• Have successfully completed a PASA-ADZO approved Jumpmaster, Static Line Instructor, or AFF Instructor Course.

• Have matured his/her experience in Atmonauti, and holds a valid Cat II and Cat III in Atmonauti.

• Hold a valid Navigator qualification.

• Have acquired the technique and philosophy of the Atmonauti discipline and is capable of communicating such information in a simple and understandable fashion.

• Have passed an Atmonauti Coach Evaluation Test that consists of:

- exiting the plane a second after the coach

- performing a frontmonauti hand grip on his right within 10 seconds from the exit

- flying the grip perfectly for 5 seconds

- leaving the grip and passing above the coach at not more than a meter, passing to his left and performing a hand grip on the left hand of the coach

- flying the grip perfectly for 5 seconds

- leaving the grip and performing a transition to backmonauti

- performing a grip in backmonauti on the left hand of the coach

- flying it perfectly for 5 seconds

- leaving the grip, while remaining in backmonauti and passing under the coach to the right side of the coach, and performing a grip on the right hand of the coach

- flying the grip perfectly for 5 seconds

• Have passed an oral exam on the Atmonauti technique, and have the necessary knowledge required for the instructor rating, specific to organising large formations (coaching, planning the formations, break-off etc)

• Have passed an evaluation practice test that consists in organizing an Atmonauti group jump including verbal instructionals, preparation on the ground (analysis of the conditions and parameters), flight planning, briefing, and debriefing all the phases of the flight.

Once having passed these tests, the candidate will receive an Atmonauti Coach Rating and can start the activity of Coach and organizer of instructional flight groups.

It will be necessary that the Coaches are involved in the management of the activity at the DZ’s and be responsible for all activities different from vertical fall, specific to flight planning (flight patterns).

To remain current as an Atmonauti Coach the rating holder must:



• Have performed at least 50 jumps in the previous 12 months of which 25 must be Atmonauti coaching jumps.

• Have performed the Atmonauti coach evaluation jump with a current Atmonauti coach, respectively changing roles to prove ability as a coach and flying skill accordingly.

• Attendance of an Atmonauti sanctioned coaching seminar in the previous 12 months is highly recommended.