Hang Gliding

This is an aviation practice involving flight on a non-motorized aircraft with a triangular wing, controlled by shifting the pilot's weight while suspended in a harness. The origins of hang gliding trace back to the 19th century when German engineer Otto Lilienthal conducted the first controlled flights in 1891 using gliders managed by shifting the center of gravity, completing over 2,000 flights before his death in 1896. In 1948, American engineer Francis Rogallo, along with his wife Gertrude, developed a flexible wing known as the "Rogallo wing," which NASA tested in the 1950s as a potential recovery system for space capsules. In 1963, Australian engineer John Dickenson adapted the Rogallo wing concept to create a controllable hang glider, serving as a prototype for modern designs. During the 1970s, hang gliding gained popularity as an extreme sport, leading to competitions and the establishment of specialized schools. Modern hang gliders are constructed from lightweight and durable materials like aluminum and composite fabrics, offering high maneuverability and safety. Pilots launch from elevated terrains or are towed to altitude using winches, then glide by utilizing rising air currents. Hang gliding demands physical fitness, meteorological knowledge, and flight control skills. Recognized by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the sport encompasses various disciplines, including cross-country, aerobatics, and distance competitions.