Mike Vergalla, founder of the Free Flight Lab, discusses his journey into paragliding and his mission to explore the potential of paragliders beyond just a sport. He highlights three pillars of the Free Flight Lab: climate science, conservation, and safety. Mike shares his experiments with high-altitude paragliding and the potential for paragliders to be used in atmospheric research, weather forecasting, and environmental conservation. He also emphasizes the need for more data collection and research in these areas. The conversation touches on the environmental impact of paragliding and the responsibility of the community to protect the natural spaces they fly in. They explore the idea of using paragliders for scientific research, environmental monitoring, and community engagement. Mike shares his experiences with using paragliders to capture aerial images for scientific analysis and how this can contribute to understanding and preserving natural spaces. They also discuss the unique experiences and mindset that paragliding offers, including the ability to focus and be present in the moment. Mike also shares his insights on managing motion sickness while flying. Overall, the conversation highlights the potential of paragliding as a tool for exploration, research, and making a positive impact on the world.Links from the talk:Climate Science – Project Monark (Free Flight Lab @  Airbus) Conservation – BBC Eagle DocumentarySafety – Free Flight Lab Line Trim TemplateSafety –  Motion Sickness LinkSafety – R07 Riser Safety Notice – Allegro X-alpsFree Flight Lab Shop: Leather Nose Cones, Shirts, Hats, Trim RigsInsta: @FreeflightlabFreeflightlab.orgSupport our work by making a donation @ the Free Flight Lab Want to take part in Jessica’s Fear Injury Study? Here’s the invitation letter.Takeaways* The Free Flight Lab focuses on three pillars: climate science, conservation, and safety.



* Paragliders have the potential to be used in atmospheric research, weather forecasting, and environmental conservation.



* More data collection and research are needed to better understand the impact of paragliding on the environment and to improve weather forecasting.



* The paragliding community has a responsibility to protect the natural spaces they fly in and be good stewards of the environment. Paragliding can be used for scientific research and environmental monitoring, providing a unique perspective and access to hard-to-reach areas.



* Aerial imaging from paragliders can contribute to understanding and preserving natural spaces, such as identifying plant health and detecting environmental changes.



* Paragliding offers a different mindset and experience, allowing pilots to be fully present and focused in the moment.