The act of launching a disc-shaped object through the air involves a complex interplay of physics, athleticism, and design. Whether the disc is a frisbee, a discus, an aerodynamically advanced disc golf driver, or even a spinning top, the principles governing its flight remain fundamentally the same. For example, the angle of release, the spin imparted, and the surrounding air currents all contribute significantly to the disc’s trajectory and distance.
Achieving controlled and predictable flight with a disc offers numerous advantages across various disciplines. In sports and recreation, it enables precision and strategic gameplay, fostering competition and enjoyment. From the ancient Greek Olympics to modern ultimate frisbee and disc golf, disc-based activities have provided physical and mental challenges for millennia. Furthermore, understanding the mechanics of disc flight has broader applications in fields such as aerospace engineering and aerodynamics, contributing to the design of more efficient flying machines.
This exploration will delve into the key principles that govern disc flight, examining the factors influencing its stability, distance, and accuracy. Subsequent sections will cover topics including throwing techniques, disc design considerations, and the impact of environmental conditions.
1. Launch Angle
Launch angle plays a critical role in determining the trajectory and distance achieved by a thrown disc. It represents the angle between the horizontal plane and the disc’s initial flight path. Understanding the influence of launch angle is fundamental to achieving optimal performance in disc-based activities.
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Angle of Attack
The angle of attack, while related to the launch angle, specifically refers to the angle between the disc’s chord line (an imaginary line connecting the leading and trailing edges) and the relative wind. A positive angle of attack generates lift, enabling the disc to stay aloft. For example, a disc launched with a slight upward angle of attack will generate lift, while a negative angle of attack will cause the disc to descend rapidly. Managing the angle of attack through launch angle manipulation is crucial for achieving desired flight characteristics.
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Hyzer vs. Anhyzer
In disc sports, “hyzer” refers to launching a disc with the outside edge angled downwards, while “anhyzer” denotes the opposite, with the outside edge angled upwards. These angles influence the disc’s flight path and stability. A hyzer throw typically results in a stable, overstable flight with a predictable fade, while an anhyzer can create a longer, understable flight with a tendency to turn. Selecting the appropriate hyzer or anhyzer angle contributes significantly to strategic disc placement.
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Optimal Launch Angle for Distance
The optimal launch angle for maximum distance is not a fixed value but depends on several factors, including disc design, wind conditions, and spin rate. However, a general guideline suggests that an angle around 10-15 degrees above the horizontal can yield optimal distance for many disc types. Launching at too steep an angle results in a high, short flight, while too shallow an angle leads to a low, skipping trajectory. Fine-tuning the launch angle through practice and observation is essential for maximizing distance.
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Influence of Wind
Wind conditions significantly influence the effective launch angle. A headwind requires a lower launch angle to minimize air resistance, while a tailwind allows for a higher launch angle to maximize distance. Crosswinds necessitate adjustments to the launch angle and potentially the release point to compensate for lateral drift. Adapting launch angle strategies based on prevailing wind conditions is crucial for accurate and consistent throws.
These facets of launch angle interact intricately, contributing to the complex dynamics of disc flight. Mastering control over launch angle is essential for achieving specific flight paths, maximizing distance, and adapting to varying environmental conditions. This knowledge translates to improved performance and strategic advantage in disc-related activities.
2. Spin Rate
Spin rate is a crucial factor influencing the flight of a disc. This rotational speed, typically measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), directly impacts a disc’s stability, lift, and overall trajectory. A higher spin rate generates greater gyroscopic stability, allowing the disc to resist external forces and maintain a predictable flight path. This principle is analogous to a spinning top, which remains upright due to its rotational momentum. Conversely, a lower spin rate results in decreased stability, making the disc more susceptible to turning and unpredictable deviations in flight.
The connection between spin rate and lift is rooted in the Magnus effect. As a spinning disc travels through the air, it creates a pressure difference on its opposite sides. The side spinning into the airflow experiences higher pressure, while the side spinning away from the airflow experiences lower pressure. This pressure differential generates a force perpendicular to the direction of travel, resulting in lift. A higher spin rate amplifies the Magnus effect, producing greater lift and allowing the disc to stay aloft longer. For instance, a disc golf driver thrown with high spin will maintain a stable flight and achieve greater distance compared to a similar throw with lower spin. Similarly, a frisbee relies on spin to generate the lift necessary for sustained flight.
Understanding the impact of spin rate is crucial for optimizing disc performance. In disc sports, athletes strive to maximize spin rate to achieve greater distance and accuracy. Throwing techniques, grip, and release point all contribute to generating optimal spin. Furthermore, disc design, including the rim shape and weight distribution, also influences spin rate. Recognizing the intricate relationship between spin rate, stability, and lift provides a deeper understanding of disc flight dynamics and informs strategies for improved performance in various disc-related activities. Challenges in maintaining consistent spin rate often lead to erratic flight paths and reduced accuracy, highlighting the practical significance of this understanding.
3. Disc Velocity
Disc velocity, the speed at which a disc travels through the air, is a fundamental determinant of its flight characteristics. This speed, typically measured in meters per second or miles per hour, directly influences distance, trajectory, and the interplay with other forces acting upon the disc. A higher disc velocity generally results in a longer flight, assuming other factors like launch angle and spin rate are optimized. This relationship stems from the simple principle of inertia: a faster-moving object tends to travel further before being affected by decelerating forces like air resistance and gravity. For example, a disc golf drive with high velocity will cover more ground than a slower throw, all else being equal. Conversely, lower velocity reduces the disc’s ability to overcome these forces, leading to a shorter flight path. This principle underlies the importance of generating sufficient velocity in activities like ultimate frisbee, where quick, long throws are essential for successful gameplay.
The interaction between disc velocity and air resistance is particularly significant. Air resistance, a force opposing the motion of the disc through the air, increases with velocity. This means that a faster-moving disc encounters greater air resistance, which can influence its stability and trajectory. Disc design plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of air resistance at higher velocities. Aerodynamically designed discs are engineered to minimize drag and maintain stability even at high speeds. For instance, the sharp, beveled edges of a disc golf driver reduce drag, allowing it to maintain velocity and achieve longer distances. Moreover, the relationship between velocity and air resistance necessitates adjustments in throwing techniques and disc selection based on wind conditions. A strong headwind requires greater initial velocity to counteract the increased air resistance, while a tailwind can assist in maintaining velocity and extending flight distance.
Understanding the interplay between disc velocity, air resistance, and other flight factors is crucial for optimizing disc performance. Achieving higher velocity requires efficient throwing mechanics, utilizing body rotation and leveraging arm speed effectively. Furthermore, selecting the appropriate disc for the desired distance and flight path is essential, considering factors like weight, stability, and aerodynamic properties. Challenges in generating sufficient disc velocity can limit throwing distance and accuracy, hindering performance in disc sports and other activities. Recognizing the multifaceted influence of disc velocity provides a deeper understanding of the physics governing disc flight and informs strategies for achieving desired outcomes in various applications.
4. Air Resistance
Air resistance, also known as drag, is a critical force affecting disc flight. It arises from the friction between the moving disc and the surrounding air molecules. This frictional force opposes the disc’s motion, influencing its velocity, trajectory, and overall flight characteristics. The magnitude of air resistance depends on several factors, including the disc’s velocity, surface area, shape, and the air’s density. A faster-moving disc encounters greater air resistance, as it collides with more air molecules per unit of time. Similarly, a disc with a larger surface area experiences more drag due to increased contact with the air. The shape of the disc plays a crucial role in determining the type and amount of drag experienced. Streamlined shapes, like those of many disc golf drivers, are designed to minimize drag by allowing air to flow smoothly over the surface. Conversely, discs with rougher surfaces or less aerodynamic shapes experience greater drag.
Air resistance manifests in two primary forms: form drag and skin friction. Form drag, also known as pressure drag, results from the pressure difference created between the leading and trailing edges of the disc as it moves through the air. This pressure difference creates a net force opposing the disc’s motion. Skin friction, on the other hand, arises from the friction between the air molecules and the disc’s surface. Minimizing both form drag and skin friction is crucial for maximizing disc flight performance. For example, the dimples on a golf ball reduce form drag by creating a thin turbulent boundary layer that allows the smoother airflow to cling to the ball’s surface longer, ultimately reducing wake size and thus drag. Similarly, the smooth surfaces of disc golf discs minimize skin friction. Understanding the various components of air resistance allows for strategic disc selection and adjustments to throwing techniques to optimize flight characteristics.
The practical significance of understanding air resistance is evident in various disc-related activities. In disc golf, for instance, choosing a disc with appropriate aerodynamic characteristics is essential for achieving desired flight paths and distances. Overstable discs, designed to resist turning over in flight, are better suited for windy conditions where air resistance is a major factor. Understable discs, on the other hand, are more susceptible to turning and are generally preferred for calmer conditions. Furthermore, adjusting throwing techniques, such as varying the angle of attack or spin rate, can mitigate the effects of air resistance and optimize flight performance. Challenges in accounting for air resistance often lead to decreased accuracy and shorter throws, highlighting the importance of this understanding in achieving desired outcomes in disc-based activities.
5. Disc Design
Disc design plays a pivotal role in the dynamics of disc flight. The disc’s physical characteristics, including its profile, rim width, weight distribution, and material composition, directly influence its aerodynamic properties and, consequently, its behavior in the air. These design elements interact intricately to determine the disc’s stability, speed, glide, and overall flight path. For example, a disc with a wider rim and a more dome-shaped profile will typically exhibit greater stability and resistance to turning over, while a flatter, thinner disc may be designed for faster flight and increased glide. The weight distribution within the disc also affects its stability and rotational characteristics. Discs with weight concentrated towards the rim tend to spin more readily and maintain stability, while those with a more uniform weight distribution may be more susceptible to wobble or unpredictable flight patterns.
Material selection further contributes to a disc’s flight characteristics. Different plastics and polymers offer varying degrees of flexibility, durability, and grip. The material’s density also affects the disc’s overall weight, influencing its momentum and resistance to wind. For instance, higher-density plastics result in heavier discs, which can be advantageous in windy conditions but may require more power to throw long distances. Lower-density plastics produce lighter discs, which are easier to throw but may be more affected by wind gusts. The choice of material also impacts the disc’s grip, affecting the thrower’s release and the spin imparted to the disc. These material properties, in conjunction with the disc’s shape and weight distribution, contribute significantly to its overall flight performance. In disc golf, distinct design features cater to specific shot shapes and distances. Drivers, designed for maximum distance, feature sharp, aerodynamic rims and overstable profiles. Mid-range discs offer a balance of control and distance, while putters prioritize accuracy and slow, predictable flight near the basket.
A comprehensive understanding of disc design principles enables informed disc selection and facilitates optimized throwing techniques. Recognizing the cause-and-effect relationships between design elements and flight characteristics allows athletes to choose discs tailored to their throwing style and the specific demands of a given course or situation. Challenges in matching disc design to individual throwing styles or environmental conditions can lead to decreased accuracy, reduced distance, and ultimately, compromised performance. Therefore, a thorough appreciation of how disc design influences flight is essential for achieving desired outcomes in disc-related activities.
6. Wind Conditions
Wind conditions significantly influence disc flight, acting as a substantial external force that can alter trajectories and challenge even the most skilled throwers. Understanding the nuances of wind effects is crucial for adapting throwing techniques and achieving consistent results in any disc-based activity. Wind speed, direction, and gustiness all play a role, demanding careful consideration and strategic adjustments to maximize performance and accuracy.
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Headwinds
Headwinds, blowing directly against the disc’s flight path, increase air resistance and decrease distance. This effect requires adjustments in throwing technique, often necessitating increased power and a lower launch angle to penetrate the wind effectively. A strong headwind can drastically reduce the distance of a throw, highlighting the importance of disc selection and strategic course management in disc golf. For example, choosing an overstable disc, resistant to turning over, can help maintain control in headwind conditions.
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Tailwinds
Tailwinds, blowing in the same direction as the disc’s flight path, provide assistance and can significantly increase flight distance. This added momentum allows for higher launch angles and potentially reduced power, maximizing distance potential. However, tailwinds can also affect disc stability, sometimes causing discs to turn over or become less predictable. Adjusting grip and release angles can help maintain control and optimize flight paths in tailwind situations. Experienced disc golfers often capitalize on tailwinds to achieve significantly longer throws.
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Crosswinds
Crosswinds, blowing perpendicular to the flight path, present a unique challenge, pushing the disc laterally and requiring adjustments to aim and release angles. The degree of adjustment depends on the crosswind’s strength and the disc’s stability. Throwing into a crosswind often necessitates aiming upwind to compensate for the lateral drift, requiring an understanding of both wind speed and disc behavior. This challenge becomes especially critical in accuracy-dependent activities like disc golf putting, where even slight deviations can result in missed targets.
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Gusts and Variable Winds
Gusts and variable winds introduce an element of unpredictability, making consistent throws more challenging. These fluctuating wind patterns require continuous assessment and adaptation, demanding heightened awareness of wind conditions throughout the flight path. Experienced players develop techniques to anticipate and adjust for gusts, such as altering release timing or utilizing specific throwing styles known to be less susceptible to wind interference. Adaptability and experience are key to mitigating the effects of variable winds and maintaining control over disc flight.
Mastering the impact of wind on disc flight is essential for consistent performance in any disc-related activity. Analyzing wind conditions, understanding their effects, and adapting throwing techniques accordingly are crucial skills for achieving desired trajectories and maximizing distance and accuracy. The interplay between wind and disc flight represents a complex yet fascinating aspect of these activities, offering continuous learning opportunities and contributing to the strategic depth of disc sports.
7. Gravity’s Influence
Gravity exerts a constant downward force on any object in flight, including discs. This fundamental force plays a crucial role in shaping the trajectory and ultimate landing point of a thrown disc. From the moment a disc leaves the thrower’s hand, gravity begins to influence its flight path, pulling it downwards towards the earth. This downward acceleration, approximately 9.8 meters per second squared, is a constant factor regardless of the disc’s size, shape, or velocity. The interplay between gravity and other forces, such as lift, drag, and momentum, determines the disc’s flight characteristics. For example, the lift generated by a spinning disc counteracts gravity, allowing the disc to stay aloft longer. However, gravity eventually overcomes lift, causing the disc to descend and ultimately land. The distance a disc travels before landing depends on the initial velocity, launch angle, spin rate, and the continuous influence of gravity. Understanding gravity’s impact is crucial for predicting disc flight paths and adjusting throwing techniques accordingly. In disc golf, for instance, players must account for gravity when selecting disc types and aiming for specific targets. A disc thrown with insufficient velocity or an incorrect launch angle will fall short of the target due to gravity’s influence. Conversely, a well-executed throw with appropriate spin and velocity can leverage lift to counteract gravity and achieve longer distances.
Analyzing the interaction between gravity and disc flight offers practical insights for improving throwing techniques and optimizing performance. By understanding how gravity affects trajectory, individuals can adjust their throwing style to compensate for its influence. For instance, launching a disc with a higher initial velocity can extend flight time and distance before gravity brings it down. Similarly, adjusting the launch angle to create more lift can also help counteract gravity’s pull. Further exploration reveals how gravity interacts with other aerodynamic forces to shape disc flight paths. For example, a disc thrown into a headwind experiences increased air resistance, which, coupled with gravity’s downward force, shortens its flight distance. Conversely, a tailwind assists the disc’s forward motion, allowing it to travel further before succumbing to gravity. Recognizing these complex interactions offers valuable insights for adapting throwing techniques to different environmental conditions and achieving desired outcomes. These insights provide a foundation for understanding the dynamics of disc flight and for developing strategies to optimize performance in various disc-related activities.
In conclusion, gravity is a fundamental force that significantly influences disc flight. Its constant downward pull shapes trajectories and determines landing points. While other forces, such as lift and air resistance, interact with gravity to affect flight paths, the understanding of gravity’s influence remains crucial for optimizing throwing techniques and achieving desired outcomes in disc-based activities. Challenges in accounting for gravity’s impact often lead to inaccurate throws and reduced distances, highlighting the practical significance of this understanding. A thorough grasp of how gravity interacts with other aerodynamic forces provides a foundation for strategic disc selection, course management, and ultimately, enhanced performance in various disc-related disciplines. This fundamental understanding of gravity’s role offers valuable insights for both novice and experienced disc throwers alike.
8. Ground Effect
Ground effect, a significant aerodynamic phenomenon, influences disc flight, particularly during the final stages of its trajectory near the ground or any surface. This effect alters lift and drag characteristics, requiring an understanding of its principles to optimize disc performance and predict flight paths accurately. Ground effect becomes increasingly relevant as the disc approaches the ground, playing a crucial role in determining its final trajectory and landing behavior.
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Reduced Induced Drag
As a disc nears the ground, the airflow around it is altered. The ground restricts the downward deflection of air, reducing the wingtip vortices that contribute to induced drag. This reduction in induced drag effectively increases lift, allowing the disc to remain aloft longer and travel further than it would at higher altitudes. This phenomenon is readily observable in disc golf, where putts thrown low to the ground can exhibit extended glide due to ground effect.
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Increased Lift and Glide
The increased lift generated by ground effect translates to extended glide, particularly noticeable at low speeds and shallow angles of attack. This extended glide can be strategically utilized in disc golf to execute longer putts or approach shots. Understanding how ground effect influences glide allows for precise control and manipulation of disc trajectories, maximizing performance in various disc-related activities.
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Influence on Landing Behavior
Ground effect significantly impacts a disc’s landing behavior. The increased lift and reduced drag can cause the disc to “float” longer before touching down, potentially affecting its final resting position. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in disc golf, where precise landing control is essential for scoring. Recognizing how ground effect influences landing trajectories allows players to adjust their throwing techniques to account for its impact, improving accuracy and overall performance.
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Interaction with Disc Design and Throw Technique
Ground effect interacts with disc design and throwing technique, adding complexity to flight dynamics. Discs with different profiles and stability characteristics will experience ground effect differently. For example, understable discs might exhibit more pronounced ground effect influence compared to overstable discs. Throwing technique also plays a role: low, flat throws are more likely to be influenced by ground effect than high, arcing throws. Understanding these interactions allows players to refine their throwing strategies to leverage or mitigate the effects of ground effect as needed.
In summary, ground effect significantly influences disc flight near the ground, impacting induced drag, lift, glide, and landing behavior. Recognizing its effects and understanding its interaction with disc design and throwing technique is crucial for optimizing disc performance and achieving desired outcomes in various disc-related activities. Ground effect represents a complex yet fascinating element of disc flight dynamics, rewarding those who master its nuances with improved control, accuracy, and overall success in disc sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the dynamics of disc flight, providing concise and informative responses to enhance understanding and address potential misconceptions.
Question 1: How does disc weight affect flight distance?
Heavier discs generally offer greater stability in wind but require more power to achieve maximum distance. Lighter discs are easier to throw but more susceptible to wind interference.
Question 2: What is the role of disc stability in controlling flight path?
Disc stability refers to its resistance to turning. Overstable discs resist turning, while understable discs tend to turn. Stability influences the disc’s fade and overall trajectory.
Question 3: How does wind speed and direction impact disc selection?
Headwinds necessitate overstable discs and lower launch angles. Tailwinds allow for understable discs and higher launch angles. Crosswinds require adjustments to aim and disc selection based on stability.
Question 4: What are the key differences between disc golf discs and ultimate frisbees?
Disc golf discs are smaller and denser, designed for controlled flight and specific shot shapes. Ultimate frisbees are larger and lighter, optimized for longer throws and aerial maneuvers.
Question 5: How does throwing technique influence disc flight?
Grip, arm speed, release angle, and spin rate all significantly impact flight trajectory, distance, and accuracy. Proper technique is crucial for achieving desired outcomes.
Question 6: What resources are available for improving throwing skills and understanding disc flight principles?
Numerous online resources, instructional videos, and local disc golf clubs offer guidance on throwing techniques, disc selection, and advanced flight principles. Practical experience and observation are invaluable for continuous improvement.
Understanding these fundamental principles provides a solid foundation for analyzing and improving disc flight performance. Continued learning and practical application are essential for mastering the intricacies of disc-based activities.
The next section delves into advanced throwing techniques and strategies for optimizing disc flight in various conditions.
Optimizing Disc Flight
Refinement of throwing technique and strategic disc selection are essential for achieving optimal disc flight performance. The following tips provide practical guidance for maximizing distance, accuracy, and control across various disc-based activities.
Tip 1: Grip Optimization
A proper grip is fundamental. A power grip, utilizing a firm but controlled hold with fingers spread along the rim, maximizes spin rate and control. Variations in grip, such as adjusting finger placement or utilizing a fan grip, can influence release angle and flight characteristics.
Tip 2: Controlled Spin
Generating consistent spin is crucial for stability and distance. A smooth, accelerated throwing motion, coupled with a clean release, imparts optimal spin. Focus on accelerating the disc through the throwing motion rather than relying solely on arm strength.
Tip 3: Launch Angle Awareness
Understanding the impact of launch angle on trajectory is essential. A slight hyzer angle (tilting the outside edge downwards) typically provides stability for longer throws. An anhyzer angle (tilting the outside edge upwards) can generate increased distance but requires careful control to prevent turning over.
Tip 4: Utilizing Body Mechanics
Engaging the entire body in the throwing motion generates power and increases disc velocity. Utilizing a coordinated sequence of leg drive, hip rotation, and arm extension maximizes throwing power and efficiency. This coordinated movement contributes significantly to achieving greater distance and control.
Tip 5: Wind Adaptation
Adapting to wind conditions is crucial for maintaining accuracy and control. Headwinds necessitate lower launch angles and increased power, while tailwinds allow for higher launch angles and potentially reduced power. Crosswinds require adjustments to aim and disc selection based on stability characteristics.
Tip 6: Disc Selection Strategy
Strategic disc selection is paramount. Understanding the flight characteristics of different disc types, including stability, speed, and glide, allows for optimized disc selection based on course conditions and desired shot shapes. Experimenting with various disc types and weights helps refine disc selection strategies.
Tip 7: Practice and Observation
Consistent practice and careful observation are essential for improvement. Regularly practicing throwing techniques, analyzing flight paths, and making adjustments based on observed results enhance control, accuracy, and overall performance. Seeking guidance from experienced throwers can further accelerate the learning process.
By implementing these practical tips and continuously refining throwing techniques, individuals can optimize disc flight, maximizing distance, accuracy, and control in various disc-related activities. The pursuit of enhanced performance necessitates ongoing practice, observation, and adaptation to diverse conditions.
The following conclusion synthesizes key takeaways and emphasizes the importance of continued exploration and refinement in the realm of disc flight dynamics.
Taking Flight with Disc
The exploration of disc flight dynamics reveals a complex interplay of physics, design, and athletic skill. From the initial launch to the final descent, factors such as launch angle, spin rate, velocity, air resistance, disc design, wind conditions, gravity, and ground effect intricately shape a disc’s trajectory. An understanding of these principles is fundamental to optimizing performance and achieving desired outcomes in various disc-related activities. Strategic disc selection, informed by an awareness of disc stability, weight, and aerodynamic properties, further enhances control and accuracy. Adapting throwing techniques to accommodate environmental conditions, such as wind speed and direction, represents another crucial aspect of mastering disc flight.
The pursuit of optimized disc flight presents a continuous challenge and opportunity for refinement. Further exploration of advanced throwing techniques, coupled with a deeper understanding of aerodynamic principles, promises continued enhancement of distance, accuracy, and control. Ultimately, the journey of taking flight with disc offers a rich tapestry of scientific inquiry, athletic prowess, and the sheer satisfaction of achieving mastery over the elements. Continued investigation and practical application of these principles hold the potential to unlock further advancements and deepen appreciation for the intricate dynamics of disc flight.
