At terminal velocity, an object falling through the atmosphere reaches a constant speed where the force of gravity pulling it downward is balanced by the force of air resistance pushing upward. For a human being, the terminal velocity is typically around 53 m/s (120 mph) when in a belly-to-earth, spread-eagle position.
In terms of what on Earth could safely catch a human falling at terminal velocity, it becomes a challenging task due to the high velocity and the need to decelerate the person gradually to avoid injury. Here are a few hypothetical scenarios that could potentially slow down a falling person:
Parachute: A properly deployed parachute can slow down the descent of a falling person by increasing air resistance. However, it requires proper training and equipment to use a parachute safely.
Airbag system: Similar to automotive airbags, a large, inflatable airbag system could potentially decelerate a falling person gradually. It would need to be designed and positioned appropriately to ensure a safe landing.
Net or safety mat: A sufficiently large and sturdy net or safety mat designed to absorb the impact could be a possibility. However, it would need to be carefully engineered to avoid excessive bounce or sudden deceleration upon impact.
Water: Falling into deep water can provide a relatively safe landing, as water acts as a natural cushion. However, the depth and conditions of the water should be considered, as hitting the water surface from a great height can still cause injury.
It's important to note that these scenarios are theoretical and highly dependent on specific conditions, engineering, and safety measures. In practice, it is crucial to prioritize preventing such falls in the first place through proper safety precautions, equipment, and training.