Should a shorter than usual delay be selected on windy days compared to calm days?

Selecting a shorter than usual delay on windy days is advisable because of the increased likelihood of drift during flight. Wind can significantly affect the trajectory of a rocket, pushing it off course and causing it to land farther away from the intended recovery area. A longer delay might lead to a higher altitude at ejection, resulting in a greater horizontal distance traveled due to wind. By choosing a shorter delay, the rocket will egress at a lower altitude, which helps to minimize the distance it drifts during descent, allowing for a more controlled recovery in challenging wind conditions.

In calm conditions, a standard delay can be sufficient since there is little external force affecting the rocket's path. However, the unpredictable nature of wind makes shorter delays preferable to ensure the rocket behaves as expected upon ejection and descends in a controlled manner.