Hard Landing During Night Practice Approach (N2182C)

What happened

The flight was conducted for the purpose of obtaining currency in night landing operations. The aircraft was operating under visual flight rules during nighttime conditions. On final approach to a paved runway measuring 5,500 feet in length, the pilot noted that the airplane remained high relative to the desired glidepath. In response, the pilot increased the angle of descent to correct the altitude deviation.

Upon touchdown, the aircraft impacted the runway surface with significant force. The hard landing resulted in the airplane porpoising several times along the runway centerline. Wind conditions were reported as calm at the time of the incident. No mechanical deficiencies were identified by the pilot following the event.