Today Felix Baumgartner attempts to break four world records, three of which were set in the early 1960s. Both were set by military men. The highest altitude parachute jump and longest freefall was set in 1960 by USAF Capt Joe Kittinger and the highest altitude manned balloon flight was set in 1961 by USN Cdr Malcolm Ross and Lt Cdr Victor Prather. Unfortunately, Lt Cdr Prather died during the recovery at sea.
Austrian skydiver Felix Baumgartner is attempting to shatter these records and also be the first human to break the sound barrier in freefall.
In order to make a jump from 120,000′ he is making the ascent in a ballon. There is little atmosphere at that altitude and as soon as he depressurized the balloon’s cabin his life would be at danger if it weren’t for his pressurized suit and helmet manufactured by David Clark. Unfortunately, there is an issue with his heated visor. The mission continues as the ground team assesses their options.
Lets cheer him and his team on.
