XBradTC

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XBradTC

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Record Setting Supersonic Parachute Jump

– A Google executive has broken the sound barrier and set several skydiving records over the southern New Mexico desert after taking a leap from the edge of space. Alan Eustace’s supersonic jump early Friday from a high-altitude, helium-filled balloon is part of a project by Paragon Space Development Corp. and its Stratospheric Explorer team.…

– A Google executive has broken the sound barrier and set several skydiving records over the southern New Mexico desert after taking a leap from the edge of space.

Alan Eustace’s supersonic jump early Friday from a high-altitude, helium-filled balloon is part of a project by Paragon Space Development Corp. and its Stratospheric Explorer team. The goal is to develop a self-contained commercial spacesuit that would allow people to explore the stratosphere.

Eustace started his dive at 135,908 feet. He remained in freefall for about 4.5 minutes, hitting a top speed of 822 mph.

via News from The Associated Press.

It’s interesting that, unlike the previous record setting jump by Felix Baumgartner, there was virtually no publicity of this. What was once extraordinary is now, if not routine, hardly worth more than a few paragraphs.

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  1. NaCly Dog

    Personal Vanity vs. Science? Felix Baumgartner solved problems with the help of Col. Joseph Kittinger II, the previous record holder. Eustace – along for the ride.

    BTW, Col Kittinger had a very manly career in the USAF. He is worthy of an article, XBradTC.

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  2. xbradtc

    I don’t think it’s a vanity thing. Eustace seems to be pursuing a business opportunity. I think it’s just a difference between being supported by Red Bull, and a Google venture. Plus, not nearly as telegenic the second time.

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  3. SFC Dunlap 173d RVN

    Who knew Baumgarner would really break the record that cost the life of Nick Piantanatta back in the 60’s. Technology has miniaturized equipment that enhances success for such ventures. Most people do not know he was a Vietnam POW if memory serves. Being an aviator to have involved himself in Project Excelsior experimenting with hostile altitude parachute operations is incredibly noteworthy. Not sure he had a long “P” designator career either…big ones, like needs a wheelbarrow big ones. I bow.

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