Jumping from the Edge of Space

The world watched on Sunday as Felix Baumgartner, an Austrian professional daredevil, became the first person in history to break the sound barrier outside a craft by skydiving from over 24 miles up. Baumgartner accelerated down to the earth at speeds of up to 833.9 mph.

Baumgartner's jump from 128,097 feet was also the highest skydive in history. Within nine minutes, the daredevil was back on the ground in Roswell, New Mexico after over four minutes of free falling.

Over 7 million people watched "live" on YouTube as Baumgartner completed his 40 step check-list and jumped from his pod attached to a helium balloon. He donned a high-tech space suit designed to keep him warm (at his highest altitude, the temperature was -70 degrees F) and provide him with enough oxygen and stability to overcome the shock waves he would incur in breaking the sound barrier.

The Mission Control at the Red Bull Stratos center directed Baumgartner in his daring mission. Joe Kittinger, the former record holder for highest skydive, advised Baumgartner in his mission and can be seen in the video below giving direction and checking in.

Baumgartner did not break the record for longest free fall. That record still belongs to Kittinger for falling for four minutes and 36 seconds in 1960. Baumgartner free fell for four minutes and 17 seconds.

Not only was this mission an attempt to break a number of records, but the scientists and engineers involved with the project say the data collected can help future astronauts and pilots in the event they would have to exit their air crafts. The Associated Press said his spacesuit may also lead to NASA "certifying a new generation of space suits."

Baumgartner plans to retire now. He said he is looking forward to settling down with his girlfriend.


Watch the jump below:

 

Congratulations, Felix Baumgartner!