Felix Baumgartner and Joe Kittinger talked about the Red Bull Stratos mission for an interview with CNN this morning at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum. Felix will be skydiving from 120,000 feet (36,576 m) in an attempt to shatter Joe’s record of 102,800 feet (31,300 m). Amazingly, Felix could reach supersonic speeds as he passes 100,000 feet (30,480 m) during his fall. Joe Kittinger’s record has been unbroken for 51 years, the number is staggering at just under 19.5 miles (31.3 km) up in the sky.
I shared a rare opportunity with Erin Bonilla to meet the legends. An avid skydiver herself, Erin spoke with Felix and Joe about skydiving drop zones and the Stratos program. Both men were amicable and receptive to a conversation with a fan. Erin has been following the mission eagerly and anticipates the day when anyone can choose to skydive from space. Baumgartner introduced himself simply with, “I’m Felix from Austria.” while Kittinger immediately asked how many jumps Erin had done.
“33 jumps, that’s all.”
“33 is about what I had [on the 102,800 foot jump.]”
Kittinger smiled warmly after the exchange, as if to say, “Anything is possible.” For more info behind the science of the Red Bull Stratos mission check out their website and their awesome mission video.
For more recent Red Bull Stratos updates check out this post.
Posted by Dennis Bonilla
