Red Bull’s capsule, which is part of their record-breaking attempt to set a new skydiving record, is now finished and ready to go. The Red Bull Stratos project aims to carry Austrian skydiver Felix Baumgartner up to the upper reaches of the stratosphere to an astonishing altitude of 120,000 ft. From this height, Baumgartner will then exit the capsule and skydive back down to Earth.
The Journey to the Edge of Space
Once attached to the bottom of a hot air balloon and launched, the 2,900 lb Red Bull capsule will take approximately three hours to reach the required 120,000 ft to break the record. This journey is not just a simple ascent; it involves navigating through various atmospheric layers, each with its own set of challenges. At this altitude, temperatures will plummet to a bone-chilling -70 degrees Fahrenheit. The capsule itself is a marvel of engineering, designed to protect Baumgartner from the extreme conditions of the stratosphere.
The ascent will be monitored closely by a team of scientists and engineers, ensuring that every aspect of the mission goes as planned. The capsule is equipped with life-support systems, communication devices, and cameras to document the entire journey. This meticulous planning and state-of-the-art technology are crucial for the success of the mission.
The Descent: Breaking the Sound Barrier
At the peak altitude of 120,000 ft, Baumgartner will exit the capsule and begin his freefall back to Earth. This is where the mission becomes truly extraordinary. As he plummets back to Earth, Baumgartner will reach speeds that will allow him to break the sound barrier, becoming the first person to do so during freefall. This feat is not just about setting a new skydiving record; it is a monumental achievement in human endurance and aerodynamics.
The descent will be fraught with challenges. Baumgartner will experience extreme physical forces, including rapid acceleration and deceleration. His specially designed suit will protect him from the harsh conditions, including the intense cold and the lack of oxygen. The suit is also equipped with a parachute system that will deploy at the appropriate altitude to ensure a safe landing.
The record attempt is hoped to take place later this year above New Mexico. The location was chosen for its favorable weather conditions and open spaces, which are ideal for such a high-risk endeavor. The mission has garnered significant attention from the media and the scientific community, as it pushes the boundaries of what is possible in human flight and skydiving.
In addition to setting a new skydiving record, the Red Bull Stratos project aims to gather valuable scientific data. The mission will provide insights into the effects of high-altitude freefall on the human body, which could have implications for future space travel and aviation safety. The data collected will be shared with the scientific community, contributing to our understanding of human physiology and aerodynamics.
The Red Bull Stratos project is a testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of adventure. It combines cutting-edge technology with the courage and determination of Felix Baumgartner, who is willing to push the limits of what is possible. As we await the record-breaking attempt, the world watches in anticipation, inspired by the daring and innovation that define this extraordinary mission.
Source: Wired
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