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The Science of Space Dive - Learning Zone

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20/12/2012

BBC Two - The Science of Space Dive - Learning Zone

How Felix Baumgartner became the first person to free-fall through the sound barrier.

Looking at how basejumper Felix Baumgartner became the first person to free-fall through the sound barrier when, in October 2012, he fell 26 miles to Earth from the edge of space.

Basejumper Felix Baumgartner became the first person to free-fall through the sound barrier when, in October 2012, he fell 26 miles (125,000 feet) to Earth from the edge of space.

Felix underwent years of training under the watchful eye of 82-year-old Colonel Joe Kittinger, the man who set the original record when he fell 19 miles to Earth (102,000 feet) 52 years ago.

Apart from the usual dangers of free-falling, the near-vacuum of the stratosphere and the perils of travelling faster than the speed of sound made Felix's attempt all the more audacious. Since Joe's jump in 1960 two men have died in similar attempts.

During Felix's intense physical training the cameras also capture the basejumper as he struggled to overcome a severe claustrophic reaction to the movement-restricting pressure suit. Felix's issues with the suit could have jeopardised the mission and ultimately cost him his life if he was unable to conquer his fears.

Finally with breathtaking footage of the curvature of the earth, BBC cameras followed Felix as he stepped out of the capsule, suspended by a giant balloon 26 miles above the earth. They followed his spectacular leap through the stratosphere at over 700 miles per hour and his triumphant landing in the New Mexico Desert.

This programme for the Learning Zone features interviews with the scientists and engineers working on the mission and intercuts them with material already shot to create a resource for Key Stage 3 and 4 pupils that will make the STEM subjects accessible, engaging and exciting.

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