PARAGON COMPLETES record-breaking near-space dive via high-altitude balloon

Alan Eustace and the Paragon StratEx Team make stratospheric exploration history at over 135,000 feet.

After 34 months of intense planning, development and training, Alan Eustace, supported by Paragon Space Development Corporation® (Paragon) and its Stratospheric Explorer (StratEx) team, made history with a near-space dive from a high-altitude balloon at approximately 135,000 feet.

Eustace broke several records, including national record for highest exit altitude; world and national record for free fall under a drogue chute; national record for vertical speed.

Additionally, he became the second person to break the sound barrier outside an aircraft.

Eustace was lifted to his peak altitude by a helium-filled scientific balloon while wearing a custommade pressurized spacesuit. At over 135,000 feet, he began his dive, remaining in free fall for approximately 4.5 minutes before landing safely nearly 70 miles from his launch point.

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