High Altitude Balloon Envelope Arrives for the 52,000 feet European Record High Altitude Parachute Jump

The balloon envelope has arrived ahead of schedule. Some test flights will be made in it soon. The balloon gondola modifications are now being planned to allow me to sit on the edge of my 'step off' platform. Kittenger's step had a sign which read 'The Highest Step in the World'. For this jump mine will read 'The Highest Step in Europe'.

Our research shows that this 52,000 feet jump will make me the third highest parachutist in history.

Pressure suit, HALO helmet and Oxygen mask, together with the high altitude oxygen consol for both parachutist and balloon pilot are now being ordered in advance of altitude chamber and indoor wind tunnel testing. The parachutist's bail out system (ie the personal oxygen system worn during freefall) is also on order.

In the meantime I am planning another training skdiving trip next week to Spain, before visiting the Parachute Industry Association symposium in Barcelona for meetings with potential sponsors.

Intensive wind tunnel tunnel training will continue in the UK or overseas with press photo opportunities. Ultimately I'll be in the tunnel with all the kit for the big jump. After this jump, it'll be in a full space suit...watch this space :-)

Comments

[Ray Formosa]

Hiya Steve

Sounds like you are really gaining momentum now mate. The kit you have just ordered sounds awesome. One question I would like to ask is. What footwear are you wearing to do this jump? Do you need any specially insulated /waterproofed boots to do it in Any specific colour to match your outfit?
If you do I am offering to develope a bespoke boot for your use in whatever colour or materials you require. It will be made in England, and of course all the development and supply of the boot will be free of charge to you.
It will be very exciting for me to be involved with you in a small but hopefully very useful way and provides a great excuse to get together and have a few beers every now and then. If you need any specialist kit made like your coveralls or hoods etc. Just let me know because thats what my company specialises in and it will be a pleasure to help you. I am off to South Africa tomorrow for two weeks. Back on the 26th Feb. So if I can help with anything, just get in touch with me when we get back. Take care you lunatic :o))
Ray Formosa

[Fraser]

Hey Steve,

Sounds good, Hope your not mortgaging your house to over it all! How are you managing to get balloon envelope, Gondola AEA etc without sponsors as this has been the barrier to several others trying to achieve the jump, Michelle Fournier, Cheryl Stearns etc

Good Luck

Fraser