Kittinger: First Man in Space?

In 1961, Yuri Gagarin became the first human in space, but Joe Kittinger had already ventured into the stratosphere in 1960. As part of Project Excelsior, Kittinger ascended to 31 kilometers in a helium balloon, testing high-altitude bailouts. Despite previous equipment malfunctions, he reached unprecedented heights, experiencing the hostile environment. Kittinger then made a historic jump, free-falling for 4.5 minutes at nearly 1000 km/h. His mission paved the way for future space exploration.

Who was the first person to make a perilous expedition past Earth's inner atmosphere?

• Buzz Aldrin

• Neil Armstrong

• Joe Kittinger

• Yuri Gagarin

What was the primary objective of Project Excelsior 3A?

• To test spacecraft durability

• To explore the moon

• To study the Earth's core

• To test high altitude bailouts

What altitude did Joe Kittinger reach during his mission?

• 20 kilometers

• 10 kilometers

• 31 kilometers

• 50 kilometers

What was a significant risk if Kittinger traveled higher than his target altitude?

• Balloon deflation

• Running out of oxygen

• His pressure suit failing

• Losing communication with base

How long did Joe Kittinger's free fall last?

• 4.5 minutes

• 5 minutes

• 3 minutes

• 6 minutes