Joseph Kittinger
American test pilot and balloonist

Born
July 27th, 1928
97 years ago
Died
2022
3 years ago — 94 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
United States
Links & References
Held the record for the highest free-fall parachute jump. In 1960, completed the Excelsior III jump from an altitude of 102,800 feet, breaking the sound barrier during descent. This record stood for over 50 years. Served in the United States Air Force and contributed to various test flights and aeronautical research, influencing advancements in pilot safety and high-altitude flight.
Completed the highest free-fall parachute jump
Broke the sound barrier during descent
Participated in the U.S. Air Force's Project Excelsior
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