## How Long Did the Highest Skydive Take?
Skydiving is an adrenaline-pumping activity that involves jumping out of an airplane and free-falling for a period of time before deploying a parachute. The highest skydive ever recorded was completed by Alan Eustace on October 24, 2014, and took a remarkable 4 minutes and 27 seconds.
### Preparation for the Jump
Eustace’s jump required extensive preparation and planning. He underwent rigorous training and wore a specially designed suit to protect him from the extreme conditions encountered at high altitudes. The jump was launched from a modified stratospheric balloon that ascended to an altitude of approximately 135,890 feet (41,453 meters) above the ground.
### The Freefall
After exiting the balloon, Eustace free-fell for 4 minutes and 19 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 822 miles per hour (1,323 kilometers per hour). During the freefall, he experienced extreme G-forces and temperatures as low as -130 degrees Fahrenheit (-90 degrees Celsius).
### Deployment of the Parachute
At an altitude of 20,000 feet (6,096 meters), Eustace deployed his parachute. The parachute took 8 seconds to fully open and slow his descent.
### The Descent and Landing
After deploying the parachute, Eustace descended at a controlled speed of approximately 1,200 feet per minute (366 meters per minute). He landed safely in the New Mexico desert 4 minutes and 27 seconds after exiting the balloon.
### Details of the Jump
Altitude: 135,890 feet (41,453 meters)
Freefall Time: 4 minutes and 19 seconds
Maximum Speed: 822 miles per hour (1,323 kilometers per hour)
Parachute Deployment Altitude: 20,000 feet (6,096 meters)
Parachute Open Time: 8 seconds
Descent Rate: 1,200 feet per minute (366 meters per minute)
Total Jump Time: 4 minutes and 27 seconds
### Significance of the Jump
Eustace’s skydive was a historic achievement that pushed the boundaries of human exploration. It shattered the previous altitude record by more than 23,000 feet (7,010 meters) and provided valuable data for future space exploration missions. The jump also raised awareness about the importance of STEM education and inspired a new generation of scientists and engineers.
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