Tandem instructor with a passenger exiting the plane
scenic flight Olomouc

Jumps from the edge of space: What is it like to fall to Earth at supersonic speed?

Where does the sky end and space begin?

Although we often hear about “jumps from space” in the media, scientifically the situation is a little different. The officially recognized Kármán line, which separates Earth's atmosphere from outer space, lies at an altitude of 100 km. The record jumps so far have taken place in the so-called stratosphere, that is, at altitudes between 31 and 41 km.

Even though it is “only” less than halfway to space, the physical conditions here are utterly unforgiving. So why do these feats fascinate the whole world? It's about testing technologies that could one day save the lives of space tourists and pilots during an emergency bailout from a craft at high altitude.

‍

An astronaut jumping from a spacecraft in orbit with a parachute, against the backdrop of the Milky Way and the curvature of the Earth.
An astronaut in the foreground holds a helmet while other crew members in the background wave and float in open space above Earth's orbit. They are Joseph Kittinger, Felix Baumgartner and Alan Eustace.

Pioneers who pushed the limits (Milestones)

The history of jumps from the edge of space is defined by three key names:

  • Joseph Kittinger (1960): As part of Project Excelsior, he jumped from an altitude of 31,333 meters. He reached a speed of 988 km/h, and his record stood for an incredible 52 years.
  • Felix Baumgartner (2012): The Red Bull Stratos project, watched around the world. Felix jumped from 38,969 meters and became the first person to break the speed of sound in freefall (reaching Mach 1.25, or 1,357.6 km/h) without engine power.
  • Alan Eustace (2014): The current record holder. This Google vice president was carried up by a balloon and jumped from a staggering 41,422 meters, reaching a speed of Mach 1.22.

‍

The death zone: The Armstrong line and -70 °C cold

The environment above 30 km is instantly lethal to an unprotected person. The main threat is the so-called Armstrong line (approx. 19 km). Above this limit, atmospheric pressure is so low that your bodily fluids (including blood) would start to boil at normal body temperature if you were not wearing a pressure suit.

On top of that, the jumper has to cope with:

  • Extreme cold: Temperatures drop as low as −70 °C.
  • Uncontrolled spin: In thin air there is no resistance to “lean on.” The jumper can fall into a flat spin at up to 200 revolutions per minute. That is deadly – centrifugal force pushes blood into the head and eyes, leading to loss of consciousness.

‍

A close-up of the face of an astronaut in a frosted helmet, watching from the edge of a spacecraft as a jumper freefalls toward planet Earth.
An astronaut in open space floating above planet Earth with a burning reentry capsule in the background

The high-tech suit: What does the jumper have to wear?

Without top-notch equipment, a person would literally evaporate at these altitudes. The key elements are:

  1. Pressure suit (PSA): Insulates against the vacuum, maintains internal pressure (approx. 37.2 kPa) and provides warmth.
  2. Stabilizing parachute (Drogue): A small parachute that prevents spinning. Interestingly, Felix Baumgartner did not use it so that he could reach supersonic speed, which, however, led to his wild tumbling.
  3. SAEBER system: Used by Alan Eustace. It is a rod that prevents the parachute from tangling in thin air.
  4. G-Whiz: A safety device that automatically fires the parachute if the G-forces during a spin reach a dangerous level.

‍

Physics beyond the sound barrier

Why is it possible to fall so fast? In the stratosphere, air density is minimal, so aerodynamic drag is almost zero. This allows the jumper to accelerate to supersonic speed within tens of seconds.

When passing through the sound barrier (around Mach 1), shock waves form and the drag coefficient (C) changes significantly. It peaks right at the speed of sound and then drops again. For Baumgartner, this supersonic phase lasted roughly 30 seconds.

‍

An astronaut in a spacesuit descending through Earth's atmosphere with a trail of smoke and fire
An astronaut in a spacesuit with the caption CONCLUSION descends to Earth under a parachute.

Conclusion and summary

Jumps from the edge of space are a fascinating blend of courage and science. From Joseph Kittinger's pioneering feat to Felix Baumgartner's supersonic fall and Alan Eustace's altitude record, we have learned how to survive in an environment that is utterly unfit for life. These missions pave the way to safer space travel for all of us.

What do you think? Would you dare to make a jump like this if you had the best equipment in the world at your disposal, or is it a needless risk for you?

‍

Want to experience an adrenaline rush?

Would you like to find out what it's like to fly in freefall at over 200 km/h ? With us you'll experience a real skydive – a parachute jump from up to 6,000 meters with a professional instructor. Safely, from a modern aircraft and at a transparent price with no hidden fees. You'll remember this moment for the rest of your life!
We jump from March to November.

What you get

Tandem skydive from 4,200 m
20-minute scenic flight
1 minute of freefall
Speeds over 200 km/h
7 minutes of parachute flight
Safe landing
Videos & photos
Tandem instructor with a passenger during freefallBlue sky with white clouds
See what awaits you. It will be worth it!

We take care of everything so you can fully enjoy your tandem skydive.

Professional quality photos and video

Keep the memories of this amazing experience in a tangible form. We provide professional-quality video footage and digital photos of your entire skydive. We will hand over the video and photos to you within 5 minutes of landing. You can share the joy with your loved ones or show off on social media right away.

TIP: Not sure if you want to pay extra for the video? Ask at the reception or check with your instructor directly if there is space available on the plane. After the jump, we can show you a short edit, and you can decide for yourself whether you want to purchase the video or not.

Professional photographer and videographer
Over 100 photos
Full skydive video
Highlight video

The ideal gift for others and for yourself

Forget ordinary paper vouchers. For this experience, paper alone just isn't enough.

With your skydive you can order a stylish metal tin containing your voucher in a premium finish. A perfect gift that makes an impression the moment it's handed over – and, unlike paper, it stays as a lasting keepsake of your jump.

Whether you put it on a shelf or in your office, every glance at it will remind you of that unforgettable moment of freefall.

Practical info

You don't have to worry about missing the gift deadline.
We'll send you the voucher instantly by email, and also in a high-quality tin.

White clouds in a blue skyOrange Jump Tandem tin

Safety guarantee

Your safety is our top priority. Our instructors are absolute professionals with thousands of jumps under their belts.

‍
We use audited parachutes and regularly tested equipment. We are members of the United States Parachuting Association and the Czech Parachuting Association. We are authorized by the Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Transport, and certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency according to European Commission regulations.

‍We are the only skydiving center in the Czech Republic that is also an air operator.

Blue sky with white cloudsTandem instructor with a female passenger before a tandem skydive

What you need to know before your jump

Tandem instructor with a passenger exiting the plane
Weather

Jumps are not performed in bad weather conditions, rain, or fog. Cloud cover is not an issue; in fact, you'll get to experience flying through the clouds.

Clothing

We will provide everything you need for your tandem skydive. Just wear comfortable sportswear and sturdy shoes (sneakers).

Health

Jumping is not permitted for those with epilepsy, heart conditions, or severe mental disabilities. If you are unsure, please consult with us or your doctor.

When to arrive at the airport?

Please arrive at the airport 45 minutes beforehand.

Weight

The maximum weight for a tandem is 110 kg. Over 90 kg and over 100 kg we charge a surcharge on top of the base price of the jump.

Age

Jumps are possible from 8 years old. For those under 18, a legal guardian's signature is required.

Photo Gallery

The atmosphere will captivate you

Passengers before boarding the plane for a tandem skydive, Příbram airport
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger on the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger after landing
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger after landing
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Passengers before boarding the plane for a tandem skydive, Příbram airport
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger on the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger after landing
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger after landing
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
People in Jump Tandem jumpsuits on the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
A man standing in front of the airport in Příbram with the Jump Tandem logo
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger on the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger before boarding the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger boarding the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger exiting the plane
People in Jump Tandem jumpsuits on the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
A man standing in front of the airport in Příbram with the Jump Tandem logo
Tandem instructor with a passenger in freefall
Tandem instructor with a passenger on the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger before boarding the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger boarding the plane
Tandem instructor with a passenger exiting the plane
White clouds in a blue sky
A white cloud in a blue skyA white cloud in a blue sky
Frequently asked questions
Age, health, weight, clothing, weather...
View all
16
What should I look for when choosing a tandem skydive?

1. Hidden fees. At JUMP-TANDEM there are no hidden fees; everything is included in the price. Elsewhere you'll run into fuel surcharges, parking fees, equipment rental fees and more.

2. The altitude. If you do a jump from 4,200 m with us, you really will exit at 4,200 m. Elsewhere you may find that you buy a jump from 4,200 m, pay a fuel surcharge when you arrive at the airport, and then jump from only 2,900 m.

3. The number of airports on offer. JUMP-TANDEM is the only company in the Czech Republic that owns 2 jump planes, which is why it jumps regularly at two airports. A company that rents one plane and offers, say, 10 airports can logically jump at each airport only 1 to 2 times a year. If the date doesn't suit you or the weather happens to be bad, you're simply out of luck.

Can I add photo and video at the drop zone?

Yes, you can, but if we don't know in advance, there may no longer be room on the plane for a cameraman. We recommend requesting it when you book, by phone, or at the latest during online check-in.

What happens if the weather is bad?

We carefully monitor the weather forecast at all times. If the forecast is unfavorable, we will contact you to let you know that the tandem skydive cannot take place and arrange an alternative date. Even with the best and most accurate evaluation of the weather data, the weather may still change suddenly on the day of the jump, making a safe jump impossible – possibly even after you have arrived at the airport.

‍

Can I jump with glasses or contact lenses? I have poor vision without glasses and I’m worried I won’t see anything.

Prescription glasses are not a problem. We provide special skydiving goggles that can be worn over regular glasses to protect your eyes from airflow. Contact lenses are also safe to wear during the skydive.

‍

What are the restrictions for a tandem skydive?

The following conditions apply to a tandem skydive: the maximum weight of a tandem passenger is 115 kg and the minimum age is 8. Anyone under 18 may take part in a jump only with the consent of a legal guardian. However, the jump is not suitable for people with epilepsy, serious heart conditions or severe mental disabilities. For jumps from 6 km these conditions are stricter - the maximum weight is 95 kg and the permitted age range is 18 - 50.

‍

When is the season for tandem skydives?

From April 1 to October 31, every week at both airports according to the jump calendar.

‍

How do the jumps from 3,000 m, 4,200 m and 6,000 m differ?

The best option is 100% the jump from 4,200 m. It is the maximum altitude that can be reached without breathing apparatus, and the freefall - the most beautiful part of the jump - lasts about one minute.

The jump from 3,000 m is the minimum option. The freefall is cut down to the bare minimum - approx. 20 seconds. It's better than not jumping at all, but we recommend paying a little extra and experiencing the jump to the fullest from 4,200 m.

The jump from 6,000 m is demanding both physically and mentally, because the pressure up there is only half of what it is on the ground. For mountaineers this is the so-called death zone – breathing apparatus is already needed. You will have breathing apparatus available on the plane; during the jump itself it all comes down to your physical condition. According to the Civil Aviation Authority, special requirements apply to this jump. Before the jump you need to have a BMI in the range of 17-30, be within the age limit of 18-50 and weigh no more than 95 kg.

Watch out: many dishonest agencies and companies offer a jump from 3,000-4,000 m, but such a jump will always take place from just 3,000 m.

What equipment will be provided for my tandem skydive?

For your tandem skydive, we will lend you a jumpsuit and skydiving goggles free of charge, plus a hood and gloves if the weather is cold.

How do I book a date?

Here in the booking section or by phone at 724 175 175 or 724 002 001.

Can I pay by card?

Card payments are not possible at the airport or at our office in Brno. Please have cash ready.

‍

Can the validity of a tandem skydive voucher be extended?

The validity of the voucher can only be extended by one additional year at the time of purchase. Once the voucher has been purchased, it is no longer possible to extend its validity.

‍

How long is the “Dose of Adrenaline” tandem skydive voucher valid for?

If the gift voucher is purchased between January 1st and March 31st of the calendar year, it is valid for use until October 31st of the same year.

If the gift voucher is purchased between April 1st and October 31st of the calendar year, it is valid until the same date of the following calendar year.

If the gift voucher is purchased between November 1st and December 31st of the calendar year, it is valid until October 31st of the following year.

The voucher can only be used during the skydiving season, which runs from April 1st to October 31st each year.

‍

‍

‍

Do I need a medical certificate for a tandem skydive?

No, a medical certificate is not required to participate in a tandem skydive.

‍

What should I wear for a tandem skydive?

For a tandem skydive, we recommend comfortable sports clothing and suitable sports shoes, such as sneakers or trainers.

‍

Is tandem skydiving safe?

At JUMP-TANDEM, we work only with professionals who have completed thousands of successful jumps. Many of our instructors are current or former members of the national skydiving team. All of our tandem parachutes are equipped with an automatic activation device that can deploy the parachute in an emergency. Every tandem system also includes a fully functional reserve parachute.

I would like to do a tandem skydive. However, I noticed on your website that the maximum weight limit is 115 kg. Why is there a weight limit for tandem skydiving?

The total load of the tandem system must not exceed 235 kg. A tandem parachute system weighs approximately 30 kg, and our tandem instructors have an average weight of up to 90 kg. This means that the remaining weight allowance for the passenger is 115 kg.

I have knee problems. I’m honestly worried about the landing and whether my knees will handle it.

There is no need to worry. This is one of the advantages of choosing experienced professionals like JUMP-TANDEM. Just before landing, the tandem instructor slows down the descent enough that the impact on your knees is comparable to stepping down from a single 20 cm high step. Any harder impact is absorbed by the tandem instructor, who touches the ground first.

Over 150,000 jumps and experiences

Join us

Experience a unique adventure

Wondering what weightlessness feels like during the longest freefall? Experience it. You'll see it's worth it.
With us you're absolutely safe. We're the largest skydiving company in the Czech Republic.  

Airplane on a grass fieldWhite clouds in a blue sky