On a side note: If the marketing/publicity budget on this was so much lower, and the design was simpler, how much less do you think this cost compared to FB/Redbull Stratos?
> Mr. Eustace said Google had been willing to help with the project but he declined company support, worried that his jump would become a marketing event.
Seems like he did it just because he wanted to do it... And that's awesome.
And are you sure the drogue was used during the entirety of Alan's jump? It mentioned that he did a series of backflips and broke the sound barrier during his jump. Is that even possible w/ a drogue?
EDIT: Plus, you seem to harbor some negativity about his achievements. Two things (1) It was verified by the US Parachute Assn, and (2) perhaps this reaction is precisely why Alan didn't seek press fanfare; it's an awesome accomplishment by itself!