I followed the entire link with special fascination. The voice of Mission Control was that of Joe Kittinger, who formerly set the record parachute jump at 102,000 feet way back in 1960!
I actually served with Joe, then an active duty USAF Lt. Col., in 1968, when he was the USAF Liaison Officer at Bad Toelz, Germany, with the 10th Special Forces Group. I was then the Operations Officer. later Executive Officer.
Joe had this choice assignment that required little work and lots of time to enjoy Bavaria with his lovely German wife. Joe has had lots of demands over the years to re-create his historic jump, which he did with practiced humor and drama.
I know something about parachuting but find a jump from 24 miles up to be simply unimaginable and utterly breathtaking.