So far, so good. Climber Joby Ogwyn conducted one of several test jumps this week in preparation for his wingsuit flight off the summit of Mt. Everest, and you can watch the footage from one jump below. In May, Discovery will broadcast the epic live event, titled “Everest Jump Live,” in 224 countries and territories. Warning: if you have a fear of heights, this clip may be a bit much for you.
Joby plans to conduct test jumps in California, Florida, Utah and the Swiss Alps before traveling to the Himalayas for final training. After six weeks of acclimatization, Joby and his team will be ready to summit Everest.
Leading up to the event, Discovery will broadcast pre-shows of Joby”s intense training and preparations. The special will culminate with a live 2-hour broadcast – showing Joby as he battles the grueling conditions on the way to Everest”s summit and ultimately takes the final plunge from the top. The wingsuit will be equipped with cameras to give a bird's eye view.
This will not be Joby”s first trip to Mt. Everest. He was the youngest American to reach its peak at just 24-years-old and in 2008 he set the record for the fastest ascent of Mt. Everest in just nine and a half hours (it typically takes 3-4 days).
To learn more, go to www.discovery.com/EverestJumpLive, on Facebook at Facebook.com/discovery and on Twitter @Discovery.
Are you going to watch “Everest Jump Live”?