X-Prize getting closer...

[ozzy72]

A privately developed manned rocket soared to 63,420 metres (211,400ft) in California, marking the third and highest powered flight of the reusable launch vehicle, the builders said. The SpaceShipOne is among contenders for the $10m X Prize, which will go to the first private launch of a manned craft that reaches an altitude of 63 miles twice in two weeks.

[Polynomial]

that is pretty sweet.  be interesting to find out who wins. . .

[WebbPA]

Here's one I found interesting http://quote.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pi ... w&refer=us

"The SpaceShipOne rocket became the first privately-funded rocket to reach the edge of space when it hit 211,400 feet yesterday, an altitude only astronauts and military pilots usually reach, the Los Angeles Times reported."

Which military pilots have reached that altitude?

[BMan1113VR]

Which military pilots have reached that altitude?

yah U2's ceiling is not even half of that

[SilverFox441]

Several military pilots flew the X-15...maybe them?

Or perhaps someone flying the Aurora.

[WebbPA]

The X-15 exceeded 350,000 feet but I wouldn't call that a common event.  It looked to me like the writer just didn't know what he/she was talking about.

The Aurora, of course, does not officially exist.

[ozzy72]

Apparently Jim Rutans prototype is really kicking bottom on this!!! Mind you what else would you expect from the brilliant and inventive Mr. Rutan?