Fearless Felix faces fall from
24 miles above earth’s crust
stepping out of space capsule door
one step to free-falling, without flinch
in God’s or in science’s trust.

Humbling moment, one with all
that ever was or will ever be
no thought of records or science gains
knowing all that matters is to
touch down running, safe and free.

High to see just how small we are
with vision clear though visor ice
spinning out of control, 20-second count
seven years toward record breaking
hanging in balance, not once but trice.

Fighting forces to resume control
supersonic speed handily attained
a Mach 1.24 conquest strength
highest height, fastest free-fall velocity
two out of three astounding victories.
Kittenger’s 17 seconds left on the brink.

Bravely going where no one’s gone before
leaving space exploration an open door.