altitude records

Altitude records measure the highest points reached by humans or machines above sea level. These records include the highest balloon flights, aircraft, and spacecraft. For example, the highest manned balloon ascent was by Malcolm Ross and Victor Prather in 1961, reaching over 113,000 feet. Aircraft like the SR-71 Blackbird have flown at altitudes above 85,000 feet. Spacecraft, such as the Apollo missions, have traveled well beyond Earth's atmosphere, reaching into space. These records push the limits of technology and human endurance, helping us understand the Earth's atmosphere and extend exploration into space.