Stephen Hawkings flew into the stratosphere and is one step closer to fulfilling a life-long dream of his to experience space travel. Clearly this man, more than most any human, has spent time with his mind in space, and I have great respect for him, and am very excited for his opportunity.
"I have wanted to fly in space all of my life," Hawking told the AP.
The zero gravity flight in a modified jet that creates the experience of microgravity during 25-second plunges over the Atlantic Ocean should come close for a few seconds.
The jet's interior is padded to protect the weightless fliers and equipped with cameras to record their adventure. Normally, the plane conducts 10 to 15 plunges for its passengers who pay $3,750 for the ride, although that fee has been waived for Hawking.
On Hawking's flight, the jet made eight parabolic dives.