One down, One to go for 10 Million Bucks
SpaceShipOne reached the altitude it needed to consider it's first privately funded trip into space a success. In order to claim the $10 million prize, it needs to do it one more time.
The spacecraft encountered problems shortly after the rocket ignited during its vertical ascent. It unexpectedly began a series of more than 20 barrel rolls.
An unofficial altitude for SpaceShipOne of 358,000 feet -- well in excess of 62.9 miles (100 km) -- was recorded by radar at the site.
This marks the first of two successful flights the team needs to win the $10 million Ansari X Prize.