Space Dive (a working title currently), an exclusive BBC documentary, is set to follow Felix Baumgartner (Fnarr! That sounds like Bum Gardener!), elite BASE jumper, as he freefalls from space, shattering world records. Bloody hell! Jumping from space? Lunatic.

BBC Two has the behind-the-scenes story of Felix’s two-year preparations to jump from 125,000 feet; a height that will qualify him as the first person to break the sound barrier in a freefall jump from the edge of Space.

Gary Hunter, BBC executive producer, says: “This is a fascinating blend of scientific challenge and human endeavour.”

BBC Two will chart Felix’s arduous training as he readies his body and his mind for a difficult task that will push the human body to its limit.

Working with him along the way will be a team of the world’s leading space scientists and US Air Force veteran Joe Kittinger, who, in 1960, jumped from 102,800 feet, and must watch as Felix attempts to claim his crown.

The documentary will follow Felix’s solo journey to the edge of Space with the aid of just a balloon, and his attempts to freefall back to Earth.

Reaching record-shattering speeds of more than 690mph (Mach 1) in just 35 seconds, breaking the sound barrier without propulsion and creating a human sonic boom on his way back to Earth, Felix will put his body through the most arduous and life-threatening conditions ever experienced in freefall.

The momentous dive, staged by Red Bull, will be achieved with support from a wide team of scientists, engineers and medics who have worked for organisations including NASA and the US Air Force.

It is hoped that the historic jump will answer a number of important scientific questions. Failing that, will provide a mental spectacle for us to watch on the box. Felix’s record-breaking jump is due to take place in North America, later this year.

The BBC/National Geographic Channel co-production will be aired shortly after the jump.