Journey to Space
The first Panamanian to cross the Kármán Line
The Origin of the Dream
The decision to travel to space began to take shape during a trip to Iceland in 2021, a place where nature seems to come from another planet. There, an inevitable reflection was born: if life had allowed visiting all 193 countries, why not try to go further? Virgin Galactic was the first option, but constant delays eventually led to exploring a more reliable alternative: Blue Origin.
Experience the Journey to Space
Watch highlights from Jaime's historic Blue Origin flight
Watch Full VideoPreparation and Fears
Accepting the ticket is one thing, facing fears is another. Jaime had to work on two personal challenges: claustrophobia and fear of heights. With meditation, breathing exercises, and professional support, he managed to turn them into motivation. At the Blue Origin base in Texas, training began: simulations, emergency procedures, and practice inside the capsule. There, the nickname 'Marco' was born, in reference to Marco Polo.
The Ascent
Launch day begins with climbing the tower and entering the capsule. When the hatch closes, the outside world disappears. The rocket ascends with brutal acceleration and within minutes exceeds extraordinary speeds. After booster separation, absolute silence arrives: it's the crossing of the Kármán Line, the recognized boundary between the atmosphere and space.
Zero Gravity
When the seatbelt is released, everything floats. While some companions move around the cabin, Jaime prefers to observe through the windows. From there, he contemplates the blue curvature of the Earth contrasting against a deep black that is not sky, but void. At that moment, he receives congratulations from the group for crossing the Kármán: the personal mission is accomplished.
The Return
The descent brings back sound, movement, and heat. The parachutes deploy and the capsule lands firmly but safely. When the hatch opens, the world feels familiar again, but something has changed: having seen the planet as a whole, fragile and suspended in darkness, forever transforms one's perspective. With this flight, Jaime became the first Panamanian in space and the first person to complete the journey through all 193 countries, both poles, and the edge of space.
Space Journey Gallery
