Hughes, a reckless self-taught daredevil, flat Earth theorist and stuntman in a limousine, died on Saturday when his jury-rigged gadget pushed onto a steam pillar spiraled through the air and crashed into the sage out of Barstow, California. He was 64 years old.
“It was unsuccessful and deceased,” longtime collaborator Waldo Stakes told the Associated Press, refusing further comment.
It was a tragic end for Hughes, perhaps the most visible and colorful supporter of the theory that the Earth is not a sapphire and emerald globe that revolves around a massive star, but rather a flat plane with a tiny sun on it.
He dedicated the last years of his life to demonstrating theory from a high level.
Hughes recently signed up with Science Channel to document his project on the “Homemade Astronauts” TV show, said the channel, which is part of Discovery.
“Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends in this difficult time. It was always his dream to make this launch, and Science Channel was there to tell about his trip, “said Science Channel.
But a network spokesman would not say if the producers asked him to curb his comment on flat Earth for a channel that has the science in its name – and at least theoretically would like to assure viewers that the Earth is actually round.
In a promotional video before launch, Hughes does not mention his beliefs when explaining why he engaged in his now tragically useless mission.
“It’s to convince people that they can do extraordinary things with their lives,” he said. “Maybe it drives people to do things they wouldn’t normally do with their lives that could inspire someone else.”
So Hughes expressed optimism about the takeoff.
“We look forward to Saturday,” he said.