First carrier landing of a jet aircraft - GIF

[Rangi]

Looks as if he was really close to the end of the deck.

[Toolmaker51]

Looks as if he was really close to the end of the deck.

Being first, devoid of feedback other than speculation on 'how - to". But modern recovery changed very little; goal is catching the 2nd wire. Earlier can result hitting deck edge or bouncing the arresting hook and missing others, along with steep descent. They land full power in case of a miss, that and remaining inertia allow regaining flight for another go-round.