Fossett Update
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Some more reading for you.....while we count down. Steve will give a media briefing this morning at Northam.
\ by Elevator
Now for some reading..................................................... ...
Round the World of Ballooning
Bud Light Spirit of Freedom, like Steve Fossett’s previous balloon, SoloSpirit, was designed by Don Cameron and built by Cameron Balloons Ltd, of Bristol, England. Both the Bud Light Spirit of Freedom and its predecessor are Rozieres, a type of balloon that uses both helium and hot air to rise. While first designed in the 18th century by Jean Francois Pilatre de Rozier, the Roziere is still considered by experts to be the best choice for long-duration flights. From the gondola to the top of the outer shell, the balloon measures an impressive 180 feet (55m) tall, a 40 foot increase from SoloSpirit. Bud Light Spirit of Freedom also is significantly wider than its predecessor, growing from 60 to 108 feet (33m) in width. The increase in size represents the greatest difference between these two balloons, although a few other small changes, such as a new helium venting system, have been made.
The balloon consists of an envelope, or external shell, constructed of MYLAR, a lightweight fabric with high tensile strength. To make the balloon more resistant to tears, a layer of mesh is imbedded between two layers of MYLAR. This tough outer shell contains the hot air cone as well as two helium gas cells. The hot air cone is found just below the main helium gas cell and above the burner system. Air in the cone is heated by the burner, which then heats the 550,000 cubic feet (15,576m3) of helium in the main gas cell. A second helium gas cell, this one much smaller (containing 22,000 cubic feet, or 623 m3, of helium) is found at the top of the balloon. Known as the top tent, it helps support the fabric at the top of the balloon to allow the ventilation system from the main gas cell to properly vent helium.
Operating the Balloon
The main helium gas cell provides the lift for the balloon and changes in the temperature of the helium will control the balloon’s altitude. Helium balloons, be they for a child’s birthday party or a Round-the-World flight, float because helium is less dense, or lighter, than air. As heat excites the molecules of helium within the gas cell of Bud Light Spirit of Freedom, they push against each other, forcing the gas cell to expand. This expansion further decreases the density of the helium, which then rises, carrying the balloon, and Fossett, with it. Air pressure decreases at higher altitudes because the air itself is less dense (remember that there is less oxygen at higher altitudes); the balloon will rise until the pressure inside the balloon is equal to the pressure outside. The balloon will hover at a stable altitude when these two pressures are equal, that is, when the pressure inside the balloon is the same as the air around it. When the temperature of the balloon decreases, this effect is reversed, causing the balloon to sink as the helium’s density increases.
Fossett may control the balloon’s temperature by using the burner system, situated just below the envelope of the balloon, but the temperature also varies with weather conditions, altitude and time of day. A large shift in temperature occurs, for example, as the sun sets, depriving the balloon of solar heat. To maintain altitude, Fossett (or the Comstock autopilot system, should Fossett be sleeping), will fire the burner to reheat the helium within the balloon. In the morning, when the sun again begins to heat the balloon, helium may be released from the gas valve at the top of the main helium cell. The amount of helium released is minimal compared to the 550,000 cubic feet in the gas cell; no helium is carried for replacement. Rather, Fossett will compensate for the decreased lift later by releasing an equal amount of ballast, a finely divided sand carried on board to allow small adjustments in weight when necessary.
To maintain altitude while sleeping, Fossett can rely on the Comstock autopilot system. Designed by Bruce Comstock, a former Fossett team member, this device measures the pressure and speed of the balloon with external instruments and maintains the balloon at the desired altitude by firing the burner at appropriate intervals. This allows Fossett to rest occasionally, a crucial aspect of the estimated 20 day flight, if successful.
The burner system uses a combination of propane and ethane, which is stored in fuel cells surrounding the outside of the gondola. These cylinders are estimated to provide fuel for 27 days of flight, an improvement over the 22 days of fuel carried during Fossett’s last mission, in the summer of 2001. Because the flame from the burner system can reach extremely high temperatures, a skirt is hung from the bottom of the envelope to protect the MYLAR outer shell from the heat. The skirt is made of NOMEX, a very heat-resistant fabric. In addition to its protection against heat, this skirt also helps shield the flame from cross winds during flight.
Flight and Landing Conditions
Fossett will be spending the duration of his flight in the 7 foot by 5 _ foot by 5 _ foot gondola, constructed from a lightweight composite of Kevlar and carbon and attached to the balloon by steel wires. The gondola is not pressurized, which means that Steve must wear an oxygen mask whenever flying above 10,000 feet. Fossett’s cruising altitude will be 25,000 feet, but even the first day of flight he is expected to reach 20,000 feet, necessitating an oxygen mask throughout the duration of the flight. Two small heaters within the gondola will help maintain the interior temperature between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The gondola is also designed to be seaworthy should Steve need to land in water (a very real possibility since 90% of his predicted flight path will be over water). The interior of the gondola can be sealed against water, while the keel will actually fill with water to help stabilize it in rough seas. The balloon envelope can also be cut away to minimize drag. In addition to the gondola’s sea-faring capabilities, Fossett will be equipped with a four-man life raft, a survival suit, sufficient rations of food and water, and an emergency locator device called an EPIRB (Emergency Position Identifier Rescue Beacon).
Despite all the latest in balloon technology, Fossett, like all balloonists, remains entirely dependent on wind currents to power the balloon. Yet this dependence does not mean that he has no control over the balloon’s direction. The speed and direction of the wind varies with altitude; by adjusting his altitude, Steve can “catch a ride” on a new current and, thereby, change his direction. However, his choices are still limited to the available winds. Accurate predictions of winds, weather, and atmospheric conditions are thus a vital aspect of the flight. This task is the responsibility of the team of meteorologists in Mission Control.
Filed by Ellen Thompson, student writer, Mission Control.
###
Round the World Ballooning Flight and landing conditions
\ by Elevator
Now for some reading..................................................... ...
Round the World of Ballooning
Bud Light Spirit of Freedom, like Steve Fossett’s previous balloon, SoloSpirit, was designed by Don Cameron and built by Cameron Balloons Ltd, of Bristol, England. Both the Bud Light Spirit of Freedom and its predecessor are Rozieres, a type of balloon that uses both helium and hot air to rise. While first designed in the 18th century by Jean Francois Pilatre de Rozier, the Roziere is still considered by experts to be the best choice for long-duration flights. From the gondola to the top of the outer shell, the balloon measures an impressive 180 feet (55m) tall, a 40 foot increase from SoloSpirit. Bud Light Spirit of Freedom also is significantly wider than its predecessor, growing from 60 to 108 feet (33m) in width. The increase in size represents the greatest difference between these two balloons, although a few other small changes, such as a new helium venting system, have been made.
The balloon consists of an envelope, or external shell, constructed of MYLAR, a lightweight fabric with high tensile strength. To make the balloon more resistant to tears, a layer of mesh is imbedded between two layers of MYLAR. This tough outer shell contains the hot air cone as well as two helium gas cells. The hot air cone is found just below the main helium gas cell and above the burner system. Air in the cone is heated by the burner, which then heats the 550,000 cubic feet (15,576m3) of helium in the main gas cell. A second helium gas cell, this one much smaller (containing 22,000 cubic feet, or 623 m3, of helium) is found at the top of the balloon. Known as the top tent, it helps support the fabric at the top of the balloon to allow the ventilation system from the main gas cell to properly vent helium.
Operating the Balloon
The main helium gas cell provides the lift for the balloon and changes in the temperature of the helium will control the balloon’s altitude. Helium balloons, be they for a child’s birthday party or a Round-the-World flight, float because helium is less dense, or lighter, than air. As heat excites the molecules of helium within the gas cell of Bud Light Spirit of Freedom, they push against each other, forcing the gas cell to expand. This expansion further decreases the density of the helium, which then rises, carrying the balloon, and Fossett, with it. Air pressure decreases at higher altitudes because the air itself is less dense (remember that there is less oxygen at higher altitudes); the balloon will rise until the pressure inside the balloon is equal to the pressure outside. The balloon will hover at a stable altitude when these two pressures are equal, that is, when the pressure inside the balloon is the same as the air around it. When the temperature of the balloon decreases, this effect is reversed, causing the balloon to sink as the helium’s density increases.
Fossett may control the balloon’s temperature by using the burner system, situated just below the envelope of the balloon, but the temperature also varies with weather conditions, altitude and time of day. A large shift in temperature occurs, for example, as the sun sets, depriving the balloon of solar heat. To maintain altitude, Fossett (or the Comstock autopilot system, should Fossett be sleeping), will fire the burner to reheat the helium within the balloon. In the morning, when the sun again begins to heat the balloon, helium may be released from the gas valve at the top of the main helium cell. The amount of helium released is minimal compared to the 550,000 cubic feet in the gas cell; no helium is carried for replacement. Rather, Fossett will compensate for the decreased lift later by releasing an equal amount of ballast, a finely divided sand carried on board to allow small adjustments in weight when necessary.
To maintain altitude while sleeping, Fossett can rely on the Comstock autopilot system. Designed by Bruce Comstock, a former Fossett team member, this device measures the pressure and speed of the balloon with external instruments and maintains the balloon at the desired altitude by firing the burner at appropriate intervals. This allows Fossett to rest occasionally, a crucial aspect of the estimated 20 day flight, if successful.
The burner system uses a combination of propane and ethane, which is stored in fuel cells surrounding the outside of the gondola. These cylinders are estimated to provide fuel for 27 days of flight, an improvement over the 22 days of fuel carried during Fossett’s last mission, in the summer of 2001. Because the flame from the burner system can reach extremely high temperatures, a skirt is hung from the bottom of the envelope to protect the MYLAR outer shell from the heat. The skirt is made of NOMEX, a very heat-resistant fabric. In addition to its protection against heat, this skirt also helps shield the flame from cross winds during flight.
Flight and Landing Conditions
Fossett will be spending the duration of his flight in the 7 foot by 5 _ foot by 5 _ foot gondola, constructed from a lightweight composite of Kevlar and carbon and attached to the balloon by steel wires. The gondola is not pressurized, which means that Steve must wear an oxygen mask whenever flying above 10,000 feet. Fossett’s cruising altitude will be 25,000 feet, but even the first day of flight he is expected to reach 20,000 feet, necessitating an oxygen mask throughout the duration of the flight. Two small heaters within the gondola will help maintain the interior temperature between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The gondola is also designed to be seaworthy should Steve need to land in water (a very real possibility since 90% of his predicted flight path will be over water). The interior of the gondola can be sealed against water, while the keel will actually fill with water to help stabilize it in rough seas. The balloon envelope can also be cut away to minimize drag. In addition to the gondola’s sea-faring capabilities, Fossett will be equipped with a four-man life raft, a survival suit, sufficient rations of food and water, and an emergency locator device called an EPIRB (Emergency Position Identifier Rescue Beacon).
Despite all the latest in balloon technology, Fossett, like all balloonists, remains entirely dependent on wind currents to power the balloon. Yet this dependence does not mean that he has no control over the balloon’s direction. The speed and direction of the wind varies with altitude; by adjusting his altitude, Steve can “catch a ride” on a new current and, thereby, change his direction. However, his choices are still limited to the available winds. Accurate predictions of winds, weather, and atmospheric conditions are thus a vital aspect of the flight. This task is the responsibility of the team of meteorologists in Mission Control.
Filed by Ellen Thompson, student writer, Mission Control.
###
Round the World Ballooning Flight and landing conditions
Last edited by Elevator; 14th Jun 2002 at 03:32.
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Steve is in Northam and gave a press conference today .
Tonight a decision will be made as to whether Saturday morning will be the target launch date or to wait until Tuesday or Wednesday next week. All is dependant on favourable weather.
My guess will be Saturday morning about first light. This gives an all round best including spectator numbers and the fact that Steve is itching to go.
All preparation is great at present...running to plan perfectly.
Tonight a decision will be made as to whether Saturday morning will be the target launch date or to wait until Tuesday or Wednesday next week. All is dependant on favourable weather.
My guess will be Saturday morning about first light. This gives an all round best including spectator numbers and the fact that Steve is itching to go.
All preparation is great at present...running to plan perfectly.
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Further to my last post.... a word from Steve..........................
NEWS RELEASE
6/12/2002
Contacts
Judith Jasper Leicht
(314) 935-5408
Donna Kettenbach
(314) 935-5230
Better Prepared than Ever
Steve Fossett speaks to the media in Northam, Western Australia.
NORTHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, JUNE 12, 2002 -- Bud Light Spirit of Freedom pilot Steve Fossett arrived at the Northam Aerodrome in Western Australia this morning, finding all systems ready for launch.
Pleased with the state of preparations, he fielded questions from national and international media, speaking on his motivation to achieve the first solo ‘Round-the-World (RTW) circumnavigation:
“Making this first solo balloon RTW is an important achievement in aviation. It is one I really want to achieve — And I believe I am in a unique position to accomplish this. We are better prepared than we have ever been — I believe we have the team, we have the equipment and we have the ability to succeed.”
With Project Director Tim Cole by his side, Fossett elaborated on this, his sixth solo RTW attempt:
“Why am I trying again? This is so important to me, I’m just not likely to let go.”
Now that Fossett is on site, he will spend his time practicing on flight and communication systems, including onboard camera and audio systems. He and Chief Meteorologist Luc Trullemans, now based in Mission Control at Washington University in St. Louis, are in regular conference looking for an ideal launch window.
“We’re still looking for a ‘green light’ weather pattern. But I’m here and the weather outlook now seems good several times a week, so I will continue my training here until launch.”
Steve Fossett speaks to the media in Northam, Western Australia.
.....Waiting now on whether a launch will be attempted on Saturday morning or not.
Rain and bad weather including heavy rain and strong winds overnight is expected to continue for the next day or so........will keep you posted.
Better Prepared than ever.
NEWS RELEASE
6/12/2002
Contacts
Judith Jasper Leicht
(314) 935-5408
Donna Kettenbach
(314) 935-5230
Better Prepared than Ever
Steve Fossett speaks to the media in Northam, Western Australia.
NORTHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, JUNE 12, 2002 -- Bud Light Spirit of Freedom pilot Steve Fossett arrived at the Northam Aerodrome in Western Australia this morning, finding all systems ready for launch.
Pleased with the state of preparations, he fielded questions from national and international media, speaking on his motivation to achieve the first solo ‘Round-the-World (RTW) circumnavigation:
“Making this first solo balloon RTW is an important achievement in aviation. It is one I really want to achieve — And I believe I am in a unique position to accomplish this. We are better prepared than we have ever been — I believe we have the team, we have the equipment and we have the ability to succeed.”
With Project Director Tim Cole by his side, Fossett elaborated on this, his sixth solo RTW attempt:
“Why am I trying again? This is so important to me, I’m just not likely to let go.”
Now that Fossett is on site, he will spend his time practicing on flight and communication systems, including onboard camera and audio systems. He and Chief Meteorologist Luc Trullemans, now based in Mission Control at Washington University in St. Louis, are in regular conference looking for an ideal launch window.
“We’re still looking for a ‘green light’ weather pattern. But I’m here and the weather outlook now seems good several times a week, so I will continue my training here until launch.”
Steve Fossett speaks to the media in Northam, Western Australia.
.....Waiting now on whether a launch will be attempted on Saturday morning or not.
Rain and bad weather including heavy rain and strong winds overnight is expected to continue for the next day or so........will keep you posted.
Better Prepared than ever.
Last edited by Elevator; 14th Jun 2002 at 03:33.
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WE NOW HAVE CODE RED
Launch status goes to code RED and we now seriously look for a launch window between now and June 17.
My guess, all being well will see a Saturday morning lift off, but that remains to the weather.
JUNE 13, 2002 --
Code RED
through June 17
Current Telemetry
2002-06-07
08:30:00 UTC
Latitude 31° 37.71' S
Longitude 116° 41.36' E
Altitude 152.4 m
Speed 0 km/hr
Heading 0°
Distance 0 km
Duration 0d 00:00:00
more later.......................................................
Launch status goes to code RED and we now seriously look for a launch window between now and June 17.
My guess, all being well will see a Saturday morning lift off, but that remains to the weather.
JUNE 13, 2002 --
Code RED
through June 17
Current Telemetry
2002-06-07
08:30:00 UTC
Latitude 31° 37.71' S
Longitude 116° 41.36' E
Altitude 152.4 m
Speed 0 km/hr
Heading 0°
Distance 0 km
Duration 0d 00:00:00
more later.......................................................
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News Release
“Everything about this flight is going so smoothly,” Padelt said. “Hopefully we’ll have the weather to do it.” Balloon Preparations on their Way
NORTHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, JUNE 12, 2002 -- With weather patterns clearing up for a launch, the Bud Light Spirit of Freedom crew began laying out the balloon today. Over a dozen balloon enthusiasts from Northam and nearby towns in Western Australia helped unload the first few parts of the nine-section balloon at the Northam airstrip.
The balloon, shipped from its factory in Bristol, England, must be sorted out and assembled in several different stages. Today the group worked for four hours and finished about one-fourth of the assembly process.
Once balloon sections are on the ground, they are protected by tarps bordered by sandbags. Getting the balloon ready beforehand saves about ten hours out of what would otherwise be a 24-hour launch day, said Bert Padelt, systems director.
A local security crew will be on site throughout the night to watch the balloon, which is standard procedure for a balloon launch, said Tim Cole, project manager.
Padelt and Cole traveled to Bristol in April and did a twelve-hour run-through of the balloon preparation, which they’ve done for each Fossett flight. Padelt said today’s initial layout went well because he knew the assembly sequence, having practiced and participated in the balloon packing.
Padelt described the process as very involved because of the nine sections. The crew and volunteers worked today on the top tent, a thick covering that insulates and protects the gas valve, he said.
Because everything is moving so efficiently, Padelt expected to have the final sections -- four waist-coats comprising the majority of the balloon -- laid out tomorrow before the forecasted rain, he said.
On launch day, the crew will bring the capsule out from the hangar to the airstrip, affix the tanks, inflate the balloon and look to the skies.
“Everything about this flight is going so smoothly,” Padelt said. “Hopefully we’ll have the weather to do it.”
“Everything about this flight is going so smoothly,” Padelt said. “Hopefully we’ll have the weather to do it.” Balloon Preparations on their Way
NORTHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, JUNE 12, 2002 -- With weather patterns clearing up for a launch, the Bud Light Spirit of Freedom crew began laying out the balloon today. Over a dozen balloon enthusiasts from Northam and nearby towns in Western Australia helped unload the first few parts of the nine-section balloon at the Northam airstrip.
The balloon, shipped from its factory in Bristol, England, must be sorted out and assembled in several different stages. Today the group worked for four hours and finished about one-fourth of the assembly process.
Once balloon sections are on the ground, they are protected by tarps bordered by sandbags. Getting the balloon ready beforehand saves about ten hours out of what would otherwise be a 24-hour launch day, said Bert Padelt, systems director.
A local security crew will be on site throughout the night to watch the balloon, which is standard procedure for a balloon launch, said Tim Cole, project manager.
Padelt and Cole traveled to Bristol in April and did a twelve-hour run-through of the balloon preparation, which they’ve done for each Fossett flight. Padelt said today’s initial layout went well because he knew the assembly sequence, having practiced and participated in the balloon packing.
Padelt described the process as very involved because of the nine sections. The crew and volunteers worked today on the top tent, a thick covering that insulates and protects the gas valve, he said.
Because everything is moving so efficiently, Padelt expected to have the final sections -- four waist-coats comprising the majority of the balloon -- laid out tomorrow before the forecasted rain, he said.
On launch day, the crew will bring the capsule out from the hangar to the airstrip, affix the tanks, inflate the balloon and look to the skies.
“Everything about this flight is going so smoothly,” Padelt said. “Hopefully we’ll have the weather to do it.”
Last edited by Elevator; 14th Jun 2002 at 03:36.
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The balloon is already to go and so is Steve, then the weather decides to get in the way. Saturday is not looking so bright anymore but will keep the fingers crossed. If launch doesn't happen Saturday, we may well have to wait until Tuesday.
COME ON GUY'S GET THE PRAYERS HAPPENING AND SEE WHAT COMES NEXT.
COME ON GUY'S GET THE PRAYERS HAPPENING AND SEE WHAT COMES NEXT.
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Further to my last post and the weather setback, the launch status has been put back to code COLOR=orange]YELLOW[/COLOR] .
The following update for you to read....................................
With preparations improved, Fossett awaits launch
Steve Fossett prepares balloon envelope.
NORTHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, June 13, -- Bud Light Spirit of Freedom pilot Steve Fossett is more confident than ever of becoming the first solo balloonist to fly around the world.
At yesterday’s press conference in Northam, Western Australia he said he and teammates improved several aspects of the flight, which may launch as early as Tuesday or Wednesday next week.
“We will be carrying twice as much oxygen this time,” he said. “So if we have a slow flight, we can deal with it.”
He said the state of preparation improves for each flight and added communication links will be better this time around as well, with more satellite phones backed up and triple redundancy with email.
“Communication is essential because I must communicate with Mission Control at Washington University in St. Louis to get advice from meteorologists about what level to fly at,” he said.
Before arriving at Northam yesterday, Fossett had been training at high altitude conditions at his home in Colorado to reduce his reliance on an oxygen mask during the unpressurized flight. Ever wanting to better prepare himself, Fossett also trained enroute:
“Yesterday as we flew over Hawaii, we turned the altitude up to 11,000 feet instead of the normal 6,000, which helps too,” he said. “If we don’t fly for a week, I will lose all my training and will have to struggle through without the acclimatization. It’s a test of endurance and patience.”
The pilot cited only two downfalls to the flight, which the training can partially eliminate:
“It’s uncomfortable with the oxygen mask and the food is not great, but it’s an important endeavor and I’m willing to make whatever sacrifices I need to do it.”
Now that he is on site, Fossett anxiously awaits the launch.
“I’d like to think I have an exciting life. I plan to enjoy myself and I look forward to another success,” he said. “I get surprised every time I don’t make it. I thought I was going to make it last time but I ran into bad weather over South America.”
With all tests running at 100 percent, according to Project Manager Tim Cole, Fossett and crew members are waiting for word now from Mission Control as to when the Spirit of Freedom can launch.
The following update for you to read....................................
With preparations improved, Fossett awaits launch
Steve Fossett prepares balloon envelope.
NORTHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, June 13, -- Bud Light Spirit of Freedom pilot Steve Fossett is more confident than ever of becoming the first solo balloonist to fly around the world.
At yesterday’s press conference in Northam, Western Australia he said he and teammates improved several aspects of the flight, which may launch as early as Tuesday or Wednesday next week.
“We will be carrying twice as much oxygen this time,” he said. “So if we have a slow flight, we can deal with it.”
He said the state of preparation improves for each flight and added communication links will be better this time around as well, with more satellite phones backed up and triple redundancy with email.
“Communication is essential because I must communicate with Mission Control at Washington University in St. Louis to get advice from meteorologists about what level to fly at,” he said.
Before arriving at Northam yesterday, Fossett had been training at high altitude conditions at his home in Colorado to reduce his reliance on an oxygen mask during the unpressurized flight. Ever wanting to better prepare himself, Fossett also trained enroute:
“Yesterday as we flew over Hawaii, we turned the altitude up to 11,000 feet instead of the normal 6,000, which helps too,” he said. “If we don’t fly for a week, I will lose all my training and will have to struggle through without the acclimatization. It’s a test of endurance and patience.”
The pilot cited only two downfalls to the flight, which the training can partially eliminate:
“It’s uncomfortable with the oxygen mask and the food is not great, but it’s an important endeavor and I’m willing to make whatever sacrifices I need to do it.”
Now that he is on site, Fossett anxiously awaits the launch.
“I’d like to think I have an exciting life. I plan to enjoy myself and I look forward to another success,” he said. “I get surprised every time I don’t make it. I thought I was going to make it last time but I ran into bad weather over South America.”
With all tests running at 100 percent, according to Project Manager Tim Cole, Fossett and crew members are waiting for word now from Mission Control as to when the Spirit of Freedom can launch.
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Deciding to Launch
Weather prediction begins even before Fossett leaves the ground. A successful launch depends on optimal ground conditions, just as a successful flight depends on accurate predictions of atmospheric conditions, be they fair or foul. To launch, Fossett must wait for the combination of low wind speeds (less than 10 knots) and dry weather on the ground, with faster winds in the atmosphere that will carry him as far as the Andes Mountains in South America within the first five-to-seven days of flight. If three days before a potential launch window the forecast shows conditions favorable to reach the Andes within this time frame, the mission will go green, meaning there's a good possibility of launch.
Trullemans wants to reach the Andes in less than a week because this South American mountain range represents roughly the halfway point in Fossett’s journey. Weather forecasts beyond ten days are highly unreliable and cannot be used to plan a flight trajectory. When designating a launch window, Fossett and the launch crew require three days for preparation, leaving only seven days of reliable forecast beyond the launch date. Despite their advanced technology, Trullemans and Dehenauw will have no idea at launch time what obstacles or delays may await Fossett in the second or third weeks of his mission. Before deciding to go up, Fossett and his team must be confident that conditions will allow him to reach the halfway mark within this reliable forecast window. Since the entire flight may take 20 days, reaching the Andes in seven ensures that Fossett will have enough food, fuel and oxygen to complete his journey, even if unexpected delays arise.
And after the Andes? “Adventure!” proclaims Trullemans.
Plotting the Course
Each day of the mission, the ten-day forecast is extended one day further into Fossett’s journey, and the meteorology team must plan accordingly for the next leg of Fossett’s flight. Trullemans and Dehenauw update the flight path every hour, adjusting their trajectory to the changing conditions and “steering” Fossett back on course.
“After two to three hours the balloon is never on the predicted path,” Trullemans explains. “We must put new position information into the model to put Fossett back on track.”
So how does one put a 108-foot balloon coasting with the wind "back on track?" Bud Light Spirit of Freedom, like all balloons, is powered solely by wind currents. Since wind speed and direction often vary with the altitude, Fossett usually can adjust his course by changing altitudes and catching alternate currents. Using the HYSPLIT4, Trullemans and Dehenauw will track all winds in the balloon’s area, first deciding which winds will provide the best trajectory, then advising Fossett on the appropriate altitude to catch this recommended wind. With winds in excess of 70 knots, jet streams offer a route that is attractive but also notoriously difficult to follow because of frequent and rapid changes in direction.
Trullemans makes the analogy to a snake whipping and writhing around the southern hemisphere.
"The jet stream is never in the same place for more than 24 hours," he says. "So even if Fossett catches the jet stream initially, he could lose it."
Rather than chase this snake of wind hopelessly, Trullemans will focus on finding winds in the desired direction, taking advantage of the jet stream when convenient, and only when convenient.
"I am not concerned with the jet stream, but rather with winds in the right direction, " he explains.
Filed by Ellen Thompson, student intern, Mission Control.
###
Weather prediction begins even before Fossett leaves the ground. A successful launch depends on optimal ground conditions, just as a successful flight depends on accurate predictions of atmospheric conditions, be they fair or foul. To launch, Fossett must wait for the combination of low wind speeds (less than 10 knots) and dry weather on the ground, with faster winds in the atmosphere that will carry him as far as the Andes Mountains in South America within the first five-to-seven days of flight. If three days before a potential launch window the forecast shows conditions favorable to reach the Andes within this time frame, the mission will go green, meaning there's a good possibility of launch.
Trullemans wants to reach the Andes in less than a week because this South American mountain range represents roughly the halfway point in Fossett’s journey. Weather forecasts beyond ten days are highly unreliable and cannot be used to plan a flight trajectory. When designating a launch window, Fossett and the launch crew require three days for preparation, leaving only seven days of reliable forecast beyond the launch date. Despite their advanced technology, Trullemans and Dehenauw will have no idea at launch time what obstacles or delays may await Fossett in the second or third weeks of his mission. Before deciding to go up, Fossett and his team must be confident that conditions will allow him to reach the halfway mark within this reliable forecast window. Since the entire flight may take 20 days, reaching the Andes in seven ensures that Fossett will have enough food, fuel and oxygen to complete his journey, even if unexpected delays arise.
And after the Andes? “Adventure!” proclaims Trullemans.
Plotting the Course
Each day of the mission, the ten-day forecast is extended one day further into Fossett’s journey, and the meteorology team must plan accordingly for the next leg of Fossett’s flight. Trullemans and Dehenauw update the flight path every hour, adjusting their trajectory to the changing conditions and “steering” Fossett back on course.
“After two to three hours the balloon is never on the predicted path,” Trullemans explains. “We must put new position information into the model to put Fossett back on track.”
So how does one put a 108-foot balloon coasting with the wind "back on track?" Bud Light Spirit of Freedom, like all balloons, is powered solely by wind currents. Since wind speed and direction often vary with the altitude, Fossett usually can adjust his course by changing altitudes and catching alternate currents. Using the HYSPLIT4, Trullemans and Dehenauw will track all winds in the balloon’s area, first deciding which winds will provide the best trajectory, then advising Fossett on the appropriate altitude to catch this recommended wind. With winds in excess of 70 knots, jet streams offer a route that is attractive but also notoriously difficult to follow because of frequent and rapid changes in direction.
Trullemans makes the analogy to a snake whipping and writhing around the southern hemisphere.
"The jet stream is never in the same place for more than 24 hours," he says. "So even if Fossett catches the jet stream initially, he could lose it."
Rather than chase this snake of wind hopelessly, Trullemans will focus on finding winds in the desired direction, taking advantage of the jet stream when convenient, and only when convenient.
"I am not concerned with the jet stream, but rather with winds in the right direction, " he explains.
Filed by Ellen Thompson, student intern, Mission Control.
###
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Latest News:
Chief Meteorologist Luc Trullemans "has found a hot one", Pilot Steve
Fossett reports. The current projections show the Bud Light Spirit of
Freedom could complete 75% of the trip in 8 days. Inflation of the balloon
would start after final rain showers have past in the early evening, 11 pm
local time on Tuesday 18 June. We are still at Code Yellow until further
weather developments can be analyzed.
Islander Jock and I may well be flying up there later this week after all.
Chief Meteorologist Luc Trullemans "has found a hot one", Pilot Steve
Fossett reports. The current projections show the Bud Light Spirit of
Freedom could complete 75% of the trip in 8 days. Inflation of the balloon
would start after final rain showers have past in the early evening, 11 pm
local time on Tuesday 18 June. We are still at Code Yellow until further
weather developments can be analyzed.
Islander Jock and I may well be flying up there later this week after all.
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Latest News: Code Green- Tuesday Night Launch.
The following was received from Steve Fossett by Mission Control this
morning.
?The sensational RTW speeds appearing in yesterday's forecast are no longer
apparent. However, the speeds are very desirable and we should go for it.
Inflation is planned late evening Tuesday with lift off between 2 am and 8
am Wednesday local time. This follows windy and rainy conditions which
should end by 10 pm Sunday. The forecast is to reach the Andes of South
America in 7 days. Last year it took 11 days to reach the same point, so
this forecast is excellent."
The following was received from Steve Fossett by Mission Control this
morning.
?The sensational RTW speeds appearing in yesterday's forecast are no longer
apparent. However, the speeds are very desirable and we should go for it.
Inflation is planned late evening Tuesday with lift off between 2 am and 8
am Wednesday local time. This follows windy and rainy conditions which
should end by 10 pm Sunday. The forecast is to reach the Andes of South
America in 7 days. Last year it took 11 days to reach the same point, so
this forecast is excellent."
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Elevator,
thanks for the update.
Geez thats tomorrow already
Why does a baloon launch have to occur when it's also the coldest. Brrrrrrrrrrrrr. Its OK I already know.
Took me a week to thaw out after the last one but then it just could be my advancing age and decrepitude.
But I wouldn't miss it for quids.
Oh well off to find those favourite socks, chase the moths outa the swag and flush last years slime outa the Thermos.
If he gets going on time might even get a good days work in.
CU there IJ knows what I look like otherwise I'll be the one with the drool down my front standing gazing at the Citation X.
Why, even fellow PPRuNer Dick Smith will almost certainly be there and I might have the chance to educate him about a few PPRuNe things.
thanks for the update.
Geez thats tomorrow already
Why does a baloon launch have to occur when it's also the coldest. Brrrrrrrrrrrrr. Its OK I already know.
Took me a week to thaw out after the last one but then it just could be my advancing age and decrepitude.
But I wouldn't miss it for quids.
Oh well off to find those favourite socks, chase the moths outa the swag and flush last years slime outa the Thermos.
If he gets going on time might even get a good days work in.
CU there IJ knows what I look like otherwise I'll be the one with the drool down my front standing gazing at the Citation X.
Why, even fellow PPRuNer Dick Smith will almost certainly be there and I might have the chance to educate him about a few PPRuNe things.
I don't want to be the best pilot in the world - Just the oldest
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Gaunty,
I would have offered you a ride up also but I know you have a thing about airframes that are older than 10 years and powered by avgas.
I would have offered you a ride up also but I know you have a thing about airframes that are older than 10 years and powered by avgas.
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IJ
My body is over 56 years old and powered by hope, mostly, so I'm not all that superstitious about aged things.
Thanks for the offer which would have been gladly accepted, except that I need to stay fairly independent so will be taking the Bentley instead.
Look forward to seeing you there, you know what I look like, short balding, Danny de Vito type body etc. Seems to work for him as a babe magnet, I'm still having trouble with some of the settings though, I've got the laughing at me bit going OK, its the other bits I'm having trouble with.
My body is over 56 years old and powered by hope, mostly, so I'm not all that superstitious about aged things.
Thanks for the offer which would have been gladly accepted, except that I need to stay fairly independent so will be taking the Bentley instead.
Look forward to seeing you there, you know what I look like, short balding, Danny de Vito type body etc. Seems to work for him as a babe magnet, I'm still having trouble with some of the settings though, I've got the laughing at me bit going OK, its the other bits I'm having trouble with.
I don't want to be the best pilot in the world - Just the oldest
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Just looking at the metro forecast for tomorrow and it's not good.
Strong winds, showers and risk of TS. Not due to clear until Wednesday.
Given the current outlook I doubt that tomorrow nights planned inflation and lift off will go ahead. Unfortunatlely the Spirit of Freedom website is not updating their status to reflect the local wx too regularly.
Elevator - call me on Tuesday to discuss.
Gaunty - cya up there.
Strong winds, showers and risk of TS. Not due to clear until Wednesday.
Given the current outlook I doubt that tomorrow nights planned inflation and lift off will go ahead. Unfortunatlely the Spirit of Freedom website is not updating their status to reflect the local wx too regularly.
Elevator - call me on Tuesday to discuss.
Gaunty - cya up there.
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Steve Fossett latest
Latest on Steve Fossett's website has him looking for inflation tomorrow night / Wednesday morning and a fairly fast trip roughly over Sydney and Auckland.
Weatherzone ( http://www.weatherzone.com.au ) has the winds over eastern Australia increasing from the west again after the middle of the week and staying that way for 3 or 4 days at least.
If he comes near either of the ballooning capitals in that area I'll be out looking for him as he goes by - Armidale last time was too far away (and too slow) but he'll likely be well past here by the time I get up in the Snowy Mountain wave system on Sunday!)
Stand by for lift-off :o
Weatherzone ( http://www.weatherzone.com.au ) has the winds over eastern Australia increasing from the west again after the middle of the week and staying that way for 3 or 4 days at least.
If he comes near either of the ballooning capitals in that area I'll be out looking for him as he goes by - Armidale last time was too far away (and too slow) but he'll likely be well past here by the time I get up in the Snowy Mountain wave system on Sunday!)
Stand by for lift-off :o
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Latest News From Mission Control: The following was received from Steve
Fossett this morning.
?Launch time is called for 5 am Wednesday (4 pm Tuesday St Louis time).
This is unchanged from yesterday's forecast which reassures us of the
stability of the pattern. The launch team of Tim Cole, Bert Padelt, Dennis
Brown and John Kugler are planning now how to cope with the rainy
conditions during the day of Tuesday--but they will figure out a way to get
the work done. We must not miss this launch opportunity.
The projected route takes a straight path over Sydney, Auckland then makes
some waves over the South Pacific before crossing South America 300 miles
south of Santiago, Chile. If I can stay with this pattern I would reach the
3/4 point after 10 1/2 days.
Steve?
Fossett this morning.
?Launch time is called for 5 am Wednesday (4 pm Tuesday St Louis time).
This is unchanged from yesterday's forecast which reassures us of the
stability of the pattern. The launch team of Tim Cole, Bert Padelt, Dennis
Brown and John Kugler are planning now how to cope with the rainy
conditions during the day of Tuesday--but they will figure out a way to get
the work done. We must not miss this launch opportunity.
The projected route takes a straight path over Sydney, Auckland then makes
some waves over the South Pacific before crossing South America 300 miles
south of Santiago, Chile. If I can stay with this pattern I would reach the
3/4 point after 10 1/2 days.
Steve?
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Just a bit of reading to keep you in the picture.................................Green Light Go Ahead
Fossett and team members prepare to launch
With the weather clearing up in Western Australia, Bud Light Spirit of Freedom pilot Steve Fossett is preparing for a possible launch Tuesday night from Northam.
On the last full day before launch, Project Director Tim Cole and Fossett are conducting final communication tests with Mission Control at Washington University in St. Louis.
Fossett and Cole are also finishing up the burner tests started last week and reviewing the entire system inside the capsule.
“He’s done this many times in the past,” Cole said of Fossett. “Refamiliarizing himself with the layout in the capsule only improves our chances.”
This afternoon Fossett and crew members will discuss how they will pack the capsule, which will be done tomorrow, once it has been moved to its launch location on the airstrip. The weight of a fully-loaded capsule is too much to move, Cole said.
Today the crew will meet at 7 am to review what still needs to be done. Layout of the capsule and equipment will begin at 2 pm, and a media conference will take place at the same time at the Northam hangar.
Cole said the four-hour balloon inflating process would begin at midnight, which will leave the crew one hour of buffer time before the planned launch at 6 am Wednesday.
Cole said he and teammates are very optimistic this morning about the launch but cautioned “there is always a reserved hesitation and nervousness.”
“We want to think everything through and eliminate all potential questions,” he said.
Fossett left Perth this weekend on his plane to do some final reacclimatization in anticipation of this week’s flight.
............
Fossett and team members prepare to launch
With the weather clearing up in Western Australia, Bud Light Spirit of Freedom pilot Steve Fossett is preparing for a possible launch Tuesday night from Northam.
On the last full day before launch, Project Director Tim Cole and Fossett are conducting final communication tests with Mission Control at Washington University in St. Louis.
Fossett and Cole are also finishing up the burner tests started last week and reviewing the entire system inside the capsule.
“He’s done this many times in the past,” Cole said of Fossett. “Refamiliarizing himself with the layout in the capsule only improves our chances.”
This afternoon Fossett and crew members will discuss how they will pack the capsule, which will be done tomorrow, once it has been moved to its launch location on the airstrip. The weight of a fully-loaded capsule is too much to move, Cole said.
Today the crew will meet at 7 am to review what still needs to be done. Layout of the capsule and equipment will begin at 2 pm, and a media conference will take place at the same time at the Northam hangar.
Cole said the four-hour balloon inflating process would begin at midnight, which will leave the crew one hour of buffer time before the planned launch at 6 am Wednesday.
Cole said he and teammates are very optimistic this morning about the launch but cautioned “there is always a reserved hesitation and nervousness.”
“We want to think everything through and eliminate all potential questions,” he said.
Fossett left Perth this weekend on his plane to do some final reacclimatization in anticipation of this week’s flight.
............
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As Rod stewart once said"Tonight 's the night"
Looks like a few fellow PPRuners will trek up tonight and witness the event.
After 1500 hrs today the airfield at Northam will be closed to all traffic except Steve Fosset.
The gondola and all equipment will be taken from the hangar after more exhaustive tests of equipment today and inflation expected to start about midnight. WST
So if nothing more happens in the meantime, you will have to wait until tomorrow for more updates.
Gaunty, wants to put a PPRune official pin on Steve who hopefully will carry a piece of us representing all professional pilots and everyone associated with aviation, a truly memorable occasion.
I'm sure you will all join me in extending all our best wishes, prayers and God speed to Steve on making this the attempt to make it all the way round world and claiming his elusive dream come true. All the very best for your attempt Steve............
I'm going to fly
Launch time is called for 5 am Wednesday. This is unchanged from yesterday's forecast which reassures us of the stability of the pattern. The launch team are planning now how to cope with the rainy conditions during the day of Tuesday--but they will figure out a way to get the work done. We must not miss this launch opportunity.
The projected route takes a straight path over Sydney, Auckland then makes some waves over the South Pacific before crossing South America 300 miles south of Santiago, Chile. If I can stay with this pattern I would reach the 3/4 point after 10 1/2 days.
Steve
Looks like a few fellow PPRuners will trek up tonight and witness the event.
After 1500 hrs today the airfield at Northam will be closed to all traffic except Steve Fosset.
The gondola and all equipment will be taken from the hangar after more exhaustive tests of equipment today and inflation expected to start about midnight. WST
So if nothing more happens in the meantime, you will have to wait until tomorrow for more updates.
Gaunty, wants to put a PPRune official pin on Steve who hopefully will carry a piece of us representing all professional pilots and everyone associated with aviation, a truly memorable occasion.
I'm sure you will all join me in extending all our best wishes, prayers and God speed to Steve on making this the attempt to make it all the way round world and claiming his elusive dream come true. All the very best for your attempt Steve............
I'm going to fly
Launch time is called for 5 am Wednesday. This is unchanged from yesterday's forecast which reassures us of the stability of the pattern. The launch team are planning now how to cope with the rainy conditions during the day of Tuesday--but they will figure out a way to get the work done. We must not miss this launch opportunity.
The projected route takes a straight path over Sydney, Auckland then makes some waves over the South Pacific before crossing South America 300 miles south of Santiago, Chile. If I can stay with this pattern I would reach the 3/4 point after 10 1/2 days.
Steve
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Fossett inflation???
What's going on at Northam tonight???
The web site has a web cam updating about every 5 -190 minutes and showed the bottom half of the envelope half inflated at about 2220 Perth time (0220 UTC).
However the 2250 WST/ 0050 UTC shot shows the bottom end deflated again and about 3 of the team standing around the gondola. I hope they are just testing, or the bubble of helium has moved further up the envelope - but it looks suspiciously like the inflation has been cancelled
Perth TTF is still calling 180/7kt surface winds with forecast overnight around 220/10 - hopefully Northam is less exposed and more likely to settle into overnight inversion. I hope they didn't start too soon and have run into gust problems.
Wombat Too
The web site has a web cam updating about every 5 -190 minutes and showed the bottom half of the envelope half inflated at about 2220 Perth time (0220 UTC).
However the 2250 WST/ 0050 UTC shot shows the bottom end deflated again and about 3 of the team standing around the gondola. I hope they are just testing, or the bubble of helium has moved further up the envelope - but it looks suspiciously like the inflation has been cancelled
Perth TTF is still calling 180/7kt surface winds with forecast overnight around 220/10 - hopefully Northam is less exposed and more likely to settle into overnight inversion. I hope they didn't start too soon and have run into gust problems.
Wombat Too