So far, I've been able to control descents and climbs to 500 feet per minute, ... Autopilot cannot keep up. Parachute is on in case of envelope rupture. |
So far, I've been able to control descents and climbs to 500 feet per minute. Autopilot cannot keep up. Parachute is on in case of envelope rupture. |
So this is turning into a real classic test for these boats, and we're motivated to get it back. It is a complex test, planning, meteorology and precise sailing all wrapped up together -- and we do expect to see some pretty big winds. |
So while I've been tied up with my balloons and my gliders, I've lost considerable ground in terms of maintaining longevity in sailing records, |
So while I've been tied up with my balloons and my gliders, I've lost considerable ground in terms of maintaining longevity in sailing records. |
Takeoff was a bit scary, to say the least. |
Takeoff was a bit scary, to say the least. I had to use most of the runway to get off the ground. This was particularly hairy, as I couldn't have aborted even if I had wanted to. |
The damage sustained to the wing last week could have been a real setback for 'The Ultimate Flight' record attempt. The repair was a job for experts, and thankfully, we have the best working on this project. |
The first solo nonstop is a grand endeavor, |
The fuel leak is fixed and we believe the worldwide wind pattern is acceptable. I hope to be flying in the morning. |
The good thing about flying solo is it's never boring. |
The impact was really not too serious, |
The next launch attempt will be made on the morning of Wednesday the 8th, at between 06:41 and 07:06 local time (11:41 to 12:06 UTC). |
There is a risk in the takeoff. There is a risk during the flight of running out of fuel or other mechanical failure in an experimental aircraft. |
There's no turning back. It was halfway around the world when I found the fuel problem, ... Not only might the flight not have finished, but I might have gotten the plane stuck somewhere. |