Take Two! Weather set fair for Felix Baumgartner's fresh attempt at supersonic skydive
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Click above to enlarge graphic.
The "extreme athlete" Felix Baumgartner is hopeful that his second attempt at a supersonic skydive over New Mexico can take place on Sunday.
The Red Bull Stratos team meteorologist Don Day said today that the weather forecast is still favourable for launching the 30 million cubic foot balloon then.
“I like what I see on Sunday. It will again be a matter of what happens with the winds on the top (700-800 feet). We may still have to wait and the window will likely be open until 11 a.m. We need to be ready for launch just after sunrise", he said.
This would mean the 55-storey high balloon starting its two-hour ascent around lunchtime on Sunday, with Baumgartner due to jump from the capsule at 36,500m and freefall for more than five minutes. The plan is for him then to parachute the final 15,000m into the desert.
The balloon is so delicate that it can take off only if winds on the ground are 2 mph (3.2 kph) or less.
Graphic: Cath Levett
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments