Six balloons teams hope that this winter they will be able to grab the elusive prize of being the first to circumnavigate the world by balloon. Returning from last season are Steve Fossett; Per Lindstrand, Richard Branson and Rory McCarthy; and Bertrand Piccard and Wim Verstraeten. Joining them will be Dick Rutan and Richard Abruzzo; Kevin Uliassi; and Bob Martin and John Wallington.
The task at hand is a formiable one. First, the jet stream must be just right. Not a given in any single year. Second, the equipment must hold together and perform under difficult conditions. Third, the participants themselves will have to endure a long flight in cramped quarters, unpleasant conditions, and little rest. The mental and physical stamina of each will be tested.
Balloon Life's Special Report this month focuses on what has gone before and who will be trying again this time. Balloon Life spoke with Bob Rice (Ballooning's Highway Around the World, page16), the most experienced of the long distance balloon flight meteorologist, to learn just how five of the teams plan to make the flight.
In the The Race is On (page 17) a brief profile is presented on each of the six teams. In Past Transglobal Attempts - A Retrospective (page 12) the thirteen previous attempts show the many problems that can hinder a successful flight.
Can it be done? Yes. Steve Fossett demonstrated last January that it is possible with the right conditions and the right equipment. Who will be first? It's your call.
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