 Hempleman Adams has his sights set on a new world record |
A British explorer is waiting to take off from Pittsburgh on a second attempt to cross the Atlantic single-handed in a balloon. David Hempleman-Adams's first effort in September last year ended abruptly when the onboard autopilot on the hot air balloon failed.
The 46-year-old from Box, Wiltshire, will face temperatures of -30C in a wicker basket.
"I wanted to have a second attempt at this record - last year we had technical problems - I am confident this year we have every chance to succeed," said Mr Hempleman-Adams.
If successful, the voyage will break the solo world distance record for the AM-08 Roziere class of balloon - one which uses a combination of helium and hot air.
He will have to cope with sleep deprivation, high altitude, temperatures well below freezing and treacherous Atlantic weather conditions.
A decision about where he will land in Europe will be dependent on wind conditions.
Mr Hempleman-Adams will use the voyage to highlight the Special Olympics World Games.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
