The fifth launch attempt scheduled for today was cancelled due to unacceptable wind conditions.
Nasa’s balloon program office chief Debbie Fairbrother said surface and upper-level winds above 10 knots were the reasons behind today’s cancellation.
“A high-pressure system that would have brought the exact wind conditions we need didn’t arrive in time for today’s launch attempt,” she said.
Upcoming campaigns in Sweden and the United States has meant Friday’s scheduled launch will the be the sixth and final launch attempt in Wanaka.
“We’re hopeful that everything will align for this final attempt,” Ms Fairbrother said.
The final launch is scheduled to lift off between 8 and 11.30am, May 27.
If lift off does happen on Friday, locals have been encouraged to not visit the airport.
Optimal locations for safe viewing can be found on the Wanaka Airport's social media channels.
- By Aspen Bruce
