NASA's Balloon Finally Takes Off In Wanaka

Fifth time lucky and it's finally happened. NASA has finally managed to launch its super pressure balloon in Wanaka. The team has had to abort previous attempts since 1 April at Wanaka Airport. And even though it's been wild weather throughout the country, they've achieved success at last.

Image courtesy of NASA's Wallops Flight Facility

Image courtesy of NASA's Wallops Flight Facility

Image courtesy of NASA's Wallops Flight Facility

Image courtesy of NASA's Wallops Flight Facility

Photo by RNZ's Peter Newport

You can follow its progress here

NASA's programme chief, Debbie Fairbrother, has been monitoring the launch from the States.