Nasa has scheduled a last ditch attempt to launch its super pressure balloon from Wānaka on Friday.
Nasa’s super pressure balloon last took flight from Wanaka in 2017. Photo: Supplied: NASA/BILL RODMAN
Poor weather conditions have thwarted Nasa's mission to launch the two-and-a-half tonne, football stadium sized balloon for the past few weeks, including one attempt planned for Thursday.
Nasa Balloon Program Office chief Debbie Fairbrother said the final, sixth launch attempt was planned for Friday morning.
"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.
"At this time, it appears as though the high pressure will be well set up in the area for one final launch attempt for this year's 2022 Wānaka Campaign."
It it went ahead, she said lift-off was scheduled between 8am and 11.30am.
Flight preparations would start in the early hours of Friday including weather monitoring.
The Nasa team would pack up its 2022 Wānaka Campaign if it was unsuccessful, she said.
"We're hopeful that everything will align for this final attempt."
The public will not be allowed at Wānaka Airport for the launch attempt, but the balloon would be visible for kilometres after take-off.
For locals, the best viewing points would be on the hill on the Hawea side of the Red Bridge by Kane Road or on the Hawea Flat side of the Clutha River.
A live feed of the launch would be available online.