Michel Fournier's team members are early risers

It seems that for all potential launches in the past, morning proved the most promising time. I am not an expert at this, but there is always this moment when the winds die down at the end of the night, a time which lends itself to launching these giant balloons. Pictured above is the original launch crane. You see how it is holding Michel's pressurized gondola. We will talk about the actual launch process later on.

Meanwhile, in the original hangar, team members prepare for the launch.

In order for Michel's world records to be officialized, the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) had sent Michel Jara and Therese Tercier (right) to act as judges in 2002. They are seen here inspecting the measurement instruments. Therese is back in Saskatchewan again this year. She told me two days ago that she hopes this is the right attempt for Michel.

As the launch appears imminent, the huge wooden crate containing the balloon is pulled out of the hangar.

André Turcat has an early morning conversation with Michel.

The mood remains jovial even as it appears the wind is rising to levels which might prevent the anticipated launch attempt.

At Michel's request I had made arrangements for area emergency personnel to be on standby.

Finding a helicopter to get to Michel quickly after the jump proved a little more challenging. Fortunately, the ever resourceful Thierry Reverchon managed to track one down at the last minute.

Michel and I posing for the occasion.

It looks like this morning will not be the one. If you look closely in the background above the truck pulling the balloon, you will see that the small tethered balloons are pulling away because of the wind.

Here we see Dr. Paul Vanuxen (left) looking on alonside Michel. he played an important part in developing the scientific contributions of Michel's project.

It looks like the gondola is heading back to the hangar this time.