Back to code red for Fossett

No departure this week on round the world record attempt

After consulting with his meteorological team, Steve Fossett advised his crew Sunday morning that there would be no departure on their round the world record attempt this week.

"The weather for a potential start about 15 January has failed," said Fossett. "This is disappointing because that start date looked good on all the long term forecasts for the past week. But now a low is forming southwest of Ireland. This will push the center of the High Pressure into the coast of Portugal, resulting in virtually no wind.

"We had completed all preparations - even to the point of loading the food onto the boat. Now we will unpack and resume training, with a combination of day-sailing and physical conditioning on shore.

"The next departure date being considered is 26 January. However, on such a long range forecast, we will be prepared for the possibility for a favorable weather change in the week preceding 26 January."

To read our interview with Steve Fossett about his forthcoming attempt - click here