22 Apr 2025

After five days in flight, NASA’s super pressure balloon test flight carrying the HIWIND payload has nearly crossed the Pacific Ocean and is on track to reach South America Wednesday, April 23 at approximately 2 p.m. EDT (April 23, 6:00 p.m. UTC).

The stadium-sized, heavy-lift scientific balloon, which launched from Wānaka, New Zealand, April 16 (U.S. Eastern Time) will pass over Chile and Argentina as it continues its globetrotting journey around the Southern Hemisphere’s mid-latitudes.

Throughout all stages of flight, safety is a top priority. Before any land overflight occurs, the balloon’s health and performance of the command-and-control electronics are thoroughly assessed. The forecasted trajectory is also carefully reviewed to identify any potential risks.

To track the flight in real-time, visit Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility’s website here.

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Map of NASA’s super pressure balloon test flight crossing the Pacific Ocean.