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ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, JUNE 27, 2002, 2:00 p.m. CDT (JUNE 27, 2002, 19:00 UTC)
Bud Light Spirit of Freedom is high-tailing it across the Atlantic at 99 miles per hour (160 km per hour)! With Steve Fossett at the helm, the balloon is dipping south and preparing to swing north again within about 24 hours. This path will follow the high-speed winds of the jet stream toward South Africa. Meteorologist David Dehenauw is forecasting conditions near the Horn of Africa to prepare for Fossett's passage. He reports a chance of thunderstorms that Steve may have to dodge between or fly over -- at heights up to nearly 26,000 feet (7920 meters). This will require much oxygen, fuel, and endurance -- but both the equipment and the pilot are ready and up to the challenge.

Bud Light Spirit of Freedom is currently at 23,000 feet (7,010 meters) and cruising at a heading of 108 degrees. It is located at 60 degrees south, 40 degrees west. Having traveled 10,683 miles (17,193 km), Fossett is 56% finished with his journey.

.........Westy....