Brasília has the perfect task flying area, it is located over a plateau at 1,000mts ASL, with flatlands and landing areas almost everywhere. There are paved roads around most of the waypoints, which also have flat and clear landing areas.
Even if we have some alternative goals, the main one is going to be the “Esplanada dos Ministérios”, because it is close to the Headquarters, within minutes from the hotels and it provides an excellent opportunity for media exposure.
Launch Sites
The launch site is a little over a one-hour drive from Brasilia, exactly 92km, with 85km of asphalt and only 7km on a flat dirt road. All the roads in Brasilia are suitable for private or rental cars; most of the roads are paved and, those that are not, are in good enough condition so that any small or economy car can easily drive on it.
The launch site works with NE/E/SE winds, it is located on a high plateau so there are no mountains to drive up to; all types of cars have easy access to the launch area with plenty of space for parking.
The local regulations will set the takeoff limit for 40 km/h of constant wind and 52 km/h of gusts, measured on the ramp at man’s height.
Weather
August is the driest month of the year, averaging lows around 15% humidity and temperature ranging from 30°C during the day down to 16°C on chilly nights. Cloudbase normally lies between 2,500mts and 3,500mts ASL.
The best time of day to open the launch window is around noon, with good thermals to help pilots stay in the air. The thermals start weakening around 5:00pm, allowing a window of 4 to 5 hours for the tasks to be flown.