ADVENTURER Fedor Konyukhov is in Northam to set a new world record.
Mr Konyukhov, 64, arrived in Northam last Thursday and plans to fly his hot-air balloon around the world in less than 13 days.
Depending on weather conditions, he will leave in his 56 metre high balloon from Northam Airfield next month.
The adventure will see him travelling over the Tasman Sea to New Zealand before flying onwards to Chile, Argentina, South Africa and then back to Australia.
Before he departs, he will be in town for the next two months in preparation.
Mr Konyukhov’s eyes are set on beating fellow adventurer Steve Fossett and make a successful circumnavigation of the globe on the first attempt.
It took Mr Fossett six times to complete the task.
The late Mr Fossett departed from Northam Airfield 14 years ago on June 18, 2002.
“I am inspired by Steve Fossett to do the flight,” Mr Konyukhov said.
“This is also to pay tribute to him because what he did was an enormous achievement.”
All equipment for the record attempt will arrive in Northam before June 10.
Mr Konyukhov said given Mr Fossett took off from Northam on June 18, he would like to do the same, weather permitting.
He has the full support of his home country of Russia.
About 20-25 members of the Russian media will come to Northam to cover the attempt, along with about 20-25 other sponsors and partners.
Mr Konyukhov, a Russian orthodox priest, is confident he can make the dream a reality with his combined hot air and gas balloon called ‘Morton’, which is ancient Russian for strong wind.
Mr Konyukhov said he will land somewhere in Australia upon his return to the country.
“You can choose the location for take-off, you cannot choose the location for landing,” Mr Mr Konyukhov said.
Mr Konyukhov is no stranger to battling the elements.
He has climbed Mount Everest, walked to the North and South poles, sailed around the world and rowed across the Pacific Ocean to Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
During his world record attempt, he will have four hours sleep per day.
Mr Konyukhov said the best time to sleep will be from 8am to midday, when the helium in his balloon will expand and reach its ceiling.
During the day he will be using helium, while during the night he will burn propane to maintain his flight level. Mr Konyukhov will also raise money for Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors during his world record attempt.
While preparing for his trip, Mr Konyukhov turned his attention to his home for the next two months.
“Thank you to the people of Northam for the support I am already receiving,” Mr Konyukhov said.
