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July 12, 2016: Russian adventurer Fedor Konyukhov took off in his hot-air helium balloon just after 7.30pm on July 12.
After several false starts, perfect weather conditions met Mr Konyukhov with temperatures zero degrees at midnight.
Russian media and curious locals gathered at the Northam Air Field to witness the attempt.
Mr Konyukhov hopes to fly his hot-air balloon around the world in less than 13 days.
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.
Early on July 12, Morton, the name of his balloon, had a small tear which was restitched prior to launch.
Speaking to The Avon Valley & Wheatbelt Advocate in the lead up to his attempt, Mr Konyukov said he was inspired by the late Steve Fossett who 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.”
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.
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.
