Appendix F. Radiosonde/Unmanned Free Balloon Flights

F-1. NWS RADIOSONDE/UNMANNED FREE BALLOON FLIGHTS

Use the procedures in this appendix for National Weather Service (NWS) radiosonde balloon releases.

F-2. NWS RADIOSONDE BALLOON RELEASES

a. Issue as Aeronautical Information at least 30 minutes prior to the release of a NWS radiosonde balloon under the following conditions:

1. Delayed Release. A radiosonde balloon that will be released later than the scheduled times of 1130 or 2330 UTC.

2. Special Observations. A release that will be made at times other than those specified for the scheduled observations (1130 or 2330 UTC).

b. The Aeronautical Information must contain the following information:

1. The balloon release time.

2. The time the balloon is expected to reach 10,000 MSL, using an average rate of climb of 800 feet per minute.

c. The locations of radiosonde balloon release points are listed in the Chart Supplements.