Halde Menteroda NO – Start

Halde Menteroda NO is the northeast-facing launch on the same former potash heap near Sondershausen in Thuringia, at about 460 m, the lowest of the heap's four direction-specific takeoffs and the one to use in a northeast wind. Like the other three launches on this heap, it sits on active operational land, so flying here requires a first-time briefing from a local club member and following a formal site regulation covering the whole area. The recurring hazard on every side of this heap is a high-voltage line along its west and north sides — never fly under it, and only cross it with a real safety margin. Together, the four Menteroda launches make this a genuinely useful spot regardless of which way the wind is blowing, once you've had the required orientation.

Launch & conditions

Northeast-facing launch at about 460 m, the lowest of four direction-specific takeoffs around this former potash heap — use it when wind comes from the northeast.

Getting there & local rules

A first-time briefing from a local club member is required before flying, since the site sits on active operational land with its own formal site regulations.

Local rules & hazards

A high-voltage line runs along the west and north sides of the heap — never fly under it, and cross it only with a real safety margin.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Halde Menteroda NO – Start, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Halde Menteroda NO – Start with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.