Halde Menteroda NW – Start

Halde Menteroda NW is the northwest-facing launch on the same former potash heap near Sondershausen in Thuringia, at about 482 m, the highest of the heap's four direction-specific takeoffs — this is the one to use in a northwest wind. The heap is active operational land, so flying here comes with special rules and a required first-time briefing from a local club member before anyone flies, under a formal site regulation covering the whole area. The hazard that applies at every launch around this heap is a high-voltage line along the west and north sides — since this takeoff sits right on that side, staying well clear of it matters even more here than at the other three launches. Once briefed, it's a reliable option whenever the wind swings northwest.

Launch & conditions

Northwest-facing launch at about 482 m, the highest of four direction-specific takeoffs around this former potash heap — use it when wind comes from the northwest.

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, close to this particular launch — 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 NW – 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 NW – Start with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.