Halde Menteroda SW – Start

Halde Menteroda SW is the southwest-facing launch on the same former potash heap near Sondershausen in Thuringia, at about 477 m — part of a set of four takeoffs around the heap, each built for a different wind direction, so this is the one to use when the wind is coming from the southwest. As with the other launches here, the heap counts as active operational land, so special rules apply and every pilot needs a first-time briefing from a local club member before flying, under a formal site regulation. The recurring hazard to respect at every launch on this heap is a high-voltage line running along its west and north sides — never fly under it, and only cross it with a genuine safety margin. A useful all-direction training hill once you've had the required orientation.

Launch & conditions

Southwest-facing launch at about 477 m, one of four direction-specific takeoffs around this former potash heap — the one to use when wind comes from the southwest.

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 SW – 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 SW – Start with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.