Fossett on Straight Shot to Chile

Steve Fossett drifted slowly across the South Pacific, at least four days away from the coast of Chile but on the best path available in his quest to become the first person to fly around the world in a balloon alone, according to his control center in St. Louis.

The millionaire former stockbroker had picked up speed and was traveling at 45 to 50 miles per hour at an altitude of 19,500 feet.

Fossett took off from western Australia on Sunday. Over nearly five days, the balloon had gone 5,219 miles. The entire trip should cover 17,000 to 18,000 miles.