Ground search for Fossett is launched
Dozens of searchers set off into the Nevada backcountry after analysts scanning radar and satellite images spotted possible clues to the whereabouts of adventurer Steve Fossett.
Fossett has been missing since Sept. 3, when he left on what was supposed to be a short solo flight. The formal aerial search by the Civil Air Patrol and Nevada National Guard helicopters ended Sept. 19 after pilots spent more than two weeks scouring an area twice the size of New Jersey.
A new Air Force analysis of radar and satellite images led to this weekend’s ground search, with three Civil Air Patrol planes flying over the mountainous area. Volunteers on the ground planned to continue searching today, said Gary Derks, the state Department of Public Safety official in charge of the search.
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