Work goes on

The steam car has encountered a number of technical challenges since arriving in the U.S., including problems with sensors, water filter, and boilers that needed to be replaced. In addition, in late July the team had to be sure to be off the wide-open lake bed because there was a chance the Space Shuttle would need to land there. (It didn't.)

Wrote Wales on August 5: "Today had to be the worst day for the team's morale as we had high expectations of a good run. There was a huge full moon setting over the lakebed as we arrived. I was strapped in to the car and waited for it fire up, which she did with a sense of purpose, but I could feel and see the burners cutting in and out intermittently. We had a blocked miser, which hasn't happened since Thorney Island. After carrying out several successful runs, it was hugely disappointing for us all...

"We then had another issue to contend with, battling a very strong and hot wind. We took down all the tents to save them from being blown away; the mechanics were working without shade or shelter, which was a thoroughly unpleasant experience. It was a tough day."