A meteorological observer releases a hot air balloon to measure temperatures at the the 5,040-meter-high base camp of Mt. Qomolangma, or Mt. Everest known in the West, April 29, 2008. The precise date of the ascent of the Beijing Olympic flame to the world's highest peak will be decided by the weather conditions.

China Meteorological Administration staff members pose for a group photo at the the 5,040-meter-high base camp of Mt. Qomolangma, or Mt. Everest known in the West, April 29, 2008. The precise date of the ascent of the Beijing Olympic flame to the world's highest peak will be decided by the weather conditions.

Two meteorological observers collect weather data at the the 5,040-meter-high base camp of Mt. Qomolangma, or known as Mt. Everest in the West, April 29, 2008. The date to "The reserve flame will be taken to the summit in May, and the precise date of the ascent will be decided by the weather conditions."

Two meteorological observers release a hot air balloon to measure temperatures at the the 5,040-meter-high base camp of Mt. Qomolangma, or Mt. Everest known in the West, April 29, 2008. The precise date of the ascent of the Beijing Olympic flame to the world's highest peak will be decided by the weather conditions.

(Xinhua News Agency April 30, 2008)