Early risers in

may have spotted an unusual protest of the

if they checked the skies about 6:30 this morning.

Members of Greenpeace launched a blimp-like aircraft from a field along Million Dollar Highway to bring attention to the coal-burning power plant along River Road. The Environmental Protection Agency and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection say

.

The aircraft, which is approximately 100 feet long and 40 feet tall, had the words "If you can read this, you are breathing coal pollution" printed on its left side. Pilots said they flew within 700 feet of the plant for about a half hour before landing about 7:15.

The group had launched the hot-air aircraft Tuesday and Wednesday mornings as well, but aborted the flights shortly after takeoff due to visibility problems on the ground. Township officials said Wednesday they are

for launching the airship in a residential area.

Fallon said no township officials had reached out to Greenpeace about the possible problem. Molly Dorozenski, another spokeswoman, apologized to anyone who may have been disturbed by the propane tanks used to heat the air for the flight.