is the absence of wind at take off an indication for quiet, non turbulent, conditions in the air ?

I you are standing at the take off site and you've had very quiet conditions for some time, can you then rely, up to a certain extent, that your flight (in the vicinity) will be quiet also ? Even if the clouds look threatening. Or can you, at least, presume you're not gone get very heavy conditions in the air ? Please let me have your opinion. Rgds.

Still-air conditions at launch may be the result of local micro-weather conditions, and terrain features. For instance, the launch site could be in a rotor. Any thermals could have detached from the hill further down the slope and be 'out in front'. Gust fronts (from threatening clouds) have very sharp edges.

In short, you should never rely upon conditions at launch being the same as the air you're going to be flying in, and definitely not the same as at the LZ.

Damn straight Floyd. It also depends on the time of day with it more likely to be quieter in mornings and afternoons. You can feel it. Air can skim down the side of a valley and slide right over your position making it real light wear you are. Clouds are a good indicator of activity. But that could be smooth strong lifting air which is the best air to be in. <g>