The hot air balloon is the journey from yesterday to today. The first aircraft that allowed man to fly and that today has become a real attraction for those seeking leisure and adventure. But what has been its path until today, and most importantly, how does it work?

It was in 1709, in a hot August, when Bartolomeu de Gusmao showed in the house of Indies of Lisbon a small air rise of a balloon with hot air. At that time it was an unmanned flight, but it was already a striking demonstration of what was to come.


History



1783, France and the Montgolfier brothers . A linen balloon, with paper cover. A source of fire and the first three passengers: a duck, a sheep and a rooster . The flight lasted about 15 minutes and moved for 2 kilometers acquiring 1830 meters high.

And in 1999 the turned the world in globe was given. Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones toured 46,759 kilometers in 19 days.

All this chronological journey shows a notorious evolution over the years, until reaching today, where the aerostatic globe has become an almost vintage element . A device that has changed its functionalities in a way, but not its pull, since it is one of the most demanded activities. But do you really know how how it works ? We explain it to you, so that both adherents and distrustful fall in love with their charm.

  • the materials
The balloons are currently manufactured with impermiable synthetic material , so that they resist without problem the high temperatures to which it is subjected from inside. Temperatures caused by the propane burners , the gas used for a routine flight. Other elements, such as helium are used for longer trips.


in the air



For the crew we have the basket , manufactured with Junco . In general, its capacity does not exceed the 6 people , although the largest globe can today house up to 32 people.

Other instruments that are usually carried on board are a compass, maps and radio.

  • inflation

Inflated

Globe inflation is Divide into two parts. In the first one the balloon is raised on the ground and introduced cold air thanks to a huge fan. It will be below when the propane burner, located in the mouth of the globe, insuffle hot air in the wrapping itself, which will make the globe take shape and straighten.

All this process, of some 30 minutes , is carried out with the balloon well tied to the ground to takeoff, which will be slow and soft.


Tumbadas



  • In the air
Once in the air, the pilot can decide to raise the burn to the balloon that supply more hot air. If the opposite is desired, that is, descend, we will only have to wait for to lose its temperature or open a valve that we will find at the top and that It will quickly release the same. In general, the fuel that is supplied is calculated depending on the time we want to be flying.

On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that the balloons are not airships because mercy is move desired air Strong>


in the sky



A balloon trip is the most quiet and relaxed and is usually done in open places, where to enjoy the best panoramic views. In addition, winter can be done at any time, being the most conducive winter, as less propane is consumed, which favors longer flights.

So, and now that we know this fantastic aircraft a little more closely, What do you expect to fly? Choose the place you like or the reason, because it is ideal for special occasions, and approach to heaven. Fly!