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The first thing we do is to check wind direction and speed. This is done by releasing a small helium-filled
balloon and watching the directions it takes as it rises into the sky. |
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After checking the wind and choosing the launch site, we take the basket off the trailer and attach the balloon. |
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Next we lay out the balloon so that it is ready for the first stage of inflation. |
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The first part of the inflation process is called 'cold inflation'. As the name implies, this
involves inflating the balloon with cold air which is pushed in with a petrol-powered fan. |
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Here you can see the balloon begining to take shape. If you look carefully you can see a person at the top
end, or crown, of the balloon. They are holding what is known as the 'crown line' which is used to steady the ballooon during the inflation
process. |
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Inside the balloon are a number of control lines. While we are cold inflating we can get inside the balloon
in order to check that they are all in order and clear of tangles. This shot also gives you a good idea of the size of the balloon -
remember that it is still not fully inflated yet. |
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Almost there... |
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When the balloon is sufficiently inflated we turn off the fan and start to heat the air. |
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Still burning. Here you can see just how powerful the burners are... |
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As the air inside the balloon gets hotter the balloon begins to rise. Here is where the job of the person on the crown line is most important. |
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Now that the balloon is upright it is time to get in. |
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Hop in everyone, time to go! |
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A final big burn... |
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...and off we go! The balloon at last rises into the air. |
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Say 'Goodbye!' to the crew. They will follow with the trailer and pick us up when we land. |
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Hey, we're flying!Check out the view! |
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A balloon will descend as the air inside it begins to cool. However sometimes we will
want to descend more quickly, like when we land, and so there are vents in the top of the balloon that we can open
to let the hot air out. Here you see a picture of the main vent almost fully open. At this stage the balloon is on the
ground and we are letting the air out to deflate. |
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Once all the air has been squeezed out of the balloon we simply squash it all back into its bag and then it is on to a well-earned breakfast. |
