Most people have witnessed a hot air balloon gently soaring through the air. However, how many people have stopped to think about how hot air balloons actually work? What looks to be effortless magic at work is actually the result of simple science, allowing travelers to enjoy panoramic views as they drift through the air.
Compass Balloons in Temecula employs a team of hot air balloon experts and pilots, with decades of combined experience. If you’re interested in seeing how a hot air balloon works up close and personal, contact Compass Balloons for a mesmerizing tour through Temecula’s valleys by calling (760) 704-7407.
How Do Hot Air Balloons Work?
The key to how a hot air balloon works is a simple and well-known scientific fact: hot air rises. Anyone who has ever had a bedroom on the second floor of a building during a heatwave can attest to that fact. Therefore, in order for a hot air balloon to work, fire is used to heat the air inside of the balloon so that it is warmer than the cold air outside of the balloon. This results in the balloon floating upwards. Some balloons may also have a small compartment filled with hydrogen gas or helium to aid its flight. While it may sound simple, it is nevertheless effective, as hot air balloons have been navigating the skies for close to 240 years.
Can You Control a Hot Air Balloon?
Experienced pilots, like the ones employed by Compass Balloons, can control the path of a hot air balloon. Doing this requires advanced knowledge of the direction of the wind, as pilots cannot just “steer” a hot air balloon in the direction they choose. Instead, pilots travel up or down to catch a different air stream, as the wind tends to blow in different directions based on the altitude.
Pilots are also able to easily rotate a hot air balloon so that passengers can get a full panoramic view of the beautiful landscape around them.
How Does a Hot Air Balloon Land?
A hot air balloon will land as soon as the pilot finds a good, clear, and safe space to land. When the pilot has identified where they will land, they will release a vent at the top of the balloon so that the hot air can begin to escape. This will bring the balloon slowly down to the ground. As the hot air balloon approaches its final landing, things may get a little bumpy for passengers. However, there is no cause for concern, as this is the standard landing procedure.
How Is a Hot Air Balloon Lifted From the Ground?
A hot air balloon is lifted from the ground by the pilot aiming a flame into the mouth of the balloon, filling it with hot air. As it fills with hot air, the balloon will slowly lift off the ground.
How Dangerous Are Hot Air Balloons?
Hot air balloons are very safe, with little risk for travelers. Accidents are incredibly rare, as technological advances over the last couple of decades have removed any imminent threat of danger from a hot air balloon ride. A 2016 study found that over a 12 year period, only 78 hot-air balloon crashes and 5 fatalities occurred. When compared to the number of car crashes that occur on a regular basis, that number is incredibly low.
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Temecula, CA with Compass Balloons
Hot air balloons are truly an amazing way to see the natural beauty our world has to offer. At Compass Balloons in Temecula, CA, we only employ the most experienced hot air balloon pilots. Our pilots are certified experts at steering a hot air balloon, using incredible precision to safely give customers an incredible and memorable experience.
If you are interested in learning more about how hot air balloons work or would like to schedule a hot air balloon tour in Temecula, contact Compass Balloons today by calling (760) 704-7407.
