Massive when inflated, the hot air balloon is launched! |
LAUNCH A HOT AIR BALLOON
BIG HOT AIR BALLOON NIGHT LAUNCH AT PINGXI
Pipe mounted folded balloon lantern ready for prepping |
This eventful night launch was joined by film TV crews and Chinese models to pre-launch the special festival which was attended by thousands of participants and spectators. Many small stores dotted the long winding line of commercialism, selling food, lanterns, toys and souvenirs as walkways were packed with people.
Postcard artwork matched actual scene |
Credits & special commemorative stamps |
It generally takes 2 people or more to hold the balloon. Then, let go, and the balloon rises to reach a maximum altitude. At fuel extinction, it continues to rise and gain altitude as long as the air remains hot. These hot air balloons rise so high they become a fire-lit point like a star floating across the sky.
The balloon has lofting power and one could attach a camera as a payload or other scientific instruments, though retrieval could be complicated if the balloon lands over the lake or at night.
Postcard art showing simultaneous launches |
80 page book featuring Lantern Festival |
All hot air balloon photos shown are hand held captured with iPhone 5's camera in HD. Project cost was around $11.00. ($3 hot air balloon, $2 artwork, $6 Railway & MRT transportation to Pingxi)