News / Bristol
Bristol balloons: old and new
Sponsored Feature
Europe’s very first modern hot air balloon was inflated in Bristol on Monday morning to mark 50 years since its first flight.
To celebrate the anniversary, the Bristol Belle was tethered alongside its modern equivalent – the Bristol Energy solar balloon – the first in the world to take passengers on a flight powered by the sun.
is needed now More than ever
The Bristol Belle took its maiden voyage in 2015 as part of the UK’s first European Green Capital, and is an eye-catching, yet very simple demonstration of the power of the sun.
Fancy taking a ride in this unique aircraft yourself? Bristol Energy is giving three lucky couples a once in a lifetime opportunity to fly in the solar balloon during this year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
So how on earth did Cameron Balloons create a balloon that can fly by sunshine? It’s really just a case of simple science. The black and silver balloon is made of light weight polyurethane coated nylon. The black side attracts heat from the sun, heating both its skin and the air inside of the balloon.
The silver side acts as an insulator, preventing that heat from escaping, creating a mass of trapped hot air inside. This is wat makes the balloon rise.
It’s called a ‘hybrid’ as it’s also fitted with propane burners, for when the sun disappears mid-flight (or a Minion decides to eclipse it – but that would never happen…)
The balloon is a fantastic example of carbon neutral innovation, showing that there’s a real willingness to reinvent old technologies with more sustainable alternatives.
How is it controlled? The balloon is fitted with turning vents, so the pilot can rotate it to keep the black side facing the sun. The more the balloon heats up, the higher it can fly. The horizontal speed of a balloon is determined purely by the strength of the wind – what a way to travel!
At Bristol Energy, solar power provides over 10% of the electricity that customers receive on their renewable ‘My Green Plus’ deal.
Want to find out more? Bristol Energy will be at the Balloon Fiesta all weekend: August 10-13, so go and say hello!
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
