Talk about a job and a half. Over the past several years, we have worked with the Energizer Bunny balloon crew and others from around the country.
This year, we worked with a pilot from Oregon. He flies 'Arky'. This is a balloon in the shape of Noah's ark and there are several animals along with a rainbow.
First we had to spread a tarp on the ground to protect the balloon.
After the balloon has been been spread out, the 'vents' have to be closed. These are openings with velcro that allow for a quick release of the hot air after the balloon has descended. That is what is happening in the picture above.Now, it's time to fill this thing with some air....
Two people hold the 'envelope' open while two gas powered fans blow air into the balloon. After it has been inflated to a decent size, the heat will then be applied. This heat is what causes the balloons to 'stand up' and eventually help it fly.
Here are a couple pictures of the burners heating the inside air, not to mention the air outside, too.
Once the air is sufficiently heated, the balloon will expand to it's full size and be ready to fly.
So, I guess the obvious next picture would be the finished product...
Okay, here is a short video of the balloons...
