Balloons and Thermals

Instrument to provide the height of the balloon above sea level.

An aircraft that uses lighter-than-air gas for its lift, with no built-in means of horizontal control.

The heat source for filling the envelope with hot air.

To rise or float on the surface of water or within the atmosphere.

The top of the hot-air balloon's envelope. 

The main body of the balloon, usually made of nylon, that is filled with lighter-than-air gas.

The wicker basket that hangs below the envelope. It's used to carry passengers and propane tanks. 

One of several vertical panels that make up the envelope.

The last name of the two French brothers who created the first successful manned hot-air balloon in 1783. 

A panel in the top of the balloon's envelope that allows it to be deflated.

(When a larger area of deflation is needed, some balloons are equipped with a rip panel.)