Oshkosh 2001 Image Gallery: <br>Day Seven, Picture 22

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • An object initially reported as a UFO was clarified to be an experimental helium balloon.
  • The balloon operates by dumping sand for ascent and venting helium for descent.
  • Piloted by Richard Abruzzo of New Mexico, this specific balloon recently set a duration record for its class, staying aloft for 80 hours.
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“…reported today it was not a UFO, but a balloon…”

This is actually an interesting balloon. This experimental category balloon is filled with helium. The pilot dumps sand overboard to climb, and vents helium from a valve to descent. This balloon, flown by pilot Richard Abruzzo of New Mexico, recently set a duration record for its class of 80 hours aloft.


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