Stop by the station in Madras and introduce yourself and welcome Peter to Central Oregon. Balloonists greatly appreciate generous landowner hospitality and strive to maintain good relationships. Without it, balloonists would not be able to share the beauty of their sport. The balloon flights will take place early in the morning to take advantage of the soft morning breezes, which are the only source of steering. A skilled pilot will read the winds at different altitudes and choose the wind to take the balloon and its passengers to a desired location.
Heat is added to raise the balloon, which descends as the air inside cools.
The insulation value of the fabric is poor and permits natural cooling. Maneuvering vents can be opened to allow air to escape for a faster rate of descent, or empty the balloon at the conclusion of a flight. The thin nylon fabric of the balloons will last many extra hours if the balloon does not land on an abrasive surface such as pavement. Landings are targeted for areas near the edges of fields and roads. Every attempt is made to prevent landings in the center of a field, and if possible the balloon is guided down wind to the edge of the field prior to touchdown.