Kris Tynski was on his way home from work in Cape Breton when he spotted a white dot soaring above. Intrigued, he captured the sight with his camera, revealing a peculiar flying object that resembled a hot air balloon.
The aircraft, known as the Atlantic Explorer, differs from traditional hot air balloons as it operates on hydrogen gas instead of requiring a heat source for lift. This unique feature allows the Atlantic Explorer to remain airborne for extended periods.
The Atlantic Explorer, manned by three pilots, is embarking on a historic journey to cross the Atlantic Ocean. If successful, they will achieve the remarkable feat of being the first to cross the Atlantic in an open-basket gas balloon utilizing hydrogen for lift.
Departing from Presque Isle, Maine, the team has already flown over various locations such as New Brunswick, P.E.I., Cape Breton Island, and Newfoundland, en route to their planned landing in Europe. The ambitious voyage is anticipated to last approximately six days.
Kevin Stass, overseeing flight control for the mission, highlighted the unpredictability of the landing location due to factors like wind conditions and remaining ballast. Emphasizing the thrill of ballooning, he noted the excitement of not knowing the exact landing spot.
The trio of pilots, Bert Padelt, Peter Cuneo, and Alicia Hempleman-Adams, are sharing a compact aluminum-frame basket during the expedition. Padelt, the creator of the balloon, has harbored a lifelong dream of crossing the Atlantic in his own balloon. Cuneo brings decades of experience in competitive balloon races, while Hempleman-Adams boasts numerous ballooning world records.
As the balloon continues its transatlantic journey, interested individuals can track its progress on the Atlantic Explorer website.
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