Sky of Color: The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Every October, the sky over Albuquerque, New Mexico, transforms into a vibrant canvas filled with hundreds of colorful hot air balloons. Known as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, this world-famous nine-day event attracts pilots and spectators from all around the globe. During mass ascensions, hundreds of balloons lift off into the crisp morning air at the same time, creating a breathtaking display of color and design against the desert horizon.
Have you ever wondered how these giant aircraft fly without an engine? The secret lies in a fundamental rule of science: warm air rises while cool air sinks. A hot air balloon consists of three main parts: the envelope (the massive fabric balloon), the burner (the heat source), and the basket (where the pilot and passengers stand). When the pilot ignites the burner, it shoots powerful flames into the open mouth of the envelope. As the air inside the envelope heats up, it expands and becomes lighter and less dense than the cooler air surrounding the balloon. This difference creates an upward force called lift, allowing the massive balloon to gently rise into the sky. To descend, the pilot simply lowers the burner flame, allowing the trapped air to cool, or pulls a cord that opens a small vent at the top of the envelope to release hot air.
- envelope:
- The massive fabric balloon section that holds heated air.
- burner:
- The heat source that produces flames to heat the air inside a balloon.
- basket:
- The open container suspended beneath the balloon where the pilot and passengers stand.
- dense:
- Having parts packed closely together; heavier for its size.
- descend:
- To move downward or lower toward the ground.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1Where and when does the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta take place?
- 2What happens during a mass ascension at the Balloon Fiesta?
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About this informational passage for Upper Elementary
“Sky of Color: The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta” is a informational reading passage about Hot Air Balloons and the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, written for Upper Elementary. It takes about 3 minutes to read (433 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.