How does a hot-air balloon control its path?

Answer 1

In the air, the balloon is at the mercy of the wind. The balloon rises because the hot air in the balloon is less dense than the surrounding air. Pilots will often pick cool mornings or evenings to fly in order to take advantage of the cooler air.

The pilot does have a couple of options available to him or her. By increasing or decreasing the air temperature in the balloon, the pilot can gain or lose altitude respectively. This in itself isn't going to turn the balloon around, but it is possible that the wind direction near the earth may be slightly different than that at five thousand feet. So by changing your altitude, you in effect change the which 'river of air' you are floating along. But in all practicality, rising or descending by thousands of feet to angle to the right by a few degrees is not effective.

The best thing one can do is simply choose a location and day when the wind is right. If your target landing area is to the northeast and the wind is blowing west to east, simply lauching from a location further north is more likely to place you near your target.

Answer 2

I agree with the first two answers. I used to work on a Hot Air Balloon Chase Crew. The Balloon goes where the wind takes it.

Answer 3

The only control on a balloon is up and down, direction is completely determined by wind direction.

Answer 4

It doesn't! A hot air balloon is at the mercy of the wind. You can only control it's up and down movement. A balloonist has to pick a spot directly down wind to land in, so he must plan and start a descent well before he gets to the spot he wants to land in.

Answer 5

It cannot control the direction of travel. It is blown by winds aloft. It can only control up and down movement by heating the balloon air or by letting the air cool.

Answer 6

every one stands on one side of the basket and farts

Answer 7

With wieghts.