Mitchells on the trail: Day 2 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

We got up early early and headed to the balloon field. It was soooo cold and the there was a bit of a breeze. If the wind is over 10 mph's they will call off the show because it is too dangerous for the balloon pilots and riders. We were not sure if you were going to see any balloons this morning, but a little late the balloons lifted off. It was a wonderful sight to see. There were so many balloons!! I have posted a few for you to enjoy.

Dawn Patrol

The Dawn Patrol began at the Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems that allowed them to fly at night. Dawn Patrol pilots take off before sunrise and fly until it is light enough to see landing sites. Fellow balloonists appreciate the Dawn Patrol because they can watch the balloons and get an early idea of wind speeds and directions at different altitudes.

This is the balloon that went up for opening ceremonies. The national anthem was song and the balloon was flying our flag.

Mass Ascensions

One of the biggest events of the fiesta, where all participating balloons launch in two waves, filling the sky with hundreds of balloons at once. Launch directors, also known as “zebras” because of their black-and-white-striped outfits, serve as “traffic cops,” coordinating the launch so balloons leave the field in a safe and coordinated manner.