Aeronaut in the Spotlight: Soaring with Bert Padelt

In the enchanting realm of ballooning, where dreams soar as high as the skies themselves, Bert Padelt’s name resonates with innovation and adventure. Padelt’s ballooning odyssey commenced in the late 1980s when he crafted his first gas balloon. An accomplished balloon pilot himself, Padelt has introduced a dazzling array of balloons, each destined for epic […]
“I feel humbled and honored to fly with Bert Padelt,” Sir David Hempleman-Adams

In an insightful interview with Sitara Maruf, illustrious British explorer, aviator, and trailblazer, Sir David Hempleman-Adams, emphasized the invaluable role played by dedicated teams throughout his endeavors and offered his unique perspective on the world of exploration. Beyond his adventures, he passionately discussed his philanthropic initiatives and the guidance he imparts to young enthusiasts, inspiring […]
Sir David Hempleman-Adams: Epic Exploits from Poles, Peaks, to Oceans and Skies.

In the world of exploration and aviation, Sir David Hempleman-Adams is a pioneer and modern-day adventurer who has etched his name in the annals of history. Born on October 10, 1956, this British adventurer has set the bar high, shattering records and pushing boundaries in the realms of lighter-than-air flight, mountaineering, polar exploration, and sailing. […]
Bert Padelt Talks About His Atlantic Explorer Balloon

Acclaimed US balloon manufacturer and balloonist Bert Padelt talks with Sitara Maruf about the Torabhaig Atlantic Explorer Gas Balloon which he will copilot with Sir David Hempleman-Adams, a renowned British explorer and balloonist. Dr. Frederik Paulsen, a Swiss explorer, scientist, and entrepreneur who sponsors the flight, will also join them on this epic journey. They […]
Balloonists Aim to Cross the Atlantic in a Hydrogen Balloon

In an audacious endeavor, three seasoned adventurers are gearing up for an epic journey across the Atlantic Ocean in a hydrogen gas balloon. If the weather permits, this September, October, or perhaps later, the Torabhaig Atlantic Explorer gas balloon, co-piloted by Sir David Hempleman-Adams and Bert Padelt, will take off in the first ever flight […]
First Spaceman Joe Kittinger Leaves a Great Legacy

Retired US Air Force Colonel Joe Kittinger’s contributions to aerospace and humanity will always remain legendary. The dauntless test pilot, space pioneer, brave balloonist, war veteran, high skydiver, parachutist, and a true American hero passed away on 9th December 2022 after a battle with lung cancer. He was 94. Kittinger was a great believer in […]
Largest Ballooning Event Marks 50 Years

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (AIBF) is a festival of hot air balloons that takes place in October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. This year is very special as more than 650 balloonists from the United States and 21 other countries will gather to celebrate the 50th International Balloon Fiesta from 1st to 9th October 2022. Since […]
Invention of the Hot Air Balloon

Joseph-Michel Montgolfière was born on 26th August 1740. The Montgolfières had 16 children, and Joseph was their 12th child. Joseph had great opportunities to study and contribute to the flourishing family business, but he did not like school or work. His parents owned the well-known Montgolfière paper manufacturing company in Annonay, France. Though Joseph was […]
How Was Gas Ballooning Revived in America?

In the world of exploration and aviation, Sir David Hempleman-Adams is a pioneer and modern-day adventurer who has etched his name in the annals of history. Born on October 10, 1956, this British adventurer has set the bar high, shattering records and pushing boundaries in the realms of lighter-than-air flight, mountaineering, polar exploration, and sailing. […]
The English Channel Flight That Brought Hot-Air Ballooning to the World

This “English Channel Crossing” story features America’s two legendary balloonists, the late Mr. Ed Yost (30 June 1919 – 27 May 2007), who is known as the father of the modern hot-air balloon, and the recently deceased Mr. Don Piccard ( 13 Jan. 1926 – 13 Sep. 2020), another pioneer and a passionate promoter who […]