Episode Four - World Hot Air Balloon Championship 2010 (19th FAI)

[@supermusic980]

me encantan los gloos aerostaticos los miro desde que soy pequeño

[@crisalynpinazo4230]

How come like half of of the balloons shaped like a football, does that have to do something with speed?

[@AndreyGarin]

Sporting hot air balloons typically have a droplet shape due to the physical laws and principles governing their flight. This shape provides an optimal balance between the volume of the balloon and its surface area, which is crucial for its lift.
The principle behind the flight of hot air balloons involves the buoyant force created by the difference in densities between the heated air inside the balloon and the surrounding air. The droplet shape minimizes air resistance, allowing the balloon to more efficiently penetrate the atmosphere.
Additionally, the droplet shape contributes to an even distribution of stress across the surface of the balloon, making it more stable in flight. This is essential to prevent deformation or even rupture of the material from which the balloon is made, especially during changes in pressure and temperature throughout the flight.

[@DavionAlamaris]

But can a round or a specialty balloon descend like the other balloons?