What is the cost to have the Brain Balloon at my event?

The cost of having the Brain Balloon at your event varies based upon distance traveled from where the balloon is stored (in Eastern Iowa). Below is a map with general event costs. These costs include all expenses for one appearance (travel time, balloon pilot, insurance, permits, etc.).

Specific quotes are available for multiple appearances or locations. Please contact Heather Ross at (573) 335-4423 for additional information and a custom quote.

During inflation, between what hours can the balloon be inflated and for how long?

For a morning inflation your balloon crew needs to be at the balloon site 30 MINUTES BEFORE SUNRISE.  The balloon will start inflating around sunrise (it will take 30-45 minutes for full inflation) and can stay inflated around TWO HOURS.

For an afternoon inflation your balloon crew needs to be at the balloon site TWO AND A HALF HOURS BEFORE SUNSET.  The balloon will start inflating two hours before sunset (it will take 30-45 minutes for full inflation) and can stay inflated around TWO HOURS.

What weather conditions are considered good and what are considered bad for a balloon inflation?

Ideal weather conditions would be no precipitation.  There needs to be no precipitation of any kind (rain, snow, sleet, etc.) for the balloon to be inflated.  There also cannot be a thunderstorm within a 50-mile radius of the balloon site.  Wind speeds of 8mph or lower are preferred ... the lower the better!

How much space is needed to inflate the Brain Balloon?

The Brain Balloon needs a FLAT area with NO LESS than 100 FEET of inflation area. A flat, grassy area is preferred.

How far away must trees and electrical lines be from the Brain Balloon?

The Brain Balloon must be 160 FEET CLEAR of trees and electrical lines to be inflated.

Can people get into the basket when the balloon is tethered?

Yes, but it is not preferred for a large group of people.  Photo opportunities are available for large groups.  Groups are more than welcome to stand in front of the balloon/balloon basket and have pictures taken.

How many people are needed for the balloon ground crew?

A ground crew of NO LESS THAN 18 is needed for each inflation.  The Brain Balloon weighs 1,100 pounds and crew members need to be expected to lift 61 pounds.  With the weight of the Brain Balloon we recommend that the ground crew be all adults.

Can promotional banners be hung on the side of the balloon basket?

Banners can be hung to each side of the balloon basket.  Banners generate great media attention and are good to use with generous sponsors.

What kind of safety rules do you enforce?

Safety is of the utmost importance to The International Brain Foundation and Brain Balloon.  Our pilot is instructed not to take chances.  With this in mind the pilot's word is FINAL on the decision to inflate the balloon with only your best interest in mind.

Why can't hot air balloons fly during the day?

Early mornings and late afternoons are the only safe time to fly the balloon as mid-day sun can cause thermals and strong wind gusts that are hazardous to the balloon and spectators.  Please remember that ballooning is a fair weather sport.

Does the crew require any special clothing or special equipment?

We do have some suggestions for the crew that are important.  Crew members should wear clothing that is comfortable, bring a pair of work gloves (they might be asked to handle rope and gloves would protect from rope burn) and bring a camera to document the great experience of being on a unique team!

Does the balloon stay out between inflations?

No, the Brain Balloon is repacked between inflations for safety reasons.