Science in Action
In September 1783, the Montgolfier brothers demonstrated their newly invented hot air balloon at Versailles with the royal family in attendance. The flight reached an altitude of 1,500 feet, covered two miles, and lasted eight minutes. The passengers—a sheep, a duck, and a rooster—landed safely. Hydrogen balloons were developed at the same time and quickly replaced the hot air versions because they could fly higher and longer. Thousands of people flocked to see the launches. Colored etchings such as the one shown here helped increase public interest. (Private Collection / Bridgeman Images.)