The Albuquerque Box is a set of wind patterns that can make hot air ballooning safer and easier for balloon pilots to launch and land in the same place. The distinctive geography of the area helps create a pattern of winds in October, when the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is held, that at a lower flight elevation blows a balloon to the south. Then when the pilot fires the burner to go higher, the balloon can catch the wind in the opposite direction which can bring them back close to where it launched. This also keeps more balloons floating in the sky over Balloon Fiesta Park for the enjoyment of spectators!
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The Science Behind the Albuquerque Box
The Albuquerque Box is formed due to the interaction between two types of winds: the prevailing westerlies and the Rio Grande Valley’s local winds. During the early morning hours, the winds blow from the surface to about 2,000 feet, heading south. Around this height, the winds change direction and blow toward the north. At higher altitudes, the prevailing westerlies move towards the east. This creates a “box-like” pattern in the sky that allows hot air balloons to take off from one location and land in the same spot.
This unique weather pattern makes Albuquerque one of the best places for hot-air ballooning in the world. The box provides a safe environment for ballooning, as pilots can navigate their balloons without worrying about being blown off course.
Unfortunately, you can’t count on the Albuquerque Box keeping balloons floating over Balloon Fiesta Park or returning to their launch site every day. A study shows that over the 15 days of the fiesta, about three of them have the right conditions for the box. And even then, the effect only takes place in the cooler morning hours. But when the weather conditions are right, it’s great for the pilots and the audience!
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place in October and draws more hot air balloons — and visitors — than any other balloon festival. Visitors can enjoy early morning mass ascensions, evening balloon glows, and even a special shape rodeo.
