The Bloon Balloon can be launched from anywhere in the world for
a flight specially catered to the passengers. Four passengers
plus two pilots can fit inside the craft, which is launched off
a specially crafted inflatable dome set on the ground. When
released the lighter-than-air helium balloon lifts the pod off
the ground and into space where you cruise at 36 km for about
two hours. To come down, the helium gas is vented into space and
then the balloon separates while a parafoil is deployed to
control descent back down to earth. Finally, eight inflatable
feet are extended from the craft to create a cushion for
landing. Bloon will not use any propellants to achieve near-
space travel and creates no emissions as a result. The system is
virtually silent and requires no major infrastructure for
launching – only a portable and inflatable structure that can be
used anywhere in the world. With a scaled prototype test under
their belts, the company hopes to perform their first human test
flight in 2012 in a ‘minibloo