science · 23 August 1783 · 241 years ago
In 1783, filling of the first hydrogen balloon began, with the gas produced by the action of sulphuric acid on iron. Following the success of the Montgolfier brother's hot air balloon ascent on 5 Jun 1783, a 13-ft (4-m) diameter balloon was built by two brothers named Robert, under the auspices of the French Academy of Sciences. Its construction was supervised by physicist Jacques A.C. Charles, who had suggested the use of hydrogen rather than hot air. The process of filling the balloon took place over several days, beginning at the Place des Victoires, Paris. Because of the crowds, it was moved on the night of 26 Aug to the Champ de Mars, where it was eventually released, on 27 Aug 1783.
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