Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum facts for kids

The museum as seen from Balloon Fiesta Park

The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is a super cool place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. It's all about the amazing world of ballooning and other ways to fly using "lighter-than-air" crafts. Think of it like a giant floating science lab and art gallery!

This museum is right next to where the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta happens every year. That's the biggest balloon festival in the world! The museum is named after two local heroes, Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson. These guys were incredible balloonists who were the first to do things like fly across the Atlantic Ocean in a balloon.

In 1978, Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson, along with Larry Newman, made history. They flew the Double Eagle II balloon all the way across the Atlantic Ocean. It was the first time a gas balloon had ever done that! These two pushed the boundaries of what was possible in air travel. They are honored at the museum for their amazing achievements in ballooning.

This diagram shows details about the Double Eagle II Gas Balloon. Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson piloted it in August 1978. The museum has a whole exhibit about their famous flights.

The museum first opened its doors on October 1, 2005. The city of Albuquerque owns it. It's a big place, about 59,000 square feet (5,481 square meters)! Inside, you'll find classrooms, meeting rooms, and lots of exhibits. You can see items from famous balloonists like Ed Yost and Joseph Kittinger.

What to See and Do

The museum is packed with awesome things to explore! You can learn all about the history of ballooning. You'll also discover the science behind how balloons fly.

Fun Exhibits

There are modern displays that make learning fun. You can even try a balloon flight simulator! It's like flying a real balloon, but without leaving the ground. The museum also has a movie theater that shows both 2D and 4D films.

Some special exhibits you might see include:

• Women's Contributions to Ballooning: Learn about the amazing women who have made a difference in ballooning history.
• Sid Cutter's Influence: Discover how Sid Cutter helped make Albuquerque a world center for ballooning.
• Troy Bradley Pilot Spotlight: See how Troy Bradley became a famous balloon pilot with many awards.

This denim jacket belonged to Carol Kinney. She was the first "Balloonmeisterin" (the person in charge of the balloon fiesta) in 1982. It's covered in cool commemorative pins!

The Tim Anderson 4-D Theater

The museum has a special Tim Anderson 4-D Theater. A 4-D movie isn't just something you watch. You can also feel things like wind or mist, making the movie experience even more exciting! The theater opened in 2016.

Building Design

The museum building itself is pretty cool! It was designed by Gerald A. Martin, Ltd. The main part of the museum, called the high bay, is 80 feet tall. It has a special roof made of fabric. The ceiling inside is 75 feet high! The museum was finished in 2004.

See Also

• List of aviation museums
• List of U.S. Ballooning Hall of Fame inductees

Images for kids

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  Interior exhibitions.

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  Some information about Troy Bradley's feats and contributions.