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. It's all about the amazing history, science, and art of flying in balloons! You can find it right next to where the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta happens. This fiesta is the biggest balloon party in the world every year! The museum is named after two local heroes, Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson. They were famous for being the first to fly balloons across the Atlantic Ocean and even entire continents.

Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson made history in 1978. They flew the Double Eagle II balloon across the Atlantic Ocean! This was the very first time a gas balloon completed such a long flight. These two pushed the boundaries of what was possible in ballooning. They are honored at the museum for their amazing achievements.

Some specifics and information about the Double Eagle II Gas Balloon Transatlantic Flight, which was piloted by museum namesakes, Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson themselves, with the help of Larry Newman in August 1978. A whole exhibit is dedicated to the instruments, notes, and regalia of the 5 Double Eagle flights in the largest portion of the museum.

The museum first opened its doors on October 1, 2005. The city of Albuquerque owns it. It's a team effort between the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Foundation and the city's Cultural Services Division. The building is about 59,000 square feet. It has classrooms, meeting rooms, and many exhibits. You can see items from famous balloonists like Ed Yost, Joseph Kittinger, and Ben Abruzzo.

Awesome Museum Exhibits

Some information about Troy Bradley's feats and contributions. As of Summer 2022 a yellow flight jacket of Bradley's was also displayed, with many highly specific and unique patches. Troy Bradley has spent over a day of flight hours with hot air balloons cumulatively, and has flown over 241 balloons of varying size.

The museum has lots of cool things to see. You can learn about the history of ballooning. You can also discover the science behind how balloons fly. There are modern displays, too! A balloon flight simulator lets you feel like you're flying. It's both fun and educational. The museum also has a movie theater that shows both 2D and 4D films.

Some special exhibits include:

• Women's Contribution to the History of Ballooning: This shows how women have helped shape ballooning.
• Sid Cutter's Influence: Learn about how Sid Cutter helped the ballooning world in Albuquerque.
• Troy Bradley Pilot Spotlight: This exhibit highlights Troy Bradley's amazing flying experience and awards.

From Women's Contributions: Denim Jacket covered in commemorative Balloon Pins, worn by Carol Kinney, the first Balloonmeisterin for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, 1982.

Building Design and Construction

The museum building was designed by Gerald A. Martin, Ltd. It has a tall main gallery that is 80 feet high. The roof of this area is made of a special fabric. Inside, the ceiling reaches 75 feet high.

The museum building was finished in November 2004. It cost about $10.4 million to build. The main structure is made of steel, with some concrete supports.

Tim Anderson 4-D Theater

The museum added a new 4-D movie theater. This theater was completed and opened in 2016. It offers a special movie experience for visitors.

Interior exhibitions.

See also

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

External links

• Official website: https://balloonmuseum.com/
• Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum — City of Albuquerque