BALLOONING ACROSS THE ATLANTIC.

Globe, Volume II, Issue 119, 17 October 1874, Page 3

BALLOONING ACROSS THE ATLANTIC.

Although the risks of a sea voyage across the Atlantic are greater than desirable, yet it is doubtful whether matters will be much mended by the substitution of balloons for steamboats in conducting the passenger traffic between America and Europe. Another experiment, however, in this direction is, it appears, about to be tried. Professor Donaldson, says the New York Herald , by bis experimental balloon trip, has so inspired the management of the Hippodrome, New York, with the idea that the “westerly current” exists, that they have gone to the expense of importing cloth from Europe for the purpose of making a balloon for him to make a voyage to Europe. The cloth is said to be the finest ever made for the purpose. It is composed of silk and linen, and woven in the strongest manner. Eight people were, by latest accounts, engaged in sewing up the great air-ship preparatory to its receiving two coats of varnish. The day appointed for sailing was “anxiously looked forward to” by Professor Donaldson and those who had been fortunate enough to receive invitations to ascend. The balloon is to be forty-seven feet in diameter, and will be inflated with 3(1,000 feet of gas. Its lifting power will be 2,500 lb, while the basket and net weigh 500 lb. Professor Donaldson expects to carry nine people besides himself, and he estimates the weight of humanity and ballast at 1,628 lb. A boat has been constructed for the trip, as the Professor intends to come back by water, or, at least, part of the way, and every precaution will be taken for safety that can be thought of. Professor Donaldson says that there are three currents to contend against after the altitude of 2,000 feet is reached, but that be can so manage bis balloon as to take either of them. Let us hope that the Professor has not overestimated his ability, and that the three currents will get the worst of the contention.