1660240936270 B25f2fa795eb41a3b1d967488f77df57

Understanding the physics and mathematics of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons

Nov. 16, 2017

Have you ever stopped to wonder how these balloons are designed and constructed, and how the creators uses physics and engineering to ensure that the balloons will be a success?

This year marks the 91st anniversary of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. And while the intricately designed floats and talented performers are entertaining to watch, the real reason we tune in each year is to see the enormous, gravity-defying balloons. Have you ever stopped to wonder how these balloons are designed and constructed, and how the creators uses physics and engineering to ensure that the balloons will be a success?

Here are a few facts about the balloons, according to Francie Diep for Popular Science. "The average balloon requires 12,000 cubic feet of helium. That's enough to fill about 2,500 bathtubs. The average balloon requires 90 handlers during the parade. Handlers must weigh at least 120 pounds and have no heart, back, or knee problems. The balloons were originally made of rubber. Now, they're made of fabrics coated in a polyurethane material that's flexible, durable, and leak-resistant. Polyurethanes are synthetic plastic materials that also commonly show up in couch cushions, insulation, and even in synthetic-fiber clothes."

In an article for WIRED, Rhett Allain explores the physics behind the giant balloons. "The balloons used in the Macy’s Day Parade seem to cheat physics in order to move through the sky. Of course, they aren’t cheating physics. It is because of physics that they are able to float.

There is indeed a force pulling down on these massive balloons. This gravitational force is proportional to the mass of the object. Both the outer material and the gas within have mass that results in a weight of perhaps 2,000 Newtons (450 pounds). Yet even with so great a downward force, the balloons stay aloft. There must be an upward force at work on the object. This is buoyancy force, and it is caused by a differential air pressure on the top and bottom of balloon."   

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector. 

Sponsored Recommendations

Jan. 22, 2025
Discover how INNOMAG® is transforming pump selection with innovative design and unparalleled performance. Learn how this breakthrough solution simplifies operations, enhances ...
Jan. 14, 2025
Struggling with a troublesome pump? Get a reliable solution in just five days with the fastest, most advanced sealless pump on the market.
Jan. 14, 2025
INNOMAG® pumps save energy and maintain peak efficiency over time—no wear and tear. Discover how they can lower your operating costs and increase reliability.
Jan. 14, 2025
Say goodbye to leaks for good. Discover how the hermetically sealed INNOMAG® pump delivers leak-free performance—even under the toughest conditions.