In the early and mid-20th century , hydrogen balloons were used extensively in upper-atmosphere research in such projects as Osoaviakhim-1 , the Stratobowl launches , Project Manhigh , and Project Strato-Lab . A series of ascensions set a number of high-altitude records before space flight eclipsed ballooning as an endeavor . When governments lost interest in manned balloons , private citizens continued to strive to set records , especially for long distances , and to achieve " first " marks ( such as Double Eagle II ( first to cross the Atlantic Ocean ) and Breitling Orbiter 3 ( first to circumnavigate the world )
Osoaviakhim-1
Osoaviakhim-1
History of ballooning