Students in Earth and Space Science classes recently took their learning outdoors for a hands-on lesson on atmospheric physics.

As part of a study on air density and temperature, students designed, constructed, and launched functional hot air balloons made from tissue paper. By heating the air inside the lightweight structures, students observed firsthand how temperature differences create lift and drive atmospheric movement.

"Our Earth and Space Science students took learning outside," said instructor Branson Wilbur. "Students built and launched tissue-paper hot air balloons while exploring how temperature and air density affect the atmosphere."

The activity provided students with a visual demonstration of thermodynamic principles, linking classroom concepts directly to real-world science.