drag rope
balloon part
Also known as: compensator
Quick Summary
A drag rope is a component of a balloon, serving two primary functions. It is a long, heavy rope that trails behind the balloon to slow its descent and horizontal speed during landing operations. If a landing is aborted, the rope automatically retracts and can be reused. In areas without power lines, balloons can use the drag rope to travel for many kilometers without expending ballast or gas. Additionally, a drag rope can be used as a brake or mooring line for an aerostat.12
Summary created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
4 Britannica Sources
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
