GENERALI Ballon de Paris: From Tourist Attraction to Scientific Tool
Photo: Courtesy of Aérophile
(eap) Since 1999, the “GENERALI Ballon de Paris” has been floating above Parc André Citroën on the banks of the Seine in the heart of the 15th arrondissement. Originally intended to remain only for the New Year celebrations marking the turn of the millennium, the tethered balloon at a height of 150 metres has since established itself as a major tourist attraction. Today, more than 60,000 visitors board the gondola each year to enjoy panoramic views over Paris. The manufacturer is the Paris-based company Aérophile, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023 and has installed a total of 120 helium balloons and “Aérobar” systems in 40 countries worldwide since its founding.
Over the years, the 35-metre-high installation has also evolved into a scientific instrument. Since 2013, the balloon has been measuring air quality in the French capital, including fine particles, ozone and pollen. Depending on the results, the outer envelope changes colour – green indicating good and red indicating poor air quality. The current readings are also displayed digitally on the balloon’s surface.
Since 2024, it has additionally been measuring the main greenhouse gases in real time, including methane, carbon dioxide and water vapor. In close cooperation with various institutions, the balloon thus actively contributes to climate change research while simultaneously raising awareness of environmental issues in urban areas. The insurance company Generali plans to use the data collected to implement a personalized alert system for its eight million customers in the future. ■
