States of Enlightenment is a ballooning performance project consisting of a series of fifty helium cluster balloon flights, one in each of the states of the United States.  Where possible, flights will feature some location, landmark or event of regional significance.  The inaugural flight in States of Enlightenment took place at Balloon Fest in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma in August, 2002; flights are projected to continue at the rate of three to five states per year for the next ten to fifteen years.

States of Enlightenment celebrates the pursuit of dreams and the liberating force of creativity and eccentricity in American life, both historical and contemporary. Click here for a Balloonist's Statement offering some additional perspectives on the project.

Support for the States of Enlightenment project is now being sought. Send an e-mail for information on how to sponsor the States of Enlightenment flight in your state!

Click on shaded states to view photos and narrative from flight in that state

= 2002 flights; = 2003 flights; = 2004 flights; = 2005 flights;
= 2006 flights; = 2007 flights; = 2008 flights;
= 2010 flights; = 2011 flights