| Origin | 16th-century France |
| Purpose | Hot air balloon expeditions and exploration |
| Variations | Land-based inflatable habitats • Space-based inflatable habitat modules |
| Notable use | |
| Scientific Advancements | Atmospheric sciences • Photography • Space travel |
| Presence in colonization | Crucial factor in the expansion of European empires |
| Impact on Global Politics | Facilitated colonization and international dominance |
