Into the wild blue yonder
The Stratobowl launch site in the Black Hills area of Rapid City, S.D. has seen an estimated 30 balloon launches, including the liftoff of the Explorer I and II in the 1930s. The high-walled natural depression is about 200 meters wide and sits about 1.5 miles from Route 16 in Rapid City. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo/Released)