What material lined the envelope used for the first manned flight demonstration?
Answer
Taffeta cloth lined with paper
While the very first successful unmanned balloon in Annonay featured an envelope constructed primarily by attaching sheets of paper together, the construction for the subsequent manned flight involved a refinement of materials suitable for carrying passengers safely. For the flight featuring Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and the Marquis d'Arlandes, the envelope was specifically constructed of taffeta cloth that was lined with paper. This dual-layer approach likely enhanced durability and retention of the heated air necessary for sustained flight.
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