a steep descent at Point A. For this discussion, assume that  altitude is 1,500' AGL. The descent may be initiated either  through the use of the vent or by holding two or three burns.  By the time the balloon reaches the point indicated at B, it  may be descending in excess of 500 fpm; the pilot should  make a standard burn at this point, as the air passing over the  envelope fabric accelerates cooling. A standard burn ensures  that the balloon maintains a temperature sufficient to keep  it under control throughout the maneuver. This burn should  not slow the descent.  At a point halfway between the ground and the previous  burn  [Figure 7-6, Point C], the pilot should make a long  (twice standard length) burn; if there is no reaction from the  balloon, then the pilot should do another burn. Immediately  upon sensing a reaction from the balloon, the pilot should  stop the burn and allow the balloon to descend to a proper  pullout altitude.  [Figure 7-6, Point D]  If done properly, the  deceleration burns stops the balloon’s descent just above  the desired altitude or the ground. This maneuver requires  experience and practice; timing is critical.  During the initial stages of learning this maneuver, the pilot  should set a “floor” (altitude lower limit) to practice with.  As the pilot gains more skill, as well as confidence, that  “floor” may be lowered until the pilot is able to execute the  maneuver to ground level.  The art of controlling the horizontal (lateral) direction of a  free balloon is the highest demonstration of ballooning skill.  The balloon is officially a nonsteerable aircraft. Despite  the fact that balloons are nonsteerable, some pilots seem  to be able to steer their balloons better than others. Being  knowledgeable of the wind at various altitudes, both before  launch and during flight, is the key factor for maneuvering. Maneuvering, or steering, comes indirectly from varying  one’s time at different altitudes and different wind directions.  The pilot must have knowledge of the winds at different  levels, as previously discussed in Chapter 3, Preflight  Planning, as well as being able to determine the balloon’s  direction in flight. When in flight, winds below can be observed in many ways.  Observe smoke, trees, dust, flags, and especially ponds  and lakes to see what the wind is doing on the ground. To  Maneuvering Winds Below A B D C $_{Figure 7-6.}$  Steep descent schematic (not to scale). 7-7