At over 50 years old, Mendeleev still maintained his passion for scientific exploration. He wanted to ascend into the sky to study the upper layers of the atmosphere.
Mendeleev decided to fly into the sky on August 19, 1887, as that day marked a solar eclipse, a rare opportunity. However, preparing for the flight 
was challenging, primarily due to the lack of funds to build a balloon. He personally designed, sketched, and constructed the balloon along with a sensitive barometer. A large basket for two people was suspended beneath the balloon. Aviator Cocorin would pilot the balloon while Mendeleev carried out observations and research.
Finally, the day arrived. When all preparations were complete, they discovered that the lift of the balloon was insufficient to raise two people. Mendeleev decided to fly alone. His friends warned him, saying, “Flying solo is very dangerous; wait until you’re better prepared next time.” Mendeleev replied: “I have no time left; I cannot miss this opportunity. Do you remember? The last total solar eclipse 19 years ago, what did the French astronomer discover? When using a spectroscope to look directly at the sun during the eclipse, a bright yellow line appeared. Later, everyone guessed it was a new element, which they named Helium. To this day, I still doubt its existence. If I miss this observation, my doubts will remain unaddressed. The eclipse is imminent; I cannot let this chance slip away.”
Cocorin told him: “Then let me go; you have never piloted a balloon alone, and it’s really dangerous.”
Mendeleev insisted on going. He knew many people were waiting for his flight. Mendeleev revered the chemist Dalton, whose scientific life ended with an experimental meteorological observation. He smiled and told everyone: “Don’t worry about me; if something unfortunate happens while I’m in the air, trust that Mr. Dalton will welcome me.”
The balloon slowly ascended into the sky, climbing higher and higher. He sat in the hanging basket, focusing on observing the eclipse and studying meteorological phenomena. He saw the sun being obscured and intently watched his measuring instruments.
Suddenly, there was a malfunction in the balloon’s control system, and it began to descend uncontrollably. Mendeleev assessed the situation, evaluated how to fix it, and then decided to climb the suspension line of the balloon.
On the ground, people watched Mendeleev as he climbed from the basket to the suspension line, holding their breath. Fortunately, he successfully managed the situation and returned to his position. The balloon gradually descended, and when Mendeleev stepped out of the basket, everyone cheered in relief.
Due to the success of this flight, the French Institute of Meteorological Aviation awarded Mendeleev a commemorative medal.
-2.jpg "Mendeleev: Brave Flight into the Sky (Part 2) 42")
“When the seed of science is sown and sprouts, it will bring happiness to the people.”
— Mendeleev —
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to be continued
Return to Part 1 “ The Periodic Table of Mendeleev’s Creation,”
Stay tuned for Part 3: “Mendeleev: The Courage to Fly into the Sky”
