Gas ballooning afordable? God I wish! Try talking to balloon manufactors like Aerostar. They could point you in a better direction or answer your questions.
Good luck! You might want to contact Shelly Naber at:
www.collegeballoonists.itgo.com Tell her I sent you there. She and I are good friends with Mark West the president of Aerostar International. He could probably send you to someone who has the answers you need. Also try and find a balloonist around your college and see if ou can help crew sometime. Its a blast. You'll meet the greatest people. And once you get a ride you'll be addicted! Trust me I know!
Good luck and soft landings! Corey
http://community.webtv.net/cgballons/SIOUXFALLS 
