What Are Those Colorful Balls on Power Lines?
Have you ever looked up at power lines and noticed colorful balls hanging from them? You might have wondered what they are for and why they exist. These balls are actually quite important!
Aerial Marker Balls: Why They Matter
Those bright spheres are known as aerial marker balls or visibility markers, and they have a very important role. These markers help keep both planes and people safe by making power lines visible to low-flying aircraft.
Helping Pilots Avoid Danger
These marker balls are not just for decoration; they are placed on power lines to alert pilots about the nearby wires. Imagine a plane flying low over a lake or river. In these areas, power lines might be hard to see, especially for pilots flying at lower altitudes. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has set rules to place these markers in specific locations where low-flying planes are common.
Bright Colors to Stand Out
Have you ever wondered why the marker balls are so colorful? The reason is simple: they need to be seen easily from a distance. Colors like orange, yellow, and white stand out against different backgrounds, helping pilots spot the wires before it’s too late.
Made of Strong Plastic
These marker balls are made of plastic. Why? Because plastic doesn’t conduct electricity or heat, which means they won’t interfere with power lines and keep things safe.
Size and Weight of the Marker Balls
These balls come in different sizes, usually between 20 to 36 inches across. Despite their size, they weigh around 11 to 17 pounds, which makes them sturdy and able to withstand wind.
The History Behind the Markers
The idea for these bright balls came about in the early 1970s. Arkansas Governor Winthrop Rockefeller noticed power lines were too close to his plane. Concerned about safety, he asked for a solution. Engineer Jack Rutledge designed the aerial marker balls, which became a key part of keeping airspace safe.
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