Airship Ventures German-built Zeppelin NT07 makes its home at Moffett Field's Hangar 2. It is the first Zeppelin to fly in U.S. airspace in more than 70 years. It was dedicated and given the name Eureka at Moffett's 75th Anniversary in November 2008.

The Eureka, at 246 ft. in length, is impressive in its size. The balloon-like structure above the passenger compartment, technically called a 'pressure envelope', is crafted of a synthetic, multi-layer, polyurethane-coated fabric, the same material used by NASA to make space suits. The pressure envelope contains nearly 300,000 cubic feet of a helium and air. Imagine being able to fit a couple dozen single-family homes inside, and you'll understand how large it is.

But don't call Eureka a blimp. Blimps use gas pressure to keep their shape. Eureka is a semi-rigid airship, made of a complex structure of aluminum and carbon fiber, and braced with cable rigging. This marvel of mechanical engineering keeps the airship very lightweight. Amazingly, the Eureka weighs only 2200 lbs., less than a Mazda Miata.

The Eureka can go up, down, forward, backward, hover, and spin on its axis. Passengers can cruise in comfort, serenity and safety. Every view from the passenger compartment is a window view. Eureka brings the majesty and magic of aviation into the age of technology.

Like a powerful searchlight guiding the way, Airship Ventures' Zeppelin NT Eureka airship will guide the way for participants and attendees alike to the 2009 Palo Alto Concours.

AIRSHIP VENTURES NT07

Established in 1967, the Palo Alto Concours d'Elegance is an annual fundraising event of the Palo Alto Host Lions Club and the Palo Alto Lions Charities, Inc. With a goal of raising $100,000 per year, proceeds from the Concours are contributed to 35 community organizations. For more information on the Palo Alto Concours d'Elegance, please visit us on the web at http://www.paconcours.com.