My friend had promised me an experience of a lifetime. He was a keen hot air ballooner back on Earth but I didn’t know it was possible on this colony so far from home.

It was dusk when I arrived, surprised by the shape of the balloon. He’d explained he wasn’t permitted to bring a balloon but, packing one in the freight, he’d listed it as extra underwear and was surprised no questions were asked.

Skydrifters were rising aloft amongst the clouds. It was the night of their annual mating, the iridescent glow of millions lighting the darkened sky.

This is the prompt photo from the 100WCGU site.

Schools and students have permission to use this graphic for non-commercial, educational purposes.