Ballunar Liftoff flies into Houston this weekend

HOUSTON Some 50 giant hot air balloons will converge on Johnson Space Center this weekend for the 17th annual Ballunar Liftoff festival. The event, which features numerous competitions, is meant to encourage young people to pursue careers in math or science. But it's not just about the hot air balloons.

"We'll have skydivers, we'll have model rockets, radio-controlled airplanes, a midway. Art for the kids, and crafts for mom, and a beer tent for dad," said organizer Steve Lombardi.

The event opens Friday night at 6 pm and runs through Halloween Sunday. Admission Saturday includes a NASA open house where participants can meet real astronauts. Tickets are $10 per carload.