An internationally known balloonist who lived on the South Coast has died as the result of an accident in San Diego County. Julian Nott was considered to be a living legend the field, setting close to 80 world records. While he was British, he lived in Santa Barbara for decades.
Nott had just completed a successful flight with an experimental craft in the San Diego County community of Warner Springs Sunday. He was apparently injured as they were removing part of the craft.
The 74 year old man died two days later at a hospital. His adventures include a balloon flight which reached 55,000 feet. One of his craft is on display at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
