What significant event regarding balloon flights occurred in December 1783?

In December 1783, a pivotal moment in the history of ballooning took place with the first manned hydrogen balloon flight. This event marked a significant advancement in aeronautics, demonstrating the potential for flight using hydrogen gas, which is lighter than air. The Montgolfier brothers had previously created hot air balloons, but the introduction of hydrogen provided a more efficient means of achieving lift, as hydrogen is significantly more buoyant.

The flight was conducted by Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and spread excitement and intrigue about the concept of human flight, inspiring future developments in aviation. This event laid the foundation for further exploration into airborne travel and established the principle of using gas for lighter-than-air flight. It was a turning point that moved beyond the early experimentation with hot air, capturing the imagination of people and paving the way for advancements in technology and innovation in the field of aviation.

Other options, while related to the history of ballooning, do not represent this singular event of December 1783. The development of hot air balloons occurred prior to this, and while flights with passengers would happen subsequently, this particular instance is historically significant as the first with manned hydrogen involvement.