We thought it would be fun to take a look at some of the technology that run those elaborate firework shows that so many people enjoy during the 4th of July weekend. So we’ve curated a short list of the most popular firework show technologies with an explanation of how they are used to create those dazzling displays we watch every year.

The Technology

Most fireworks shows these days are designed on a computer and then the actual fireworks show is choreographed using computers. Computers are very important in the modern fireworks show. One wrong calculation could spell disaster; sending off rockets at the wrong time or even causing fires and dangerous situations to occur.

The designer of the fireworks show puts in an average of 2-4 hours for each minute of the show. It takes immense precision setting up the fireworks positioning and timing to within a tenth of a second (A tenth of a second is about all that a spectator can see when a firework explodes).

The technology behind these colorful shows allows designers to set up and test their show. The software comes equipped with a wide array of standard firework explosion styles and colors for the designer to paint the sky with. Since fireworks cost so much to buy, it is imperative that there be a way for designers to see the final product without setting off a single firework. After the designer is finished making their show, they watch it in real-time demonstration using the fireworks created by the program.

The Show

After designing and testing the fireworks show with software, it’s time to implement it into the real world. Fireworks are explosives and must be handled with care and respected. The people who run the show from beginning to end are called a Fireteam. The Fireteam includes experienced fireworks handlers, firemen, police officers, city officials, location managers, and the fireworks designer who work together to maintain the safety of the show. They are responsible for the safe transport of the fireworks, the proper set up of the show, and even the disposal of any duds.

Once everything is in place, the fireworks are set up, the safety zones are checked, and the control panel is connected to the fireworks software, the only thing left to do is press play and let the birthday celebration begin!

Fireworks Websites

http://www.fireone.com/software.htm
http://www.finalefireworks.com/
http://news.yahoo.com/behind-scenes-fourth-july-fireworks-display-231600609.html
http://www.firework-review.org.uk/fireworks-safety/