A method for establishing a long duration, stratospheric platform for astronomical research

Abstract

During certain times of the year at middle and low latitudes, winds in the upper stratosphere move in nearly the opposite direction than the wind in the lower stratosphere. Here we present a method for maintaining a high-altitude balloon platform in near station-keeping mode that utilizes this stratospheric wind shear. The proposed method places a balloon-borne science platform high in the stratosphere connected by a lightweight, high-strength tether to a "tug" vehicle located in the lower or middle stratosphere. Using aerodynamic control surfaces, wind-induced aerodynamic forces on the tug can be manipulated to counter the wind drag acting on the higher altitude science vehicle, thus controlling the upper vehicle's geographic location. We describe the general framework of this station-keeping method, some important properties required for the upper stratospheric science payload and lower tug platforms, and compare this station-keeping approach with the capabilities of a high altitude airship and conventional tethered aerostat approaches. We conclude by discussing the advantages of such a platform for a variety of missions with emphasis on astrophysical research.

Development of hull material for high-altitude airship: A parametric study

“…To date, no HHA has flown at stratospheric altitudes for more than 8 h 2 . The first stratospheric powered airship flight took place in the late 1960s, reaching 20.4 km (67k ft. ) for 2 hours with a five pounds payload 3 . In 2005, Raven Industries announced a record of an eight-hour flight of a powered stratospheric airship, reaching the altitude of 20 km (66k ft. ).…”

Path following of a stratospheric satellite by the aid of wind currents

“…7 Utilizing the relative wind currents, the trajectory of the stratospheric satellite can be controlled by a sail or an aircraft. 8,9 A stratospheric satellite can fly by utilizing the wind currents in the east or west by adjusting the altitude of the flight. 5 To implement path following, the stratospheric satellite must be controlled.…”