First of all [don't dare say 'go down low'], this balloon transporting computer equipments into near-space is not just an ordinary balloon, it is a superpressure balloon..What the hell is a superpressure balloon, right?
Superpressure balloons are made out of tightly sealed plastic capable of containing highly pressurized lighter-than-air gases.
The aim is to keep the volume of the balloon relatively stable even if there are changes in temperature.
This allows them to stay aloft longer and be better at maintaining a specific altitude than balloons which stretch and contract.
In particular it avoids the problem of balloons descending at night when their gases cool.
Now, back to the matter..
This concept is still in its testing stage as 30 of these superpressure balloons are being launched from New Zealand and made to move round the world in a controlled path.
Each balloon is 15m (49.2ft) in diameter - the
length of a small plane - and filled with lifting gases. Electronic
equipment hangs underneath including radio antennas, a flight computer,
an altitude control system and solar panels to power the gear.
Problems facing this new technology are;
- Trying to simultaneously navigate thousands of the high-altitude balloons around the globe's wind patterns will prove a difficult task to get right.
- If not fired up with speed to destination in near space, they could be of hindrance to aircrafts..
Good this technology would bring....;
- The balloons could one day be diverted to disaster-hit areas to aid rescue efforts in situations where ground communication equipment has been damaged,depending on the success of the project.
- Areas where there are no access to internet due to fibre-optic costs and all could get access just by this low-risk, low-cost technology, again, that's if the project is successful.
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