superpressure balloon

Superpressure balloons are a type of high-altitude balloon designed to maintain a constant volume, unlike traditional balloons that expand or contract with temperature changes. This is achieved using durable materials like polyester film, often laminated with Mylar, which provides greater flexibility and strength.1

These balloons are valuable scientific tools, capable of carrying instrumentation for extended periods, even circumnavigating the Earth. They can reach altitudes far beyond those accessible to airplanes and helicopters, making them ideal for observations above the troposphere and below orbital spacecraft range. Superpressure balloons do not affect their environment and can remain relatively stationary, offering a stable platform for research such as studying cosmic rays, atmospheric sampling, and astronomical observations.12