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The challenge
 High altitude balloon manufacturing © Kaymont Consolidated
A solutionFor reason stated above the Arctic Nearspace project has chosen to use high altitude balloons filled with helium as method to transport the nearspacecraft and its mission payloads.
A high altitude balloon can reach upper atmosphere where the black canopy of space and curved horizon can be seen.
About high altitude balloonsThe balloon produces the lift, and is usually made of a highly flexible latex material (though Chloroprene may also be used). The nearspacecraft is carried under the balloon.
The balloon will be filled with helium-n (also hydrogen can be used). The ascent rate can be controlled by the amount of gas the balloon is filled with. High altitude balloons may reach altitudes of 40 km or more, limited by diminishing pressures causing the balloon to expand to such a degree (typically by a 100:1 factor) that it disintegrates.
About Kaymont high altitude balloonsWe have chosen to use sounding-type balloons manufactured by Kaymont Consolidated.
Kaymont balloons are manufactured using the "rotation" system, a procedure which produces a "jointless" balloon. Body and neck are formed as one piece giving extra strength and easier handling during high winds or severe weather.
The rotation process also means balloons are spherical in shape at inflation. This gives consistant ascent rates under all conditions and enables the balloons to reach their specified altitudes.
Kaymont has been serving the meteorological community since
1978. Their balloons are used at major test ranges in the U.S.
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