Abstract: Described herein are features for high altitude lighter-than-air (LTA) balloon antenna systems and associated methods. One or more long wire communications antennas may be built into the balloon skin. The antenna may extend under, in, on or otherwise along one of the seams formed by connected edges of gores that define the balloon volume. The antenna may include an elongated electrical conductor with a length based on a desired communication frequency. The antenna may be secured with load tape along the seam. The antenna may be included in an LTA balloon system that includes multiple balloons connected in tandem, such as a zero-pressure balloon (ZPB) and one or more variable air ballast super-pressure balloons (SPB).

Abstract: Described herein are features for a high altitude lighter-than-air (LTA) system and associated methods. A zero-pressure balloon (ZPB) is attached in tandem with one or more variable ballast air super-pressure balloons (SPB). The ZPB provides lift for the system while the SPB uses a centrifugal compressor to provide a variable amount of ballast air by pumping in or expelling out ambient air. Various advanced performance targets relating to ascent rate, descent rate, range and maximum altitude are achievable with various scaled versions of the basic design of the LTA system. Advanced navigation and control techniques, such as more efficient high altitude station-keeping approaches, made possible with the LTA system are also described.

Abstract: A high altitude lighter-than-air (LTA) system can include a zero-pressure balloon (ZPB) attached in tandem with one or more variable ballast air super-pressure balloons (SPB). The ZPB provides lift for the system while the SPB uses a centrifugal compressor to provide a variable amount of ballast air by pumping in or expelling out ambient air. A solar array coupled with an elongated ladder assembly can be coupled to a payload support for a payload carried by the LTA system. Various advanced performance targets relating to ascent rate, descent rate, range and maximum altitude are achievable with various scaled versions of the basic design of the LTA system. Advanced navigation and control techniques, such as efficient high altitude station-keeping approaches, are made possible with the LTA system.