Abstract: The facility for preparing and deploying atmospheric sounding devices of the present invention, makes use of a structure with a retractable cover and a wind deflecting member circumscribing the shelter, to provide a transportable, reliable, and cost effective facility to prepare and deploy lighter-than-air balloons as the vehicle for carrying sounding devices. The facility permits preparation and deployment in any weather condition including, but not limited to, light to heavy winds that would otherwise cause down drafts through the roof opening in the structure.

Abstract: The recoverable airborne instrument module is implemented using an aerodynamic housing which has at least one moveable control surface thereon. In operation, the recoverable instrument module is carried aloft by balloon to enable its instrument package payload to perform a series of meteorological measurements. The exterior housing of the recoverable instrument package has an aerodynamic shape, such as a delta wing airframe with a controllable rudder. A navigation circuit contained within the housing references the radio frequency transmissions of a plurality of beacons to determine the altitude and geographic position of the instrument package. This information, as well as data identifying the location of at least one predetermined landing site is used to dynamically calculate a flight path to controllably descend the instrument module to a selected one of these landing sites.