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: A balloon parachute is described that inflates at a controllable rate to gradually slow the descent of an attached instrument package. This balloon parachute is in the form of a pyramid that is closed on all sides in all three dimensions. The balloon parachute is tethered to an instrument package by means of a fabric loop attached to the peak of the parachute pyramid. The inflation of the balloon parachute is effectuated by the use of a set of openings in the peak, just above the loop attachment. As the balloon parachute and instrument package descend, air enters the balloon parachute through the openings in the peak thereof and gradually inflates the balloon parachute to its full pyramidal shape. A burble fence is attached to the base of the pyramid on all sides in order to provide additional drag and rotational stability, and to avoid a penduluming motion of the parachute upon its descent.