The Powered Balloon System

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Abstract:

The concept, present status and basic problems involved in developing a powered station-keeping balloon with moderate payload capability approx. 200 pounds are outlined. The POBAL balloon will float in the seasonal minimum wind fields 60,000-90,000 feet. By supplying enough thrust to overcome the wind- drag forces, the balloon will be kept hovering above a designated location for a duration limited by its fuel supply. The feasibility, choice of balloon design, predicted durations for candidate propulsion methods and other pertinent considerations are discussed. A demonstration flight system using available system components is described. The eventual POBAL capability is contrasted with that of drones and several immediate applications for an operational POBAL system are described.

Author(s):
Leclaire, Richard C. ; Korn, A.
Author Organization(s):
AIR FORCE CAMBRIDGE RESEARCH LABS HANSCOM AFB MA
Descriptive Note:
Scientific interim rept.
Supplementary Note:
Presented at the AFCRL Scientific Balloon Symposium (7th), Wentworth-by-the-Sea, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, 25 Sep 1972.
Pagination:
0016

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Is Unlimited.

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
AFCRL-TR-73-0637
Task Number(s):
666510
Project Number(s):
AF-6665
Monitor Series:
AFCRL
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_1.2.6_Concepts
Modernization Areas:
Microelectronics; Autonomy
Communities of Interest:
Energy and Power Technologies
Descriptor(s):
*BALLOONS, *HOVERING, AERIAL PROPELLERS, FEASIBILITY STUDIES, FLIGHT PATHS, FLIGHT TESTING, WIND
Field(s)/Group(s):
Lighter-than-air Aircraft
Keyword(s):
*POWERED BALLOONS, POBAL BALLOONS, STATIONKEEPING
Report Date:
1973 Oct 01