Atmospheric Electricity and Tethered Aerostats, Volume 1

The program was conducted for the purpose of determining interaction of tethered balloon systems with atmospheric electricity particularly lightning and identifying feasible protective systems. After a brief introductory section math models of effects of tethered balloons on surrounding electrical field are presented. These models are then compared with measurements taken during extensive flight testing. Effects of both well-conducting and poorly-conducting tethers are shown. Section 3 presents a statistical approach to the prediction of lightning strikes to tethered balloons. Section 4 describes results of an extensive series of tests wherein balloon tethered samples, both wire rope and synthetic fiber, are exposed to simulated lightning currents. Section 5 defines systems and techniques for hardening balloon and support equipment and protection of operating personnel. Section 6 and 7 present conclusions and recommendations oriented toward tether materials, grounding and shielding systems, warning devices, and operational concepts.