High-altitude balloon carries sensors, comms

The first of a series of Department of Defence high-altitude balloon launch trials has commenced, with the first balloon being successfully launched from West Wyalong in NSW.

The trials aim to test Defence’s ability to quickly send sensors and communications equipment into the stratosphere… the under-utilised altitudes between where aircraft generally fly and where spacecraft orbit.

“The trial aims to demonstrate Australian designed and developed launch capabilities that can deliver and maintain sensor payloads to an altitude that significantly improves situational awareness over a wide area,” said Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds.

“Having these high-altitude balloons as part of Australia’s sovereign capability means that we could deploy advanced sensors into the atmosphere quickly and cost-effectively, giving our forces comprehensive data in the air, on the ground or at sea.”

Image © Commonwealth of Australia 2020