APL’s Contributions to Stratospheric Ballooning for Space Science

Abstract

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) has been instrumental in developing stratospheric ballooning for scientific research. Our contributions include systems for unprecedented pointing accuracy and stability that have enabled missions that would otherwise be impossible. In addition, we have engineered systems for avionics, power, software, command and control, ground support, integration, and testing. APL staff members have worked in the field to integrate, troubleshoot, and operate the balloon systems. These accomplishments have supported innovative space science missions in heliophysics, astrophysics, and planetary science.