An Investigation of the Applicability of High Altitude, Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) Vehicles to the Tactical Communications Relay Problem
An Investigation of the Applicability of High Altitude, Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) Vehicles to the Tactical Communications Relay Problem

Author: Andrew S. Carten (Jr.)

Publisher:

Published: 1974

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13:

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The various types of large balloon systems in use today, or under development, are examined with regard to potential use in the SEEK STAR multi- mode transmission system. Tethered balloons are shown to satisfy many communications applications, but to lack the altitude capability needed by SEEK STAR. The powered free balloon is seen to offer the best potential. The AFCRL powered balloon system, POBAL, is described and test results are presented. Its successor system, POBAL-S, is also described and evaluated. The demise of the POBAL-S development at AFCRL and the reappearance of the concept under the Navy's HASPA program is discussed and the applicability of HASPA to the SEEK STAR mission is evaluated. It is shown that, although the HASPA can theoretically satisfy or exceed all SEEK STAR needs, a delay of about three years must be endured before definitive results are available. Free-flying (that is, unpowered) balloon systems, both zero-pressure and superpressure, are evaluated and the advantages of the ground-launched and air-launched systems are pointed out. A status report on the Air-Launched Balloon System (ALBS) development is given.

Flight Tests of the Air-Launched Balloon System (ALBS) Prototype Model
Flight Tests of the Air-Launched Balloon System (ALBS) Prototype Model

Author: Andrew S. Carten (Jr.)

Publisher:

Published: 1978

Total Pages: 140

ISBN-13:

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The requirements for the Air Launched Balloon System (ALBS) development program and the highlights of that program, prior to the flight test phase, are presented. The rationale behind an ambitious ALBS parachute subsystem test flight series, using C-130 aircraft, at the National Parachute Test Range is given, along with the initial system configuration chosen for that series. The test-demonstrated inadequacy of the 32-ft drogue chute is documented. The successes achieved subsequently in flights with a 28-ft drogue chute (in combination with the 42-ft main chute) are described, both for tests employing a dummy balloon and for later tests in which a real balloon was used. Attempts at partial balloon inflation at the NPTR are discussed. The unsolved parachute coning problem is also described, along with tests aimed at its solution. Planning and preflight preparations for the January 1978 balloon drop test over the White Sands Missile Range are covered in considerable detail. The abortive launch of that flight is related and an analysis of the reasons for the flight failure is presented. Five (5) appendices are included with supporting calculations.