High Altitude Kite Operations and Observations

Development of high altitude kite systems is crucial to the advancement of communication, weather forecasting, and alternative energy. These systems can provide airborne platforms for energy harvesting, weather data sensing, and stand as a repeater for optical communication satellites. A primary objective is to utilize high altitude kites as meteorological monitoring stations to measure both thermodynamic and kinematic atmospheric parameters required for accurate weather forecasting. A primary advantage of utilizing a kite for observations within the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) is the ability to control the altitude and return the payload to the ground. A design advantage for high altitude kite systems is the incorporation of inflatable structures. Implementing inflatable structures can significantly increase payload capacity for large high altitude kite systems and allow more room for instrumentation. Inflatable structure kites also provide deployability and robustness for wind gusts. Multiple operation systems are needed when planning for high altitude flights including an appropriate winch system, pressure maintenance system, data acquisition system, and tension and failure mitigation systems. Proper planning for high-altitude flight is required. Operations planning includes proper facilities and locations in accordance with FAA requirements, and Certificate of Authorization applications (COAs) are obtained for flights as necessary. Details of kite systems and requirements, data acquisition systems, safety features, and flight operations are discussed.