Modeling The Launch Dynamics of a Large Scientific Balloon
Abstract
Considerable attention has been devoted to modeling the shape of a large scientific balloon at float for the zero-pressure and the super-pressure balloons. The majority of the ascent phase of a high altitude balloon can be modeled with a quasi-static analysis of the partially inflated balloon as the ascent to float is a relatively slow process. On the other hand, when the balloon is released from the launch spool, it undergoes dramatic deformations until the time when the gondola is airborne and the initial system shocks have diminished. It is this segment of the balloon launch sequence that we will consider in this paper. We outline two mathematical models for describing the dynamics of a high altitude balloon after it is released from the launch spool. In the first, we assume the shape of the inflated balloon is axisymmetric and the loads are carried via elastic load tendons. In the second approach, we develop a finite element model of deformed gore, allowing a tension-field-like description of the stress. We will focus on shapes that are observed after spool release, but before the launch collar is jettisoned. We will compute numerical solutions of these mathematical models and compare the results with observations of real balloons.
- Publication:
-
43rd COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Held 28 January - 4 February
- Pub Date:
- January 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021cosp...43E2311B