The first of a series of high altitude balloon launch trials has commenced, with the first balloon being successfully launched this week from West Wyalong in NSW.
The trials test Defence’s ability to quickly send sensors and communications equipment into the upper atmosphere carried on a balloon.
The balloon was launched into the stratosphere to explore the under-utilised altitudes between space and where aircraft generally fly.
“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,” Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said.
“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.”
“Air Force’s partnership with ThunderStruck Space will help boost their capability and give us greater opportunities to access innovative Australian stratospheric launch capabilities,” Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said. “It offers Australian industry the chance to conduct quick and relatively low-cost, pre-launch testing of space payloads, before being integrated onto launch vehicles for deployment into orbit.”
A 3D printed version of Jasper, an award-winning animated character developed by Air Force to encourage more children to pursue STEM careers, will be filmed as she soars into the stratosphere on one of the balloons.
The trials are taking place in close consultation with the Civilian Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).