Jon Scott
on June 9, 2023
0 views
The Truth About Satellites 🛰️
Project Loon is a Google initiative aimed at providing internet access to remote and underserved areas around the world through the use of high-altitude balloons. These balloons, made of polyethylene plastic, are filled with helium and can float at an altitude of around 20 kilometers, or 12 miles, above the earth's surface.
The balloons are equipped with communication equipment that enables them to provide internet connectivity to areas that are typically difficult to reach through traditional means. The balloons are designed to be lightweight and durable, and are capable of staying aloft for several months at a time.
NASA has played a key role in the development of Project Loon, providing technical support and expertise in the areas of materials science and atmospheric research. The space agency has also worked closely with Google to develop new technologies and materials for the balloons, including advanced sensors and communication equipment.
In addition to Project Loon, other companies like SpaceX's Starlink have also been exploring the use of balloons to suspend satellites in low earth orbit. These satellites can provide internet connectivity to remote areas on earth, as well as support other applications like weather monitoring and surveillance.
One of the main challenges in using balloons to suspend satellites is the need for a reliable source of helium gas. Helium is a non-renewable resource that is primarily extracted from natural gas deposits. With NASA being the biggest purchaser of helium in the world, the agency spends approximately $75 million per year on the gas.
Despite these challenges, the use of balloons to provide internet connectivity and support other applications represents an exciting new frontier in aerospace technology. With continued investment and research, it is possible that we could see a new era of high-altitude communication and exploration in the years to come.
Dimension: 818 x 1024
File Size: 90.26 Kb
Be the first person to like this.