How to Launch a Weather Balloon at School

A weather balloon is designed to carry a small payload into the stratosphere. Scientists use these balloons to record atmospheric pressure and other data about temperature or humidity. These readings help to track weather patterns, and some have even measured radiation in the stratosphere. You can launch one of these amazing contraptions for your class science fair project, all you need are some tools and a clear day to launch.

Preparation

You need a high altitude balloon, and the materials to put it together. Some balloons come as a part of a kit, which includes everything you need to attach a payload as well. A data logger can help you track the balloon’s flight path and learn things about the atmosphere as well. The data you collect is up to you, but the balloon typically requires either hydrogen or helium to launch.

Launch Day

On the day of the launch, you will need to do some precise adjustments to your payload in order to reach specific heights. The mass of your payload, including the weather balloon camera, is a factor in how high the balloon will go. Convert your measurements to grams to get the most precision from your calculations. If you decide to use a data logger, there is software available online that will review your point of launch and the suggested flight path.

Tracking and Teaching

Weather balloons are designed to give readings about atmospheric pressure and weather patterns. A data logger will help track some of these details, and can be paired with Google Maps to provide visualizations too. The choice of how you present the data is up to you, but GPS can be invaluable in the recovery process.