Zero pressure stratospheric balloons are mainly used by the scientific community for astronomy or astrophysics missions. They are also used by space companies to test their equipment close to their final operating conditions.
Low cost of access to the stratosphere
Able to reach the upper layers of the stratosphere
Large payload capacity
Envelopes of zero pressure stratospheric balloons include one or several openings. These openings ensure the balance between atmospheric pressure and the helium that fills balloon.
Characteristics
Altitude
Up to 45 km
Flight duration
A few hours up to several days
Payload
Up to 2 tons