Will my weather balloon work in the Stratosphere?

In summary, the functionality of a weather balloon in the stratosphere depends on several factors, including the balloon's material, design, and the atmospheric conditions it will encounter. Weather balloons are typically designed to expand as they ascend due to decreasing atmospheric pressure, allowing them to reach altitudes of up to 40 kilometers. However, challenges such as temperature variations, potential for rupture, and the need for appropriate payload systems must be considered to ensure successful operation in the stratosphere.
  • #1
Max CR
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Homework Statement
Hi, I am trying to launch a weather balloon. I am thinking that I would use the following item for a heater. The link is in the body of this post. I would like to use the heater in order to keep an attached iPhone warm and functioning. It states that it works at the temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Will this work on a iPhone on a weather balloon 19 miles above the surface in the Stratosphere where it is -60 degrees Fahrenheit? Also, I will use the USB adapter to keep it powered on and warm the whole way to the launch site. Please let me know if this is a good match for a heater trying to keep an iPhone warm and functioning? Thank you.
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Will the weather balloon's iPhone work at such temperatures with the heating pad?
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  • #2
You really think you can put up a personal weather balloon that will go that high? It's pretty much as high as the highest professional weather balloon has ever gone.

EDIT: OOPS ... seems I'm behind the times on weather balloons and they go much higher now.
 
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  • #3
How will this be powered??? Electronics is usually happy to be cold.....I guess LCD would be a problem, but what do you care about the LCD?? (unless the unit itself cares for some reason) I think a little bit more thought about this is indicated........maybe more than a little ....?
 
  • #4
Will the weather balloon's iPhone work at such temperatures with the heating pad?

It could if you wrap several inches of thermal insulation around the iPhone with the heater inside. Since the heater is USB powered, there will be only 5 Watts of power, or 17BTU/Hr, of heating available. (1 BTU is the energy needed to raise 1 US pound of water by 1 degree F.)

A somewhat bigger problem is that batteries do not work well, or at all, at -60 degrees. Even military grade batteries need to be heated when used at -40 degrees. (this is often done by short-circuiting the battery for a short time to warm it up! not especially recommended for civilian use, a circuit failure could result in sudden spectacular battery failure.)

You could use a larger battery pack and also put heaters and insulation around the batteries.

Cheers,
Tom

p.s. Please keep us posted on your progress and results, we like to learn too!
 
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  • #6
Tom.G said:
ou could use a larger battery pack and also put heaters and insulation around the batteries.
`It probably makes more sense to just insulate the heck out of the phone +batteries and let the selfheating work for you. Aluminized mylar/Kapton wrap (like spacecraft..... let the low air pressure work for you)? How can you get the RF signal out through?
 

FAQ: Will my weather balloon work in the Stratosphere?

1. What is the maximum altitude a weather balloon can reach in the stratosphere?

Weather balloons can typically reach altitudes of around 30 to 40 kilometers (approximately 18 to 25 miles) in the stratosphere before they expand and eventually burst due to the decreasing atmospheric pressure.

2. How do I determine the right size of a weather balloon for stratospheric flights?

The size of the weather balloon needed depends on the payload weight and the desired altitude. Generally, larger balloons (e.g., 1200-1500 grams) can carry heavier payloads and reach higher altitudes, while smaller balloons are suitable for lighter payloads.

3. What kind of payload can I send with a weather balloon into the stratosphere?

Common payloads include scientific instruments, cameras, GPS trackers, and sensors. However, it is essential to ensure that the payload is lightweight and securely attached to withstand the conditions in the stratosphere.

4. What temperature and pressure conditions can I expect in the stratosphere?

In the stratosphere, temperatures can drop to around -50 to -60 degrees Celsius (-58 to -76 degrees Fahrenheit), and the pressure is significantly lower than at sea level, which can affect the performance of the balloon and payload.

5. Do I need a special license to launch a weather balloon into the stratosphere?

In many countries, launching a weather balloon does not require a special license as long as it adheres to safety regulations and does not interfere with air traffic. However, it is advisable to check local regulations and notify relevant authorities before launching.

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