Application of Near-Space High-Altitude Balloon in Earth Observation

Near space, as a critical atmospheric domain with unique physical, electromagnetic, and biological characteristics, remains a frontier with extensive unresolved scientific questions in atmospheric physics, electromagnetic environment dynamics, and biological adaptability mechanisms. In response to these knowledge gaps, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) initiated a strategic pilot science and technology project dedicated to systematically investigating the aforementioned three core domains of near space. This project has allowed for a series of near-space scientific experiments to be successfully conducted on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, utilizing large zero-pressure high-altitude balloons to carry diverse scientific payloads. From an engineering perspective, all experiments achieved complete success: high-altitude balloons with volumes ranging from 2000 m3 to 50,000 m3 safely transported scientific exploration equipment and payload cabins (with payload masses of 100 kg to 400 kg) to the near space; all scientific instruments maintained stable operational status throughout the missions; payload cabins reliably provided essential support functions, including power supply, data storage, real-time data transmission, and video monitoring for the scientific payloads; and both the scientific equipment and payload cabins were successfully recovered. These efforts are expected to enhance the scientific understanding of Earth’s near space environment and provide a technical foundation for subsequent large-scale near space exploration initiatives.