High-altitude weather balloon

The problem

Weather forecasting relies on data from the upper atmosphere, while a ground station reads a single point at the surface. A traditional weather balloon is released and never recovered — single-use and expensive. Aircraft fly fixed routes that don't necessarily pass over the target area. A tethered balloon provides a full vertical profile above a specific point and can be recovered and reused.

How it works

1. PreparationThe sensor package is mounted under the balloon with the communication module and battery.
2. AscentThe balloon rises gradually, and the tether controls the maximum altitude.
3. MeasurementThe sensors read pressure, temperature, and humidity at every altitude.
4. Wind measurementThe anemometer records speed and direction as altitude changes.
5. BroadcastA long-range communication module streams the readings live to the ground station.
6. Vertical profileThe dashboard draws each indicator against altitude, forming a full vertical profile.

Project features

• It provides a vertical profile above a specific point — data not available from ready sources.
• Reusable, unlike traditional balloons that are never recovered.
• It allows an impressive demo by launching the balloon in front of the defense committee.
• It combines meteorology, long-range communication, and lightweight payload design.
• Very rare among local graduation projects, which makes it stand out clearly.

Expected challenges

These are the main obstacles to expect during the build, laid out clearly so you know them before you start.

• Payload weight is the first constraint: every extra gram lowers the reachable altitude.
• Wind pushes the balloon off course and puts heavy tension on the tether.
• Helium leaks gradually, limiting flight time.
• Communication range weakens with altitude and needs a suitable antenna.
• Flying any object in the airspace requires prior permission.

The consultation gives you a solution for each one.

Expected committee questions

Prepare your answers in advance: these questions come up often in defenses of similar projects.

1. How was the amount of helium needed to lift the payload calculated?
2. How is wind speed measured at altitude while the balloon itself is moving?
3. What is the transmission range between the payload and the ground station?
4. What safety precautions and permits are needed for flight?

Practice the defense, question by question