Aerostática

Aerostática refers to the branch of physics and engineering concerned with the behavior and control of lighter-than-air vehicles, such as balloons and airships. These craft achieve lift by displacing a volume of air that is less dense than the surrounding atmosphere. This density difference is typically achieved by filling the vehicle's envelope with a gas that is lighter than air, such as helium or hot air.

The fundamental principle behind aerostática is Archimedes' principle, which states that a body immersed in a fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the body. In the case of aerostatic vehicles, the "fluid" is the atmosphere. The buoyant force generated by the lifting gas must be greater than the weight of the vehicle itself, including its structure, payload, and the lifting gas.

The development of aerostatic vehicles dates back to the late 18th century with the invention of the hot air balloon by the Montgolfier brothers. Subsequent advancements led to the use of hydrogen and then helium, allowing for greater lift and duration. Airships, which are steerable aerostatic vehicles, emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, playing significant roles in transportation and military applications before the advent of more advanced aircraft. While their prominence has waned, aerostatic principles continue to be explored for various applications, including scientific research, surveillance, and advertising.