ballonssondes

Ballonssondes, more commonly known as radiosondes or weather balloons with attached sensor payloads, are instruments released into the atmosphere to collect meteorological data. They are used worldwide to observe the vertical structure of the atmosphere and to support weather forecasting and climate research.

How they work: A radiosonde payload contains sensors for atmospheric pressure, temperature, relative humidity, and often wind speed and direction through GPS tracking. The instrument transmits data by radio to ground stations at regular intervals as the balloon ascends. The balloon, typically filled with helium or hydrogen, expands as it rises, carrying the payload to high altitudes before the balloon bursts. The payload then descends by parachute and is recovered when possible for reuse, though recovery is not guaranteed in remote areas.

Technologies and configurations: Balloons are usually made of latex or other flexible materials. Radiosonde units include a small battery, transmitter, and antenna. Some networks employ radar-tracked setups (rawinsonde) to obtain wind information from the balloon’s trajectory, in addition to the radio transmissions. Modern radiosondes may also incorporate more advanced sensors or backup power options to extend operational life.

Applications and networks: Ballonssondes provide vertical profiles of pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind, which are integrated into national meteorological services and global data networks. The resulting data contribute to numerical weather prediction models, atmosphere monitoring, and various climate research programs. Through routine launches, they help maintain regular upper-air observations that underpin weather forecasts and atmospheric science.