Geostationary balloon satellite

From Infogalactic: the planetary knowledge core
Jump to: navigation, search
Stratobus airship
File:Geostationary balloon satellite.jpeg
Geostationary balloon satellite
Geostationary airship satellite [1]

Geostationary balloon satellites (GBS) are atmosphere analogues to satellites that float in the stratosphere (60,000 to 70,000 feet (18 to 21 km) above sea level) at a fixed point over the Earth's surface. At that altitude, air density is 1/10 of what it is at sea level. This significantly decreases the impact of wind on the balloon's position; furthermore, the average wind speed at these levels is less than that at the surface. An ion thruster[dubious ] or electric propeller would allow the balloon to move into and maintain its position. The GBS would be powered with solar panels en route to its location and then receive laser power from a cell tower it hovers over.

A GBS could be used to provide broadband Internet access over a large area. Laser broadband would connect the GBS to the network, which could then provide a large area of coverage because of its wider line of sight over the curvature of the earth and unimpeded Fresnel zone.[2][3][4]

Arizona space balloon port

World View Enterprises has been approved to build a balloon spaceport (High-altitude balloon port) in Prima County, Arizona. [5]

See also

References