Development of A Micro-gravity Experiment System Using A High Altitude Balloon

Abstract

To realize micro-gravity environment of long duration and good quality with moderate cost, an experimental system which is released from a high altitude balloon has developed. The system has a double-shell drag-free structure and the outer shell, namely flight capsule, is controlled not to collide with the inner shell to realize micro-gravity environment of good quality. This paper shows the design philosophy and the configuration of the system. The system was successfully tested twice, in May, 2006 and in May, 2007. Outline of the test results and future development plan are also described. Key Words: High-altitude balloon, Micro gravity, Drag-free, Supersonic.