Design and Ground Test of a 6 Meters Pumpkin Super-Pressure Balloon

Abstract

The pumpkin shape design is one of the most effective methods for super-pressure balloon design. In this paper, the method of designing a pumpkin super-pressure balloon is studied and equivalent strength concept is introduced in the design process. Fabrication method is also discussed. In order to verify the method, a 6 meters test balloon was fabricated and tested. The maximum differential pressure matched with the design value and the design method proved to be usable. Through the test, intuitive understanding of pumpkin super-pressure balloon was obtained and method of designing was verified.