Atmospheric properties measurements and data collection from a hot-air balloon

Remote-sensing and in-situ atmospheric chemistry studies with the use of a manned hot air balloon platform

“…Equipment that has been operated and tested on the balloon includes Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers, a multispectral imaging spectrometer, mid-and far-infrared cameras, a PM10 Beta attenuation monitor, radiometers, ozone meters, nitrogen oxide analyzers, a condensation nuclei counter, an aerodynamic particle sizer with associated computer equipment, a high-resolution charged coupled device (CCD) camera, SUMMA-type canisters for the collection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), gas collection bags, tethersondes, a forward-looking infrared camera (FLIR), annular denuders, fine particle mass samplers, trace metal samplers, and gas and aerosol phase mercury samplers. 1,2 The instrumentation can be powered with a portable generator that is normally suspended 10 -15 ft from the gondola. The power cords from the instrumentation are plugged into a power strip, which is placed inside of the basket.…”