Stratospheric balloon

A stratospheric balloon is a large, high-altitude balloon used to carry scientific instruments and experiments into the stratosphere, the layer of the atmosphere above the clouds. These balloons can reach altitudes of about 12 to 50 kilometers (7 to 31 miles) and provide valuable data for research in fields like meteorology, astronomy, and environmental science. They are typically filled with helium or hydrogen and can stay aloft for several hours to days, collecting information on atmospheric conditions, radiation, and other factors that help scientists understand the Earth's atmosphere and space beyond.