The Bloon Balloon can be launched from anywhere in the world for a flight specially catered to the passengers. Four passengers plus two pilots can fit inside the craft, which is launched off a specially crafted inflatable dome set on the ground. When released the lighter-than-air helium balloon lifts the pod off the ground and into space where you cruise at 36 km for about two hours. To come down, the helium gas is vented into space and then the balloon separates while a parafoil is deployed to control descent back down to earth. Finally, eight inflatable feet are extended from the craft to create a cushion for landing.
Bloon will not use any propellants to achieve near-space travel and creates no emissions as a result. The system is virtually silent and requires no major infrastructure for launching – only a portable and inflatable structure that can be used anywhere in the world. With a scaled prototype test under their belts, the company hopes to perform their first human test flight in 2012 in a ‘minibloon’ craft. By 2015, the company expects to be carrying human passengers up to 36 km high. The company also hopes to make use of the flights for scientific research about climate and conditions in the upper stratosphere. Tickets to ride on a 3-hr Bloon tour are estimated to cost 110,000 euro (approx $US 160,000).
Via Designboom
