Executive Summary
In a remarkable high-altitude balloon experiment, researchers at Stockholm University attached Windsond to a scientific payload that ascended to 27 km above mean sea level (MSL). Although Windsond was originally designed for lower-altitude atmospheric soundings, it served as a backup tracking system throughout the flight. The team maintained contact with Windsond up to 10 km using a standard whip antenna, and re-established communication during descent, enabling successful recovery of the payload. Despite firmware limitations at extreme altitudes, Windsond remained active—audibly beeping even at peak altitude. This unexpected performance has prompted discussions about adapting Windsond for future high-altitude missions. The case highlights Windsond’s resilience, versatility, and potential for expansion into stratospheric research.
Key Learnings
- Windsond remained operational up to 27 km altitude, far beyond its intended range.
- Real-time tracking was maintained up to 10 km with a standard antenna.
- Communication resumed during descent, aiding payload recovery.
- Firmware limitations at high altitudes did not prevent basic functionality.
- Windsond’s audible signal confirmed activity throughout the flight.
- Future launches are planned with custom adaptations for extreme altitudes.
Mission Overview: Balloon Launch from Stockholm University
Researchers at Stockholm University conducted a high-altitude balloon launch carrying specialized scientific instruments. As part of the setup, Windsond was included as a secondary tracking system. The balloon ascended to an impressive 27 km MSL before bursting, with the payload descending via parachute.
Windsond’s Role and Performance
Windsond was not originally designed for stratospheric missions, yet it proved surprisingly resilient:
- Tracking Range: Maintained signal up to 10 km using a standard whip antenna.
- Descent Recovery: Reconnected during parachute descent, guiding the team to the landing site.
- Audible Confirmation: Windsond’s beeping was heard throughout the flight, confirming continuous operation.
- Firmware Behavior: While the software wasn’t optimized for such altitudes, the device remained active and responsive.
This performance underscores Windsond’s robustness and adaptability, even in conditions beyond its design envelope.
Lessons Learned and Future Plans
The unexpected success of Windsond in this mission has sparked interest in further development:
- Firmware Enhancements: Updates are being considered to better handle extreme altitudes.
- Hardware Adaptations: Potential modifications for antenna range and environmental tolerance.
- Expanded Use Cases: Windsond may be integrated into future stratospheric research missions.
The research team is already planning additional launches with Windsond as a core component, aiming to refine its capabilities for high-altitude science.
Sources:
- Windsond High-Altitude Case Study – Sparv Embedded
- Stockholm University Atmospheric Research
- Windsond Product Overview – Sparv Embedded
- Video of the Full Flight (YouTube) (link placeholder)
- Previous Trial Report (Swedish) (link placeholder)
Anders Petersson
Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Anders is the CEO and CTO, coordinating the company's general direction and engineering. He often discusses user requirements and how to accomplish them.