← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
The objective of the proposed work is to develop a detailed design for a novel tethered balloon system, named the Goddard Tethered-Balloon Observation Sensor System (GT-BOSS), with state-of-the-art components that can provide high resolution planetary boundary layer (PBL) measurements of variables such as wind, pressure, temperature, humidity, aerosol concentration, and radiative fluxes.
This proposed work will lead to the design of a tethered balloon system that can make high resolution planetary boundary layer (PBL) measurements. Under most of the conditions, the system will be able to provide the entire PBL profile from the surface to its top. It will also be able remain at one location for a long duration of time, thus the system is able to provide time series of PBL variables, which is very important for studying boundary layer transition, surface-air interaction, and PBL process parameterization. These types of PBL measurements are critical for addressing the high priority science questions from the 2017 Decadal Survey and for the calibration and validation of a future PBL focused, space-based mission.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.