Factors affecting the vertical motion of a zero-pressure, polyethylene, free balloon

This paper critiques existing aerodynamic-thermodynamic models for predicting the vertical motion of free balloon systems. It demonstrates that: a) the aerodynamic drag coefficient model should be based on Froude number and fractional volume as well as Reynolds number; b) there has been a widespread error in definition of the instantaneous mass of the balloon film involved in the heat transfer process; c) the gas bubble cannot be modelled as a sphere; d) the gas bubble is asymmetrical except when near or at its natural ceiling altitude; and e) the actual gas bubble shape, and most probably the added mass, is directly related to the type of gore pattern. Finally, a procedure is proposed for the analysis of actual flight data to enable the development of a practical, but also theoretically sound, model of the aerodynamic drag coefficient of a zero-pressure, free balloon- and subsequent refinement of the heat transfer models for direct and reflected solar energy.