Development of an airship for tropical rain forest canopy exploration

Abstract

Abstract The design, manufacture and testing of a 480 cubic metre helium-filled airship, or dirigible balloon, intended for flight above tropical rain forest canopy is outlined. The requirements for the airship and the preliminary sizing method are set-out. Details of the final design and flight test results are included, as well as suggestions concerning future work. Particular attention is paid to the issue of accurate station-keeping and operation close to the canopy with winds present. It is concluded that the development of a truly useful aerial platform for canopy biological studies requires further research in aerodynamics, dynamic simulation and ultra-quiet propulsion systems.