Stratospheric atmospheric observation network
High-altitude environmental monitoring and wind pattern analysis for research institutions and climate science.
Mission
Stratolink operates a stratospheric observation network designed to address gaps in atmospheric data collection. Our platform provides high-resolution wind measurements, temperature profiles, and environmental monitoring across regions with limited traditional infrastructure.
Using long-duration pico balloons equipped with calibrated sensors, we collect continuous atmospheric data between 10-20 km altitude. This altitude band—above weather systems and below satellites—offers unique insights into stratospheric dynamics and long-range transport patterns.
Our datasets are made freely available to researchers, educators, and institutions. We maintain rigorous documentation standards, including sensor specifications, calibration protocols, and quality control procedures, ensuring our data meets the requirements of peer-reviewed research.
Expand upper-air coverage
Deploy cost-effective sensor networks across undersampled regions to increase atmospheric observation density.
Reduce cost per observation
Leverage pico balloon technology to achieve observations at a fraction of traditional radiosonde costs.
Publish open, well-documented datasets
Provide validated, calibrated data with complete metadata for research, education, and operational use.
How It Works
Our observation system uses long-duration balloons that drift with stratospheric wind currents. Each balloon carries calibrated instruments that measure temperature, pressure, position, and other environmental parameters. Data is transmitted in real-time and archived for research access.
Balloon Deployment
Instrumented pico balloons are released from designated launch sites and ascend to operational altitude.
Stratospheric Drift
Balloons enter predictable wind currents in the stratosphere, collecting continuous environmental measurements.
Telemetry & Tracking
Sensor data and position information are transmitted to ground stations via radio telemetry at regular intervals.
Data Validation
Observations undergo quality control, calibration checks, and are published in standardized formats for research use.
Built For
The Stratolink observation network serves atmospheric science research, climate studies, and institutional data needs. Our platform is designed for applications requiring validated, research-grade measurements.
Atmospheric Research
Continuous monitoring of wind patterns, temperature gradients, and atmospheric composition for climate and weather research.
Climate Monitoring
Track stratospheric temperature trends, ozone distribution, and aerosol transport for long-term climate studies.
Educational Programs
Universities and research institutions access real-time data feeds, historical archives, and calibration documentation for coursework.
Model Validation
Compare forecast model outputs with observed stratospheric conditions to improve weather and climate prediction accuracy.
Development Roadmap
Our development priorities focus on expanding data coverage, improving telemetry reliability, and building tools that enable researchers to access and analyze atmospheric observations. Future releases will include interactive tracking interfaces, historical data queries, and automated quality control pipelines.
We're working toward a publicly accessible platform with documented APIs, standardized data formats compatible with common atmospheric science tools, and collaborative features for the research community.
Real-time balloon trajectory tracking and wind field visualization in development
Pilot Operations
Initial balloon deployments, sensor validation campaigns, and partnerships with atmospheric research institutions.
Data Platform Launch
Public data archive, API access for researchers, and expanded coverage across priority observation regions.
Operational Network
Continuous observation capabilities, real-time data feeds, and collaborative tools for the atmospheric science community.
Contact
Interested in collaborating, deploying sensors, or accessing atmospheric data? Get in touch with our team.
Or reach us directly at contact@stratolink.org