Chongqing – Researchers in Shanghai Jiao Tong University's Chongqing Nearspace Innovation R&D Center's laboratory were developing a model of an inverted drop-shaped balloon (6 meters diameter balloon with a variety of sensors) that can be used for aerial rocket launches.

The research examines the machine. (Photo provided to iChongqing)

The university established the first domestic R&D center in Chongqing, focusing on near-space technology, according to Tang Jiwei, deputy director of Shanghai Jiaotong University's Chongqing NearSpace Innovation R&D Center. Near space is defined as space with an altitude of 20-100 kilometers. Tang said that the center had established three research and development directions, namely, near-space aerostats, microsatellites, and near-base launches, all filling shortages in Liangjiang New Area and even Chongqing in the field of near-space research.

This summer, the developed aerostat outfitted with self-designed multi-spectral video imaging equipment and China Mobile's 5G communication base station achieved real-time fire prevention monitoring on forests around Mingyue Lake.

The aerostat with self-designed multi-spectral video imaging equipment. (Photo provided to iChongqing)

The aerostat carried monitoring and communication transmission equipment above Mingyue Lake. It transmitted image data in time to establish an integrated 5G communication emergency support system. The data will help the personnel monitor the surrounding forests in the Liangjiang Collaborative Innovation Zone.

"Emergency observation and rescue are simply a part of the application scenarios. It will also be widely employed in natural disaster rescue and other areas," Tang Jiwei said.

"Airtightness is a technological problem that we are addressing," said Jiang Xiaojun, 33, who graduated from Chongqing University with a major in mechanical design and joined the aerostat project team two years ago. Jiang said that pressure testing with a few specialized tools could precisely locate the leak location. The air tightness and size of the sphere determine the load of the aerostat.

The team is young, with more than 40 R&D members, according to project head Long Xiaodan. Collaboration among members is essential in the R&D process. "For example, when my design is finished, I need the production team to evaluate if it is the best." In addition, when confronted with complex challenges, the team will consult with specialists from Shanghai Jiaotong University to discuss ways to solve difficulties.

"In the future, the aerostat can transport the rocket to near space and launch the rocket in the air," Long Xiaodan said. It has the potential to conserve rocket fuel while increasing payload.

In the early stages, the R&D center performed the round-trip flight mission of the aerostat in near space. Throughout the process, the aircraft is under control. It is the first time in China that safe recycling has been achieved, and the equipment is in good shape. It has created a solid foundation for the R&D Center's ongoing growth in related sectors of near-space aerostats.