Campaigns

Navigation & Operations for Venting and Administration

A precision control system engineered to vent helium and maintain the balloon at a specific altitude. Operated through ground commands relayed via the Iridium satellite network, it represents a one-of-a-kind platform that the team has been refining and advancing over the past three years.

Insulation Comparison Experiment for Balloon-borne Observation of eXtreme environments

This project explores how insulation thickness impacts the survival of payloads in the extreme cold of near space. Using two custom-built boxes with integrated heating and sensors, it reveals critical insights into effective thermal protection for future missions.

eXtreme Temperature & Radiation Microbiology

The XTRM campaign studies how microorganisms respond to short bursts of extreme radiation and freezing temperatures at 90,000+ feet. By analyzing survival, visible phenotypic changes, and DNA profiles, the project reveals how life endures sudden exposure to near-space conditions.

This is HHS HABET's engineering chellenge to reach the maximum possible altitude with a latex high-altitude balloon.  The mission pushes students to design and test payload systems that can withstand extreme stratospheric conditions while striving to set new records in balloon flight.

StratoSeeds sends Wisconsin Fastgrow seeds into the stratosphere aboard high-altitude balloons to test their resilience under extreme cold and radiation. Partner classrooms then grow both flown and unflown seeds, comparing results to connect students directly with space biology and hands-on science

Advancing STEM Community Engagement through Near-space Technology

ASCENT, is Hanover High School’s public outreach initiative designed to spark curiosity and inspire future explorers. By combining high-altitude ballooning with community events and educational storytelling, ASCENT connects students, families, and the public to the excitement of near-space exploration.

The 2024/2025 Solar Maximum Campaign launched student high-altitude balloon missions to capture data during the peak of solar activity. By studying the impacts of coronal mass ejections and heightened space weather in the stratosphere, the project provided valuable insights into solar–Earth interactions while engaging students in authentic, cutting-edge research.