Aeronautics and astronautics – Aircraft – lighter-than-air – Balloons
Reexamination Certificate
2004-09-09
2008-10-21
Mansen, Michael R. (Department: 3644)
Aeronautics and astronautics
Aircraft, lighter-than-air
Balloons
C244S030000, C244S159200, C244S126000, C244S123110
Reexamination Certificate
active
07438261
ABSTRACT:
The high-altitude balloon has a skin made of nearly evacuated electrostatically inflated cells which provide thermal insulation to minimize heat loss from the gas in the balloon, while transmitting heat from the sun to heat the gas. The lower surface of the balloon is reflective to microwave or laser beams. A stable array of the balloons is maintained at a high altitude and is used to facilitate communications in a world-wide communications system. Ascent of the balloon is well controlled and weight is minimized by starting with lighter-than-air gases in liquid form, releasing a lifting gas into the craft, and then using the empty containers to store the remaining gas when the balloon is aloft.
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Kramer Levin Naftals & Frankel LLP
Mansen Michael R.
Michener Joshua J
Neff Gregor N.
Porter David R.
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