Experiment-based risk evaluation for a stratospheric VLF antenna system

Abstract

Between 2014 and 2021 a series of seven test light-balloon stratospheric flights took place, with the objectives to test various aspects of vertical electric antenna systems for the Very Low Frequency range. These missions helped to define important risks associated with free-flying large antennas and create effective ways to mitigate them, allowing the successful implementation of a stratospheric VLF transmitter.