Development of a helium gas balloon flying system for aerial photographing and observation

Abstract

This paper describes the implementation of a helium gas balloon flying system equipped with a camera and tracking subsystem for aerial photography. This is partially the results of a successful project conducted in November 2012 by a group of electrical and electronic students from the University of Johannesburg. The goal of this project was to take aerial pictures at the highest possible altitude above the sea level from the flying system while tracking its position in real-time. The solution proposed was based on a low cost unmanned system for a reliable and optimal aerial observation and tracking, suitable for start-ups companies or research groups.