Balloon Ascent: 3-D Simulation Tool for the Ascent and Float of High-Altitude Balloons

*BalloonAscent is a new user-friendly software tool, which simulates the vertical and horizontal motions of high-altitude balloons such as are flown by NASA’s National Scientific Balloon Facility. The formulations are generalized as to allow simulated balloon flight in other atmospheres on different planets. This paper will describe the theoretical basis and how the tool is used to predict ascent behavior and float behavior under varying environmental conditions.