Phase Change Balloons for Venus Exploration: Design and Initial Sizing

Phase-Change Lighter-Than-Air Systems are one of the promising potential candidates suitable for in situ study of the Venusian atmosphere due to their ability to remain afloat and oscillate in the atmosphere for a long period without much power consumption. The current work discusses the conceptual design study and sizing of the phase change LTA system operational in the altitude band of 40-60 km above the surface in the Venusian atmosphere. The mathematical model of trajectory response of the phase change LTA system with temperature variation in the atmosphere is developed and validated against the available work in the literature. A detailed methodology for the conceptual design of Dual Balloon configuration of phase change LTA system is discussed which is used for the initial sizing of a system with a payload of range of 01 - 20 kg, capable of operating in the altitude band of 40 - 60 km in the Venusian atmosphere. The Payload-System Mass Ratio for carrying the payload of 01 kg, 05 kg, 10 kg and 20 kg with the ability to operate in the altitude band of 40 - 60 km in the Venusian atmosphere is reported.