Aerostar (Aerostar International LLC)

Science changes the world every day through the skills of people who learn Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) principles, and apply them to the world’s biggest challenges. One of them? Fighting wildfires successfully, with the most advanced technology available.       Through rapid launch, wind-based navigation, and an elevated view, Aerostar Thunderhead high altitude balloon systems play a critical role in the effectiveness and safety of firefighters and first responders. While its assistance with wildfires is a relatively new endeavor, Thunderhead's ability to carry over 80 types of payloads means the sky is no limit when it comes to the future of balloon technology – and the future of your career.   STEM EDUCATIONAL VIDEO FOR K-12 STUDENTS  TOPICS EXPLORED IN THIS VIDEO: Layers of the stratosphere, and how humans use each of them Principles of stratospheric balloon flight How Thunderhead stratospheric balloons are controlled and navigated, using principles of physics + advanced software (Thunderhead) How directional winds and buoyancy are used for “3-D sailing” of defense, communications, and scientific research balloons Solar recharge systems in the stratosphere, and manufacturing of hyper-thin plastic which can withstand the elevation and elements Last-mile communication for firefighters, including cell service (LTE payload and antenna), radio signal (broadband wireless system), and a satellite link (data relay) Use of infrared camera technology for viewing the size and spread of wildfire in near real-time https://lnkd.in/gR4ueqYE

A special thank you to Aerostar engineers for your hard work and commitment shaping our future with innovation. Thank you for using your brilliance to connect, protect, and save lives! 

Today Aerostar achieved 300 days of continuous flight for a single Thunderhead Balloon System. The super pressure high altitude balloon, identified as HBAL 684, was manufactured by Aerostar International LLC in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and launched from Okeechobee Florida on April 22, 2024. HBAL 684 has travelled more than 72,000 nautical miles in the stratosphere and continues to be navigated in the Pacific by operators using Aerostar’s machine-learning enabled wind models and Thunderstorm software. This flight is part of an internally funded campaign to develop and test Thunderhead systems. For more information: https://lnkd.in/gYGg8-i9 #thunderheadballoons

Aerostar (Aerostar International LLC) is a world leader in manufacturing high-altitude balloons for a range of purposes -- everything from communications to earth observation to defense applications. As an engaged member of the HAPS Alliance, Aerostar’s Russ Van Der Werff is helping to shape the future of stratospheric technology and pave the way for continued industry growth. Interested in joining them? Find out how 👇 https://lnkd.in/e7Ay8wuh #stratosphere #connectivity #HAPS #balloons #nearspace

At Aerostar, we rise to every challenge! As innovators in aerospace and defense technology, we partner with people who want to make the world a safer place. If you are ready to put your biggest ideas to the test, work with the team that knows the sky is no limit!

🎙️HAPS Alliance Vice President Russel Van Der Werff of Aerostar (Aerostar International LLC) spoke with the Constellations podcast on the importance of collaboration between two incredibly important connectivity technologies: LEOs and HAPS.   📡Check out our blog for a recap of the discussion, highlighting how the technologies are complementary, real-world examples of HAPS technology and challenges and opportunities: https://lnkd.in/ePmKC5Z3

“You get more bandwidth and better coverage when you’re closer to the ground.” Could high-altitude platform stations (HAPS) be an alternative to satellite connectivity? On episode 196, we spoke with Russ Van Der Werff of HAPS Alliance and Aerostar (Aerostar International LLC). Listen now: https://lnkd.in/enNkb6ma

Celebrating this high-caliber group of Leaders from Aerostar (Aerostar International LLC) who completed the Crestcom L.E.A.D.R. Program this month! It was a treat to spend time with my former colleagues and meet new members of the team as we gathered each month to learn and reflect on timely leadership topics. The insightful perspectives each person shared helped all of us get better as we applied the concepts to our own experiences. Thank you Aerostar for Connecting, Protecting, and Saving Lives...and caring deeply for the people who enable this noble mission every day. Congratulations🌟Alan, Lora, Angie, Paul, and Derek🌟 for your hard work and commitment to the program, and more importantly – for the way you show up to encourage and empower your teams. Wishing everyone continued success - to the stratosphere and beyond! #leadership #aerospace #engineering #Crestcom

Embracing simplicity is key at Aerostar. Our services focus on simplifying innovation while maintaining sophistication. #Simplify #AerostarGuidingPrinciples 

Today we honor a visionary leader and advocate for equality who continues to inspire by his example!