Use of VEGA data to analyse balloon options for possible subsequent long endurance Venus cloud layer missions

Abstract

The vertical motions and buoyancy variations of the two VEGA super-pressure balloons, flown in the middle cloud layer of Venus, are discussed. Using data derived from these 1985 nightside flights, estimates are made of the energy required to operate some alternative balloon platform schemes under consideration for future-proposed Venus-atmosphere in situ science missions. Despite the dissimilarity of these alternative platform schemes, the energy inputs required to operate each scheme on the Venus nightside are found to be similar. Estimates of the associated mass penalties of the associated energy sources are also made. Further investigation of a vertical propulsive assist scheme is recommended.