Payloads
Payloads are the heart of every ANSR mission. They are the building blocks of our balloon train and the carriers of the science, engineering, and creativity that make each flight unique. From simple sensors to complex experiments, every payload contributes to real-world research and learning outcomes. Designing and building these payloads is central to our educational mission, giving participants hands-on experience in aerospace design, testing, and flight operations.
Payload Design and Development
If you’re a student participating in one of our programs, or an independent team interested in designing a payload for an ANSR supported high-altitude balloon launch, this document is for you.
The ANSR Payload Design Specification (PDS) outlines the standards and guidelines all payloads must meet to safely and successfully integrate into our launch systems. It covers topics such as payload size, weight limits, power systems, communication interfaces, and flight safety requirements.
By following these requirements, you help ensure your project is compatible with ANSR’s flight hardware, recovery operations, and FAA regulations.
Before submitting your payload for review, please read the full document carefully. If your design includes any features that extend beyond these specifications, you’ll need to request a waiver for approval.
PDS Waiver Submission Form
You can download a PDF copy of the most recent PDS below. This document is still in development and may be updated from semester to semester. The current version as of 10/6/2025 is Version 2.