Network in the sky By A.NAGESH 107B1A0473
WHAT IS PROJECT LOON? Project Loon is a network of balloons traveling on the edge of space, designed to connect people in rural and remote areas.
HOW LOON IS DESIGNED Envelop Solar panels Equipment
THE TECHNOLOGY Project Loon balloons float in the stratosphere, twice as high as airplanes and the weather. People connect to the balloon network using a special Internet antenna attached to their building. The signal bounces from balloon to balloon, then to the global Internet back on Earth.
STRATOSPHERE
HOW LOON CONNECTS Each balloon can provide connectivity to a ground area about 40 km in diameter at speeds comparable to 3G. Each balloon is equipped with a GPS for tracking its location. Three radio transceivers. balloon-to-balloon communications. balloon-to-ground communication. third for backup.
The balloons use antennas equipped with specialized radio frequency technology. Project Loon currently uses ISM bands that are available for anyone to use. The industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) radio bands . Radio bands reserved internationally for the use of radio frequency (RF) energy for industrial, scientific and medical purposes other than communications.
THE PILOT TEST Project Loon starts in June 2013 with an experimental pilot in New Zealand. A small group of Project Loon pioneers will test the technology in Christchurch and Canterbury. 30 balloons, launched from New Zealand’s South Island. The experience of these pilot testers will be used to refine the technology and shape the next phase of Project Loon.
ADVANTAGES Easy to use. Speed. Increasing Internet usage
DISADVANTAGES Cost. Maintenance. Balloon can work for few week only.
CONCLUSION Project Loon is a network of balloons traveling on the edge of space, designed to connect people in rural and remote areas, help fill in coverage gaps and bring people back online after disasters.