Cloud seeding balloons
Self-operating balloons.
The cloud seeding balloons offered by Selerys through the LAICOTM SOBLI system represent a groundbreaking solution in aerial cloud seeding technology. This self-operating balloon launcher instrument provides a safe, reactive, and remotely controlled method for efficient cloud seeding, whether for hail risk mitigation, rain/snow enhancement or fog dispersal.
Key Features of LAICOTM SOBLI
Autonomous and remotely controlled
The LAICOTM SOBLI system allows for the autonomous launching of cloud seeding balloons using a simple SMS or web command. This system ensures efficient and reactive cloud seeding with minimal human intervention. Operators can launch from each SOBLI machine 1 to 6 balloons, each carrying hygroscopic salt or AgL flares, to the ordered meteorological target in few minutes.
Advanced technology integration
The LAICOTM SOBLI inflator is equipped with an embedded processing unit that:
Commands balloon launches remotely through SMS/web commands.
Checks flares connected to each balloon to ensure safe flights.
Transmits flight plans to the smart seeding balloons.
Inflates the balloons with the optimum quantity of helium.
Automates balloon launches once inflation is complete.
Monitors instrumentation remotely, including gas, flare, and balloon stocks and security checks.
Collects and transmits the live GPS position and real time radiosonding data to the operator through the software interface
Competitive and reactive cloud seeding
Continuous & multitarget Seeding Capability
The LAICOTM SOBLI system offers a competitive edge in continuous & multitarget cloud seeding. The infrastructure is already installed on the target area, making it immediately available. Thanks to our patented balloon solution, we have complete operational freedom to operate without the need for systematic flight authorization.
This infrastructure operates 24/7, day and night, with no restrictions, always ready. From the moment of decision, it takes only a few minutes to reach the target inside the cloud, and the balloons can simultaneously address multiple targets in the area.
Safe and efficient
The LAICOTM SOBLI system ensures the safest aerial cloud seeding method available. Each standard SOBLI inflator can pre-load up to 24 balloons, each requiring only 1m³ of helium. The smart seeding balloons disperse flares with silver iodide or hygroscopic salts inside the cloud safely and efficiently. When the meteorological target is reached, few minutes after the launch, the microchip embedded in the balloon lights the flare that spreads the seeding agent.
Ecological
The LAICOTM SOBLI system ensures the most ecological aerial cloud seeding method available. Independent survey shows that using balloons technology for a standard cloud seeding project saves about 75 tons of equivalent CO2 per year compared to traditional aircraft technology. On top of that the same LAICO infrastructure can be used for any use case: from hail risk mitigation to rain or snow enhancement, even fog dispersal
Why Choose Selerys cloud seeding balloons?
Remotely controlled & commanded (SMS/WEB): easy and efficient operation.
Minimal human resources needed: light human resources solution.
Safety and compliance: safe to use and compliant with civil air regulations.
High reactivity: provides a reactive solution with competitive transfer rates.
Versatility: ideal for both specific and large territories, complementing planes, rockets, or ground generators.
Energy independence: autonomous energy system.
Full freedom to operate, day and night, 24h/7d
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