NASA’s Payload for Ultrahigh Energy Observations (PUEO) mission in Antarctica. (Image: NASA/Scott Battaion)
Science
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Moneycontrol19-01-2026, 12:54

NASA's Antarctic Balloon Campaign Successfully Hunts for Antimatter, Cosmic Particles

  • NASA successfully completed a scientific balloon campaign over Antarctica, launching four high-altitude balloons near McMurdo Station.
  • The GAPS instrument searched for antimatter particles, providing clues about dark matter, while PUEO looked for neutrino signals.
  • Two smaller balloons carried additional scientific and calibration payloads, ensuring accurate data collection in harsh conditions.
  • Antarctica's stable atmospheric conditions and continuous summer sunlight are ideal for long-duration balloon flights, reducing interference.
  • The campaign offers a cost-effective method to gather unique data on cosmic rays and antimatter, complementing satellite and ground observatories.

Why It Matters: NASA's Antarctic balloon campaign successfully gathered crucial data on antimatter and cosmic particles.

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