DATA OF THE AIR.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 18969, 6 April 1927, Page 4

DATA OF THE AIR.

USE OF BALLOONS. Observations made by Messrs H. F. Skey and H. F. Baird, of the staff of the Christchurch Meteorological Observatory, show that it is possible to keep in sight the small balloons, which arc being used to test the velocity of air currents, at a height of about 55,000 feet, one such balloon being kept in view for 1 hour 31 minutes. Since July last Messrs Skey and Baird have been carrying out observations at the Wigrani Aerodrome and Hagley park, by means of which they will obtain valuable information concerning the rate at which winds of a high altitude travel, and from which direction they predominate. It lias been ascertained that whereas there might be almost a calm on the lower levels a gale could bo blowing at a higher altitude. Another point tliat has been made clear is that there is seldom any relation between the winds in different strata and also that the prevailing winds high above the earth are westerlies. Up to the present no fewer than 72 balloons have been released, each being constructed of gum-rubber and being nearly 3 feet in diameter. Each balloon 'is filled with' hydrogen and has a rising capacity of 150 metres per minute. The experiments, wliicii are being carried out on behalf of the Xcw Zealand Institute, should be of great value in assisting the science of meteorological predictions.