Google’s Loon Uses Solar Power to Connect the World

Google wants to bring wireless internet service to the whole world through its airborne Loon network. The pilot project got off the ground on June 15th, launching from Christchurch New Zealand.

A Loon is a helium-filled mylar balloon floating about 20 km (12 mi) above the Earth’s surface, carrying an internet router and associated gear. Each unit can provide internet access to a 40 square km area. Google plans a network of Loons that communicate with the ground and with other Loons. Hundreds of Loons combined could provide wireless internet access worldwide. Communication uses the 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz bands which are publically available without a special license. Internet speeds are roughly equivalent to 3G speeds. Although cell service can already reach many remote areas, Google thinks the Loon network could provide internet access to areas where cellular companies haven’t penetrated, as well as locations that have been struck by natural disasters, knocking out cell service. Since it uses low-cost balloons instead of satellites, the total cost will be much lower than the $7 billion that Motorola invested in its Iridium phone network.

Instead of being tethered to the ground, the Loons move on air currents. As one floats out of range, another should float in range. Each Loon includes a solar powered fan to pump air in and out of the balloon, allowing the Loon to change altitudes in order to maintain its position relative to the other balloons in the network. And if the Loon should malfunction and fall from the sky, a built-in parachute will deploy. The Loon’s case has a label saying “Harmless Science Experiment” along with contact information and a “Reward if Returned” notice.