Balloon-borne Astronomical Observations in Antarctica

This article comprehensively reviews high-altitude balloon-borne astronomical experiments conducted in the Antarctic region. The Antarctic atmosphere, characterized by extremely low water vapor levels and high transmittance across multiple wavebands, offers exceptional conditions for astronomical observations. Its unique polar day phenomenon and stable polar vortex also provide ideal environments for long-duration, stable-altitude flights and circumpolar drifting of balloons, making high-altitude balloons a cost-effective and efficient observation platform. Statistics indicate that McMurdo Station serves as the primary launch base for Antarctic high-altitude scientific endeavors, with hundreds of balloon-borne experiments conducted between 1984 and 2024. Astronomical observations constitute the majority of these experiments, spanning both particle and non-particle physics domains. These include cutting-edge scientific investigations such as anisotropy and polarization measurements of cosmic microwave background radiation, high-energy electromagnetic radiation collection, terahertz and broadband spectral imaging of galaxies, analysis of the elemental composition and energy spectra of cosmic rays, observations of ultra-high-energy cosmic ray neutrinos, and the detection of antiprotons, exotic particles, and anti-helium nuclei. In recent years, high-altitude scientific balloons have increasingly become a vital platform for polar astronomical observations. Accelerating the development of polar balloon bases and conducting circumpolar balloon experiments will enhance scientific competitiveness and strengthen international influence in the Antarctic region.