Research interests: Frank Baginski
 
Recent work has been related to the development of a mathematical model for high altitude balloons used by NASA to support research in the upper atmosphere. If one wishes to take full advantage of current balloon technology or develop new balloon designs, it is important to have a valid mathematical model for estimating maximum stresses and strains that are experienced by the balloon film just prior to launch and during its ascent to float altitude. These practical questions generate a wealth of challenging mathematical problems. For example, one might hope to model the balloon as a regular surface. However, in addition to behaving like an ordinary membrane that can stretch, the real balloon film can fold back upon itself and wrinkle. Using techniques in the calculus of variations and the theory of elasticity, one can introduce simplifying assumptions based on observations of real balloons, and then pose tractable mathematical problems which can be solved to yield meaningful solutions of practical interest.

Research fellowships may be available to qualified mathematics graduate students interested in this work.

Selected Publications