Black Swift Technologies · NASA Aeropod technology
Aeropods use passive aerodynamics to hold a camera or weather meter steady beneath a kite or balloon — research-grade observations, even in turbulent air.
Platforms
Our 2026 airframes replace traditional materials with high-modulus carbon fiber and precision laser-cut components for superior damping and stability. Each design decouples tether motion from the sensor, giving your instrument a steady state for critical measurements.
Atmospheric profiling and measurement.
Aerial imaging for kite aerial photography and remote sensing.
Both fly on any stable kite or balloon system that produces steady lift and line tension. Airframe-only options are available if you supply your own instrument.
Core benefits
Built on technology developed at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, BST Aeropods use a high-modulus carbon stick, precision laser-cut plywood fins, and offset rotational mounts to isolate your instruments from line motion.
We specialize in aerodynamically stabilized platforms for in-situ and remote sensing observations. By using passive aerodynamic forces — no motors, no moving parts — our platforms give tethered instruments a high-fidelity environment for collecting data.
Carbon fiber and thin plywood construction for an optimal strength-to-weight ratio.
Modular mounting designed for industry-standard sensors like the Kestrel 5500.
Kits arrive configured by BST for kite-based observation — capture interval, distortion correction, units and power settings — so there is no at-home setup.
Data Explorer
Explore your Profiler flights with our free Data Explorer. Drop in the CSV from your Kestrel and get interactive time series, vertical profiles, potential temperature and a 3D flight view. Everything runs in your browser — nothing is uploaded.
AKA members get an exclusive discount. Add your American Kitefliers Association member number to your order request and we'll apply it to your invoice.
Experience the thrill of atmospheric science with the simplicity of Aeropods. Tell us what you need and we'll send an invoice with a secure payment link.
