/sci/ - Science & Math

>>15177829
I heard the beginnings of an argument that it might be a better platform for ground penetrating radar, but the argument was made on twitter and died after 140 characters. It could also just be a better way for China to get data using their existing camera tech. Most of their optical spysats are small enough to be launched on a LM-2C so they're both not that spectacular by NRO standards and well within the weight limits of a large weather balloon. Putting that same sensor several hundred kilometers closer would get a much better return.

Unless you follow Newt Gingrich on twitter, in which case the balloon is 100% a test run for delivering an EMP device into the American heartland.