A high-altitude balloon is a large balloon filled with helium or hydrogen that can ascend to great heights, often reaching the stratosphere. These balloons are typically used for scientific research, weather monitoring, and atmospheric studies. They carry instruments and cameras to collect data about temperature, pressure, and other atmospheric conditions. High-altitude balloons can rise to altitudes of 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) or more. They are often launched from remote locations and can travel long distances before descending back to Earth. The data collected can be valuable for understanding climate change and improving weather forecasts, benefiting fields like meteorology and environmental science.