Arizona Near Space Research (ANSR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization engaging students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education through hands-on learning with amateur radio and high-altitude ballooning. Since 2001, ANSR has proudly supported over 150 balloon launch opportunities, helping bring real-world learning opportunities to students across the state.

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Our high-altitude balloon missions serve as immersive, project-based platforms that connect learners to the excitement of space and engineering in a tangible, memorable way. These student-driven flights often include custom-built payloads, live tracking systems, and on-board cameras — bringing textbook concepts to life and encouraging the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.

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To date, ANSR has conducted more than 150 balloon flights, including one that reached an altitude of over 117,000 feet. Each mission is a team effort, involving a variety of educational tools and disciplines: radio communication (APRS, packet), GPS and telemetry, antenna design, electronics fabrication, software programming, flight path prediction, and more. These experiences teach valuable technical and collaborative skills in a supportive, real-world environment.

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ANSR is driven by a passionate team of educators, engineers, amateur radio operators, and volunteers committed to expanding access to quality STEM education. Whether you're a student, teacher, parent, or community partner — you’re invited to take part in our mission and join us in inspiring future explorers through high-altitude learning.