The use of state-of-the-art kites for profiling the lower atmosphere

This paper presents the capabilities and limitations of using state-of-the-art kites for atmospheric research. A brief historical review of the subject is first presented, followed by an outline of the current status of kite-borne measurement technology. The utility of the technique is then illustrated by presenting a series of recent measurements made using kite-borne technology. A summary of the advantages and limitations of kite-based measurements relative to other technologies is provided for reference.