Privacy Policy

Last updated: July 27, 2026

Midwest Stratospheric Data Systems (MSDS) is committed to transparency. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and how we share it in connection with our website, open atmospheric data program, and high-altitude balloon operations.

1. Who We Are

Midwest Stratospheric Data Systems is an EIN-registered U.S. aerospace research company focused on citizen science high-altitude ballooning and the public release of atmospheric data. Operations are based in Casey, Illinois (Clark County). Contact: launchcontrol@midwestsds.com.

2. Information We Collect

Information You Provide

We may collect information you voluntarily send us, including:

• Name, email address, and organization when you contact us (sponsorship inquiries, volunteer interest, media requests, data questions, or general correspondence)
• Any other details you choose to include in messages to launchcontrol@midwestsds.com
• Submissions related to educational activities (e.g., Kids Near Space Zone coloring contest entries, which may include a child’s age and a photo of artwork)

Automatically Collected Technical Information

Like most websites, our servers or hosting providers may automatically log standard technical data such as:

• IP address
• Browser type and version
• Device type and operating system
• Pages visited, referral source, and approximate timestamps

This information is used for security, basic analytics, and improving site performance. We do not use it to build individual marketing profiles.

Atmospheric & Operational Data

MSDS collects environmental and flight data (temperature, pressure, humidity, GPS position, altitude, telemetry, etc.) from high-altitude balloon platforms and ground stations. This scientific data is intended for public release and is not personal information about individuals.

3. How We Use Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Respond to inquiries and coordinate sponsorships, volunteer support, media coverage, or research collaboration
• Operate, maintain, and improve the website and data portal
• Publish open atmospheric datasets and mission documentation
• Administer educational outreach (including Kids Near Space Zone activities)
• Meet legal, safety, and regulatory obligations
• Protect the security and integrity of our systems and operations

We do not sell personal information.

4. How We Share Information

We may share information in the following circumstances:

• Public scientific data — Atmospheric profiles, telemetry archives, and related mission products are released openly for research, education, and public use
• Service providers — Hosting, email, or analytics providers who process data on our behalf under appropriate safeguards
• Legal requirements — When required by law, regulation, or valid legal process, or to protect the rights, safety, or property of MSDS or others
• With your consent — When you ask us to share information or make an introduction

NASA GLOBE contributions and amateur radio telemetry follow the rules and practices of those respective systems; data submitted to GLOBE or transmitted via amateur radio is subject to those programs’ terms.

5. Cookies and Similar Technologies

Our site may use essential cookies or similar technologies required for basic functionality and security. If we use optional analytics tools in the future, we will update this policy and, where required, provide appropriate notice or choice.

6. Children’s Privacy

The Kids Near Space Zone is designed for educational use. Contest or activity submissions may request a child’s age along with a photo of artwork. We do not knowingly collect sensitive personal information from children beyond what is needed to administer the activity. Parents or guardians who wish to review or remove a submission may contact us at the email below.

7. Data Retention

Contact correspondence is retained as long as needed to respond and for reasonable business or legal records. Public scientific datasets are intended for long-term open access. Technical logs are retained for a limited period for security and operational purposes.

8. Security

We take reasonable administrative and technical measures to protect information under our control. No method of transmission or storage is completely secure; we cannot guarantee absolute security.

9. Your Choices

You may:

• Contact us to request access to, correction of, or deletion of personal information you have provided, subject to legal and operational limits
• Opt out of further email contact by replying to any message or emailing us with the request
• Choose not to submit personal information when contacting us (though this may limit our ability to respond)

10. Third-Party Links and Services

Our website links to external services (for example APRS.fi, SondeHub, NASA GLOBE, press outlets, and social platforms). Those services have their own privacy policies. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of third parties.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The “Last updated” date at the top will reflect the most recent revision. Continued use of the site after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

12. Contact Us

For privacy-related questions or requests, email:

launchcontrol@midwestsds.com

Midwest Stratospheric Data Systems
Casey, Illinois, USA