June 2012

In the United States The National Helium Reserve supply chain is currently disrupted. The price has spiked and some supplies are not selling to non-commercial users. We have been asking our suppliers and they expect the situation to improve before the end of the year.

The reserve is not out, it is said to be at 25-year supply right now, but the U.S. Senate is considering adjusting the current policy which was set in 1996. One notable aspect being considered is giving Scintists priority in the event of a shortage.

http://www.physicstoday.org/daily_edition/politics_and_policy/senate_bill_would_preserve_us_helium_reserve

http://old.post-gazette.com/pg/10354/1111632-115.stm

Re-Capturing Helium

Problem: re-capturing helium in a pressurized tank without contaminating it for reuse. Can it be done at low cost? Portable system? Safety?

Helium Alternatives

Solar Balloons The cheapest and most sustainable method available. Continue to a page with lots of research on making your own solar balloons.

Hydrogen Balloons Perhaps the most readily available abundant source of energy, but must be used safely.

Finding Helium

San Francisco Region Alliance-Atlas Gas 4 Bay-Area locations, call to check for supply

New York City Region

Boston Region

New Orleans Region

Portland Region

Asheville Region