A research site in Panama used a tall crane to lift a cage of researchers high into the branches. Combining inovation with mountain climbing techniques, they slingshot string over tall branches, pull up successively stronger ropes and then use ascenders to climb into the canopy. With a network of ropes and pulleys, scientists can move the about high branches with a great deal of freedom. A few research facilities and ecotourist destinations have constructed elevated walkways. One project employs a hot air ballon to survey the canopy from above and drops a large inflatable raft onto the top of the canopy.
Scientists scramble about the raft collecting specimens from the highest points in the forest.
Standing here on the floor of our imaginary rainforest, the mere idea of climbing to the tops of these tall trees is enough to make us grateful for the solid ground under our feet. Nevertheless, the richest part of the most diverse ecosystem on the planet is so poorly known that one author refered to it as the high frontier. This ignorance of the canopy is what drives scientists to explore and take the risks. For us, it is one more reason to do all we can to conserve the remaining rainforests.