The Balloon Payload Program (BPP) is a core program of MDSGC. In this program students conceive of payloads to be launched to near space on balloons. They then design, construct and test the payloads. The students launch the balloons from Western Maryland, track the balloon flight, recover the payloads and analyze their data. Currently two affiliates are regularly involved. At their respective universities, the students construct their payloads as a part of their regular course work. It is a standard part of the curriculum for freshman aerospace engineering students at the University of Maryland College Park. Launches are conducted several times per year.

Students who show a particular interest in the launches have the opportunity to work on more advanced projects, including the NASA High Altitude Student Platform. The students have been successful every time that they proposed for a HASP launch berth.

The PI for the program is a professor at the University of Maryland College Park, where vacuum and thermal test facilities are available. Funds are distributed to each of the participating universities as needed, but UMCP makes bulk purchase of supplies to save costs for all participants.