In various embodiments a variable buoyancy profiling float is disclosed. The variable buoyancy profiling float may comprise a spherical glass housing comprising a first hemisphere and a second hemisphere. The first and second hemispheres may be coupled by a partial vacuum within the spherical glass housing. A buoyancy system may be located at least partially within the spherical glass housing. The buoyancy system may be configured to provide variable buoyancy control to the variable buoyancy profiling float. A sensor bundle may be mounted to the spherical glass housing and may be configured to measure at least one environmental parameter.