An automated balloonsonde launcher (88) and a method for an automated balloonsonde launch are disclosed. The automated balloonsonde launcher, for example, may comprise a collapsible protective cover (60) forming an inner region for receiving a balloon, a gas inlet for receiving a gas, a gas outlet for mating with a balloon, a valve operable between the gas inlet and the gas outlet for inflating a balloon within the inner region of the protective cover. The launcher further comprises a controller that controls the valve to inflate a balloon within the protective cover, opens an opening in the protective cover and releases a balloon through the opening of the protective cover.