Blimps are used for several purposes, leveraging their ability to fly slowly, hover steadily, and stay aloft for long durations with relatively low fuel consumption. The main uses of blimps include:

• Advertising: Blimps are well-known for aerial advertising, including iconic blimps like the Goodyear Blimp. They often carry brand logos and fly over sporting events and large gatherings.
• Surveillance and Observation: Their slow speeds and steady flight make blimps ideal for surveillance, border monitoring, and observation tasks.
• TV and Camera Platforms: Blimps are used as stable platforms for aerial cameras to cover major sporting events and other large outdoor events.
• Military Uses: Historically, blimps were used for convoy escort and anti-submarine patrols, especially during World War I and World War II. They provided early warning and reconnaissance.
• Research: Blimps serve as platforms for certain scientific research activities, such as wildlife scouting.
• Passenger Travel and Cargo Transport (historical and potential future use): In the past, blimps were used for passenger travel (e.g., the Hindenburg). Recently, there is renewed interest in using airships for transporting large cargo and possibly reviving passenger travel due to advancements in materials and gas safety.

Modern blimps use helium for lift and have machinery for steering and control. Their ability to hover and stay aloft without high fuel consumption distinguishes them from airplanes and helicopters. Although less common today, blimps still find niche applications in advertising, government surveillance, and tourism, with potential future roles in heavy cargo transport and passenger services. Overall, their uses center around advertising, surveillance, observation, and some specialized transport and research tasks. This summary is supported by multiple sources describing both historical and current uses of blimps.