I’m not talking about satellite communication, I’m talking about cell tower communication.
If one is going to monitor cell tower communications, they would have to install a permanent clandestine operation near the tower communication network they wanted to monitor.
They wouldn't try it from a temporary fly over from a balloon at an altitude (58,000 - 60,000 ft.) nor would it even be possible since they were over 10 miles ABOVE any towers.
You're not going to get ANY cell tower connection at that altitude. Forget the fact that airlines request you turn off your cell phones while in flight but it's impossible for one to make a cell phone call at a cruising altitude of a mere 38,000 feet.
Why? Because you can't make any connection to any tower.