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{{Project|Creator=Omegix
 
{{Project|Creator=Omegix
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|Status=<onlyinclude> Launching First Vehicle 4/3 </onlyinclude>                                <!--LEAVE ONLYINCLUDES FOR STATUS HACK-->  
+
|Status=<onlyinclude> Complete!  [http://huntsvillain.com/HSIS.htm We Won First Place]!</onlyinclude>                                <!--LEAVE ONLYINCLUDES FOR STATUS HACK-->  
 
|Born On=12:49, 15 February 2010 (CST)                                                                  <!--DO NOT EDIT -->
 
|Born On=12:49, 15 February 2010 (CST)                                                                  <!--DO NOT EDIT -->
 
|Last Updated={{#time: H:i, d F Y| {{REVISIONTIMESTAMP}} }} (CDT)              <!--DO NOT EDIT -->
 
|Last Updated={{#time: H:i, d F Y| {{REVISIONTIMESTAMP}} }} (CDT)              <!--DO NOT EDIT -->
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This page is for the ML256 members who are participating in the [http://workshop88.com/space/ Hackerspaces In Space (HSIS)] competition.
 
This page is for the ML256 members who are participating in the [http://workshop88.com/space/ Hackerspaces In Space (HSIS)] competition.
 
We have a [https://lists.makerslocal.org/mailman/listinfo/hsis Mailing List!]
 
We have a [https://lists.makerslocal.org/mailman/listinfo/hsis Mailing List!]
 +
 +
[[HSIS/Contest Information]]
 +
 +
[http://www.flickr.com/photos/30961771@N04/ Pictures!]
 +
 +
=== Status ===
 +
[[HSIS/Status]]
  
 
== Calendar ==   
 
== Calendar ==   
−
* April 2, 2010, 6pm - 8pm: HSIS Presentation at end of 2600 Meeting at Stanelio's Sub Villa on Jordan Lane
 
−
* April 2, 2010, 8pm - 10pm: After 2600 Meeting, Hide-And-Seek Geocaching with HSIS payload to test cell phone tracking.
 
−
* June 1, 2010: Official Contest Launch Window Opens
 
−
* August 31, 2010: Official Contest Launch Window Closes
 
−
* September 7, 2010: Deadline to Submit Results of Official Launch
 
−
* September 30, 2010: Announcement of Winners
 
  
 
== Current Vehicle & Flight Specifications ==
 
== Current Vehicle & Flight Specifications ==
−
* Total Value Cost of Flight Items: ?
 
−
* Max Payload Weight: 2 lbs (limited by parachutes rated for 2 lbs; 0.5 lbs for foam cooler and parachutes, 0.7lbs lbs for camera, cell phone and charging cable, 0.25lbs for hot hands, 0.25 lbs for the supplemental battery pack leaves 0.3 lbs for supplemental tracking systems)  *Note: The cooler and hot hands will be replaced with bubble wrap and solar thermal heating.  This will lighten the payload weight.
 
−
* Photography: ? Camera scripted to take a picture every 10 seconds
 
−
* Tracking: Boost Mobile Motorola i455 Phone, Radio Chirper & Audio Beeper.  Parachutes and payload painted with international orange stripes.  For the bubble-wrapped payload thermal control, a colored streamer will be attached instead of the payload being painted.
 
−
* Thermal Control: Two Hot Hands and a foam cooler.  Will be replaced with bubble wrap and solar thermal heating.
 
−
* Balloon & Lifting Gas: One 800g weather balloon with Helium
 
−
* Recovery System: Two 24"x24" parachutes
 
−
* Launch Site: Parking Lot of J&M Cylinder Gases, 818 Highway 31 SW, Hartselle, AL ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=J+%26+M+Cylinder+Gases,+818+Highway+31+SW,+Hartselle,+AL+35640-2822&sll=34.421744,-86.923528&sspn=0.026267,0.038581&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=J+%26+M+Cylinder+Gases,&hnear=Hwy+31+SW,+Hartselle,+AL+35640&ll=34.432257,-86.935973&spn=0.025379,0.038581&z=151 34.43, -86.94])
 
−
* Predicted Maximum Altitude: 91,863 feet (28 km)
 
−
* Predicted Lowest Temperature: -90.4 °F (-68 °C) between 53000 - 54000 feet
 
−
* Predicted Time of Flight: 02:24:45
 
−
* Predicted Landing Site: Gadsden, AL ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=34.037,+-85.988&sll=34.042703,-85.986214&sspn=0.211087,0.308647&gl=us&ie=UTF8&ll=34.035306,-85.986729&spn=0.105553,0.154324&z=13 34.04, -85.99])
 
−
* Predicted Score: ?
 
  
−
== Flight Readiness Status - 1st Flight ==
+
=== Full Vehicle Flight Hardware Per Launch ===
−
Here's what needs to be ready for flight:
+
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
−
* Payload
+
|-
−
** Tracking
+
!  Item
−
*** Cold Test In Freezer - Test done uninsulated on phone trying to find a cell tower and recording and broadcasting GPS coordinates. Revealed a '''supplemental battery pack is required.''' First test had the battery last for 3 hours, need an hour margin for a 2.5-hour flight. Therefore batteries need to run for at least 3.5 hours.  Also, will '''need secondary tracking systems'''; install a radio chirper, flashing lights and an audio beeper on payload (weight limit 0.3 lbs) and paint the payload and parachutes international orange.  Set up a ground-based antenna to find the chirper.
+
!  Weight
−
*** Tracking Test - Scheduled, results pending.
+
!  Cost to Team
−
** Photography
+
!  Market Cost
−
*** Cold Test In Freezer - '''Passed''' with an endurance of 2.5 hours for an uninsulated camera with flash and screen turned off manually and scripted to take a picture every 10 seconds.  Camera battery was at 25% at the end of the test and the memory card was not full.
+
!  Purpose
−
*** Photo Test - See Above, '''Passed'''.
+
|-
−
** Thermal Control
+
| Plastic Bubble Wrap
−
*** Cold Test - From Bill Brown; using the solar-heated clear bubble wrap method has been flown and proven.  Therefore, it '''will be accepted and used this flight'''.
+
|  2 ounces
−
* Recovery
+
|  Free
−
** Parachutes
+
|  $1.50 worth from bulk
−
*** Cold Test - Not Yet Done
+
|  Thermal Control
−
*** Drop Test - '''Passed'''. A test with a 2 lb test weight and a drop height of ~150' was successful.
+
|-
−
** Water Landing Readiness - Current estimates for launching from Hartselle, AL put us to land in Gadsden, AL. Since the area has many lakes and rivers within 10 miles, we will have to be ready for a water landing. Currently using a foam block and ziplock bag packed in with the bubble-wrapped payload. '''Will need to test this.'''
+
|  Styrofoam Sheet
−
* Lifting Hardware
+
| 3 ounces
−
** Balloon - Purchased, will arrive on 4/2.
+
|  Free
−
** Lifting Gas - '''Ready'''.  From J&M Cylinder in Hartselle, AL.  Will be purchased and delivered on launch day at launch site.
+
|  $2.00 worth from bulk
 +
|  Water Floatation & Thermal Control
 +
|-
 +
| Canon SD1000 (7.1 Megapixels) Digital Camera
 +
|  5.1 ounces
 +
|  $55.00
 +
|  Need Receipts to Prove
 +
|  Photography
 +
|-
 +
|  SD Memory Card for Camera
 +
| 0.25 ounces
 +
|  $10.00
 +
| Need Receipts to Prove
 +
|  Photography
 +
|-
 +
|  GPS Radio Beacon
 +
|  3 ounces
 +
|  Free Loan
 +
|  $40.00 to build
 +
|  Radio Beacon GPS Tracking from Bill Brown
 +
|-
 +
|  1 24"x24" Garbage Bag Parachute
 +
|  2 ounces
 +
|  Free
 +
|  $0.50 from bulk
 +
|  Recovery
 +
|-
 +
|  600g Latex Weather Balloon
 +
|  21.164377 ounces
 +
|  Free Loan
 +
|  $20.00
 +
| Ascent from Bill Brown
 +
|-
 +
|  127.4 ft^3 Helium for Weather Balloons (75/25% Helium-Air)
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  $20.00
 +
|  $20.00 for a direct fill from J&M Cylinder
 +
|  Ascent
 +
|-
 +
|  Ziplock Plastic Bag
 +
|  0.5 ounces
 +
|  Free
 +
|  $0.10 worth from bulk
 +
|  Waterproofing - May not be used for flight
 +
|-
 +
|  Boost Mobile Motorola i455 Phone & Service Subscription
 +
|  4.35 ounces
 +
| $50.00 for phone, $20 for 3 months of service.
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  GPS Tracking - No longer used for flight
 +
|-
 +
|  Supplemental Battery Pack (4 AA batteries)
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  Additional Power for GPS Tracking - No longer used for flight
 +
|-
 +
| Audio Beeper
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
 +
|-
 +
| Flashing Lights
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
 +
|-
 +
| Battery Pack
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  N/A
 +
|  Power for Radio Beacon & Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
 +
|-
 +
| International Orange Streamer
 +
|  2 ounces
 +
|  Free
 +
|  $0.10 from bulk
 +
|  Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
 +
|-
 +
!  Totals
 +
|  Payload: 15.35 - 15.85 ounces, Full Vehicle: 36.51 - 37.01 ounces
 +
| $85.00
 +
| $149.10
 +
|
 +
|}
  
−
== Flight Equipment List ==
+
* Configuration Notes:  
−
Will Need:
+
** Max Payload Weight: 1 lbs (limited by parachute rated for 1 lb) 
−
* Balloon
+
** The cooler and hot hands will be replaced with bubble wrap and solar thermal heating. This will lighten the payload weight. 
−
* Lanyards to link payload and balloon
+
** The cell phone tracker and radio chirper beacon may be replaced with Bill Brown's GPS Radio Beacon.
−
** 50 lb SpiderWire Line
+
−
* Lifting Gas
+
−
* Recovery
+
−
** Parachutes
+
−
** International Orange Streamer
+
−
** Foam Block
+
−
** Labels with our logo, organization name, and 'who to call if found' contact info.
+
−
* Payload
+
−
** Tracking Systems
+
−
*** Cell Phone
+
−
*** Supplemental Battery Pack
+
−
*** Laptop w/ Tracking Software
+
−
*** Radio Chirper
+
−
*** Yagi Antenna & Reciever
+
−
*** Audio Beeper
+
−
*** Flashing Lights
+
−
*** Battery Chargers and/or fresh batteries for all the above
+
−
** Photography
+
−
*** Digital Camera
+
−
*** Memory Card
+
−
*** Battery Chargers for all three above
+
−
** Thermal
+
−
*** Bubble Wrap
+
−
*** Clear sealable ziplock bag
+
−
*** Clear Packing Tape
+
−
* Tools
+
−
** Duct Tape
+
−
** Foam-Safe CA
+
−
** CA Zip Kicker
+
−
** Exacto Knife
+
−
** Scissors
+
−
** Tarp
+
−
** Broom or brush
+
−
** Archoring weight (at least 20 lbs)
+
−
** Measuring tape (the kind for tailoring)
+
−
** Black Sharpie Marker
+
−
* Recovery
+
−
** Binoculars
+
−
** Handheld GPS (preferably one for geocaching, not an automotive GPS)
+
−
* A Big Van
+
  
−
== Pre-Flight Checklist & Flight Procedure ==
+
=== Flight Plan of Full Vehicle ===
 +
* Launch Site: Parking Lot of J&M Cylinder Gases, 818 Highway 31 SW, Hartselle, AL ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=J+%26+M+Cylinder+Gases,+818+Highway+31+SW,+Hartselle,+AL+35640-2822&sll=34.421744,-86.923528&sspn=0.026267,0.038581&gl=us&ie=UTF8&hq=J+%26+M+Cylinder+Gases,&hnear=Hwy+31+SW,+Hartselle,+AL+35640&ll=34.432257,-86.935973&spn=0.025379,0.038581&z=151 34.43, -86.94])
 +
* Landing site and flight profile and conditions dependent on launch day weather conditions.
 +
 
 +
=== Flights ===
 +
# [[HSIS/1st_Flight|First Test Flight]]
 +
# [[HSIS/Status#6.2F12.2F10_-_2nd_Test_Flight|Second Test Flight]]
 +
# [[HSIS/Status#6.2F26.2F10_-_3rd_Test_Flight|Third Test Flight]]
 +
 
 +
== Pre-Flight Checklist & Flight Procedure for Full Vehicle ==
 
# Find a flat surface (preferably tarmac) and clear of debris.
 
# Find a flat surface (preferably tarmac) and clear of debris.
 
# Lay down tarp and weight and flatten, remove debris (remove your shoes if you are going to stand on the tarp.
 
# Lay down tarp and weight and flatten, remove debris (remove your shoes if you are going to stand on the tarp.
−
# Remove all sharp objects from the area the balloon will be inflated in and on your person.
+
# Remove all sharp objects from the area the balloon will be inflated in and on your person.
−
# Lay down the uninflated balloon and attach it to the anchoring weight.
+
# Lay down the uninflated balloon and attach it to the anchoring weight. HANDLE BALLOON ONLY WITH GLOVED HANDS
−
# Inflate balloon to specified diameter.  For an 800g balloon, a 6.2 ft diameter comes to a 19.4 ft circumference.
+
# Inflate balloon to specified lifting force (dependent on payload weight).
−
# In the meanwhile, have someone predict the flight path based on current conditions and announce the landing site and it's GPS coordinates.
+
# In the meanwhile, have someone predict the flight path based on current conditions and announce the landing site and its GPS coordinates.
−
# In the meanwhile prepare the payload and ground equipment.  Install fresh batteries into all systems; tracking; cell phone, radio chirper and audio beeper, photography; digital camera.  Check charge on tracking laptop and radio tracking receiver.
+
#* [http://nearspaceventures.com/w3Baltrak/readyget.pl Near Space Ventures Tracking Tool]
 +
# In the meanwhile prepare the payload and ground equipment.  Install fresh batteries into all systems; tracking; GPS radio beacon, photography; digital camera.  Check charge and working condition on radio tracking receiver and other tracking gear.  Check internet connectivity on laptop to [http://spacenear.us/tracker/ tracking website (http://spacenear.us/tracker/)].  Look for callsign 'wb8elk'.
 
# Turn on the systems and check functionality;  
 
# Turn on the systems and check functionality;  
−
## Cell phone broadcasting GPS (all extraneous systems turned off to save power)
+
## GPS radio beacon broadcasting and tracking receiver receiving.  Check [http://spacenear.us/tracker/ tracking website (http://spacenear.us/tracker/)] for data updates.
−
## Radio chirper broadcasting and tracking receiver receiving
+
−
## Audio beeper on and audible
+
−
## Lights flashing
+
 
## Camera on, check that it is taking pictures, screen and flash manually off.
 
## Camera on, check that it is taking pictures, screen and flash manually off.
−
## Prepare a label with our logo and 'who to call if found' contact info.
+
# Place camera and tracker in their packages and ensure they are secured.  Ensure there is a label with our logo and 'who to call if found' contact info visible on outside.
−
# Place all items in a sealed ziplock bag, deflate air and seal and tape shut.  Ensure that camera lens and aperture of audio beeper is pressed to bag surface.  This way, we can still take pictures and hear the payload after landing.
+
# Attach payloads to flight line.  There should be 8 feet of separation between packages.
−
# Wrap the payload with the foam block in three layers of bubble wrap.  The foam block is for flotation in a water landing.  Seal and secure with packing tape.  Cut a hole in the wrap so that camera lens and aperture of audio beeper have a line of sight to the outside.  Once again, so we can still take pictures and hear the payload after landing.  Write on the outside our logo and 'who to call if found' contact info.
+
# Tie flight line to balloon.
−
# Wrap the payload with 50lb SpiderWire line, be sure to wrap around the both the width and the length of the payload and have a four-point bridal to a single suspension line.  The camera aperture must be facing horizontally when payload is suspended.  Secure lines with packing tape and knots with CA.  Cure the CA with ZipKicker.  Be sure not to cover the beeper and camera apertures.
+
# The balloon ought to be inflated by now.  Have two guys hold the balloon by flight line while the anchor weight is removed.  Walk balloon and payloads to clear launch area.  
−
# Attach streamer to bottom of payload and the suspension line to the parachute and balloon.
+
# Ensure no obstacles nearby and launch; for safety, walk balloon up by flight line until the end of the flight line is off the ground, then release balloon.
−
# The balloon ought to be inflated by now.  Have two guys hold the balloon while the anchor weight is removed.
+
−
# Ensure no obstacles nearby and launch.
+
 
# Travel to predicted landing site.  In transit, track with what instruments you have available.
 
# Travel to predicted landing site.  In transit, track with what instruments you have available.
 
# Recover balloon and payload.  Shut it down and recover data.
 
# Recover balloon and payload.  Shut it down and recover data.
−
 
−
== Flight Crew Roster ==
 
−
To be part of the flight crew, you must be present at the Friday 4/2 2600 Meeting for the pre-flight briefing.
 
−
* Ratmandu
 
−
* Spacefelix
 
−
* Your Name Here if you were at the briefing.
 
−
 
−
== Status ==
 
−
=== 3/31/10 ===
 
−
'''NOTICE: IMPORANT UPDATES THAT IMPACT HOW AND WHEN WE LAUNCH for 4/3'''
 
−
* Bill Brown Conversation
 
−
** Spacefelix gave Bill Brown a call in reply to his e-mail sent on 3/30/10 with his recommendations for our project.  He said he would like to assist us on our first launch on 4/3/10.  He will be preparing his own payload with tracking and photography his way and launch it in tandem with ours on the same balloon and parachute to do the same mission.  This will give us a comparison for how well our payload has performed.  Also, he will be sending a couple of his trackers to help us with the flight.  For our first flight, he would like to meet us at J&M Cylinder in Hartselle at 10am and launch at 11am. 
 
−
** He also had some recommendations for us for future launches:
 
−
*** Do not use GPS, use a really cheap radio chirper on the balloon and track it with ham radios on the ground using direction finding and ground-based GPS to triangulate.
 
−
*** Bill has access to several very cheap parts for photography and tracking that could meet the competition's requirement for under $150/build for one vehicle.
 
−
*** Replace the hot hands and cooler with a wrap of three layers of bubble wrap.  It will act like a greenhouse powered by uninterrupted sun at altitude during the day.  He has flown and tested this successfully.  It is able to keep the payload above freezing temperatures.  Spacefelix will later modify our payload to use this.
 
−
*** He advised the original MIT team for Project Icarus and mentioned that the cell phone and camera method had a failure rate (loss of payload) of 3 in 4 since they would lose cell signal at altitude.  Therefore, we had to be careful with following MIT's project.
 
−
=== 3/30/10 ===
 
−
* J&M cylindar said we can purchase only the amount of helium we use (and no tank) if we're willing to launch from their Hartselle location.
 
−
** Owner of the company is Joe:  566-2714
 
−
** Launch time would be Saturday 9AM (we can reschedule this if we'd like)
 
−
** Hartselle Location:  818 Hwy 31 SW, Hartselle, AL 35640
 
−
*** Next to the indoor/outdoor flea market
 
−
* BendersGame did the freezer test on the camera.  The camera was uninsulated, display and flash turned off manually and scripted to take a snap every 10 seconds.  Results:
 
−
** The test ran for slightly over 2.5 hours. [12:24 to 3:02, to be precise].  When I checked, the camera had turned itself off.  On checking after a few minutes after taking it out, it still indicated that about 25% of batt life was still available.
 
−
** The card was not full either.
 
−
** This leads me to believe that the camera shut down because of either cold or moisture or both.  Nonetheless, it ran for 2.5 hours in those conditions. Will we have a sustained cold and moist phase for that long on a (hopefully) clear day? If the camera can escape shutting down, we could possibly run for almost 3.5 hours.  In any case, assuming the lens does not fog up, I think 2.5 hours is still good enough to beat our worst case scenario estimates.
 
−
*** From spacefelix, the coldest and moistest points in flight from the University of Wyonming's flight tracking software will only last for about half and hour on ascent and descent respectively.  Also, since we only need to take pictures up to the apogee of flight, having the camera last two hours is acceptable.
 
−
=== 3/29/10 ===
 
−
* Jeff to call J&M and determine what the hours are
 
−
** They close at 4:30 PM [[User:Omegix|Omegix]] 09:29, 30 March 2010 (CDT)
 
−
* There will be a geocaching hide and seek with the payload after the 2600 meeting on Friday.
 
−
* BendersGame is looking into power saving options for the camera, like turning off the display
 
−
* $100 had been donated to the HSIS fund in the ML256 Treasury.  There is a total of $120 earmarked as of this meeting.
 
−
* Brimstone has been working on the cell phone's supplementary battery pack.  Looking at the weight of 4 stock AA cells (0.5 lbs) vs 4 D cells (1.5 lbs).  We will be working with the AAs.
 
−
* BendersGame, Brimstone, CrashCart, JimShoe and Spacefelix performed drop testing with the cooler and parachutes loaded to 2 lbs.  Tossed it off the top of the parking garage downtown (~150' drop).  The vehicle was able to descent straight down without any rocking and land without damage.
 
−
* Brimstone, JimShoe & Spacefelix discussed a geocaching event after the 4/2 2600 Meeting to test the payload tracking.  JimShoe would take the payload and hide it somewhere and the rest of us would set out to try and find it.  We would then take it back to the shop and modify it from what we learned.
 
−
* Strages & Ratmandu recommended that we have secondary tracking methods on the payload if the cell phone fails.  E.g. a radio beacon on the payload and a ground crew with a yagi antenna to find it, and an audio beeper for when we get close.  With the parachutes rated to 2 lbs, and the payload with cooler, heating elements, tracking and photography weighing 1.7 lbs  Also Spacefelix will paint the payload and parachutes international orange to help us find it.
 
−
* [http://www.meetup.com/Madison-AL-SpaceExpansion/members/1760635/ Richard] from [http://www.meetup.com/Madison-AL-SpaceExpansion/ MASEF] started designing a project logo to put on our vehicle when we launch.
 
−
=== 3/26/10 T-8 Days to First Launch ===
 
−
* Spacefelix tagged up with PreauxPhoto on Helium status.  He may be able to get us our helium in time for the 4/3 launch, but if not, we can push back the launch one week without issue.
 
−
* Spacefelix ordered two 800g weather balloons from [http://www.novalynx.com/400-balloons.html Nova Lynx] for $168.00 (cost is $69.00/ea).  They will arrive on 4/2/10.
 
−
* Brimstone ran the cell phone endurance test in a freezer.  With the phone broadcasting to find a tower and receiving and broadcasting GPS coordinates, the phone lasted 3 hours.  Need a margin of 1 hour for a 2.5-hour flight.  Therefore, have decided to have a supplementary battery pack hooked to the cell phone.
 
−
=== 3/22/10 Build Meeting ===
 
−
* Matt got the phone working to report GPS position. 
 
−
* Ethan, Rohan & Satyam got the parachute and gondola system working.  Tested out several cheap parachute configurations and a foam cooler for a total payload weight of 2 lbs. (foam cooler gondola and two parachutes weigh 0.5 lbs., leaves 1.5 lbs. for electronics and heating elements).  The best one has been two parachutes made out of the two sheet halves of a 30 gallon garbage bag with 2" diameter vent holes.  Total estimated cost of gondola, parachutes, thermal control and insulation is $7.00.
 
−
* Have received link from Raymond on [http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2010/03/look_its_jersey_in_space.html Jersey Balloon Launch].  Using them as an example to follow for the development of our vehicle.  They seem to have a very simple and lightweight setup.
 
−
* Omegix and Bender's measurements have the heaviest camera, cell phone, and charging cable weighing in at 0.7 lbs
 
−
* 03/22 night cell phone room-temperature endurance test resulted in a 4 hour battery life.
 
−
=== 3/15/10 Meeting ===
 
−
* We now have three cameras at our disposal (see [https://256.makerslocal.org/wiki/index.php/HSIS#Available_Materials available materials])
 
−
* Matt is taking the Boost Mobile phone to the store to get it working
 
−
* Next meeting will be a build meeting instead of a planning meeting
 
−
=== 3/8/10 Meeting ===
 
−
* Ratmandu - GSM/GPS unit we had has a damaged capacitor on the power supply.  At the very least it could be fixed by replacing the capacitor.  But replacing the power supply altogether would be very difficult.
 
−
* Team decided to use omegix's cell phone as the GPS and camera unit.  He has requested an $80.00 collateral in the event the payload is lost or damaged.
 
−
* In the meanwhile, omegix will be reprogramming his cell phone to take pictures and report GPS positions. 
 
−
* Spacefelix has put out a recommendation that purchases for equipment start the week of 3/15 so we can meet our 4/3 1st launch goal.
 
−
=== 3/6/10 Unclaimed Baggage ===
 
−
* Shopping trip to Unclaimed Baggage came up with lots of potential cameras that may be compatible with CHDK.  Will need another trip to confirm this.
 
−
=== 3/5/10 ===
 
−
* Event registration for competition has closed (ML256 is registered)
 
−
* Spacefelix contacted Jay on judge's duties and set up liaison.  Also asked a few questions on the rules about minimum flight altitude requirements.  Awaiting reply.
 
−
* Sourced cheap weather balloons and helium.  Have e-mailed Bill for further information on how to size balloons and the necessary gas quantities for our flight.
 
−
=== 3/4/10 HAL5 ===
 
−
* HAL5 presentation by brimstone and omegix a success.  Raised lots of positive interest in project.
 
−
=== 3/1/10 ===
 
−
* Accepted invitation from HAL5 President, [mailto:yohonlo@yahoo.com'''Yohan Lo'''] to give a 5-minute interest presentation at the 3/4/10 7pm HAL5 Meeting.  Will see if we can raise funds, interest, contributions of equipment and people.
 
−
* Finished initial design of balloon and payload and list of design considerations.  Currently on drawing in the shop.  Also have an initial shopping list and a target budget of $150.00.  Will raise project money from Makers and HAL5.
 
−
=== 2/24/10 ===
 
−
* Spacefelix contacted Bill Brown who does balloon launches.  He has expressed interest in helping the project.
 
−
=== 2/22/10 Meeting ===
 
−
* Registered on the HSIS website.
 
−
* Omegix has confirmed drug stores no longer carry disposable digital cameras
 
−
* Have GPS Tracker
 
−
* Held first meeting on 2/22/2010
 
−
 
−
=== Future Actions===
 
−
* 3/29 - Build session
 
−
** Decide if we can commit to 4/3/10 first launch date.
 
−
** Matt will test how long the cell phone battery will last at normal temperatures, then at freezing temperatures in a freezer.  Need to have at least 4 hours of run life in both conditions for a two-and-a-half-hour flight (we may be able to go with as low as 3.5 hours of runtime).
 
−
** Decide if we need to augment parachute system and get a higher location for drop testing.
 
−
** Build up internal structure of gondola with camera window and EPP foam padding and insulation and thermal control.
 
−
** Need to get the camera working.
 
−
** Integrate and drop test whole system.
 
−
** Perform simulated find test on ground.
 
−
** Purchase weather balloons and helium lifting gas for a 2-lb. payload - ALREADY IN PROGRESS
 
−
** Set up a wall retainer for storing pressurized gas cylinders.
 
−
* Presentation to [http://www.2600.com/ 2600] on HSIS - Let's reuse the HAL5 presentation, but flesh it out with our recent progress.
 
−
 
−
== Launch Site & Flight ==
 
−
Launch Site
 
−
* Looking at the [http://www.runwayfinder.com/?loc=HSV local airspaces] and to minimize the chances of us colliding with aircraft, the recommended launch site would be from New Market, AL ([http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=34.906111,-86.426111&spn=0.1,0.1&t=m&q=34.906111,-86.426111 34.91, -86.43]).
 
−
** Looking at [http://sites.google.com/site/spacehardwareclub/ UAH Space Hardware Club's] [https://docs.google.com/a/uah.edu/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=ZGVmYXVsdGRvbWFpbnxzcGFjZWhhcmR3YXJlY2x1YnxneDoyMDhlODQzY2ZhNDMzMGY1 balloon launch], it seems this is not really that big of a concern since they launch directly under and fly through the C-Class airspace of Huntsville International Airport (HSV) and through E-class airspace of Redstone Army Airfield (HUA).  I'm assuming this is because they do not fall under FAA Part 101 below or that they have a radio tracker.
 
−
Flight
 
−
* According to [http://vpizza.org/~jmeehan/balloon/#regulations Balloon v1.0], we are exempt from [http://www.chem.hawaii.edu/uham/part101.html FAA Part 101 regulations for balloon launches] if we fall under the following limits:
 
−
# Carries a payload package that weighs more than four pounds and has a weight/size ratio of more than three ounces per square inch on any surface of the package, determined by dividing the total weight in ounces of the payload package by the area in square inches of its smallest surface;
 
−
# Carries a payload package that weighs more than six pounds;
 
−
# Carries a payload, of two or more packages, that weigh a total of more than 12 pounds; or
 
−
# Uses a rope or other device for suspension of the payload that requires an impact force of more than 50 pounds to separate the suspended payload from the balloon.
 
−
 
−
== Contest Information ==
 
−
 
−
[[HSIS/Contest Information]]
 
  
 
== Materials ==
 
== Materials ==
Line 245: Line 180:
 
* Several Hot Hands
 
* Several Hot Hands
 
* 50 lb SpiderWire line.
 
* 50 lb SpiderWire line.
−
 
+
* Clear Packing Tape
−
=== List of Potential Materials - Source & Pricing ===
+
−
Depending on design, we may not need many of these materials:
+
−
 
+
 
* Weather Balloons
 
* Weather Balloons
−
** Use an 800 gram weather balloon from [http://www.novalynx.com/400-balloons.html Nova Lynx].  Gives a payload capacity of 2.5 lbs to 91,000 feet.  Other smaller balloons are possible; a 500 gram balloon will bring a 2.5 lbs payload to 80,000 feet and a 300 gram will bring 1.3 lbs to 68,000 feet.  Given that a contest rules state '[b]alloon camera must take pictures of the curvature of the earth with black space backdrop', and the minimum altitude to see the curvature of the Earth and the sky darken is 60,000 feet, the 300 gram balloon may barely be able to make a scoring flight.
+
** Have two, 800 gram weather balloon from [http://www.novalynx.com/400-balloons.html Nova Lynx].  Gives a payload capacity of 2.5 lbs to 91,000 feet.  Other smaller balloons are possible; a 500 gram balloon will bring a 2.5 lbs payload to 80,000 feet and a 300 gram will bring 1.3 lbs to 68,000 feet.  Given that a contest rules state '[b]alloon camera must take pictures of the curvature of the earth with black space backdrop', and the minimum altitude to see the curvature of the Earth and the sky darken is 60,000 feet, the 300 gram balloon may barely be able to make a scoring flight.
−
* Lifting Gas - Helium or Hydrogen
+
** Bill Brown gave the recommendation that there are margins in the balloon specs that could get us higher altitudes/heavier payloads (about 5%). We would have to handle the balloons carefully during preparation to keep these margins (gloved hands to keep off dirt, dust and oil, no excessive stress).
−
** Can be had from [http://www.airliquide.com/ Air Liquide] or our local Airgas shop: [http://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&q=Airgas+South+191+Cochran+Road+Southwest,+Huntsville,+AL&fb=1&gl=us&hq=Airgas+South&hnear=191+Cochran+Road+Southwest,+Huntsville,+AL&cid=0,0,6330672439130423484&ei=eYuRS-_zFYzcNsCTpIEN&ved=0CAcQnwIwAA&t=h&z=16&iwloc=A 191 Cochran Road Southwest, Huntsville, AL 35824-1105, (256) 772-5404‎]
+
* Lifting Gas - Helium
−
*** Helium K-bottle:  $100
+
−
*** Hydrogen K-bottle:  $54
+
−
*** K-bottle:  $0.47 / day, $75 / year, or $325 to own
+
 
** Preaux has a hookup at J&M cylinder in Decatur, AL:
 
** Preaux has a hookup at J&M cylinder in Decatur, AL:
 
*** "ok i got [hydrogren] for $19.85 for the fill and the bottle rental @ $6.50 for a month" ~preaux
 
*** "ok i got [hydrogren] for $19.85 for the fill and the bottle rental @ $6.50 for a month" ~preaux
Line 261: Line 190:
 
*** For three flights of one 800 gram weather balloon each (inflated diameter of 6.2 feet and volume of 127.4 ft^3 from [http://www.novalynx.com/400-balloons.html here]), we will need 400 cubic feet of lifting gas (at 1 atm and 25 degrees centigrade, standard temperature and pressure). Preauxphoto said he will look into getting us enough gas. --[[User:Spacefelix|Spacefelix]] 15:19, 24 March 2010 (CDT)   
 
*** For three flights of one 800 gram weather balloon each (inflated diameter of 6.2 feet and volume of 127.4 ft^3 from [http://www.novalynx.com/400-balloons.html here]), we will need 400 cubic feet of lifting gas (at 1 atm and 25 degrees centigrade, standard temperature and pressure). Preauxphoto said he will look into getting us enough gas. --[[User:Spacefelix|Spacefelix]] 15:19, 24 March 2010 (CDT)   
 
** Safety Note:  
 
** Safety Note:  
−
*** For Helium, it is an inert gas, so no special safety precautions are required for its transport and storage.  Hydrogen is flammable, so it must meet storage and transport safety standards for Argon gas (per Preauxphoto on 3/24/10).  Omegix has also stated the people at Airgas said that there are no special safety requirements for transporting a K-bottle of hydrogen.  Also, no more antics from the fire hooligans if we store hydrogen gas in the shop.
+
*** For Helium, it is an inert gas, so no special safety precautions are required for its transport and storage.   
 
*** For storing gas under pressure in cylinders, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gas_cylinder#Safety_and_standards certain safety standards] must be met:
 
*** For storing gas under pressure in cylinders, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gas_cylinder#Safety_and_standards certain safety standards] must be met:
 
**** Bottles must be chained to a wall to prevent them from falling and breaking.
 
**** Bottles must be chained to a wall to prevent them from falling and breaking.
Line 267: Line 196:
 
**** Proper signage to indicate the potential hazards.
 
**** Proper signage to indicate the potential hazards.
 
**** More info at [http://www.ehs.iastate.edu/publications/manuals/gascylinder.pdf Iowa State Lab Safety].  
 
**** More info at [http://www.ehs.iastate.edu/publications/manuals/gascylinder.pdf Iowa State Lab Safety].  
 +
 +
=== List of Potential Materials - Source & Pricing ===
 +
Depending on design, we may not need many of these materials:
 +
* Lifting Gas - Helium or Hydrogen
 +
** Can be had from [http://www.airliquide.com/ Air Liquide] or our local Airgas shop: [http://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&q=Airgas+South+191+Cochran+Road+Southwest,+Huntsville,+AL&fb=1&gl=us&hq=Airgas+South&hnear=191+Cochran+Road+Southwest,+Huntsville,+AL&cid=0,0,6330672439130423484&ei=eYuRS-_zFYzcNsCTpIEN&ved=0CAcQnwIwAA&t=h&z=16&iwloc=A 191 Cochran Road Southwest, Huntsville, AL 35824-1105, (256) 772-5404‎]
 +
*** Helium K-bottle:  $100
 +
*** Hydrogen K-bottle:  $54
 +
*** K-bottle:  $0.47 / day, $75 / year, or $325 to own
 +
** Safety Note:
 +
*** For Helium, it is an inert gas, so no special safety precautions are required for its transport and storage.  Hydrogen is flammable, so it must meet storage and transport safety standards for Argon gas (per Preauxphoto on 3/24/10).  Omegix has also stated the people at Airgas said that there are no special safety requirements for transporting a K-bottle of hydrogen.  Also, no more antics from the fire hooligans if we store hydrogen gas in the shop.
 +
*** See more safety notes above on storing pressurized gas in cylinders.
 +
** On-Site Hydrogen Electrolysis = Cheap Hydrogen
 +
*** Using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoffman_electrolysis_apparatus Hoffman Electrolysis Apparatus], it is possible to collect and pressurize hydrogen gas into the balloon by placing it over the tube of the cathode side of the device.  The only danger would be static shock or balloon leaks/punctures that would release the hydrogen.  A cheap way to make lifting gas at a low cost and avoid storage concerns.
 
* Parachute (rocket model type) and streamers
 
* Parachute (rocket model type) and streamers
−
** Alternative is to build one from duct tape and garbage bags.  Since they are the same material (either PETE or LDPE plastic sheet) as model rocket parachutes, we ought to be fine.  Using [http://www.onlinetesting.net/cgi-bin/descent3.3.cgi this parachute calculator], we will need a 1152 in^2 square parachute to descend at a speed of 11 mph (maximum safe speed).  This is the area given by two parachutes side-by-side using two halves of a 30 gallon garbage bag.  --[[User:Spacefelix|Spacefelix]] 15:19, 24 March 2010 (CDT)
+
** Alternative is to build one from duct tape and garbage bags.  Alternatively, one can heat seal multiple garbage bags or sheets of plastic material together using a [http://www.sourcingmap.com/portable-heat-sealer-for-food-plastic-storage-bag-yellow-p-2488.html heat sealer].  Since they are the same material (either PETE or LDPE plastic sheet) as model rocket parachutes, we ought to be fine.  Using [http://www.onlinetesting.net/cgi-bin/descent3.3.cgi this parachute calculator], we will need a 1152 in^2 square parachute to descend at a speed of 11 mph (maximum safe speed).  This is the area given by two parachutes side-by-side using two halves of a 30 gallon garbage bag.  --[[User:Spacefelix|Spacefelix]] 15:19, 24 March 2010 (CDT)
 
* String / Fishing Line
 
* String / Fishing Line
 
** Will need 10 to 20 lb kite string.
 
** Will need 10 to 20 lb kite string.
Line 281: Line 223:
 
* Batteries (3 x D Cell)
 
* Batteries (3 x D Cell)
 
* Radar Reflector (Is this something we will make, or purchase?)
 
* Radar Reflector (Is this something we will make, or purchase?)
 +
** Can be a simple cardboard rose (two perpendicular discs) covered in aluminum foil.
 +
** Since balloon is light enough to not be under [http://www.chem.hawaii.edu/uham/part101.html FAA Part 101] rules, we will not need a radar reflector.
 
* Shock Cushion for Bottom of payload
 
* Shock Cushion for Bottom of payload
 
** Given we are only allowed a maximum descent speed of 11 mph, this eliminates the need for padding.  Drop testing of the foam cooler loaded to 2 lbs on a concrete floor from 6 ft up with two 24"x24" parachutes did not damage it.
 
** Given we are only allowed a maximum descent speed of 11 mph, this eliminates the need for padding.  Drop testing of the foam cooler loaded to 2 lbs on a concrete floor from 6 ft up with two 24"x24" parachutes did not damage it.
 
* Radio or Cell Phone
 
* Radio or Cell Phone
 +
* Bubble Wrap
 +
* International Orange Streamer
  
 
== Human Resources ==
 
== Human Resources ==
 
=== Bill Brown ===
 
=== Bill Brown ===
−
[mailto:wb8elk@aol.com'''Bill Brown''']
+
[mailto:wb8elk@aol.com'''Bill Brown'''] (WB8ELK)
 
has expressed interest in helping the project.  He can provide balloons, lifting gas, a launch site (on a mountaintop near Hartselle), a ground station and some lightweight tracking payloads.  All of it is for his company: [http://www.harcspace.com High Altitude Research Corp].  He invented the [http://www.wb8elk.com Near Space BalloonSat] back in 1987.  It was the first to take  photos and videos in Near Space.
 
has expressed interest in helping the project.  He can provide balloons, lifting gas, a launch site (on a mountaintop near Hartselle), a ground station and some lightweight tracking payloads.  All of it is for his company: [http://www.harcspace.com High Altitude Research Corp].  He invented the [http://www.wb8elk.com Near Space BalloonSat] back in 1987.  It was the first to take  photos and videos in Near Space.
 
* Recommendations
 
* Recommendations
−
** Use his lightweight tracking payloads instead of the GPS cell phone method.
+
** Tracking
−
** Use the Canon PowerShot series hacked with CHDK (Canon Hacker Development Kit) software.  
+
*** Use his lightweight GPS and Ham Radio tracking payloads instead of the GPS cell phone method.  He can provide us effective tracking methods that will fit our $150.00/vehicle build and launch cost.
−
** Fly the Flip video cam.
+
*** Cell phone method has a 3 in 4 failure rate (from MIT's Team Icarus) since it cuts out at high altitudes and is unable to connect to multiple towers when descending from a high-altitude flight.
−
** Bought balloons for $20.00 each on eBay.  Has receipt to prove it for costing.
+
*** [http://weather.uwyo.edu/polar/balloon_traj.html Balloon Trajectory Forecasts] is only for long endurance flights.  For our short hops, we should use [http://nearspaceventures.com/w3Baltrak/readyget.pl Near Space Ventures].
 +
** Hardware
 +
*** Hot Hands do not work at high altitudes as there is not enough oxygen in the local atmosphere to maintain their thermochemical reaction.  Instead use solar thermal by wrapping payload in three layers of clear bubble wrap and launching during daytime.
 +
*** Bought balloons for $20.00 each on eBay.  Has receipt to prove it for costing.
 +
** Photography
 +
*** Use the Canon PowerShot series hacked with CHDK (Canon Hacker Development Kit) software.
 +
*** Fly the Flip video cam.
 
* Media
 
* Media
−
** [http://www.youtube.com/user/WB8ELK His YouTube Channel] or YouTube search SpacePort Indiana
+
** [http://www.youtube.com/user/WB8ELK His YouTube Channel] or YouTube search SpacePort Indiana.
  
 
=== PreauxPhoto ===
 
=== PreauxPhoto ===
Line 306: Line 258:
  
 
=== All Interested Peoples ===
 
=== All Interested Peoples ===
−
* Omegix (Acting as local POC/Project Manager)
+
* Spacefelix (HSIS Event Board Liason, POC, Project Manager)
−
* Spacefelix (HSIS Event Board Liason)
+
 
* BendersGame
 
* BendersGame
 
* Brimstone
 
* Brimstone
 
* Crashcart (requested no admin duties)
 
* Crashcart (requested no admin duties)
 +
* Omegix
 
* Ratmandu
 
* Ratmandu
 
* [http://www.meetup.com/Madison-AL-SpaceExpansion/members/1760635/ Richard] from [http://www.meetup.com/Madison-AL-SpaceExpansion/ MASEF]
 
* [http://www.meetup.com/Madison-AL-SpaceExpansion/members/1760635/ Richard] from [http://www.meetup.com/Madison-AL-SpaceExpansion/ MASEF]
Line 316: Line 268:
 
* Your name here
 
* Your name here
  
−
== HAL5 Presentation Talking points ==
+
=== Competition Judge for Makers Local 256 ===
 +
* BrokenTrace
 +
 
 +
== Notes ==
 +
 
 +
=== Launch Site & Flight Considerations ===
 +
Launch Site
 +
* Looking at the [http://www.runwayfinder.com/?loc=HSV local airspaces] and to minimize the chances of us colliding with aircraft, the recommended launch site would be from New Market, AL ([http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=34.906111,-86.426111&spn=0.1,0.1&t=m&q=34.906111,-86.426111 34.91, -86.43]).
 +
** Looking at [http://sites.google.com/site/spacehardwareclub/ UAH Space Hardware Club's] [https://docs.google.com/a/uah.edu/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=ZGVmYXVsdGRvbWFpbnxzcGFjZWhhcmR3YXJlY2x1YnxneDoyMDhlODQzY2ZhNDMzMGY1 balloon launch], it seems this is not really that big of a concern since they launch directly under and fly through the C-Class airspace of Huntsville International Airport (HSV) and through E-class airspace of Redstone Army Airfield (HUA).  I'm assuming this is because they do not fall under FAA Part 101 below or that they have a radio tracker.
 +
Flight
 +
* According to [http://vpizza.org/~jmeehan/balloon/#regulations Balloon v1.0], we are exempt from [http://www.chem.hawaii.edu/uham/part101.html FAA Part 101 regulations for balloon launches] if we fall under the following limits:
 +
# Carries a payload package that weighs more than four pounds and has a weight/size ratio of more than three ounces per square inch on any surface of the package, determined by dividing the total weight in ounces of the payload package by the area in square inches of its smallest surface;
 +
# Carries a payload package that weighs more than six pounds;
 +
# Carries a payload, of two or more packages, that weigh a total of more than 12 pounds; or
 +
# Uses a rope or other device for suspension of the payload that requires an impact force of more than 50 pounds to separate the suspended payload from the balloon.
 +
 
 +
=== HAL5 Presentation Talking points ===
 
* Introduce ourselves
 
* Introduce ourselves
 
* Describe Makers Local 256
 
* Describe Makers Local 256
Line 327: Line 295:
 
** Donations of money and gear are appreciated
 
** Donations of money and gear are appreciated
  
−
== Sketches ==
+
=== Sketches ===
 
[[Image:HSIS1.jpg|thumb|none|100px|3/1/2010]]
 
[[Image:HSIS1.jpg|thumb|none|100px|3/1/2010]]
  
−
== Links ==
+
=== Lessons Learned ===
−
General Information
+
* Use your resources wisely, what is reported as a way to do it is not always the best way.
 +
* Spray paint has solvents that eat styrofoam, avoid applying directly to foam surfaces.
 +
 
 +
=== Links ===
 +
====General Information====
 
* [http://workshop88.com/space/ Competition Website]
 
* [http://workshop88.com/space/ Competition Website]
 
* [http://space.1337arts.com/ Project Icarus]
 
* [http://space.1337arts.com/ Project Icarus]
Line 337: Line 309:
 
* [http://www.thefintels.com/aer/hab.htm Iowa Amateur Rocketry Group - High Altitude Balloon Project]
 
* [http://www.thefintels.com/aer/hab.htm Iowa Amateur Rocketry Group - High Altitude Balloon Project]
 
* [http://www.natrium42.com/halo/flight2/ High Altitude Object]
 
* [http://www.natrium42.com/halo/flight2/ High Altitude Object]
−
Balloon Trajectory
+
* [http://ukhas.org.uk/ UK High Altitude Society Wiki]
 +
 
 +
====Balloon Trajectory====
 
* [http://weather.uwyo.edu/polar/balloon_traj.html Balloon Trajectory Forecasts]
 
* [http://weather.uwyo.edu/polar/balloon_traj.html Balloon Trajectory Forecasts]
 
* [http://nearspaceventures.com/w3Baltrak/readyget.pl Near Space Ventures]
 
* [http://nearspaceventures.com/w3Baltrak/readyget.pl Near Space Ventures]
 
* [http://aviationweather.gov/adds/winds/ NOAA AWC Winds Aloft Reports]
 
* [http://aviationweather.gov/adds/winds/ NOAA AWC Winds Aloft Reports]
−
Articles
+
====Articles====
 
* [http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2009/09/students_photograph_earth_from_spac.html?CMP=OTC-0D6B48984890 Project Icarus Makezine Article]
 
* [http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2009/09/students_photograph_earth_from_spac.html?CMP=OTC-0D6B48984890 Project Icarus Makezine Article]
 
* [http://hackedgadgets.com/2009/09/30/high-altitude-glider-project/ High-Altitude Balloon Launch Glider]
 
* [http://hackedgadgets.com/2009/09/30/high-altitude-glider-project/ High-Altitude Balloon Launch Glider]
 
* [http://hackedgadgets.com/2009/09/24/near-space-photography-for-150/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+HackedGadgets+(Hacked+Gadgets) Near-Space Photography]
 
* [http://hackedgadgets.com/2009/09/24/near-space-photography-for-150/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+HackedGadgets+(Hacked+Gadgets) Near-Space Photography]
 
* [http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2005/08/how_to_cvs_video_camera_h.html How to CVS a Camera]
 
* [http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2005/08/how_to_cvs_video_camera_h.html How to CVS a Camera]
 +
* [http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/tutorial_info.php?tutorials_id=180 SparkFun Electronics - High Altitude Balloon Launch]
 +
====Tracking====
 +
* [http://spacenear.us/tracker/ Tracking Website] that Bill Brown uses.  His callsign is 'WB8ELK'.
 +
* [http://hiwaay.net/~bbrown/oz011709.htm An Example] of the trackers that Bill Brown designs, builds and flies.  He also designs, builds and flies [http://www.elktronics.com/wb8elk/projects.htm telemetry gear].
 +
* [http://www.elktronics.com/ elktronics.com] - Where Bill Brown sells various trackers and transmitters for balloon flights.
 +
* [http://the.narro.ws/mologogo/ Makers Local 256 Boost Mobile Phone Location]
 +
* [http://garydion.com/projects/whereavr/ WhereAVR]
 +
 +
====Payloads====
 +
* [http://www.amazon.com/Muvi-Super-Micro-Camcorder-Black/dp/B003BRD9QG World's smallest DV camera]
 +
* [http://www.antitronics.com/?p=187 Radio and Rocketry and Open Source]
 +
====4/10/2010 Launch====
 +
* UAH-1 / Payload: [http://www.findu.com/cgi-bin/find.cgi?call=uah-1&terra=4]
 +
* Ethan: [http://www.findu.com/cgi-bin/find.cgi?call=k8gnm&terra=4]
 +
 +
==Related Information==
 +
*[[HSIS/1st Flight]]
  
 
[[Category:Hackerspaces]]  
 
[[Category:Hackerspaces]]  
−
[[Category:Competitions]]                                                <!--MAKE AS MANY CATEGORIES AS YOU NEED-->
+
[[Category:Competition]]                                                <!--MAKE AS MANY CATEGORIES AS YOU NEED-->
 
[[Category:Hackerspace Awards]]
 
[[Category:Hackerspace Awards]]
−
[[Category:Space]]
+
[[Category:Near Space]]
 +
[[Category:Aerospace]]
 
[[Category:Group Project]]
 
[[Category:Group Project]]

Latest revision as of 13:41, 29 December 2011

Creator:
Omegix
Status:
Complete! We Won First Place!
Born On:
12:49, 15 February 2010 (CST)
Last Updated:
13:41, 29 December 2011 (CDT)

Overview

This page is for the ML256 members who are participating in the Hackerspaces In Space (HSIS) competition. We have a Mailing List!

HSIS/Contest Information

Pictures!

Status

HSIS/Status

Calendar

Current Vehicle & Flight Specifications

Full Vehicle Flight Hardware Per Launch

Item Weight Cost to Team Market Cost Purpose
Plastic Bubble Wrap 2 ounces Free $1.50 worth from bulk Thermal Control
Styrofoam Sheet 3 ounces Free $2.00 worth from bulk Water Floatation & Thermal Control
Canon SD1000 (7.1 Megapixels) Digital Camera 5.1 ounces $55.00 Need Receipts to Prove Photography
SD Memory Card for Camera 0.25 ounces $10.00 Need Receipts to Prove Photography
GPS Radio Beacon 3 ounces Free Loan $40.00 to build Radio Beacon GPS Tracking from Bill Brown
1 24"x24" Garbage Bag Parachute 2 ounces Free $0.50 from bulk Recovery
600g Latex Weather Balloon 21.164377 ounces Free Loan $20.00 Ascent from Bill Brown
127.4 ft^3 Helium for Weather Balloons (75/25% Helium-Air) N/A $20.00 $20.00 for a direct fill from J&M Cylinder Ascent
Ziplock Plastic Bag 0.5 ounces Free $0.10 worth from bulk Waterproofing - May not be used for flight
Boost Mobile Motorola i455 Phone & Service Subscription 4.35 ounces $50.00 for phone, $20 for 3 months of service. N/A GPS Tracking - No longer used for flight
Supplemental Battery Pack (4 AA batteries) N/A N/A N/A Additional Power for GPS Tracking - No longer used for flight
Audio Beeper N/A N/A N/A Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
Flashing Lights N/A N/A N/A Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
Battery Pack N/A N/A N/A Power for Radio Beacon & Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
International Orange Streamer 2 ounces Free $0.10 from bulk Secondary Tracking - No longer used for flight
Totals Payload: 15.35 - 15.85 ounces, Full Vehicle: 36.51 - 37.01 ounces $85.00 $149.10
  • Configuration Notes:
    • Max Payload Weight: 1 lbs (limited by parachute rated for 1 lb)
    • The cooler and hot hands will be replaced with bubble wrap and solar thermal heating. This will lighten the payload weight.
    • The cell phone tracker and radio chirper beacon may be replaced with Bill Brown's GPS Radio Beacon.

Flight Plan of Full Vehicle

  • Launch Site: Parking Lot of J&M Cylinder Gases, 818 Highway 31 SW, Hartselle, AL (34.43, -86.94)
  • Landing site and flight profile and conditions dependent on launch day weather conditions.

Flights

  1. First Test Flight
  2. Second Test Flight
  3. Third Test Flight

Pre-Flight Checklist & Flight Procedure for Full Vehicle

  1. Find a flat surface (preferably tarmac) and clear of debris.
  2. Lay down tarp and weight and flatten, remove debris (remove your shoes if you are going to stand on the tarp.
  3. Remove all sharp objects from the area the balloon will be inflated in and on your person.
  4. Lay down the uninflated balloon and attach it to the anchoring weight. HANDLE BALLOON ONLY WITH GLOVED HANDS
  5. Inflate balloon to specified lifting force (dependent on payload weight).
  6. In the meanwhile, have someone predict the flight path based on current conditions and announce the landing site and its GPS coordinates.
  7. In the meanwhile prepare the payload and ground equipment. Install fresh batteries into all systems; tracking; GPS radio beacon, photography; digital camera. Check charge and working condition on radio tracking receiver and other tracking gear. Check internet connectivity on laptop to tracking website (http://spacenear.us/tracker/). Look for callsign 'wb8elk'.
  8. Turn on the systems and check functionality;
    1. GPS radio beacon broadcasting and tracking receiver receiving. Check tracking website (http://spacenear.us/tracker/) for data updates.
    2. Camera on, check that it is taking pictures, screen and flash manually off.
  9. Place camera and tracker in their packages and ensure they are secured. Ensure there is a label with our logo and 'who to call if found' contact info visible on outside.
  10. Attach payloads to flight line. There should be 8 feet of separation between packages.
  11. Tie flight line to balloon.
  12. The balloon ought to be inflated by now. Have two guys hold the balloon by flight line while the anchor weight is removed. Walk balloon and payloads to clear launch area.
  13. Ensure no obstacles nearby and launch; for safety, walk balloon up by flight line until the end of the flight line is off the ground, then release balloon.
  14. Travel to predicted landing site. In transit, track with what instruments you have available.
  15. Recover balloon and payload. Shut it down and recover data.

Materials

Available Materials

  • GNX-5 (rebranded as Guidepoint) GSM(cellphone)/GPS tracking device
    • Ratmando has the data sheet and pinouts of the current micro controller for this device. He's looking into replacing the micro controller with something like an ATMEGA644
  • Ratmandu may have a camera
    • Brimstone found out that if we take a 1M picture every 10 seconds, that it will fill 7.5GB in 2.5 hours
    • We may be able to get cameras that work with CHDK at Unclaimed Baggage for less than retail cost.
  • Omegix can volunteer his Android G1: HSIS/G1
    • Asking HSIS team to come up with $80 that I'll hold on to until we retrieve my phone (and keep if we don't).
      • The Little Buddy or the Boost Mobile solution would be cheaper, and just as easy Omegix 15:23, 11 March 2010 (CST)
  • Opticron found his Boost Mobile Phone. This combined with a camera taking automated pictures and our electrical needs are met.
  • Cameras
    • Bender
      • 8MP, $85. Confirmed that it works with the special firmware
      • 7.1MP, $55. Confirmed that it works with the special firmware
    • Omegix
      • 4MP, free. Will need CompactFlash memory if we want to find out about the firmware
  • 1 Foam Cooler
  • Several Hot Hands
  • 50 lb SpiderWire line.
  • Clear Packing Tape
  • Weather Balloons
    • Have two, 800 gram weather balloon from Nova Lynx. Gives a payload capacity of 2.5 lbs to 91,000 feet. Other smaller balloons are possible; a 500 gram balloon will bring a 2.5 lbs payload to 80,000 feet and a 300 gram will bring 1.3 lbs to 68,000 feet. Given that a contest rules state '[b]alloon camera must take pictures of the curvature of the earth with black space backdrop', and the minimum altitude to see the curvature of the Earth and the sky darken is 60,000 feet, the 300 gram balloon may barely be able to make a scoring flight.
    • Bill Brown gave the recommendation that there are margins in the balloon specs that could get us higher altitudes/heavier payloads (about 5%). We would have to handle the balloons carefully during preparation to keep these margins (gloved hands to keep off dirt, dust and oil, no excessive stress).
  • Lifting Gas - Helium
    • Preaux has a hookup at J&M cylinder in Decatur, AL:
      • "ok i got [hydrogren] for $19.85 for the fill and the bottle rental @ $6.50 for a month" ~preaux
      • "k-bottle i think will be TOO much, as it hold 489 cubic feet of hydrogen" ~preaux
      • For three flights of one 800 gram weather balloon each (inflated diameter of 6.2 feet and volume of 127.4 ft^3 from here), we will need 400 cubic feet of lifting gas (at 1 atm and 25 degrees centigrade, standard temperature and pressure). Preauxphoto said he will look into getting us enough gas. --Spacefelix 15:19, 24 March 2010 (CDT)
    • Safety Note:
      • For Helium, it is an inert gas, so no special safety precautions are required for its transport and storage.
      • For storing gas under pressure in cylinders, certain safety standards must be met:
        • Bottles must be chained to a wall to prevent them from falling and breaking.
        • Proper ventilation to prevent injury or death in case of leaks.
        • Proper signage to indicate the potential hazards.
        • More info at Iowa State Lab Safety.

List of Potential Materials - Source & Pricing

Depending on design, we may not need many of these materials:

  • Lifting Gas - Helium or Hydrogen
    • Can be had from Air Liquide or our local Airgas shop: 191 Cochran Road Southwest, Huntsville, AL 35824-1105, (256) 772-5404‎
      • Helium K-bottle: $100
      • Hydrogen K-bottle: $54
      • K-bottle: $0.47 / day, $75 / year, or $325 to own
    • Safety Note:
      • For Helium, it is an inert gas, so no special safety precautions are required for its transport and storage. Hydrogen is flammable, so it must meet storage and transport safety standards for Argon gas (per Preauxphoto on 3/24/10). Omegix has also stated the people at Airgas said that there are no special safety requirements for transporting a K-bottle of hydrogen. Also, no more antics from the fire hooligans if we store hydrogen gas in the shop.
      • See more safety notes above on storing pressurized gas in cylinders.
    • On-Site Hydrogen Electrolysis = Cheap Hydrogen
      • Using a Hoffman Electrolysis Apparatus, it is possible to collect and pressurize hydrogen gas into the balloon by placing it over the tube of the cathode side of the device. The only danger would be static shock or balloon leaks/punctures that would release the hydrogen. A cheap way to make lifting gas at a low cost and avoid storage concerns.
  • Parachute (rocket model type) and streamers
    • Alternative is to build one from duct tape and garbage bags. Alternatively, one can heat seal multiple garbage bags or sheets of plastic material together using a heat sealer. Since they are the same material (either PETE or LDPE plastic sheet) as model rocket parachutes, we ought to be fine. Using this parachute calculator, we will need a 1152 in^2 square parachute to descend at a speed of 11 mph (maximum safe speed). This is the area given by two parachutes side-by-side using two halves of a 30 gallon garbage bag. --Spacefelix 15:19, 24 March 2010 (CDT)
  • String / Fishing Line
    • Will need 10 to 20 lb kite string.
  • Digital Camera: 5MP, preferably a Sony so we can use CHDK
  • 1 x Memory Card, 8GB
  • 1 x Memory Card, Cheap (size not important)
  • Atmega Processor
  • Free-spinning joints (like found in keychains) & Bungee cords
    • Can replace by making lanyards and lines sufficiently long to allow the payload, parachute and balloon turn independently of each other and give some damping and springing action by the lines' natural elasticity.
  • GPS
  • Batteries (3 x D Cell)
  • Radar Reflector (Is this something we will make, or purchase?)
    • Can be a simple cardboard rose (two perpendicular discs) covered in aluminum foil.
    • Since balloon is light enough to not be under FAA Part 101 rules, we will not need a radar reflector.
  • Shock Cushion for Bottom of payload
    • Given we are only allowed a maximum descent speed of 11 mph, this eliminates the need for padding. Drop testing of the foam cooler loaded to 2 lbs on a concrete floor from 6 ft up with two 24"x24" parachutes did not damage it.
  • Radio or Cell Phone
  • Bubble Wrap
  • International Orange Streamer

Human Resources

Bill Brown

Bill Brown (WB8ELK) has expressed interest in helping the project. He can provide balloons, lifting gas, a launch site (on a mountaintop near Hartselle), a ground station and some lightweight tracking payloads. All of it is for his company: High Altitude Research Corp. He invented the Near Space BalloonSat back in 1987. It was the first to take photos and videos in Near Space.

  • Recommendations
    • Tracking
      • Use his lightweight GPS and Ham Radio tracking payloads instead of the GPS cell phone method. He can provide us effective tracking methods that will fit our $150.00/vehicle build and launch cost.
      • Cell phone method has a 3 in 4 failure rate (from MIT's Team Icarus) since it cuts out at high altitudes and is unable to connect to multiple towers when descending from a high-altitude flight.
      • Balloon Trajectory Forecasts is only for long endurance flights. For our short hops, we should use Near Space Ventures.
    • Hardware
      • Hot Hands do not work at high altitudes as there is not enough oxygen in the local atmosphere to maintain their thermochemical reaction. Instead use solar thermal by wrapping payload in three layers of clear bubble wrap and launching during daytime.
      • Bought balloons for $20.00 each on eBay. Has receipt to prove it for costing.
    • Photography
      • Use the Canon PowerShot series hacked with CHDK (Canon Hacker Development Kit) software.
      • Fly the Flip video cam.
  • Media

PreauxPhoto

Our member who has access to cheap lifting gas.

Others

  • Rohan has worked on BalloonSat before
  • Steve Boyer and Sarah Johnstone have worked on BalloonSats before as well
  • The members of the Madison Alabama Space Expansion Forum (MASEF) are interested in learning about and helping out with the project.

All Interested Peoples

  • Spacefelix (HSIS Event Board Liason, POC, Project Manager)
  • BendersGame
  • Brimstone
  • Crashcart (requested no admin duties)
  • Omegix
  • Ratmandu
  • Richard from MASEF
  • Rohan
  • Your name here

Competition Judge for Makers Local 256

  • BrokenTrace

Notes

Launch Site & Flight Considerations

Launch Site

  • Looking at the local airspaces and to minimize the chances of us colliding with aircraft, the recommended launch site would be from New Market, AL (34.91, -86.43).
    • Looking at UAH Space Hardware Club's balloon launch, it seems this is not really that big of a concern since they launch directly under and fly through the C-Class airspace of Huntsville International Airport (HSV) and through E-class airspace of Redstone Army Airfield (HUA). I'm assuming this is because they do not fall under FAA Part 101 below or that they have a radio tracker.

Flight

  1. Carries a payload package that weighs more than four pounds and has a weight/size ratio of more than three ounces per square inch on any surface of the package, determined by dividing the total weight in ounces of the payload package by the area in square inches of its smallest surface;
  2. Carries a payload package that weighs more than six pounds;
  3. Carries a payload, of two or more packages, that weigh a total of more than 12 pounds; or
  4. Uses a rope or other device for suspension of the payload that requires an impact force of more than 50 pounds to separate the suspended payload from the balloon.

HAL5 Presentation Talking points

  • Introduce ourselves
  • Describe Makers Local 256
  • Describe the contest
    • Review rules
  • Describe how we're going to compete
    • If it's still at the shop, show that piece of paper we drew a diagram on
  • Rustle up support for the project:
    • People are welcome to join
    • Donations of money and gear are appreciated

Sketches

3/1/2010

Lessons Learned

  • Use your resources wisely, what is reported as a way to do it is not always the best way.
  • Spray paint has solvents that eat styrofoam, avoid applying directly to foam surfaces.

Links

General Information

Balloon Trajectory

Articles

Tracking

Payloads

4/10/2010 Launch

  • UAH-1 / Payload: [1]
  • Ethan: [2]

Related Information

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