Update on Near Space Science project.

Today, I got my Packet person!

Two latex balloons have also been donated to the cause.

We now have a fair portion of the core personnel put together.

A launch experienced person.

A payload generalist.

Integration and visualization.

Packet communications.

Programming.

First meeting will probably be this weekend to set priority, protocol,
and financial, and to set a target date for first launch. Payload form
factor and size to be set.


likely scenario - to be settled at meeting.

A tethered shakedown flight will be scheduled for late winter 2005.

First free flight is anticipated in early spring 2005.

First flights will be simple. GPS and digital imaging, along with Packet
of course.

Terminal altitude of first free flight will need to be assessed. That
will have an impact on payload design. It may be easier to simply let
the thing rise until burst instead of going for a lower altitude, which
may necessitate design of a burst mechanism.

Further approaches to Educational facilities will likely take place
after the first free flight, so that there is a proof of performance re
launching/retrieving these things.


- Mike KB3EIA -