— For Sheriff / Search and Rescue Coordinators —
Contact: Brandy Holmes
NASA Idaho Space Grant Consortium
Cell: (208) 669-0743
Moscow, Idaho
Re:NASA Idaho Space Grant Consortium Unmanned Balloon Launch
Day, Date
Endicott, WA
8:00am – 11:00am
Please note that the NASA Idaho Space Grant Consortium (ISGC), located at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho will possibly be launching an unmanned balloon on Sat, Sep 20 from Endicott, WA . Please note that these launch sites are based on current weather predictions and are subject to change immediately prior to launch. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) will be issued as required by the FAA (reference FAR 101).
This notice is to inform your County Sheriff and Search and Rescue personnel that the balloon will reach an altitude of 100,000 feet before bursting, and then will parachute back to Earth in this local region for recovery. At this time, predictions show that the balloon payloads are expected to land in Whitman County, Washington. However, it is possible that winds and weather could shift the balloon’s path and cause the payload to land in your County, respectfully.
The balloons will be launched at 7am, and will land between the hours of 9am and 10am, according to predictions. Please note that the payload consists of 3 boxes (pink, blue, and orange), and a red and black parachute. If the payload lands in your county on Saturday or Sunday morning, your office may be contacted to inform you of the approximate location of the landing site if we are unable to recover it. We will then discuss with your personnel the best course of action to take in order to recover the balloon from your county if necessary.
If the payload is discovered by a civilian, it does contain American markings, and information about the launch, the organization responsible, and contact information. If you do receive an inquiry about the payload or the balloon, please inform the individual(s) that the payload is harmless and that they should contact Brandy Holmes immediately.
If your personnel or civilians have questions about the launch, payload, or other aspects of this event, please contact Brandy Holmes at the University of Idaho:
Phone: (208) 669-0743
e-mail: moc.liamg|semloh.m.ydnarb#moc.liamg|semloh.m.ydnarb
Secondary contact: Gabe DeRuwe
Phone: (509) 386-2601
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
