Current Status: Successfully launched and recovered
Initial Post Flight Analysis
General Launch Information:
Date: 4/21/07
Time: 0700 launch
Location: Lamont, WA (subject to change)
Flight Goals
- Track and recover the complete payload the same day as launch
- Collect temperature, 3 axis acceleration data
- Send/receive telemetry of sensor data
- Record live video at ground station during flight
- Take digital pictures at regular intervals during the flight (every 40 seconds)
Tracking and Recovery
We will have two tracking stations set up. One will be a mobile unit and the other will be stationary. The mobile unit will drive to the launch site and help set up the balloon launch and confirm functionality prior to launch. The stationary tracking station will be located at the highest spot close to the predicted landing zone.
Radio Frequencies
VAST uses amateur radio to track the payload in real time and transmit telemetry data from the balloon to the mobile ground units.
Transmitters:
| Unit | Use | Callsign | Frequency | Data | Time Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenwood F6A - TinyTrack | Primary | Nathan Bialke, KE7JWX-1 | 144.390 | APRS (AX.25) | 72 sec |
| Kenwood F6A - Microtrak | Secondary | KE7JWW | 144.390 | APRS (AX.25) | 87 sec |
| BeeLine Transmitter | Testing | KE7GDZ-1 | 441.050 | APRS (AX.25) | 15 sec |
| BeeLine Transmitter | Testing | KE7GDZ-2 | 441.050 | APRS (AX.25) | 35 sec |
Receivers:
| Unit | Operator | Freq: Pri/Sec | Computer | Software | Antenna |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenwood D700 | Austin (KE7JWW) | 144.390/441.050 | Austin's Laptop | APRSPoint | Dual Band, Roof Mount |
| Kenwood D7 | Rody (KE7GDZ) | 144.390/441.050 | Rody's Laptop | APRSPoint | Single Band, Roof Mount |
Flight System
| Balloon Type | Latex |
|---|---|
| Balloon Size | 1500g |
| Payload Mass | 12 lb (Capsule #1: 6 lb; Capsule #2: 3 lb, Rigging: 3 lb) |
| Free Lift | 2 lb |
| Target Ascent Rate | 1000ft/min |
| Parachute | Rocketman R12C |
| Target Descent Rate | 1200 ft/min |
| Target Peak Altitude | 100,000 |
Capsule A
Capsule B
Trajectory/Weather Predictions (Prediction Tutorial)
VAST uses multiple trajectory prediction tools including an online trajectory tool. Weather forecasts are used to for planning and logistics. Launches are postponed if surface winds are dangerously high or if there is too much precipitation. The wind speed in the jet stream is also an important consideration. If winds are too high, the launch team will have to drive long distances to avoid forested landings in northern Idaho.
(None predictions on record for this flight)
Maps/Directions
FAA/Sheriff Information
Contacts
Leaders Contacts
Sheriff Contacts
FAA Contacts
