MM08 -2018-07-29

Tracker Details

Tracker Type: APRS

Model: PicoTracker1Rev2

Powered by 2 AAA batteries

Configuration:

msBetweenTransmits = 3000 (3s, 0m, 0h)

lhAltFtThreshold = 10000

hAlt.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 180000 (180s, 3m, 0h)

lAlt.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 45000 (45s, 0m, 0h)

lAlt.stickyMs = 10800000 (10800s, 180m, 3h)

dz.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 7200000 (7200s, 120m, 2h)

Launch Parameters

Balloon and Payload

• Two 36" Qualatex balloons, unstretched
• 28.5 gram payload
• 2.53 grams free lift

Actuals

• Top Altitude - 24,150 ft
• Duration - 4 hours, 6 minutes
• Distance - 9.5 miles following path
• Cause of death - Unknown

General Thoughts / Observations

This flight was the second using tandem balloons. It was an easy launch with a steady elevation gain. It was a rather windless day, as the balloons rose they drifted around never being further than 3 miles from the launch site.

Early on there were coordinate errors indicating some some of tracker problem. The balloons reached 24,150 feet and the signals stopped.

The short distance was expected with the projections showing no actual change in location for 6 hours. Need to evaluate possible causes of signal failure.

Thoughts for next time

Modify for more frequent transmissions.