MM09 - 2018-08-01

Tracker Details

Tracker Type: APRS

Model: PicoTracker1Rev2

Powered by 2 AAA batteries

Configuration:

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

lhAltFtThreshold = 10000

hAlt.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 900000 (900s, 15m, 0h)

lAlt.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 30000 (30s, 0m, 0h)

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

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

Launch Parameters

Balloon and Payload

• One 36" Qualatex balloon
• 28.8 gram payload
• 1.87 grams free lift

Actuals

• Top Altitude - 21,577 ft
• Duration - 11 hours, 5 minutes
• Distance - 324 miles following path
• Cause of death - Apparent leak

General Thoughts / Observations

The launch for MM09 was pretty turbulent. The wind was gusting and when the balloon was released you could see the tracker getting bounced around pretty good. After a few minutes the signals started and the balloon steadily rose to above 20,000 feet then settled into a very good float.

It appears that the balloon was floating nicely and then rose in elevation, that is when the descent started.

Thoughts for next time

Determine if there is a float / payload combination that will result in less internal pressure making the balloon safer during elevation fluctuations.