Practical Guide to Balloon Science

Where to get supplies

Parts List for Balloon launch

Vernier http://www.vernier.com/

Scientific Sales, Inc. http://www.scientificsales.com/balloons.htm

Edmund Scientific http://www.scientificsonline.com/

How to rig and release a Balloon

Assembly Gallery

Appendix III: Lift due to Helium

Model expected flight behavior.

Predict flight behavior

Images from the Balloon

Aerial Gallery

How to Choose a DAQ (Data Acquisition device)

http://www.vernier.com/mbl/index.html

Appendix I: LabPro Operating Instructions

Appendix IV: LabPro Specifications

How to Choose Appropriate Sensors

http://www.vernier.com/probes/index.html

Appendix II: Using the Barometer as an Altimeter

How to Choose a Camera

  • Choose film or digital
  • Must have auto-advance.
  • Should be convenient, cheap (possible damage), and lightweight.
  • A tripod screw mount is a handy way to attach the camera.
  • Choose a shutter release method:
    • Built in time-lapse mode preferred.
    • A serial port is available on some digital cameras and can be controlled by Vernier's DCU.
    • Use clock drive or radio control to drive a cam-follower that trips the shutter button.
    • Rewire camera to be tripped by an intervalometer as shown below:

Build a gondola.

Download plans (WORD)

Check all regulations.

Key issues: Moored balloon, closer than 5 miles to airport, more than 6 ft diameter, more than 6 lb payload, more than 500 ft AGL, requires prior authorization from FAA

.Code of Federal Regulation - Aeronautics and Space, Part 101

Tethered vs Moored Balloons