[NLRS] ConHAB Launch Failed :-(

[Glen Overby]

Date: Sun, 28 Aug 2005 15:01:33 -0500
To: balloons at space.edu, rrra-list at listserv.rrra.org, thockert at ideaone.net,
        kevin at ccvsoftware.com, goverby at charter.net, glehmac at CLEMSON.EDU,
        wallio at crosspaths.net, garrard at aem.umn.edu, landa at cord.edu,
        n0wq at collinscom.net, acepilot at bloomer.net, gsnarr at escape.ca
From: Paul Seifert <seifert at cord.edu>
Subject: ConHAB Launch Failed :-(

Well, where to start...

The launch was aborted about 10 minutes after launch.  Due to a failure in 
the filling system to properly measure the amount of upward lift, we 
launched with too little helium.  The balloon flew up the hillside and 
leveled out  50-100 feet above the ground (1300').  This is the time you 
would have received packets.  After drifting for about a mile, snagging 
(and releasing) on several trees and a power line, we made the decision to 
abort to avoid further problems.  I do know the 144.390 beacon made it to 
the internet.

However, I am pleased to announce that our DTMF cut-down (balloon release) 
system works great, as does the parachute.  I dropping the payload right 
onto the road about 100 feet in front of us.

Thanks for those that tuned in.  Sorry to get your hopes up.  I was really 
looking forward to see who might make it into the repeater.

We learned a lot form this first attempt, and hope to come back stronger 
(and a LOT higher) next time.  We would like to get in at least one launch 
before the snow flies here on the northern plains.

Again, thanks for all the attention, and stay tuned.



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There are 10 kinds of people: those who understand binary, and those who don't.
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Paul Seifert, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Physics Department
Concordia College
901 8th St. S.
Moorhead, MN 56562
KC0NSR

(218)299-4612