Quote:
Originally Posted by nebulosity.
CASA was ok, just got to tell them all the details like accent speed, flight path, launch time, flight time, etc. You pretty much just have to show that you have thought it all out properly. I followed an example CASA application by Robert Brand, you might be interested to have a look at that.
If you are going to use a Spot tracker, I would recommend the Gen 2 instead of the Gen 3. The Gen 3 has motion sensors and stops signalling when it stops moving which is not what you want. The Gen 2 does't have this.
No I didn't use a gimbal, one locked onto satellites it holds them pretty good. I did tests with tipping my Spot upside down etc and it still held the satellites and transmitted. I'm not sure if the trouble I had was due to the tracker being close to the other electronics.
Anyway if I ever use it again I am going to tie it onto the payload line a few metres above the payload. Have seen it done on another video and it worked great, and from what I have seen I think that would be the way to go.
APRS will be awesome if you can get it, what type of setup will you use? Make sure it has a GPS that will work over 60,000 ft.
Byonics sell a 10W APRS tracker specially made for HAB's, that come fully configured with your call sign and ready to run, I think I might look into getting one of those.
Cheers
Jo
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Thanks for the information Jo. We have been liaising with Robert Brand too so it should all be good. I'm guessing you were able to get it classified as a small/light balloon and not have to worry about a radar reflector (although I did notice the payload covered in foil) and remote cut down switches, etc.
We are in a little bit of a hiatus with the planning due to family commitments from the main organiser. He is also the one who has the radio license so I'm not sure exactly what setup it will be at this time. Is this the APRS tracker you were talking about
:
http://www.byonics.com/mt-rtg
Thanks also for the tip on the Gen 2 versus Gen 3 spot. I will have to see what one we have lined up...