Lessons learned from the tethered test
How long did things take?
Timing:
1:25--> arrived at site for tethered test
1:51--> still checking payload
3:03--> payload attached to balloon
Time to fill balloon was 28 minutes from Rusty turning valve to disconnecting water bottle
What should we change on the payload?
- Have an external start for the video camera so it can be turned on right before launch
- Turn on the payload radio earlier so we can check if it is broadcasting
- Consider a red balloon (99 of them!)
- Payload weighed in at 3lb. 4.1 oz --> we might have room for a little more weight
- Consider a second video camera pointed up. Can we time it for the cutdown?
- Can we hack the CVS camera so it will take a larger memory stick?
- We need more room in the payload to facilitate wiring (and just for more room)
- If it's cold outside, do an equipment check of payload in the car (cold fingers!)
- Better payload harness (to eliminate: kite string cutting into foam, ...)
- It should take 30 seconds to open the payload if we need to modify something. And another 30 seconds to close.
What other things did we learn?
If it's really cold, rent a camper for a day
If really cold, bring propane and space heater
We need a pre-onsite checklist (which will include weighing the payload)
Make the wiring not suck
Balloon wight was measured at 2 lb. 11.1 oz
Bring a print out of wiki pages onsite! Put in documentation binder.
Triple-check all harness knots
Need strain relief on the wiring
This is way more fun than we thought
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