Initial Design of a High-Altitude Balloon Controlled Ascent System

Faculty Mentor Name

Douglas Isenberg

Format Preference

Poster

Abstract

The High-Altitude Balloon Controlled Ascent System (HABCAS) is an innovative approach to near-space research using cost-effective latex weather balloons. The system, as currently conceived, entails release of gas and release of ballast mass, along with data transmission and termination through a 2.4 GHz radio link. A dynamical model of the balloon has been developed from governing equations. The dynamical model will be used to develop the control system requirements and the mechanical requirements. A previously developed empirical model for pressure of a small-scale balloon (i.e., 100 grams) proves inaccurate above burst altitude, indicating that beyond an altitude of 18 km this model cannot be reliably scaled to a large balloon (i.e., 3000 grams). A large-balloon model will be found experimentally over the course of several flights planned in late March and April 2019.

  • POSTER PRESENTATION
  • IGNITE AWARD

Location

ERAU - Prescott, AZ; AC1-Atrium, 11 am - 3 pm | Eagle Gym, 7 - 9 pm

Start Date

3-29-2019 11:00 AM

End Date

3-29-2019 9:00 PM

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Mar 29th, 11:00 AM Mar 29th, 9:00 PM

Initial Design of a High-Altitude Balloon Controlled Ascent System

ERAU - Prescott, AZ; AC1-Atrium, 11 am - 3 pm | Eagle Gym, 7 - 9 pm

The High-Altitude Balloon Controlled Ascent System (HABCAS) is an innovative approach to near-space research using cost-effective latex weather balloons. The system, as currently conceived, entails release of gas and release of ballast mass, along with data transmission and termination through a 2.4 GHz radio link. A dynamical model of the balloon has been developed from governing equations. The dynamical model will be used to develop the control system requirements and the mechanical requirements. A previously developed empirical model for pressure of a small-scale balloon (i.e., 100 grams) proves inaccurate above burst altitude, indicating that beyond an altitude of 18 km this model cannot be reliably scaled to a large balloon (i.e., 3000 grams). A large-balloon model will be found experimentally over the course of several flights planned in late March and April 2019.

  • POSTER PRESENTATION
  • IGNITE AWARD