Payload Flight Number:

2008-09

Institution:

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Payload Title:

UAH Thermal Radiation Isolation Balloon Experiment (TRIBE)

Student Leader:

Bob Hawkins
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
MAE – TH N274
Attn: Space Hardware Club, Richardson
Huntsville, AL 35899
hawkinr@email.uah.edu
Cell: 256-684-1513

Faculty Advisor:

Dr. Georgia Richardson
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
MAE – TH N274
Huntsville, AL 35899
richaga@eng.uah.edu
Office: 256-824-6209
Fax: 256-824-6758 , Attn: Space Hardware Club, Richardson

Payload class:

Large

Payload ID Number:

09

Mass:

< 20 kg

Current:

0.07 A @ 30V

Serial Downlink:

1200 baud

Analog Downlink:

No

Serial Commands:

No

Discrete Commands:

No

Payload Specification & Integration Plan

Due: 6/1/2008

Delivered:

Payload Integration Certification

Scheduled:

Actual:

Flight Operation Plan

Due:

Delivered:

Final Flight / Science Report

Due: 12/15/2008

Delivered:

Abstract:

The purpose of the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) HASP infrared project is to gain a better understanding of the thermal effects that a high-altitude balloon experiences during flight. These thermal effects directly effect the flight duration, altitude changes and ballast requirements. Successful acquisition of the thermal data could help improve future balloon endeavors and possibly span other applications. Our project will build upon past HASP experiments but will introduce new techniques to acquire more meaningful and accurate data. Our previous infrared experiments have utilized off-the-shelf infrared temperature sensors, and pre-arranged thermopile arrays. For this experiment the main focus of the study will center on an array of finely tuned thermopiles measuring a viewable spectrum from the Earth to the balloon and for this reason, it is proposed that the project will require a large payload footprint. The students involved with the project will manage mechanical, thermal, and instrument components for the duration of the project and throughout the data analysis. Previous balloon testing experience coupled with the information gathered from previous models, will greatly add to the understanding of high altitude balloon dynamics towards achieving longer duration balloon flights. This project is supported by the Alabama Space Grant Consortium.

Summary Status

Original

Summary Date:

January 31, 2008