Payload 09 Information

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.