The components of CNNSP’s Main Payload
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The camera is a relatively
inexpensive 4 megapixel digital from Concorde. |
Buy it, bring it home, make
sure it works, THEN void the warranty… |
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Some groups make their own payload
containers, from Styrofoam, foam core, modeling plywood, etc. I opted for the NSTAR method of the
insulated lunch cooler. With outside
temperatures dropping to –70 degrees F.
You need to keep the electronics warm enough to function. |
This is a VERY basic
design. A transceiver,
microprocessor, power supply, TinyTrak3 module, and a HOBO data logger (not
pictured) for collecting data. The
processor is in charge of taking pictures, and potentially a cut down circuit
in the event the balloon needs to be cut away. I’ve have many ideas for improvements and additions for the
next design, I just need the time to be able to work on it. |
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The Garmin GPS18 receiver supplies
the data that is transmitted to the ground stations for real time position
tracking. |
The camera needed to be
electrically shielded to avoid interference with the Garmin GPS18, one of
those things you learn from others experiences. In this case I used aluminum foil, Gorilla Glue, and Styrofoam. |
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In order to make a SOFT
landing… I ordered the parachute
already made, some groups sew their own. |
The spreader ring at the base
of the parachute shroud, helps keep things from twisting and tangling. |
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The finished product ready
for another sub-orbital journey. |
