ALTAIR 16

25Jun16Name: ________________

Site: ____________________

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Table of Contents

Section 1.0 – Pre-Flight Preparations............................................................................................ 4Section 1.1 – Mission Overview................................................................................................................... 4

Purpose of Flight............................................................................................................................................................... 4Changes From Previous Flights..................................................................................................................................5Flight Success Criteria.....................................................................................................................................................5

Section 1.2 – Mission Readiness Review (MRR)....................................................................................7Timeline................................................................................................................................................................................ 7Flight Properties Table...................................................................................................................................................8T-3 Day Wx Check.............................................................................................................................................................9T-2 Day Wx Check and MRR......................................................................................................................................10T-1 Day Launch Preparations...................................................................................................................................11

Section 1.3 – Equipment Checklists.........................................................................................................13Section 1.4 – Assembly and Departure...................................................................................................19

Section 2.0(L) – Launch Flight Procedures................................................................................21Section 2.1(L) – Arrival and Setup........................................................................................................... 21

Arrival and Setup............................................................................................................................................................21Vehicle Assembly and Verification.........................................................................................................................22Launch................................................................................................................................................................................. 26

Section 2.2(L) – Flight Plan.........................................................................................................................27Section 2.3(L) – Post-Flight Procedures.................................................................................................27

Post Flight Documentation........................................................................................................................................ 27

Section 2.0(R) – Recovery Flight Procedures...........................................................................28Section 2.1(R) – Arrival and Setup...........................................................................................................28(A15 will not have an independent recovery team.).........................................................................28

Arrival and Setup............................................................................................................................................................28Launch................................................................................................................................................................................. 28

Section 2.2(R) – Flight Plan........................................................................................................................ 29Section 2.3(R) – Post-Flight Procedures................................................................................................30

Post Flight Documentation........................................................................................................................................ 30Recovery.............................................................................................................................................................................30

Section 2.0(S) – Science Flight Procedures................................................................................31Section 2.1(S) – Arrival................................................................................................................................ 31

Arrival and Setup............................................................................................................................................................31Launch................................................................................................................................................................................. 32

Section 2.2(S) – Flight Plan......................................................................................................................... 32Section 2.3(S) – Post-Flight Procedures.................................................................................................33

Post Flight Documentation........................................................................................................................................ 33

Section 3.0 – Flight Plan................................................................................................................ 34

Section 4.0 - Reference..................................................................................................................... 36Site Data..............................................................................................................................................................................36Frequency List.................................................................................................................................................................36Emergency Phone Numbers......................................................................................................................................37Personnel and Contact Information.......................................................................................................................37T-12 Hour Predictions................................................................................................................................................. 38T-6 Hour Predictions (Failed Cutdown)...............................................................................................................38

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Vehicle Flight Properties (from A14)....................................................................................................................39

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Section 1.0 – Pre-Flight Preparations

Section 1.1 – Mission Overview

Purpose of Flight

The purpose of the ALTAIR 16 flight is to provide an engineering test of all flight and operational systems and to attempt to procure quantitative science imagery of the LED diffusive light source. The two principle systems under test are the science system including telescope pointing and imaging, and the parafoil recovery system.

The current gondola was developed after the loss of A13 and was flown during the A14 and A15 missions. The A14 flight revealed some significant issues, but we believe these have all been resolved. The A15 flight was operationally largely successful, but we failed to produce any usable science imagery. The two possible causes were a lack of pointing accuracy or a lack of synchronization, or both. Both these issues have been addressed. The suspension rigging and parafoil deployment system has been changed dramatically since A13. It functioned correctly for A14, but apparently did not fully deploy during A15, resulting in a spiral descent. The most likely cause was misrigging before launch. No other defects have been uncovered. Validation of correct deployment is still a major objective of this mission.

Some aspects of the descent navigation software have been improved since A13 and because of the parafoil problem remain unvalidated, so it is an objective to gather flight characteristics data and to develop a workable steering strategy to bring the parafoil to a landing at the designated recovery site.

The diffusive light source has been tested in the lab and roughly calibrated. Although the platform may not be fully stable in this flight, obtaining quantitative imagery should be possible, and is a major objective of the mission. We intend to make observations on climb as usual, and also during descent when the gondola is more stable.

The SPOT Trace worked effectively on A14 and A15, and remains installed. It is a mission objective to demonstrate its functionality at altitude.

This flight will continue the process of gradually increasing cutdown altitude.

Payload:- Science firmware- Science protocol- Diffusive light source- Parafoil deployment at higher altitude with new rigging.- Parafoil controllability

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- SPOT

Ground Operations:- Telescope pointing- Science protocol- Imaging system- Navigation

Changes From Previous Flights

Payload- No changes since A15

Ground Operations

- Updated Science software installed- New procedural strategy for descent (from A15)

Flight Success Criteria

Flight Vehicle Result

1. Obtain ascent rate of 5.8 m/s +/-0.5 m/s

2. Achieve cutdown at planned altitude

3. Achieve final descent rate of 3 m/s

5. Survive landing with no damage to critical payload systems

7. Achieve controlled steering in descent.

8. Measure steering turn rate.

9. Measure descent rate in turns.

10. Achieve landing within 1 km of selected landing location

Science Payload Result

1. Demonstrate science protocol

2. Obtain quantitative imagery on climb and descent

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Ground Operations Result

1. Receive telemetry from launch to descent leg < 500 m

2. Locate and recover payload after landing

3. Obtain quantitative imagery of vehicle in flight

4. Demonstrate usability of flight navigation software

5. Demonstrate effectiveness of strategy for navigation to landing

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Section 1.2 – Mission Readiness Review (MRR)

Timeline

Mission Time(DD:HH:MM)

EDT Event

- 03:00:00 Wed 21 Oct P1: T-3 Day Wx Check

- 02:00:00 Thu 22 P2: T-2 Day Wx Check

- 01:00:00 Fri 23 P3: MRR, T-1 Day Launch Preparations

- 00:02:30 0200, Sat 24 P4: Assembly and Departure

- 00:01:30 0300 P5: Arrival and Setup (Launch)

- 00:01:30 0300 P5: Arrival and Setup (Science)

- 00:01:30 0300 P5: Arrival and Setup (Recovery)

- 00:00:30 0400 P6: Vehicle Assembly and Verification

00:00:00 0430 P7: Launch

+ 00:00:51 0521 P8: Landing

+ 00:01:00 0530 P9: Post Flight Documentation

+ 00:01:30 0600 P10: Recovery

Flight Properties Table

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Use this data for generating predictions with the habhub trajectory and ascent rate predictors (habhub.org), and to record values measured during flight.

Launch Date/Time: Sat 24Oct15 0430 EDT, 0830 UTCCall Sign: ALTAIR16

Property Target Values Observed Values

Gondola Mass 2.5 kg, 5.5 lb kg

Parachute+Rigging Mass 0.41 kg, 0.9 lb kg

Flight Train Mass* 2.96 kg, 6.5 lb kg

Balloon Mass 1200 g -

Balloon Fill Volume 280 ft3

Nozzle Lift 6.9 kg, 67 N, 15 lbs

Launch Time 0430 EDT, 0830 UTC

Climb Rate 5.7 m/s

Cutdown Altitude 7,000 m

Cutdown Time T+00:18:00

Burst Altitude 27 km, 88 kft -

Sea Level Descent Rate 3 m/s

Touchdown Time T+00:53:00

* Defined as Payload + Parachute + Rigging Mass. Does NOT include mass of balloon.

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T-3 Day Wx Check

__ Predicted ground winds at launch site < 5 mph (4.4 knots) ,__ Skies at launch site < 20% coverage__ Ceiling < 20,000 ft__ Chance of precipitation <10%__ Obtain preliminary estimates of flight train properties and complete the table below__ Verify that sufficient helium is available, plus a margin if transport is available__ Identify prospective launch and recovery sites__ Obtain any permissions necessary for use of launch or recovery sites.

Property Source Value

Flight Train Mass Measure

Climb rate Habhub Burst Calculator

Balloon Fill Volume Estimate

Nozzle Lift Habhub Burst Calculator

Burst Altitude Habhub Burst Calculator

Cutdown Altitude Flight Properties Table

Sea Level Descent Rate Previous flight data

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T-2 Day Wx Check and MRR

Wx Check__ Predicted ground winds at launch site < 5 mph (4.3 knots) , no gusting__ Skies at launch site < 10% coverage__ Ceiling > 30,000 ft__ Chance of precipitation <10%

Mission Readiness Review__ Confirm all launch and recovery personnel availability for launch window__ Poll personnel for feasibility of flight__ Confirm all open issues have been addressed__ Update all TARGET values in the Flight Properties Table__ Identify any remaining issues to be resolved before launch in the table below

Issue Resolved?

Software discrepancies as listed

Firmware discrepancies as listed

Gondola issues as listed

Set Altitude Cutdown value

Rehearse Rigging Procedure

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T-1 Day Launch Preparations

Launch Go/No Go Decision__ Generate T-1 Day Predictions with habhub and data in Flight Properties Table__ Save predictions for future reference__ Verify Weather conditions at launch site

__ Ground winds at launch site < 5 mph (4.4 knots) , no gusting__ Chance of precipitation <10%__ Ceiling > 30,000 ft__ (Cloud cover <10%)

__ Identify recovery site, via criteria:__ < 5 miles of predicted landing location__ Wide horizon view__ Adequate cell reception or access to ham radio repeater system__Suitable landing field

Recovery Site Robert Frost Ln.

Lat +43.685450°

Lon -72.199085°

Elv 1375 ft, 419 m

__ Identify launch site, via criteria:__ Open area free of obstructions__ Downrange view__ Adequate cell reception or access to ham radio repeater system__ Owner permission available__ Provides landing at desired recovery site

Launch Site Thetford Academy

Lat +43.815330

Lon -72.232228

Elv 984 ft, 300 m

__ Identify accessible ham repeaters and complete Appendix 2: Frequency List__ Install current Tracker software on launch, science, and recovery computers__ Install current firmware onto flight control computer

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Payload Preparation__ Secure temperature probes secured with kapton tape__ Verify RF beacon antenna connector is tightened down__ Verify TM antenna connector is tightened down__ Spray interior with compressed air to remove dust and debris__ Verify steering strings clear and seated__ Strain relief to DNT UHF connection to flight control board__ (Black paper covering installed)__ Install foam covering on gondola__ Install flocking paper behind Diffusive Source__ Install orange duct tape covering__ Install mission patches and return notification__ Place alignment marks on foam hat and gondola__ Verify TM antenna connector integrity__ Tape down steering strings for transport__ Tape TM antenna to radiator for transport

Payload Life Test__ Assemble and power up the recovery ground station (see 2.1-R for procedures)__ Set gondola master power switch ON__ Verify payload telemetry

__ Data streaming__ GPS Fix__ AHRS__ All Sensors__ Science__ Cut down__ Steering__ RF Beacon

__ SET GONDOLA MASTER POWER SWITCH OFF. TAPE DOWN.__ PLUG IN CHARGERS TO GONDOLA CHARGE TERMINALS AND LEAVE CHARGING__ Verify video camera data storage empty__ Charge video camera__ Disassemble recovery ground station used for payload life test

Video Camera Setup__ Verify camera charged (solid green light when on charger)

Pack for Flight__ Measure the following OBSERVED values; enter in Flight Properties Table

__ Gondola Mass__ Parachute and Rigging Mass

__ Compute the Flight Train Masses and record in Flight Properties Table__ Re-compute climb and descent rates, record in Flight Properties Table__ Prepare fresh suspension rigging and spreader bar__ Roll flight harness on spreader bar

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__ Complete Equipment Checklist on following pages

Section 1.3 – Equipment Checklists

LAUNCH 0: Unboxed

__ Gondola with Telemetry Antenna__ Gondola Cap (including switch plug)__ Spreader bar with suspension rigging attached__ Tarp__ Launch Frame__ Helium Cylinders (2) 150SCF

LAUNCH 1: Inflation

__ 30 ft Release Line__ Helium Regulator Wrench__ Long-nose Pliers__ Box: Balloons __ 1200g Balloons in plastic bags (2) __ Box: Gas Handling __ Regulator __ Tubing __ Inflation Nozzle __ Bag 1 __ Zip Ties (4) __ Tie-off strings (5) __ Wire Cutters__ Bag 2 __ Nitrile Gloves __ Paper Towels

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LAUNCH 2: Radio

__ Ground Station Radio (Canary) (including transmission cable)__ 6-Element Yagi__ Radio Tripod__ DNT Power Supply__ RJ45 Cable (Green, 15 ft) (Ham radio equipment)

LAUNCH 3: Computer (Green Case)

__ Operations Computer (Gateway--Elsie)__ Computer Power Supply__ PS/2 Mouse__ RJ-45 Release Key__ Bag 1 __ 6-pin RJ45-DB9 Adapter __ Keyspan __ USB Cable __ (USB Hub)

LAUNCH 4: Power

__ Battery (12 V), or confirmed car outlet available__ Battery clips__ Cigarette lighter adapter__ 12-120 V Power Inverter (Duracell)__ 50-ft Orange Extension Cords (2)__ Brown Extension Cord__ Power Strip

LAUNCH 5: Miscellaneous

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__ Parafoil in bag__ RF Beacon antenna__ Bag 1 __ Gondola Video Camera __ Video Camera Mount __ Screws (2) __ Screwdriver __ Vinyl Tape

__Bag 2 __ SPOT __ Rigging String Threading Tool __ Cutdown String __ Parafoil Support String

__ Headlamps (3)__ Space Blankets (2)__ Orange duct tape__ Orange cloth tape__ Gloves__ Nylon cord__ Cotton cord__ Spare Rope__ Zip-ties__ Trash Bag

(LAUNCH 6: Telescope)__ LT6 Telescope__ Handbox and coil cord__ Bag1 __ RJ11 cable (black) __ RJ11 extension cable (white) __ RJ11-DB9 adaptor __ Keyspan __ USB cable __ Telescope power supply __ Star diagonal __ Eyepiece __ Compass

RECOVERY 1: Blue Bag

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__ Recovery Computer (Toughbook—Burt)__ USB Mouse__ Recovery Computer Power Supply__ Ground Station Radio (Zanzibar)__ 910 MHz Duckie Antenna__ DNT Power Supply__ Brown Extension Cord__ RJ45 Cable (5 ft White)__ RJ45-DB9 Adapter__ 12-120 V Power Inverter (Duracell)__ Cigarette Lighter Power Cord for Inverter__ (RamBo Thumb Drive)__ (12 V Gel-Cell)__ (Battery Clips)

Recovery 2: RF Beacon Receiver__ RF Beacon Receiver__ RF Beacon Antenna__ Headphones

SCIENCE 0: Unboxed

__ Telescope Tripod__ Portable Table__ Camp Chair__ Poncho

SCIENCE 1: Ground Station

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__ Telescope Com Kit (Bag) __ USB cable __ Keyspan __ White RJ-11 cable (RS-232 to telescope) __ RJ11-DB9 Adapter (attached to Keyspan)__ Telescope Power Supply__ MERCURY Test Vehicle__ 9V Battery (Mercury spare)__ Green laser pointer__ 10 ft USB A-B Cable (for camera)__ Camera Kit (Plastic Box) __ Camera __ Power Supply __ Telescope Adapter __ Focal Reducer__ Headlamps (3)

SCIENCE 2: Radio

__ Battery (12 V), or confirmed car outlet available__ Battery clips__ Cigarette lighter adapter__ 12-120 V Power Inverter (Belkin)__ 50-ft Orange Extension Cord__ 25-ft Orange Extension Cord__ Brown Extension Cord__ Power Strip__ Ground Station Radio (Goldstone)__ 6-Element Yagi__ Radio Tripod__ DNT Power Supply__ RJ45 Cable (Blue, 25 ft)__ Bag 1 __ RJ45-DB9 Adapter __ Keyspan Adapter __ USB Cable

SCIENCE 3: Computer (Black Case)

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__ Computer (Thinkpad – Stubbs)__ Computer Power Supply__ USB Mouse__ USB Hub__ USB GPS

SCIENCE 4: Telescope

__ LX200GPS Telescope__ Handbox__ Handbox coil cord__ Star diagonal__ Finder Scope__ Aperture Cap__ Instrument Port Cap__ 25 mm Eyepiece

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Section 1.4 – Assembly and Departure

__ Confirm all open issues identified in the T-2 table have been resolved__ Update flight success criteria to reflect the target flight profile__ Generate T-6 Hour and T-6 Hour (Failed Cutdown) flight trajectories and post to reference section__ Export kml of predicted flight path and save for later reference__ Update this document’s Table of Contents__ Update cover date and “NOT FOR FLIGHT” disclaimer and print for distribution__ Check all personnel present (and awake)__ Load Launch Car

__ LAUNCH 0: Unboxed__ LAUNCH 1: Inflation__ LAUNCH 2: Radio__ LAUNCH 3: Computer__ LAUNCH 4: Power__ LAUNCH 5: Miscellaneous

__ Load Recovery Car (Science and Recovery combined for ALTAIR 16)__ RECOVERY 1: Blue Bag

__ Load Science Car__ SCIENCE 0: Unboxed__ SCIENCE 1: Ground Station__ SCIENCE 2: Radio__ SCIENCE 3: Computer__ SCIENCE 4: Telescope

__ Ensure each member of the LAUNCH team is equipped with__ (Cell Phone (fully charged))__ Adequate clothing for the weather__ (Headlamp with spare batteries)

__ Ensure each member of the SCIENCE team is equipped with__ (Cell Phone (fully charged))__ Adequate clothing for the weather__ (Headlamp with spare batteries)

__ Ensure each member of the RECOVERY team is equipped appropriately.Recovery team members should be equipped with any items necessary to operate safely in the environment that the payload is expected to land in. Individual judgment and experience should be used, but depending on terrain and season, suggested items would include:

__ Cell Phone (fully charged)__ Handheld GPS (or phone equivalent)__ (Handheld Ham Radio)__ Backpack with enough space for equipment and recovered vehicle__ Headlamp with spare batteries__ Food and Water__ Clothing suitable to season and weather.

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__ Sun block__ Sunglasses__ Work Gloves

__Note Times of Departure (TOD)

Launch T.O.D.

Recovery T.O.D.

Science T.O.D.

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Section 2.0(L) – Launch Flight Procedures

Section 2.1(L) – Arrival and Setup

Arrival and Setup

Time of Arrival

General Setup__ Note time of arrival__ Park vehicle ~50 ft from and upwind of launch position if practical__ Deploy tarp at launch position and weigh down with equipment boxes__ Deploy launch frame__ Set helium cylinders on launch frame__ Connect inverter to car power supplies (battery clips or cigarette lighter as necessary)__ Connect orange extension cord(s) to inverter and run to ground station position__ Connect power strip to extension cord__ Connect brown extension cord to power strip

Telemetry Radio__ Deploy radio tripod__ Attach ground station radio to Yagi antenna and mount on tripod__ Connect antenna to radio and verify tight connections __ Connect RJ45 cable to ground station radio__ Connect RJ45 cable to 6 pin RJ45-DB9 adapter__ Connect DNT power supply to ground station radio__ Connect DNT power supply to brown extension cord

Ground Station__ Set up empty boxes as work table for ground station__ Set up computer__ Connect computer to power supply and connect power supply to power strip.__ Connect PS/2 mouse to computer__ Connect RJ45-DB9 adapter (on cable) to computer serial port__ Turn on power strip and verify power available__ Consider idling car to prevent draining battery__ Boot computer Sync computer date and time to USNO or cell phone, accurate to the second__ Launch Tracker software

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__ Verify correct Base Location set in software__ Note setup complete time

Setup complete time

(Telescope Setup) No Telescope used for A16__ Set up telescope tripod__ Mount telescope on tripod__ Connect telescope to power supply and computer__ Complete alignment of the telescope according to directions on the hand box__ Press “Mode” once alignment is complete

Vehicle Assembly and Verification

Start Time

SPOT Activation__ Power SPOT on by pressing Power button__ Leave SPOT in a location where its antenna can see the sky(Validation will occur after inflation.)

Balloon Inflation__ Have contents of box “Launch 1: Inflation” ready at hand__ Tie one end of the release line to the eye bolt at one end of the launch frame__ Remove helium cylinder caps from both cylinders__ Install gas regulator onto first helium cylinder and tighten with adjustable wrench__ Install pressure regulator handle just enough to make contact, then back off one turn__ Attach inflation hose and nozzle to regulator__ Designate one person as “Balloon Wrangler” The Wrangler must not let go of the balloon until it is secure!__ Designate one person as “Balloon Technician”

The Technician will perform tie-off and secure the balloon to the guy line.__ Designate one person as “Balloon Helper” if a third person is available

If a third person is not available Technician performs Helper tasks.__ All personnel don nitrile gloves before handling the balloon

(Nitrile gloves are NOT imperative and may be impractical in cold weather.)__ Technician: Carefully open balloon storage bag and lay balloon out on tarp__ Wrangler: Insert inflation nozzle into the neck of the balloon__ Wrangler: Grip balloon nozzle around inflation nozzle__ Helper: Open helium cylinder master valve.__ Technician: Note Cylinder 1 initial pressure

Tank Initial Final

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Cylinder 1 Pressure (psi) 0

Cylinder 2 Pressure (psi)

__ Helper: Open helium regulator valve, allowing gas to flow into balloon.__ Inflate balloon until Cylinder 1 is exhausted.__ Helper: Close regulator valve. Close master valve.__ Helper: Move regulator to Cylinder 2.__ Helper: Open cylinder master valve.__ Technician: Note Cylinder 2 initial pressure__ Helper: Open regulator valve, allowing gas to flow into balloon.__ Inflate balloon until Cylinder 2 is exhausted (or tare weight lifted or nozzle lift achieved).__ Helper: Close regulator valve. Close master valve.__ Technician: Note Cylinder 2 final pressure.__ Wrangler: Hold balloon neck closed at very top of neck. Use two hands.__ Technician: Fold balloon neck lengthwise, insert through top loop of flight harness, fold back, and tie off with three tie-off strings. (Helper can assist with bringing up flight harness, handing tools, etc.) See figure.__ Technician: Tie release line loop through suspension loop.__ Technician: Thread release line through release line loop and tie to opposite end of launch frame.__ When Technician is satisfied that the balloon is secure, the Wrangler may carefully release the balloon.__ Adjust release line to suspend the spreader bar just above shoulder height.The following steps may require adjustment of the release line length in order to make the balloon height convenient for each step__ Cap both gas cylinders.__ Stow all tools and extraneous equipment.

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Flight Train Layout __ Verify SPOT is operational by checking the findmespot.com website. Account ALTAIR; Password ALTAIR5.__ Install SPOT in pocket on inside of gondola hat. Make the white tape visible in pocket (antenna points to sky). Tape in place with orange duct tape.

__ Adjust the spreader bar to its nominal position.__ Pass cutdown string through one suspension loop, knot on short side of cutdown string just outside loop.__ Attach one end of parafoil support string to same side of spreader bar as cutdown string,__ Unpack parafoil and accordion fold carefully. Once clips are free, do not let them go.__ Pass free ends of cutdown string and support string through parafoil shrouds just behind second row of shrouds.__ Attach support string to support parafoil.__ Pass cutdown string through second suspension loop.Parafoil should now be suspended securely with both cutdown strings hanging down.__ Install RF beacon antenna on gondola.__ Install telemetry antenna on gondola.__ Slide hat over RF beacon antenna.__ Use threading tool to thread steering strings through holes in hat, and clip to parafoil clips. Be sure to get the Right steering string to the Right clip!__ Remove tape from gondola main power switch__ Set gondola power switch to ON.

Note. The motor is not supposed to run when power is applied, but we have had some problems with this. If the cutdown motor runs on power-up, two cutdown commands should restore its correct zero position.)

__ Use threading tool to thread cutdown strings through holes in hat.Twist each cutdown string 10 times before feeding.__ Feed cutdown strings through eyelets and pass on end through the other as shown in the figure.__ Execute cutdown on computer to set string __ While plunger retracts, push the cutdown string down so rigging is as in diagram below (hat not shown for clarity).

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__ Raise balloon to suspend gondola just off the ground. Adjust the cutdown strings so the loop over the plunger is just snug and the gondola sits level.__ Settle hat snugly on top of gondola. (It can’t go down too far.)

__ Carefully arrange parafoil in the “fanfold” arrangement shown in the figure. There will be 4 pleats each side of center. Keep the fold over the cutdown string (and support line) approximately centered between the rows of shroud lines.__ Remove parafoil suspension line. Cut it free if necessary.__ Verify cutdown stirings pass between forward and aft portions of the parafoil.__ Verify all shroud lines hang free.__ Verify all front vents are open (and face forward!). Forward is marked on the hat.__ Cover parafoil with space blanket.

Camera SetupCamera materials and tools are located in Box Launch 5: MISC Bag 1__ Screw the mount to the gondola foam cap at the marked location__ Set mode switch on left of camera to VIDEO__ Verify camera SD card is installed and seated__ Slide the camera pocket clip over the camera mount with lens (not the white button!) facing forward. The lens is on the same side as the clip.__ Tape camera to the camera mount with vinyl tape. Place the tape low to keep tape clear of controls on camera. The camera mounts on the rear of the hat and faces forward, looking across the hat. The lens is the tiny hole on the clip side of the camera.

Payload Life Check__ Tighten telemetry antenna and point antenna down.__ Verify ground station GO for life test__ Gondola power should already be ON. If not, the mian power switch can be accessed by removing the power switch foam cover plug and pushing the rocker switch below.__ Verify data received at ground station__ Verify (Optical) Beacon operational

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__ Verify Lights operational__ Verify Mux operational__ Verify GPS operationalLeave the main power switch ON.__ Dry gondola with paper towels if necessary__ Remove diffuser cover__ Advise Flight Director of status__Note time of completion of Verification

Completion Time

Launch __ Verify Vehicle Go for Launch__ Verify Launch Ground Station Go for Launch__ Verify Science Go for Launch__ Verify Recovery Go for Launch__ Remove space blankets from vehicle__ Verify Telemetry antenna tight and pointed down__ Remove foam on/off switch plug__ Verify parafoil ready__ Verify Launch ground station receiving data__ Verify Tracker XLS and KML logging check boxes checked__ Check Track box__ Activate Video Camera __ Slide power switch on right side of video camera from OFF to ON __ Press and hold the large white button until the green light comes on __ Verify Blue light (on the right) comes on, indicating camera is in video mode __ Press big white button on camera to start recording__ Command Optical Beacon to Flash__ Verify optical beacon is flashing__ Verify payload telemetry

__ GPS fix__ All Temperatures 0-30°C__ (Orientation within 5° horizontal)__ Avionics and Lights battery voltages > 7.5 V

__ START TRACKER LOG__ Complete the following steps as near to simultaneously as possible

__ Release guy line to launch vehicle__ Click “RELEASE” Button in tracker software to begin mission timer

Release Time (hh:mm:ss, UTC):

__ Inform Science of Release Time__ Inform Recovery of Release Time

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Section 2.2(L) – Flight Plan- Continually slew the ground station antenna to maintain the azimuth indicated by the Tracker- Monitor flight parameters- Remain in contact with Science and Recovery- Record data when Loss of Signal occurs

Event: Loss of Signal (LOS) __ Advise Flight Director of LOS__ Log last GPS fix and rates__ Make screenshot of last screen

Time (hh:mm:ss, UTC)

Lat (dd.dddd)

Lon (dd.dddd)

Alt (m)

ROC (m/s)

GSP (m/s)

CRS (dd)

Section 2.3(L) – Post-Flight Procedures

Post Flight Documentation

__ Enter all observed values into the flight properties table__ Note any equipment used from box of spares or from sources not in procedures

__ Pack equipment in boxes

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Section 2.0(R) – Recovery Flight Procedures

Section 2.1(R) – Arrival and Setup(A16 will not have an independent recovery team.)

Arrival and Setup

Time of Arrival

__ Advise Flight Director of arrival and location__ Note time of arrival__ Connect 120V power inverter to cigarette lighter outlet__ Connect brown extension cord to inverter__ Set up computer__ Connect mouse (if desired) to computer__ Connect computer power supply to extension cord and computer__ Connect RJ45-DE9 adapter to RJ45 Cable__ Connect RJ45-DE9 adapter to recovery computer serial port__ Connect RJ45 Cable (white) to ground station radio__ Connect DNT power supply to ground station radio__ Connect DNT Power supply to brown extension cord__ Verify power from inverter__ Boot computer__ Sync computer date and time to USNO or cell phone__ Launch Tracker15.exe (on Desktop)__ Enter recovery team location into base location, or select location from list__ (If MERCURY is available, check reception of data)__ Note setup complete time

Setup complete time

__ Advise Flight Director of status

Launch __Verify to Launch that Recovery is Go for Launch__ Receive (from Launch) and Record Release Time

Release time (hh:mm:ss, UTC):

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Section 2.2(R) – Flight Plan- Remain in Contact with Science and Launch- Record data when Loss of Signal occurs (see flight plan).

Event: Loss of Signal (LOS)

__ Advise Flight Director of LOS__ Log last GPS fix and rates__ Make screenshot of last screen

Time(hh:mm:ss, UTC)

Lat (dd.dddd)

Lon (dd.dddd)

Alt (m)

ROC (m/s)

GSP (m/s)

CRS (dd)

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Section 2.3(R) – Post-Flight Procedures

Post Flight Documentation

__ Enter all observed values into the flight properties table__ Note any equipment used from box of spares or from sources not in procedures

__ Pack equipment in boxes

Recovery

Assembly of recovery ground station is discussed in 2.1(R)

- Estimate time required to recover payload given LOS location and expected terrain- Travel to last GPS fix- Listen for RF Beacon- Record position data- Proceed to location of vehicle

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Section 2.0(S) – Science Flight Procedures

Section 2.1(S) – Arrival

Arrival and Setup

Time of Arrival

General Setup__ Note time of arrival__ Advise Flight Director of arrival and status__ Set up science station table and chair__ Unload telescope tripod__ Deploy and level tripod facing true north__ Mount telescope on tripod (leave aperture cover in place)__ Connect inverter to car power supplies (battery clips or cigarette lighter as necessary)__ Connect orange extension cord(s) to inverter and run to science station position__ Connect power strip to extension cord__ Connect brown extension cord to power strip

Telemetry Radio__ Deploy radio tripod__ Attach ground station radio to Yagi antenna and mount on tripod__ Connect antenna to radio and verify tight connections __ Connect RJ45 cable to ground station radio__ Connect RJ45 cable to 6 pin RJ45-DB9 adapter__ Connect RJ45-DB9 adapter to Keyspan__ Connect USB Cable to Keyspan__ Connect DNT power supply to ground station radio__ Connect DNT power supply to brown extension cord

Telescope__ Connect Handbox__ Connect telescope power supply to telescope and brown extension cord__ Install finder scope__ Install star diagonal and eyepiece__ Boresight finder scope

Science Station__ Set up computer__ Connect computer to power supply and connect power supply to power strip.

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__ Connect mouse to computer__ Connect USB Hub to computer__ Connect telemetry Keyspan to USB Hub via USB cable__ Connect GPS Receiver to USB Hub__ Connect telescope Keyspan to USB Hub via USB cable__ Connect RJ11-DB9 adapter to Keyspan__ Connect telescope an RJ11-DB9 adapter via RJ-11 cable (white)__ Turn on power strip and verify power available__ Consider idling car to prevent draining battery__ Boot computer__ Launch Tracker software__ Verify correct Base Location set in software__ Sync computer time to GPS__ If appropriate, set base to GPS__ Use MERCURY to verify data reception

Star Alignment__ Perform star alignment__ Verify pointing Time completed ______________________

Science Camera Setup__ Remove eyepiece and star diagonal__ Install Camera using camera adapter__ Connect camera power supply via 25-ft orange extension cord__ Connect camera to USB Hub with USB cable and extension cable__ Start CamCtrl__ Point to good star target__ Focus (1 turn CW)__ Close CamCtrl__ Note setup complete time

Setup complete time

__ Advise Flight Director of status

Launch__Verify Launch that Science is Go for Launch__ Receive (from Launch) and Record Release Time

Release time(hh:mm:ss, UTC):

Section 2.2(S) – Flight Plan- Remain in Contact with Recovery and Launch- Follow flight plan on computer- Record data when Loss of Signal occurs (see flight plan)

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Event: Loss of Signal (LOS) All Sites--

__ Advise Flight Director of LOS__ Log last GPS fix and rates__ Make screenshot of last screen

Time (hh:mm:ss, UTC)

Lat (dd.dddd)

Lon (dd.dddd)

Alt (m)

ROC (m/s)

GSP (m/s)

CRS (dd)

Section 2.3(S) – Post-Flight Procedures

Post Flight Documentation

__ Enter all observed values into the flight properties table__ Note any equipment used from box of spares or from sources not in procedures

__ Pack equipment in boxes

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Section 3.0 – Flight PlanA16 Flight Plan

0000 Release

---- ClimbClimb rate should be 6 m/s.ETC = 18 min

0002 TM Acquisition at Science.Verify tracking.Change offset as necessary.

0010 Start Science

Run for 5 cycles.1 min per cycle, so 5 min

0015 End ScienceActivate flasher

0018 Cutdown 7,000 mObserve in finder scope, if possible.Note descent rate.

---- DescentDescent rate should be 3 m/sETL = +37 min

0020 Gondola should be stable.Note headingSteer to desirable headingAdjust trim

0020 Start ScienceRun 3 cyclesNo turns during this activity.Note heading behavior and descent rate.

0024 Change exposure time to 40 msRun 3 cyclesNo turns

0027 End ScienceActivate Flasher

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---- DescentSteer to landing

0051 Landing

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Section 4.0 - Reference

Site Data

Site Lat Lon Elevation

Whitefield (KHIE) +44.3675556° -71.5458056° 1072 ft, 327 m

Rutland +43.5299167° -72.9496389° 787 ft, 240 m

Garipay +43.717540° -72.272527° 523 ft, 160 m

Springfield (KVSF) +43.3437222 -72.5172778° 578 ft, 176 m

Taftsville +43.619248° -72.457326° 550 ft, 168 m

Thetford +43.815978° -72.232200° 974 ft, 297 m

Mt. Cardigan +43.649448° -71.914267° 3156 ft, 962 m

Robert Frost Ln. +43.685450° -72.199085° 1375 ft, 419 m

Barnes (Norwich) +43.7209° -72.3325° 951 ft, 290 m

Frequency List

Telemetry 900-912 MHz Net ID = 07SPOT Tracking data: findmespot.com Account: ALTAIR PW: ALTAIR5Team Communications Moose Mountain Repeater

Repeater Frequency Offset PLL Tone?

Moose Mountain 145.330 MHz -600 kHz 100 Hz

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Emergency Phone Numbers

FAA: (800) 992-7433 Burlington FSSBoston Center area B: (603) 879-6665 Air traffic controlVermont State Police: (802) 878-7111 State Recreational EnforcementNew Hampshire State Police: (603) 271-2450 Director’s Office, Concord NH

Personnel and Contact Information

Personnel Position Site Contact

Yorke Brown Principal Investigator Science 603-727-8494 AC4E

Justin Albert Principle Investigator Science

Tim Smith Flight Director Launch 603-727-6291

Bob Eccher Launch Technician Launch 802-281-9456

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T-12 Hour Predictions

T-6 Hour Predictions (Failed Cutdown)

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Vehicle Flight Properties (from A14)

Climb Rate 5.7 m/sDescent Rate 3.0 m/sAirspeed 7 m/sTurn Rate 10 deg/s

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