90m3 Solar Powered Balloon

[VK4JMP]

Yes, I'm that Physics Teacher!

My students have put together a 90 cubic metre solar powered balloon which so far we have flown on a 100m tether. It was carrying a video camera and my APRS unit. On a sunny day it has about 12 kg of net lift.

The intention is controlled free flight to high altitude, the control system being a variable hot air dump valve at the top so lift can be controlled remotely either from ground stations or a chase aircraft at 10,000 feet.

Video from balloon is at https://youtu.be/mIxEmv8kj0s

Video from the ground is at https://youtu.be/dXjqV97gBOM

Regards,
Murray Peterson
VK4JMP