Weather Ballon with Camera/GPS payload. 1x600g or 2x600g balloon for lift?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Rbai63
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    Balloon Lift Weather
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the planning and execution of a high-altitude weather balloon project, specifically focusing on the choice between using one 900g balloon or two 600g balloons to lift a payload that includes a GPS tracker and a camera. The scope includes technical considerations for balloon inflation, payload weight estimation, and ascent rates.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using two 600g balloons to achieve a higher altitude and faster ascent rate, questioning whether this is necessary compared to a single 900g balloon.
  • There is mention of others using 1200g balloons, suggesting variability in balloon choices for similar payloads.
  • The participant is uncertain about the total weight of the payload, estimating it to be less than 5 lbs, and plans to determine the required helium after receiving all materials.
  • Another participant references a recent thread that discusses high-altitude balloon experiments, which includes advice on parachutes, low temperatures, and legal considerations.
  • A follow-up question is raised regarding the specific thread referenced, indicating a need for clarity on prior discussions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple viewpoints regarding the optimal balloon choice for the payload, and there is no consensus on whether one or two balloons would be better for achieving the desired altitude.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the total weight of the payload and the amount of helium needed, which may affect the decision on balloon selection. There is also a lack of resolution on the effectiveness of using one versus two balloons.

Rbai63
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Hi I am starting a project and will be inflating a 900g Kaymount weather balloon with a payload that consists of a styrofoam box inside of that will be a SPOT personal gps tracker, Camera and a Flip HD camcorder. I purchased 2 of the 600g balloons. I will do this by filling one up and attatching 30-40Ft of string to one end and attaching it to the top of the other balloon. Would it be a good idea to inflate both for the 1 payload to get higher in the air and a faster accent rate, or is one 900g enough? I know some people use 1200g balloons. I am shooting for 100,000 Ft, after I receive all materials in the mail I will figure out how much helium I will need for the payload because I am not sure what the weight will be for it yet I am guessing <5lbs.

Thanks

I will try to get this launched over Thanksgiving break, will upload photos and videos.
 
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Rbai63 said:
Hi I am starting a project and will be inflating a 900g Kaymount weather balloon with a payload that consists of a styrofoam box inside of that will be a SPOT personal gps tracker, Camera and a Flip HD camcorder. I purchased 2 of the 600g balloons. I will do this by filling one up and attatching 30-40Ft of string to one end and attaching it to the top of the other balloon. Would it be a good idea to inflate both for the 1 payload to get higher in the air and a faster accent rate, or is one 900g enough? I know some people use 1200g balloons. I am shooting for 100,000 Ft, after I receive all materials in the mail I will figure out how much helium I will need for the payload because I am not sure what the weight will be for it yet I am guessing <5lbs.

Thanks

I will try to get this launched over Thanksgiving break, will upload photos and videos.


Welcome to the PF.

Be sure to read this recent thread about high-altitude balloon experiments. It has some good advice about parachutes, low temperatures, and some legal issues. Also has a link to a cool video.
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF.

Be sure to read this recent thread about high-altitude balloon experiments. It has some good advice about parachutes, low temperatures, and some legal issues. Also has a link to a cool video.

Which recent thread was that, Berkeman?
 

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