Manchester Space Programme

Pico launches use a small balloon and a low mass payload therefore achieving a cheap balloon flight that does not need permission to launch. The basic technology is the same for the larger balloons that we are developing but pared down.

The heart of a pico balloon is a very compact electronics package. Our design will utilise work done for our larger balloons with reference to other proven designs and give consideration to ease of manufacture and cost control.

The ultimate aim of this Pico Project is to develop a pico balloon kit for use by schools and potentially others. The first few flights of this project will be used to prove and refine the technology/design.

1. The GPS Module and transmitter will work for 10 hours
2. The Balloon and payload should float at 5km altitude
3. The payload should be battery powered(this is an initial requirement that will change once we begin to develop a solar powered capability - we wouldn't anticipate this until the first 2 requirements have been regularly, successfully achieved).
4. The payload must update it's position x times per hour during daylight and x times per hour at night. The value of x would be determined by the expected flight time and power from life of the battery.
5. Payload should have an enclosure capable of supporting a logo.
6. Tracking system should be compatible with, and track-able by, HABHUB so that it can be tracked by schools and members of the general public.
7. It should cost no more than 50 pounds to produce (materials) for payload plus the standard costs for a metal foil balloon and helium.
8. The payload should frequently transmit gps co-ordinates.
9. The radio transmitter should work in all countries that the balloon is likely to traverse and be self -aware (know which country it is in)
10. The payload should be able to transmit a text message along with the GPS co-ordinates.