MM17 -2019-05-10

Tracker Details

Tracker Type: APRS

Model: PicoTracker1Rev2

Configuration:

gpsLockTimeoutMs = 150000 (150s, 2m, 0h)

gpsRetryAfterMs = 10000 (10s, 0m, 0h)

transmitCount = 2

msBetweenTransmits = 3000 (3s, 0m, 0h)

lhAltFtThreshold = 10000

hAlt.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 1800000 (1800s, 30m, 0h)

lAlt.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 60000 (60s, 1m, 0h)

lAlt.stickyMs = 14400000 (14400s, 240m, 4h)

dz.wakeAndEvaluateMs = 7200000 (7200s, 120m, 2h)

Launch Parameters

Balloon and Payload

36 x 42" Homemade (Jinyupack)
29.1 gram payload
2.57 grams free lift

Actuals

Miles traveled: 112

Flight hours: 9.2

Max Altitude feet: 16,940

Cause of death: Slow descent into the sea

General Thoughts / Observations

This was a test flight to see how a new balloon material performed at float. Rather than floating, the balloon neared the expected elevation and immediately began a slow descent.

This test flight, along with other tests, indicates the material has an insufficient gas barrier. Aside from the material question, the GPS seems to be another that has increasingly long lock times.