In this mission, we’ll take to the field to launch our satellites into “orbit”! Using a tethered balloon, we’ll deploy our models to collect information about the local environment, and also create artworks using data and gravity.
Preparing a cube satellite for launching during an MIT workshop
To launch cube satellites into the air, we have been using Public Lab’s mylar balloon kit: https://store.publiclab.org/collections/featured-kits/products/mini-balloon-mapping-kit.
5 minutes - Settling in
10 minutes - Introducing Liftoff day!
Logistics for where launching will happen, safety, when to meet back, setc.
15 minutes - Preparing cube satellites
filling mylar balloons with Helium
attaching cube satellites to the balloons
attaching rope to cube satellites
5 minutes - going outside
30 minutes - Liftoff and collecting data!
5 minutes - coming back inside
20 minutes - Coming back together, saving data, share out, and talking about next session
Helium - we used about 1 tank (14.9 cubic ft) for every cube sat (~3 mylar balloons). Teams could also share mylar balloons if necessary.
Public Lab’s mini-balloon mapping kit per team
extra rubber bands, zip ties, tape for attaching cube satellites to balloons
scissors to cut zip ties, etc.
cube satellites
programmed payloads, computers
IMPORTANT: an open space away from power lines