Flight #5: Assembly
Flight #5 was the first (and only) flight of our gondola #3.
The two 35mm cameras are mounted to the base of the gondola. The seed containers also ride on the lower level of the platform.
Some foam struts are added, then the second level shelf. This shelf contains the batteries, GPS receiver, APRS encoder, microcontroller, and the radio transmitter. Here Charlie wires a spare servo for software testing.
While the gondola is being assembled, Gaelen does high-speed aerodynamic tests of the parachute.
Wiring complete and ready for programming!
Like any programming job, ya gotta have the right tools: proper cables, a computer (laptop), and lots of caffinated beverage!
Almost done! I tweak the new software while Charlie checks the GPS/APRS tracking system.
The final step of the building process is to double-check the gondola weight. John and Charlie verify my reading of the scale.