Embedded Files
Zephyrus Gamma
Zephyrus Gamma
Zephyrus Gamma was launched on October 20th, 2024, and consisted of 2 balloons. The purpose of this mission was to collect preliminary data on muons, conduct logistical testing for future research, and to also teach new people how to launch and retrieve balloons.
Preparations
Preparations
The tables above show the payload for Zephyrus Gamma. In all, the balloons consisted of parachutes, spot traces, a MicroTrak1000 (APRS), a LightAPRS 12, CosmicWatch 2.0s, a Wet Sponge, an Arduino Rig, a PTERODACTYL (plus minicams), and an insta360 camera with the total payload mass of each balloon being close to 1300 g.
Path predictions as well as burst calculations were conducted in advanced in order to prepare for Zephyrus Gamma's retrieval and to give a rough estimate of the neck lift, which was adjusted later.
Launch Footage and Information
Launch Footage and Information
The two balloons for Zephyrus Gamma were launched at approximately 9:41 EST (13:41 UTC) & 10:01 EST (14:01 UTC), respectively, and each took close to 20 minutes to fill up the balloon. Both had payload weights close to 1300 g and neck lifts around 1600 g.
Payload (Balloon 1)
Payload (Balloon 1)
IMG_7327.MOVLaunch (Ground POV)
Launch (Ground POV)
Flight Information and Footage
Flight Information and Footage
The estimated total flight duration for balloon 1 of Zephyrus Gamma was 2 hours and 23 min with an estimated maximum altitude of 97,811.9 feet (29813.1 meters). Balloon 2 had an estimated flight duration of 3 hours and 4 min with an estimated maximum altitude of 101,461.8 feet (30925.6 meters). Balloon 1 landed at approximately 12:06 EST (16:06 UTC) while balloon 2 landed at around 12:45 pm EST (16:45 UTC).
Graph of time vs altitude (ft) of balloon 1 for Zephyrus Gamma from the data collected by the CosmicWatch2.0.
Graph of time vs altitude (ft) of balloon 2 for Zephyrus Gamma from the data collected by the CosmicWatch2.0.
Muon Detection Events During Balloon Flight
Muon Detection Events During Balloon Flight
Average cosmic-ray muon detection events as a function of the altitude of the balloon during the entire duration of its launch.
Muon Detection Events During Balloon Flight Over Time
Muon Detection Events During Balloon Flight Over Time
Average cosmic-ray muon detection events as a function of the time since the  muon detector began recording during the entire duration of its launch.
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