[scienceguy1200 (OP)]

Its the experiment where you attach a camera to a weather balloon until it reaches the edge of space/stratosphere. I really want to do it but im afraid i wont come off as original if i just straight copy someone else's methods. Is there any ways to could improve it to make it my own? Perhaps make it more effective or perform a test while its in/near space?

Thanks!

[RD]

These are the people to ask ... http://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/index.php?topic=34727.0

[CliffordK]

Here is another link about a paper glider attached to the weather balloon.

http://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/index.php?topic=35112.0

You need to decide what your system goals are.  Just reach space?  Photos from above the clouds?  How long do you want it to be in the air?  I assume you can add a pressure regulator to keep the balloon from bursting for a while, but you may want to add some kind of a self-destruct then.  I suppose, even so, the gas will slowly leak out of the balloon, so it would have a finite life in space anyway.  You might even want to incorporate a refilling method like a small CO₂ cartridge filled with H₂.

Modes for controlled descent?

It looks like most of the balloons use hydrogen rather than helium, which should give you the maximum lift.

[scienceguy1200 (OP)]

Yes, my main goal is to reach space (as much as possible anyway). I have also considered the idea of maybe just leaving something in space. (just so i could say there is something in space that belongs to me or what not). I've been contemplating using a homemade rocket, either for launching the camera even further once it at peak altitude or using it as the object to leave there. I don't foresee building the rocket to be difficult but i can't think of anyway to ignite it 18+ miles in mid air air from the ground. Your ideas are great too btw!

[RD]

Yes, my main goal is to reach space (as much as possible anyway).

The USA sets the space-boundary at 50 miles high while the FAI defines space as starting at a height of 100 km.

http://www.oddee.com/item_96973.aspx

A rocket which could travel tens of kilometers would cost a fortune (and require a flight plan).

BTW See what the BBC did with my licence fee and a reliant robin ...

[/url]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIwXtRQQQZc