We FINALLY launched our first balloon today - the CREAM payload was launched at about 11am Antarctic time on Friday. It feels really good to get the first one in the air. It was a very good launch, and the winds behaved themselves pretty well. Amazingly enough, it looks like we are going to try and launch the ANITA payload tomorrow - and the weather actually looks somewhat promising. They have never launched 2 payloads in back-to-back days down here, and it is going to take an incredible amount of work by a lot of people to get things ready for another launch attempt tomorrow. Everyone keep your fingers crossed! Below are a few pictures of today's launch.
The CREAM payload hanging from the launch vehicle prior to launch - Mt Erebus in the background.
The entire flight train with the balloon being inflated.
Balloon just prior to launch
The balloon rising just after being released.
The payload being released from the launch vehicle.
Enjoyed watching the launch yesterday, excellent pictures that you posted. I hope you have success today with another launch. Dad
ReplyDeleteI am glad the launch went well and you got SOMETHING in the air! Miss you lots....
ReplyDeletelove u always, cassandra
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