I Am Going To Space

Yes, I am serious. 

If you know me, you know I like challenge, and I like to do outrageous things that no one else does. Sending a homemade space capsule to the edge of space fits the bill. 

A lot of people have done this and in fact it is considered a hobby. What I like is the design challenge and the feeling of accomplishment if it all goes down.   

The considerations are as follows: 

Weather Balloon 
Capsule design
Camera (s)
GPS
Insulation
Heat
Aerodynamics
Parachute
Strobe Recovery Light
On board power
Testing
Recovery

Here are some design plans and a video from another space pioneer. 

FAQ

Why? – Because I have never been to space and never will. But if I can send something to space, and bring it back, then I will have fulfilled a childhood dream of something of mine going to space.   

Can I join your efforts? – Yes. We are looking for talented men and women. We need ideas. 

If I join, can I wear a lycra jump suit for the launch. – Yes…absolutely.  

How much will this cost? – I figure I can get to space and back with a camera or two and a gps for less than $250. We already have funding. 

Could I include something of mine like toenail clippings, or hair, to say I have been to space? – Hmmmm…maybe, but the payload is limited to 4 pounds. I will have to see how the weight works out.


Will there be an official patch and souvenirs? – Hmmm, no.

What is the name of the project? – Classified.

What is the name of the space agency? – TBA.



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15 comments:

Ken said...

I think you should send a pizza, a hot dog and a dozen eggs.

Ken said...

Better idea!!!!!

From Bicky...send a chicken!

Rock Chef said...

Great project! Looking forward to seeing things develop!

Ken said...

This is a good simple shape for your ship.....http://www.elledecor.com/files/web/imagecache/pch_gallery_detail/files/web/images/best-wicker-furniture-shop-ed-0611-09.jpg

Reggie Hunnicutt said...

Just bought the GPS device off Amazon for $19.95 delivered. I was expecting to pay more.

A 7 foot trial balloon is on the way for $13 off ebay.

Ken said...

heat source...
http://www.markpascua.com/wp-content/zippo-hand-warmer.jp

Ken said...

or...

http://www.binbin.net/photos/gelert/hot/hot-gel-handwarmers-pk2.jpg

Reggie Hunnicutt said...

Chemical hand warmers are all the rage for space folks.

Reggie Hunnicutt said...

Found the capsule in the garage. 2 inch thick foam cooler.

Unknown said...

I have begun to sequester my toenail clippings.

Reggie Hunnicutt said...

I ordered the parachute $12, and solved the backup power issues with a few Duracell charger packs.

The small balloon came today.

Ken said...

This is VERY cool.

When do you think the launch date may be?

Reggie Hunnicutt said...

Not sure. I have to work out camera issues and then I would like a winter launch. A cold, clear morning with calm winds would be perfect and fairly predictable.

Can I put you down as a mission specialist? Recovery?

Unknown said...

How come Mic gets to be the recovery specialist?

Huh? How come?

Ken said...

I want to film the launch! I have no problem getting involved at the highest level of the recovery operation, as long as maybe we can get Phfrankie out there to supply the hot dogs.