====== Launch Techniques ======

There are a few techniques in use:

===== Payload Line Release =====

The main launch technique in use is to slowly let the balloon up on the payload line. In windy conditions its necessary to hold the payload and walk/run matching the wind speed and direction before releasing the payload.  This technique allows the balloon to ascend and smoothly pick-up the payload - otherwise there can be a tendency for the payload to swing down and hit the ground before the balloon lifts it. 

===== Two Line Technique =====

This technique has been used where the payload line is thin in comparison with the balloons size (large balloons can create a *lot* of tension on the line in windy conditions).  The technique was developed by RocketBoy for [[http://projectspaceplanes.com/|Samsung Project Space Planes]] which need to use less than 230 N breaking strain line in order to be classified as a ICAO light balloon.

The technique uses two lines - the first is the thiner payload to balloon line, the second uses a loop of thicker line - this is used to slowly let the balloon up (1) until it picks the payload up (2) - at which point one end of the loop is released (3) the balloon and payload then ascend as normal (4).  A short line and slip block have proved essential to the correct working of this technique - otherwise the two lines can twist together and one cut through the other at release.


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