====== Pre-Launch Checklist ====== == 1 month before: == * Get CAA permission (which includes NOTAM) * Order Balloons == The week before: == * Order Helium * Monitor Jet Stream predictions == The day before: == * Check Wind predictions - calculate predicted path * Systems check * Pick up helium + filling attachments * Charge things that need charging: PC, Receiver, GPS, PMR == On the day take: == * CAA Permit * Telephone Numbers: ATC - local airfields, emergency services * Payload, batteries (+ spares) RADAR reflector, parachute, cutdown (+ spares) * Balloons, Cable ties, cord, duck tape * Helium, regulator, filling system * Tools inc. Spanners set up filling system * Scales, weights. * Radio System: Receiver, Yagi, Stand, PC, Software, Audio-lead, Batteries (+ spares) * Ancillary stuff like: Table, Chairs, Sun/Rain shade * Recovery: GPS, long pole (for trees), string, PMR (intra recovery team comms) * Boots/Wet weather clothes Sun Hat/Suncream Water/Food == On the day do: == * Final Systems check: Payload, GPS, Radio, receiver, Cutdown test * Set up radio receiver + software * Check for any downlink frequency clashes * Connect up train * Connect up cutdowns * Power up each payload * Test each payload is transmitting correct information * Fill balloon, tie neck attach payloads * Negotiate launch with local ATC * Check sky is clear * Launch * Monitor radio signals * Drive to predicted recovery zone