PHAT-3
Platform for High Altitude Testing - our latest high altitude weather balloon mission for validating spacecraft systems in near-space conditions.
Definition
PHAT-3 stands for Platform for High Altitude Testing and is the latest in HSL's series of high altitude weather balloons. This helium balloon will lift our CubeSat-style payload to an altitude of 27,000 meters (90,000 ft) where the thin atmosphere can reach temperatures as cold as -50°C. At peak altitude, the balloon will burst, deploying a parachute that will safely return the payload to Earth.
The payload carries radios and cameras to test our communication systems and capture Earth images that will provide test data for our in-house developed Earth tracker software. To protect these sensitive electronics from the extreme environment, we've designed an adaptive, resistive thermal management system to maintain optimal temperatures for the onboard battery, radios, and cameras.
Scheduled for launch this fall, PHAT-3 has given our team valuable experience in PCB design, electrical engineering, and radio operation. As an added benefit, the mission will collect high-definition footage from near-space along with detailed atmospheric data.
Status: Active Testing
| Mission Type | High-Altitude Balloon Testing |
|---|---|
| Test Altitude | 27,000m (~90,000 feet) |
| Primary Purpose | HS-2/HS-3 System Validation |
| Launch Sites | Moses Lake, WA & Others |
| Flight Frequency | Multiple per year |