Problem Statement
Design, fabricate, test, launch, and recover a high altitude weather balloon payload to 100,000 feet to discover the effects of space radiation on the viscosity and pH of blood.
Theory / Models
Assuming the temperature is constant, the dynamic viscosity of a fluid through a pipe can be calculated if a delta pressure is measured and the geometric constants are known.
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However, because temperature in this environment is unstable, models were created to predict the temperature and viscosity relationship of blood. Heaters were added inside the payload to mitigate temperature effects
Payload Design
The interlocking payload structure was modeled in SolidWorks and 3-D printed out of PLA.
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The blood carried on board is pumped through a series of tubes to create a measurable pressure drop. A volumetric flow meter and pH sensor are also on board.
Testing
The payload was structurally tested with a drop test. The payload was environmentally tested by placing it in a cooler with 10 pounds of dry ice where the temperature reached -52 degrees Celsius. The payload was also placed inside a vacuum chamber to check for fluid leaks.
Results
During the flight, the payload successfully collected data for the entire duration. The flight reached an apogee of 102,383 feet. The flight software worked as intended, and collected pH data, flow rate data, and operated the heaters. Although the data was inconclusive for the mission objective, I gained valuable hands-on experience in designing experiments and engineering devices for harsh environments.