Purpose of the flight and payload description
This balloon transported a EMULSION PLATES provided by the University of Chicago. Aside the plates the flight train carried a pressure modulated radio transmitter, timer control, a tow balloon to lift the beacon and antenna during the Initial flight period, and a parachute, in this case red, hence recovery was desired. No further details about this payload could be obtained from the available scientific and technical literature.
Details of the balloon flight
Balloon launched on: 9/1/1952 at 12:13 est
Launch site: USCGC Eastwind (WAGB 279) anclado en la Bahia de Baffin entre Groenlandia y el NE de Canada
Balloon launched by: General Mills Inc.
Balloon manufacturer/size/composition: Zero Pressure Balloon General Mills / 116 ft (1161A)
Flight identification number: GMI 962
End of flight (L for landing time, W for last contact, otherwise termination time): 9/1/1952 at ~ 13:15 est
Balloon flight duration (F: time at float only, otherwise total flight time in d:days / h:hours or m:minutes - ): 1h
Landing site: Impact at sea. Payload not recovered.
Payload weight: 370 pounds
Balloon ruptured at 47.000 ft due to a high rate of rise.
External references
- Final Report Project 85006 General Mills - 1953
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