High-Altitude Balloon Avionics System
As an avionics engineer for the Michigan Aeronautical Science Association (MASA), I led the development of a comprehensive avionics system for high-altitude balloon (HAB) missions reaching altitudes of 100,000+ feet.
System Overview
The avionics package provides complete mission control and monitoring capabilities for high-altitude balloon flights, including real-time telemetry transmission and autonomous operation modes.
Core Components
- Flight Computer: Custom PCB with ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller
- Communication System: Long-range LoRa radio with ground station integration
- Navigation Suite: High-precision GPS with backup IMU system
- Data Logging: High-capacity storage with redundant backup systems
Key Features
Real-Time Telemetry
- Live GPS coordinates and altitude tracking
- Environmental data (temperature, pressure, humidity)
- System health monitoring and diagnostics
- Two-way communication with ground control
Autonomous Operations
- Payload Deployment: Automated release mechanisms based on altitude or time
- Cutdown System: Emergency balloon release for safe recovery
- Power Management: Intelligent battery management for extended flight duration
Recovery Systems
- Backup Beacon: Independent tracking system for payload recovery
- Parachute Deployment: Automatic deployment system for safe landing
- Impact Protection: Shock-absorbing enclosure design
Mission Success
The avionics system has successfully supported:
- 12 successful flights with 100% telemetry uptime
- Maximum altitude: 102,847 feet
- 100% recovery rate of all payload packages
- Real-time tracking maintained throughout entire flight duration
Technical Innovations
Power Efficiency
Implemented advanced power management techniques allowing for:
- 8+ hour flight duration
- Cold weather operation at -60°C
- Automatic low-power modes during ascent
Communication Protocol
Developed custom LoRa protocol optimized for:
- Long-range transmission (>100 km)
- Low power consumption
- Error correction and packet verification
Competition Results
This avionics system contributed to MASA's success in national competitions:
- 1st Place - University Student Launch Initiative (2024)
- Best Avionics Award - Midwest High-Power Rocketry Competition
Future Development
Currently working on next-generation improvements including:
- Satellite communication backup
- AI-powered flight path optimization
- Enhanced sensor fusion algorithms