11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
[MGI35-P08] Test flight observation of noctilucent clouds with an ultra-small tethered-balloon using LoRa communication and a GoPro camera
Keywords:LoRa, GoPro, noctilucent cloud, tethered-balloon
To observe noctilucent clouds, which form at the Earth's mesosphere interface (at an altitude of approximately 85,000 m), we aimed to develop and demonstrate an ultra-small tethered-balloon observation system. A wireless communicator based on LoRa (Long Range) technology, which enables long-distance communication, and a GoPro action camera, are the main components of this observation system. Based on the results of a trial observation for noctilucent clouds conducted in Hokkaido, Japan in July 2021, we will use a LoRa communication device and a GoPro camera for the demonstration.
Noctilucent clouds occur at high latitudes in the summer hemisphere. In recent years, however, these clouds have been observed at mid-latitudes in Hokkaido. Thus, obtaining the probability distribution of their occurrence has become crucial for understanding the migration of greenhouse gases to high altitudes. During the month-long period surrounding the summer solstice in Hokkaido, clouds tend to form at an altitude of approximately 1,000–2,000 m, making the continuous observation of noctilucent clouds from the ground difficult. We endeavor to make observations under such conditions possible by floating tethered-balloon at an altitude of 1,000–2,000 m to provide a camera view unobstructed by lower clouds. The tethered-balloon is connected to the ground by a cable, and the altitude is controlled by manipulating the cable. This may increase the probability of recovering the observation equipment. It is possible to reuse the rubber balloons and helium, making the system cost efficient.
In this experiment, a LoRa transmitter with a 920 MHz frequency band will be installed on the balloon, and the data transmitted to the receiver on the ground will be monitored in real time to assist in the operation of the balloon. We will use the LoRa transmitter to send ASCII data on the balloon's position, altitude, temperature, humidity, and pressure. The captured images will be retrieved upon the camera’s return to the ground. The LoRa communication device used in this project has a range of 50 km; therefore, if the tethered cable is cut, the balloon's location can still be determined.
The GoPro camera uses time-lapse and video mode to capture images at regular intervals; electronic image stabilization enables the GoPro camera to capture clear images through unsteady conditions. In time-lapse mode, the camera can collect GPS position and time data for each image. In video mode, acceleration and angular velocity values can be obtained for each frame (e.g., 200 frames per sec), in addition to GPS position data. Although the measured values are approximate, we are of the opinion that it may be an inexpensive and simple yet powerful tool for collecting data on noctilucent clouds.
Noctilucent clouds occur at high latitudes in the summer hemisphere. In recent years, however, these clouds have been observed at mid-latitudes in Hokkaido. Thus, obtaining the probability distribution of their occurrence has become crucial for understanding the migration of greenhouse gases to high altitudes. During the month-long period surrounding the summer solstice in Hokkaido, clouds tend to form at an altitude of approximately 1,000–2,000 m, making the continuous observation of noctilucent clouds from the ground difficult. We endeavor to make observations under such conditions possible by floating tethered-balloon at an altitude of 1,000–2,000 m to provide a camera view unobstructed by lower clouds. The tethered-balloon is connected to the ground by a cable, and the altitude is controlled by manipulating the cable. This may increase the probability of recovering the observation equipment. It is possible to reuse the rubber balloons and helium, making the system cost efficient.
In this experiment, a LoRa transmitter with a 920 MHz frequency band will be installed on the balloon, and the data transmitted to the receiver on the ground will be monitored in real time to assist in the operation of the balloon. We will use the LoRa transmitter to send ASCII data on the balloon's position, altitude, temperature, humidity, and pressure. The captured images will be retrieved upon the camera’s return to the ground. The LoRa communication device used in this project has a range of 50 km; therefore, if the tethered cable is cut, the balloon's location can still be determined.
The GoPro camera uses time-lapse and video mode to capture images at regular intervals; electronic image stabilization enables the GoPro camera to capture clear images through unsteady conditions. In time-lapse mode, the camera can collect GPS position and time data for each image. In video mode, acceleration and angular velocity values can be obtained for each frame (e.g., 200 frames per sec), in addition to GPS position data. Although the measured values are approximate, we are of the opinion that it may be an inexpensive and simple yet powerful tool for collecting data on noctilucent clouds.