Edge of Space Science (EOSS) has been busy launching high altitude balloons with student experiments on behalf of universities, colleges, high schools and middle schools this spring. EOSS’s mission is to “Promote science and education through high altitude balloons and amateur radio.” During this time of year, the balloons can travel great distances due to the seasonal winds. The balloons launched this past weekend on April 11th from Deer Trail, Colorado traveled to Burlington, Colorado, about 80 miles. The Rocky Mountain Ham DMR linked Repeater network provides EOSS with a way to communicate over these vast distances. Using the DMR network, the Ground Station located at Deer Trail is able to contact and relay information to the people tracking and recovering their balloons. Members located in Denver can provide technical support via the DMR network as well. Trackers are able plan their travel routes based on the prediction of the balloon’s landing area and advise the Ground Station of recovery efforts. EOSS is grateful and appreciative to RMHAM for such a wonderful resource. Using the RMHAM DMR network, EOSS hopes to encourage young students interested in science and hopefully get them involved in amateur radio.
Rocky Mountain Ham Radio, Inc. is a 501(c)3 specializing in reliable off-the-shelf communications to support amateur radio operators in Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico.