Pre-Launch Checklist

Get CAA permission (which includes NOTAM)

Order Balloons

Order Helium

Monitor Jet Stream predictions

Check Wind predictions - calculate predicted path

Systems check

Pick up helium + filling attachments

Charge things that need charging: PC, Receiver, GPS, PMR

CAA Permit

Telephone Numbers: ATC - local airfields, emergency services

Payload, batteries (+ spares) RADAR reflector, parachute, cutdown (+ spares)

Balloons, Cable ties, cord, duck tape

Helium, regulator, filling system

Tools inc. Spanners set up filling system

Scales, weights.

Radio System: Receiver, Yagi, Stand, PC, Software, Audio-lead, Batteries (+ spares)

Ancillary stuff like: Table, Chairs, Sun/Rain shade

Recovery: GPS, long pole (for trees), string, PMR (intra recovery team comms)

Boots/Wet weather clothes Sun Hat/Suncream Water/Food

Final Systems check: Payload, GPS, Radio, receiver, Cutdown test

Set up radio receiver + software

Check for any downlink frequency clashes

Connect up train

Connect up cutdowns

Power up each payload

Test each payload is transmitting correct information

Fill balloon, tie neck attach payloads

Negotiate launch with local ATC

Check sky is clear

Launch

Monitor radio signals

Drive to predicted recovery zone