COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA DEFARTMEEX_OF SUPPLY

BALL^OTTlAUNCHING iNis-.nf-« STATION (Js., MILDURA AUSTRALIA EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES AVAILABLE FOR FLYING BALLOON-BORNE SCIENTIFIC EXPERIMENTS

-ISSUED BY:

AMERICAN PROJECTS BRANCH ISSUE NO. 3 - MAY 1973 ijl^^

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION TITLE PAGE NO. HISTORICAL 1-1

GENERAL INFORMATION 2.1 Points of Contact 2-1 2.2 Flight Scheduling 2-1 2.3 Transport for American Users 2-2 2.4 Freight and Shipping Arrangements 2-2

LOCATION OF LAUNCH AREAS 3.1 Mildura, 3-1 3.2 Longreach, Queensland 3-1 3.3 Other Locations 3-2

LAUNCH FACILITIES 4.1 Mildura 4-1 if.2 Longreach

FLIGHT EQUIPMENT 5.1 Launch Vehicles 5-1 5.2 Launch Trailers 5-1 5.3 Launch Techniques 5-1 5.4 General 5-1 5.5 Tracking Aircraft 5-1 5.6 Recovery 5-2 5.7 Rigging 5-2

PAYLOAD PREPARATION FACILITIES 6.1 Mildura 6-1 6.2 Lonsreach 6-2

COMMAND, TELEMETRY AND TRACKING EQUIPMENT 7.1 General .-. • • 7-1 7.2 Flight Operations System 7-1 7.3 Detailed Description of TRAC Facilities 7-2 7.4 Ancillary Airborne Equipment 7-5

(i) Issue 3 SECTION TITLE PAGE NO, 7.5 Ancillary Ground Equipment 7-5 7.6 Voice Communications 7-6 7.7 Test Equipment 7-6

8 FINANCE 8.1 Provision of Funds 8-1 8.2 Flight Costs 8-1

AGREEMENTS 9.1 Use of Facilities by Countries Other Than the USA 9-1

10 INSURANCE 10.1 Flight Indemnity Insurance 10-1 10.2 Passengers in Tracking Aircraft 10-1

FIGURE 1 Launch Vehicle 2 Base Station Schematic 3 Aircraft Schematic if Recovery Vehicle Schematic 5 Balloon Package Schematic 6 TRAC Package Schematic

APPENDIXES I Skyhook Services Request Form II Department of Supply Request Form III Freight and Shipping IV Mildura Payload Preparation Facilities V Frequencies Assigned to the BLS

Cii) Issue 3 MILDURA BALLOON LAUNCHING STATION

| SECTION 1 - HISTORICAL

The Balloon Launching Station (BLS) at Mildura was established 1 in 1960 by the Department of Supply (DOS) on behalf of the United ' States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC). Until 1966 the station ' was primarily occupied on AEC balloon flights which were made to 1 sample the upper atmosphere for radioactive, dust. Flights were « carried out in series of five, approximately once per month. I Since 1966 the frequency of the AEC atmospheric sampling program I flights has been reduced to approximately four series per year and the facilities of the BLS have been offered to scientists . and scientific organisations in America, Australia and elsewhere. ' This offer has been taken up by a number of scientists who have 1 carried out observations on galactic and extra-galactic energy i sources and on the upper atmosphere.

Issue 3 SECTION 2 - GENERAL INFORMATION

2.1 Points of Contact 2.1.1 The established point of contact for American scientific groups requiring balloon flights is:- The Office of Naval Research, Department of the Navy, Code 421, WASHINGTON, DC 20360. USA Requests for flights should be submitted on SKYHOOK request forms obtainable from the Office of Naval Research (ONR). A copy of a SKlfHOOK request form is shown at Appendix I. More detailed information will be required by the Station Director-, BLS, in order to ensure satisfactory service. This additional information is indicated in Appendix II.

2.1.2 The contact for potential users, other than American, requiring balloon flights is:- Assistant Controller, American Projects Branch, Department of Supply, CANBERRA, ACT, 2600. AUSTRALIA Requests for flights should include the information indicated in Appendix II. 2.1.3 Mail for the BLS should be addressed:•- Station Director, Balloon Launching Station, PO Box 1031, MILDURA, VICTORIA, 3500. AUSTRALIA 2.2 Flight Scheduling 2.2.1 The AEC normally schedules series of air sampling flights at Mildura in January, April, July and October and at Longreach, Queensland, in May and November. This program, however, may vary from year to year. The Longreach flights are conducted by the Mildura crew using equipment transported from Mildura.

2.2.2 AEC flights in any series are usually completed within 21 days of the first flight. The AEC is prepared to adjust flight schedules to accommodate scientific users provided this does not prejudice the AEC test results.

Issue 3 2.3 Transport for American Users 2.3.1 Transport of scientific groups and scientists from the USA to Australia may be effected in two ways. 2.3.1.1 By commercial international airline to , or any other commercial inter- national terminal. 2.3.1.2 By prior arrangement with Military Airlift Command from the Travis Air Force Base, California, to the Royal Australian Air Force Base at Richmond (near Sydney) Australia. 1 Travel expenses from the point of origin to Travis Air Force Base and from Richmond Royal Australian Air Force Base to the launch site in Australia must be borne by the scientists or the scientific group. 2.3.2 Travel within Australia, is normally by commercial airlines. Bookings may be arranged through inter- national airlines. In the event of difficulties I the contact agencies are prepared to assist. Road transport between the Royal Australian Air Force Base at Richmond and Sydney Airport may be arranged through the contact agencies (refer para 2.1) 2.H Freight and Shipping Arrangements 2.4.1 Arrangements for transporting scientific equipment from the USA to Australia must be made through the OHR. The Ports of Entry for sea freight and air freight consignments for Mildura, Parkes and Longreach are shown in Appendix III. A realistic time for equipment to be shipped by sea from San Francisco to Sydney, or , and then transported to the launch site by air and/or road is approximately 150 days. 2.4.2 Addressing of Consignments The manner in which all consignments should be addressed is shown in Appendix III. It should be noted that only consignments addressed to Mildura will be delivered automatically to that location. Consignments destined for other locations will be held at the Port of Entry until arrangements are made by the scientific user, or the Station Director, BLS, at the scientific user's request, to onforward them.

2-2 Issue 3 2.4,3 Shipping Documentation 2.4.3.1 Advance Notice of Shipment Advance notice of the composition and dispatch details of air freight and sea freight consignments must be telegraphed by the consignor to the appropriate Manager, Stores S Transport Branch, and to Station Director, BLS. Telegraphic addresses are shown in Appendix III. The format of these telegraph advices is shown below:

It is essential that the original copies of Air Waybills and Shipper's Export Declaration.reach Australia in the same aircraft as the consignment. These documents must show the values of items in the consignment, and should be addressed to the appropriate Manager, Stores S Transport Branch.

Copies of these documents should also be sent by air-mail to the Manager, Stores 6 Transport Branch, at-the Port of Entry and to; the Station Director, BLS. Mailing addresses are shown in Appendix III. 2.4.3.3 Sea Freight

The original copies of Bills of Lading and Shipper's Export Declaration must be ,- , forwarded by air-mail;to reach the Manager, Stores S Transport Braneh%t; the :Port of 0 Entry at least seven days before:the "date: of arrival of the ship in Australia. These documents must provide values of consignments; for customs purposes. . Mailing addresses are shown in Appendix III.

Issue 3 2.H.3.H Radioactive Material In cases where radioactive material is to be shipped into Australia, consignors should complete and process Atomic Energy Commission form IS 7 "Pro- hibited Import Release". This action should be taken well in advance of the anticipated date of dispatch in order that the necessary customs arrangements can be finalised before the material arrives in Australia. It is important that the bottom section of the form IS 7 be part-completed by inserting the address of the Collector of Customs. This address will be the Port of Entry into Australia, e.g., Sydney, Melbourne, etc.

It is also necessary to hold a licence to possess, use, and/or transport radioactive material within Australia. These licences are issued by the Governments of the states in which the material is to be used or transported and licensing conditions vary from state to state. In some states the Station Director, BLS, holds a period licence which covers all material used during the period but in other states it is necessary to obtain a separate licence for each set of radioactive material used by scientific users. The ONR is aware of the licensing requirements. The licences, once obtained, will be held by the American Projects Branch of the DOS. Applications for licences, if necessary, should be made at the same time as the application is made ^ to import radioactive material into Australia. Supplies of all necessary forms are held by the ONR. All radioactive consignments brought into Australia by air must be carried in accordance with the International Air Transport Association regulations. 2.I*.k Customs Clearance The Stores S Transport Branch of the DOS will arrange customs clearances for goods and equipment consigned for flight use. 2.«».5 Freight Movement Within Australia The Stores g^Transport Branch will arrange the movement of all freight within Australia. .Where the ultimate, destination (launch site) is manned only during operations, and consignments are held at the Port of Entry", scientific users are advised to request the Station Director, BLS, to coordinate the final delivery. 2-»* Issue 3 SECTION 3 - LOCATION OF LAUNCH AREAS 3.1 Mildura, Victoria. 34° 3V S. Hf2° 05' E. 3.1.1 Mildura is a town of approximately 20 000 people located on the banks of the River Murray which forms the state border between and Victoria. It is the centre of the dried fruits industry of • ' Victoria and is the commercial centre of a large wheat and sheep area. 3.1.2 The climate is similar to that of Southern California. 3.1.3 The town is served by daily air and railroad services from Melbourne, the capital of Victoria. Scientific groups should allow at least one full day to reach Mildura from Sydney. 3.1.4 Accommodation of a suitable standard is available at a number of motels, hotels, guest houses and caravan parks. Visiting scientific groups have usually stayed at one of the hotels and have enjoyed such facilities as airconditioned rooms, a swimming pool, and public rooms suitable for the entertainment of mixed company. A typical rate for a room, including all meals, is $A 12.00 per day. 3.I*5 A rent-a-car service is available and rates for a station sedan are approximately $A 35.00 per week plus 13

3.2.2 The climate is generally; ds>y, sunny, and hot.

.' •-..'•• - s 3.2.3 The town has an air service from Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. Scientific groups should allow one full day from Sydney by air to Longreach. 3.2.1 Accommodation is limited to one motel and eight hotels. The hotels are generally of a lower standard than that available in larger cities or tourist resorts. Self- contained airconditioned rooms are not generally available but some rooms are available having an airconditioner and hot; arid cold water. 3.2.5 A rent-a-car service is available.

3-1 Issue 3 3.3 Other Locations There are a number of other locations which have been used as I launch areas or' whicihhave -been surveyed with a view to 3 , future usage. : These include:^ I NAME LATITUDE S. LONGITUDE E.

Nyngan, NSW 31° 34' •s. 147 14' E. Parkes;, NSW 33° 10' S. 13' E. Narroifiine, NSW 32° 17s. S. 148W 20' E. Woomera, SA 31° IV S, 136° 54' E. Port Pirie, SA 33° 11' s. 138° 01' E. Wailc«rie, SA 34° 11' s. 139° 59' E. Alice Springs, NT 23° 42' s. 133° 52' E. Enquiries and proposals from users interested in operating from these or other locations are welcomed.

v-, Issue 3

-•- & ECTION 4 - LAUNCH FACILITIES .1 Mildura 4.1.1 The Mildura launch site is located at the which is approximately 9 kilometres south- west of the town. 4.1.2 Balloons are launched from the sealed runways and •": from a grassed area adjacent to the sealed runways. The launching of balloons up to 1.29 million cubic metres presents no difficulties at this site. 4.1.3 Stratospheric winds give westerly trajectories during the period "September to March and easterly trajectories during the period April to August. "Turnarounds" occur during March and September/October. No precise durations can be stated for "turnarounds" but it appears that the March event is generally pf two weeks duration whereas the September/October event is likely to be of from three to five weeks duration. 4.1.4 The terrain surrounding the airport is flat with some trees up to 9 metres in height. 4.1.5 The airport has a Flight Service Unit operated by the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA). This Unit maintains radio communications with incoming and outgoing air- craft and provides a warning service to aircraft during balloon flights.

4.1.6 A meteorological station is located at the airport and provides the following services:- General weather forecasts from Melbourne. . Facsimile jprintouts including synoptic charts Mid four-day forecasts .;' Tracking of wind probes to float altitudes prior to a balloon ;flight. : . Balloon tracking, using a 10 centimetre radar. f.2 Longreach s 4.2.1 The Longreach launch; site is located at the Longreach Airport which is approximately 3 kilometres east of the town. V 4.2.2 Balloons are launched from a prepared area adjacent to the sealed arid unsealed runways. The launching of balloons "up to 1.29 million cubic metres presents ,no difficulties at this site. :

4-1 Issue 3 4.2.3 Stratospheric winds give westerly trajectories during November to March. "Turnarounds:J have not been observed sufficiently at this location to give good predictions. They appear, however, to occur during April and during the October/November period. Apart from the '"turnaround" periods, November to March is the most suitable period for balloon flights exceeding three hours duration. 4. 2. 4 The terrain surrounding the airport is flat with a few low trees. 4.2.5 The airport has a Flight Service Unit operated by the DCA. This Unit maintains radio communications with incoming and outgoing aircraft and provides a warning service to aircraft during balloon flights. 4.2.6 A meteorological station is located at the airport and provides the following services:- General weather forecasts from Brisbane. . Tracking of wind probes prior to balloon flights. . Balloon tracking, using a 10 centimetre radar.

4-2 Issue 3 SECTION 5 - FLIGHT EQUIPMENT 5.1 Launch Vehicles A vehicle capable of handling payloads of up to 2 270 kg was commissioned late in 1970. Another vehicle capable of handling payloads of up to 1 135 kg is also available. Details of the larger vehicle are shown in Figure 1. 5.2 Launch Trailers The existing launch trailer has a capacity of 4 500 kg gross inflation. Another light-weight unit for up to 1 400 kg gross inflation is also available. Commissioning of a 3 200 kg "apple-core" launcher is currently in progress. 5.3 Launch Techniques 5.3.1 The Mildura crew is equipped and experienced in the dynamic technique. Recent experience has been gained in the launching of small balloons (2 000 cubic metres) by the "hutch-clutch" method. 5.3.2 Should a requirement arise for training and familiar- isation in other techniques, the DOS would favourably consider detachment of crew members to attend training exercises. 5.4 General

The Mildura launching crew has launched more than 570 balloons of many different sizes and types. In April 1972 the crew successfully launched a 1.29 million cubic metre balloon from Alice Springs, NT; and in November 1972 two 1.02 million cubic metre balloons from Longreach. 5.5 Tracking Aircraft

5.5.1 A twin-engined Piper Ar'"~%e is operated on charter to the BLS, and a twin-engined Piper Commanche can also be made available. 5.5.2 The aircraft is instrumented for balloon tracking by automatic direction finding equipment operating at 1746 kHz and at VHF (234.4 MHz). 5.5.3 A command transmitter/communications receiver is installed in the aircraft. Commands are transmitted at 148.46 MHz and command verification is received at 234.4 MHz (IRIG FM telemetry channel 8) and at 1746 kHz. The command encoder is currently capable of 12 commands, two of which are dedicated (TERMINATE| and BALLASTDROP). The system is capable of extension to-24 commands but the additional tone generators are not available at this time.

5-1 Issue 3 5.5.4 Voice communications with the launch site and recovery vehicles is direct at 148.46 MHz or via the balloon transponder receiving at 148.46 MHz and retransmitting at 234.4 MHz (the telemetry link). 5.5.5 The aircraft is normally positioned to observe cut- down visually and then to follox* the payload to its impact position. It then directs the recovery team to the payload. 5.6 Recovery 5.6.1 Recovery is effected by a team using specially equipped vehicles or other vehicles considered suitable for a particular payload. 5.6.2 In order to ensure that recovery is within the normal capabilities of the crew and their equipment, no section of a payload should exceed 900 kg in weight. Supervision by scientific users should be planned if a breakdown of a payload in the field is intended. 5.6.3 Scientific users should plan to make members of their team available for recovery missions. Any special handling techniques required for the payload should be stated at the time of requesting the flight. 5.6.4 The effectiveness of payload recovery is indicated by the fact that only two recoveries have been un- successful since operations began in 1960. One of the lost payloads was subsequently washed up on the coast of Hew Zealand. 5.7 Rigging 5.7.1 The rigging of payloads can be carried out by the BLS team but any requirement for complicated interfaces between the flight train and the payload should be made known to the Station Director. 5.7.2 Scientific users should state, in their flight requests, the type and quantity of crush padding required. The Station Director will advise whether this is available or whether it should be included as one of their own supply items.

5-2 Issue 3 %\ 1 1 SECTION 6 - PAYLOAD PREPARATION FACILITIES 6.1 Mildura f 6.1.1 Mildura facilities are illustrated in Appendix IV. 6.1.2 Space is available for two payloads to be prepared simultaneously and is adequate except for those payloads requiring assembly in a "clean room" environment. 6.1.3 Office space is limited at present to one small cubicle in each preparation area. 6.1.M- A chain hoist of 1 tonne capacity is located between the two preparation areas. The maximum height to the hook is approximately 4.3 metres. The exit doors are 3 metres high and 3.Of metres wide. 6.1.5 Both preparation bays have airconditioning units which give average comfort standards on all but the Q most severe summer days. 6.1.6 The Australian standard power is 240 volts, 50 Hz. D A 50-60 Hz converter is available providing a 7.5 kVA supply at 208/115 volts, and a number of 2 kVA and 1 kVA 240/115 volt 50 Hz transformers are also 0 available. The station is equipped with American standard 3-pin outlets. (N.B. Additional 115 volts 50 Hz capacity is available in the Operations Room). I 6-1.7 Hand tools are limited to common tools including small powered items. Special tools should be provided by ' I users. 6.1.8 Machine Shop Facilities 0 The following are installed.*at-the BLS:- One 8-inch metal lathe One benchmilling machine 1 One ,%-.inch7:'^prl:l^-p'5eBff":--*'. rpm/2 000 rpm One double .wheel; grinder", Oxy-acetylene welding, equipment I Electric arc welding equipment Reasonable workshop services are available commercially 1 in Mildura and more comprehensive and specialised services are available in Melbourne. , '."-''" 0 6.1.9 Photographic-Facilities r "'., . .•.•,'•. A dark room is available ,,for. photographic processing; It is equipped with hot and cold water, airconditipner, I trays and jugs for normal photographic processing. No projectors are available. \ / . 1 '; •: 7: . j

: 6-1 I Issue 3 I |1 6.1.10 Environmental Chambers f< B 6.1.10.1 Installed at Mildura I- " " A simple cylindrical low-pressure chamber, f. 380 mm diameter and 830 mm long, is available t1 M for testing at pressures equivalent to r H 45 700 metres altitude. A 1 metre x 0.6 metre I x 0.6 metre chamber with a temperature range I" n of -73 C to 93 C and a pressure range equiv- s H alent to 45 700 metres altitude is currently \ being installed. 0 6.1.10.2 Other Installations Arrangements can be made for the use of low- i 1 pressure, low-temperature environmental test facilities operated by other agencies in Melbourne and . Availability and costs would be the subject of negotiation for each requirement. 6.2 Longreach 0 6.2.1 Payload preparation facilities are somewhat limited, with several buildings having been used in the past on an "as required" basis. 6.2.2 Plans are in hand for the BLS to occupy an existing airport building on a permanent basis. It is anti- cipated that this building will be available by early 1974. 6.2.3 Any flight proposals prior to early 1974 should include approximate floor area required for payload pre- paration together with any special requirements such as airconditioning, refrigeration, etc.

Q 6-2 Issue 3 « I

SECTION 7 - COMMAND, TELEMETRY AND TRACKING EQUIPMENT 7.1 General I The purpose of this section is to identify and describe the various sub-systems that comprise the complete flight operations system. The major elements of the system are illustrated in Figures 2 to 6. These drawings are self I explanatory. I 7.2 Flight Operations System 7.2.1 The major elements of the flight operations system, that is command, telemetry, voice communications, and tracking, are based on the Raven "TRAC" system. The system comprises two ground base stations, six TRAC flight packs, and six light-weight receiver/ decoder (LWRD) command packages. Both ground in stations are portable and have been re-deployed on a number of occasions for operations from remote launch sites. A third ground station, to be D installed permanently at Mildura, is planned. 7.2.2 The facilities available from the equipment when a 0 TRAC pack is flown are:- • Measurement of slant range to + 6 km. 0 . Measurement of azimuth angle to + 2°. . Measurement of elevation angle to + 5°. D . A 12 channel command system with telemetry verification. . A 5 channel telemetry system using IRIG 11, 12, ID 13, 14- and 15, and a four-segment commutator. Voice transponding for communication between jo ground stations, recovery aircraft, and vehicles. . Altitude measurement using Rosemount 830 series transducers. 7.2.3 These facilities have been demonstrated to a horizon range of 800 km for telemetry and 670 km for command, [j with some deterioration as signal loss was approached. 7.2.«f The TRAC pack weighs 25 kg with internal LR 21 silver/ n zinc batteries. The estimated endurance with these batteries is 20 houtfs. The endurance can be increased by carrying additional batteries externally. 7.2.5 A ballast hopper having/approximately 135 kg capacity and weighing 5 kg is available for direct attachment o to the TRAC pack. D D Issu' • • e !Z/ .!! m

7.2.6 Enclosure of the TRAC pack in a protective cage is preferred to minimize the risk of damage on impact. The cage weighs 5.5 kg. 7.2.7 The total weight of a TRAC pack, internal batteries, E empty ballast hopper, cage, and typical rigging is 36 kg. I 7.3 Detailed Description of TRAC Facilities I 7.3.1 Slant Range Measurement Available as a direct three-digit readout in nautical miles which provides a maximum unambiguous range readout of 360 n miles (670 km) and has a maximum range exceeding 500 n miles (925 km). The probable accuracy of this readout is not better than + 3 n miles. 7.3.2 Azimuth Angle Measurement Available as a digital readout. The system may be satisfactorily calibrated before launch and may be cross-checked against Bureau of Meteorology radar during the first 180 km of flight. The estimated accuracy of + 2° assumes a ground calibration only. A selsyn read-out is available at subsidiary down- range tracking locations (accuracy is + 2°).

7.3.3 Elevation Angle Measurement 0 The measurement system is simple and accuracy is poor. The measurement is not a useful parameter in the estimation of balloon altitude. 7.3.4 Command System 7.3.4.1 TRAC Pack The TRAC pack provides 12 commands all of which may be operated from the ground stations, the tracking aircraft, and recovery -vehicle. Of the 12 commands, numbers 5 and 6 are dedicated to BALLAST DROP and TERMINATE respectively. BALLAST DROP provides for the operation of a ballast valve for periods, preset before launch, of from 3 to 30 seconds 0 per command. Ballast valves currently in use drop ballast at the rate of approximately 2 kg, per 30- 0 second_period. Ballast valves provided by scientific users should require not more than 0.2 watt at either 24 or 14 volts unless the period of operation is limited. TERMINATE is powered exclusively from a -14 volt supply which is a battery, trickle charged from the +24 volt main battery, but protected from 10. discharge except for the TERMINATE command. V ' ' . - " "- 7-2 1 Issue 3 B

The TERMINATE command may therefore be expected to be effective even if the 24 volt main supply is exhausted. Other commands available for scientific users will provide relay contact openings and/or closure. If desired, contact closure I i can be to ground or, subject to power re- quirements being consistent with TRAC battery capacity, the planned loads and flight duration, closure can be to + 24 V, V, or -14 V. The TRAC command relay contacts are rated for 1 amp and must be protected against the effects of inductive circuits. All command receivers operate at 148.46 MHz. Verification that command contacts have operated is provided via TRAC telemetry in the form of an audible tone at the ground station. The system is protected against spurious operation by a system of electronic gates which respond only to steady command tones and by another electronic gate which opens only on receipt of a steady "Private Line" D tone. 7.3.4.2 Light-Weight Receiver/Decoders (LWRD) These are Raven units, compatible with the TRAC system but providing command facilities only for a maximum of 6 commands. Commands in 1 to 6 or 7 to 12 may be pre-selected and none are dedicated to specific functions. Each channel is hard-wired to provide contact closure to the +14 V LWRD battery. The unit is designed for operating squibs in pairs _ connected in parallel. Any other 0 application must be checked for compatibility with the L.WRD contact ratings (1 amp) and the capacity of the battery in relation to the planned loads and flight duration. The units, together with internal battery, a weigh 2.7 kg. Reliable endurance of the battery is currently under review and may be no more than 12 hours, but external batteries can be used. All LWRD units operate at the same frequency a as TRAC packs; 148.46 MHz.

i 7-3 Issue 3 No verification tone is available from the LWRD units, however, command verification can be obtained if the LWRD is used in conjunction with RBA-5 or RBA--6 barocoders. il 7.3.5 Telemetry System The TRAC pack is designed for a maximum of six IRIG FM/FH channels. The channels used by the BLS are:-

IRIG Channel Centre Frequency Number Hz 8 3 000 11 7 350 12 10 500 13 14 500 14 22 000 15 30 000 Of these, IRIG channel 8 is assigned to command verification. If altitude information is required from the TRAC pack, another channel, or commutated section thereof, is necessary for this purpose. A four-segment commutator is available and it can be used on any channel except IRIG channel 8. This commutator allows four inputs to be time multiplexed to one VCO. "On1"" time for each segment of the commutator is variable between 1.5 and 15 seconds. Calibration voltages at zero and full-scale levels are available on all channels. This feature may be supressed if required. All telemetry transmitters held by BLS operate at 234.4 MHz. Transmitters operating at other IRIG frequencies can be fitted but procurement and their operation in Australia B would be a matter for negotiation. Tuneable receivers and a range of crystals for fixed frequency receivers, discriminators, and data filters are available for the base stations. 7.3.6 Voice Transponding This facility utilises the 148.46 MHz ground, air- craft or vehicle command transmitters and the command receiver and telemetry transmitter in the TRAC pack, and telemetry or other 234.4 MHz receivers on the ground, in the aircraft, etc. It generally provides good communications when a line-of-sight path exists between each communicator and the balloon. 0 7-4 0 Issue 3 8 I With this facility, precautions are necessary to ensure that there is" a minimum risk of accidental I command operation. Particularly when !:Handie Talkie" sets are used for communication, it is necessary to ensure that the "Private Line" tone is switched off 1 because this tone opens the main channel in the command receiver for radio command operation (refer para 7.3.4.1). 7.3.7 Altitude Measurement I I Two Rosemount transducers are mounted in the TRAC t pack and the output of one or the other can be I p telemetered using one of the IRIG channels or part I1 11 of a commutated channel (refer para 7.3.5). Change- I over from one transducer to the other is effected by -"!' p a pressure-operated switch. | The transducers currently held by the BLS are I „ Rosemount 830 series covering the ranges 0-1100 I; ji millibars (0-16 lb/sq inch) and 0-34 millibars 1 u (0-0.5 lb/sq inch). The Rosemount transducers as presently used are known to have hysteresis effects. For the immediate 0 future, it is suggested that scientists incorporate suitable devices within their payload when requiring 0 accurate altitude data above 30 500 metres. 7.4 Ancillary Airborne Equipment 7.4.1 Altitude transmitters operating on 1746 kHz are available. These are the Winzen Research RBA-6 and the Lytton Industries B-58 (which contains a gamma-ray source). 1I n 7.4.2 Safety timers for up to 42 hours operation are 'I [I normally flown to ensure cut-down in the event of I a command system failure. 7.4.3 Some battery packs are generally available such as 6 volt silver/zinc batteries of 80 ampere-hour and 20 ampere-hour capacity. Very limited stocks are held, mainly for the conduct of AEC flights, however, some provision for scientific users can be arranged. In-flight electrical power requirements should be stated in accordance with section 5.3 of Appendix II. 7.4.4 Rotating red beacon lights or white strobe lights are flown as an aid to visual tracking operations. 7.5 Ancillary Ground Equipment 7.5.1 A timing system providing a variety of outputs is installed at the BLS. Time codes are set with reference to VNG. If other codes or standards are required, enquiries should be made during the early planning phase. 7-5 1 Issue 3 7.5.2 An Ampex FR l?00 instrumentation tape recorder is installed at the BLS, and/ is equipped for direct and FM recording and playback at all speeds (IRIG) between 1 7/8 in/sec and 60. in/sec. 7.5.3 Ah ? track Saribbrricnart recorder, is installed at ':- the\BLs/> > ;;: •'". -' "•'•••' '•••' - :; 7.6 Voice Communications • - 7.6.1 Voice:cbmmunicatipns on VHF between the base station, the aircraft, $nd recovery vehicles are possible in two prime modes:~ . Directiyroh ,14-8 ^6 MHz . Indirectly "transpbnding via the TRAC pack (refer para 7.3.6) 7.6.2 Back-up; voice-;- communications are provided at 6.6965 MHz and H.455 MHzi : 7.6.3 Voice communications witrh the: DCA from the aircraft are on. specified local :frequehcies;;v; Ip the event that other modes of^communications:fail-between the aircraft and,otfier System; elements, operational messages can be relayed via the DCA net. 7.7 Test Equipment A range of mechanical, electrical, and electronic test equipment is available to cover most BLS requirements and 0 limited use by scientific users may be possible. Any 0 special requirements should be advised.

I I

7-6 Issue 3 SECTION 8 - FINANCE 8.1 Provision of Funds 8.1.1 Funding for balloon flights should desirably be assured at least nine months before any operation. This is because of the long lead-time required for proper logistic support. 8.1.2 American scientific groups may arrange the transfer of funds on a standard US Government Inter-Agency Transfer form to the ONR. Funds cannot be trans- ferred directly from Universities to the ONR but must come from some other Government Agency, e.g., NSF, NASA, AEC, USAF, etc. 8.2 Flight Costs 8.2.1 Costs of balloon flights are normally incurred within the following categories:- 8.2.1.1 Direct Costs, including - Overtime and allowances for the launch crew Meteorological support Use of tracking aircraft Flight indemnity insurance Operating suppliesj Use of recovery; vehicles Freight and cartage within Australia Office expenses (telephone and telex) Use of AEC non-recoverable supplies 8.2.1.2 Daily Expenses and Allowances - This applies when the launch crew is at a'site other than Mildura. 8.2.1.3 Helium, - Except when responsibility for cost is;accepted by the ONR. 8.2.1.H Relocation Cost for the Launch Crew and Equipment - This applies when the launch crew and equipment are at a site other than Mildura^ sblely; for>'a scientific user. If a scientific user; proposes, a flight frdin Longrea,ch" for a period when advantage couid:be taken of the launch crev7'? pressenc|s= there ;fpr la scheduled AEC series, the; relocation charges does not -. apply, \ ~ -V.---: /:-• •.^.V;:"> <• -• : -

•8-1, ; Issue: 3 it ~ -. •-' ''* • ' •" . -• 1 • 9 y y 8.2.2 Actual costs incurred will be charged, and these will 1 vary considerably, depending on such things as the \ j-, time of launch, the location of the launch site, the ' Ij user's requirements, etc. \ " \ 8.2.3 A cost estimate for each proposed flight or flight ; O series, based on the flight request, will be *j LI provided as required. Costs are continually under scrutiny with a view to effecting economies.

0 0

jg [1

7 Ha 8-2 Issue 3 1 I SECTION 9 - AGREEMENTS 1 9.1 Use of Facilities by Countries Other Than the USA 11 The DOS agreement with the AEC for the use of balloon I launching facilities by countries other than the USA requires that before formal approval is given, an agree- ment is entered into between the user country and the DOS In covering the conditions under which the proposed program would be attempted. Such an agreement would normally be negotiated on receipt of a flight request and request for flight estimates.

Q

0 D 0 B D D Q

9-1 B Issue 3 0 SECTION 10 - INSURANCE

10.1 Flight Indemnity Insurance A scientific user is required to take out aviation Third Party Insurance cover against legal liability arising from a special flight (refer para 8.2.1.1). 10.2 Passengers in Tracking Aircraft The aircraft operator has insurance cover to the extent of $A30 000 per person in respect of passengers who fly in the aircraft. lo 0

0

D

D 0 0 10-1 I Issue 3 ^^^^^M I^HMM ••MNH WMMM •••••• ?»S5!^1 u^^^^i tw?^?1 iranl^l fcsssspfcl

-BOOM- EXTREME RAISED

BOOM ACCESS LADDER

- EXTREME LOWERED

BOOM-TRAVEL POSITION

TRUNION-TRAmL POSITION

Mill M II I

BOOM LIFT CONTROLS IN CABIN l—TRUNION TRAVEL MECHANISM HAND CRANK 12:1 WKJISt^ei-SSStS^^^^

234-4 MHz 148-46 MHz 6-696 MHz 4-455 MHz 1-746 MHz ANTENNA SYSTEM ANTENNA SYSTEM ANTENNA SYSTEM ANTENNA SYSTEM ANTENNA SYSTEM

RAVEN 1 ANTENNA SAMPLING 1 SWITCH RAVEN ANTENNA POSITION TX TX CONTROL * DISPLAY TX/RX JOHNSON VIKINS VALIANT JOHNSON VIKING RX PANEL 1 MOTOROLA COMPA STN. RX RX HAMMARLUND 5P600 RAVEN HAMMARLUND SPBOO HAMMARLUND SPBOO CAVITY FILTER

SINCLAIR (RAVEN)

CAPABILITY

PR E AMP COMMAND / RANGIN6 234-4 MHz PANEL NEMS CLARKE RX : Voice (Transpondtd ) RAVEN Ttltrnttry- IRIG Channtl 8.11-15. Altitude Data Command Verification- IRIG Channel 8 Range Tone TELEMETRY RX 148-46 MHz NEMS CLARKE RAN6E COMPUTER TX : Voice PANEL Command Range Tone RAVEN FM DISCRIMINATORS RX : Voice

EMR 210 -B 6-696/ 4-455 MHz I RIG-CHANNEL 10-15 5 TX : Voice en RX : Voice m (0 CHART RECORDER TAPE RECORDER 1-746 MHz o SANBORN AMPEX RX : Altitude Data oI m z Command Verification 10 iSJtV xyi-ttV-m-** a ^i~~-rr

FIGURE 3

•»

6-696/ 234-4 MHz 148-46 MHz 4-455 MHz 1-746 MHz i

RX TX/RX TX/RX RX

DEI GPR-20 MOTRAC SUN AIR ARC 318A B RAVEN

COMMAND ENCODER/ MOTRAC CONTROL RAVEN 0 0 CAPABILITY 2344 MHz 0 RX : Voiea { Transpondtd ) Command Vtrifieation Altitudi Data ADF D 148-46 MHz TX : Voiet 0 Command RX : Voict 6696/4455 MHz TX : Voict RX : Voict 1-746 MHz RX : Command Verification Altitudt Data ADF

AIRCRAFT 0 FIGURE 4 0

234 A MHz 148-46 MHz 6-696 MHz 1-746 MHz !IB M/ M/ i 0

RX TX/RX TX/RX

DEI GPR- 20 MOTRAC RAVEN

COMMAND ENCODER/ MOTRAC CONTROL 0 RAVEN Q

CAPABILITY

234-4 MHz D RX : Veict (Tranipondtd) Command Vtrification Altitudt Data

148-46 MHz TX : Voict 1 Command RX : Voict fl 6- 696 MHz TX : Voict RX : Voice 1- 746 MHz RX : Altitudt DaU Command Vtrif ication

RECOVERY VEHICLE I FIGURE 5 ft1 I II f

V- ?! P. 1 % 11 t

b R E i 0 in ui * i K i a •I 0

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o Q IB I BALLOON PACKAGE K.3

•pI- iIs ••fe I

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D

••I i" '! [1 APPENDIX I

SKYHOOK SERVICES REQUEST FORM (Submit 4 copies)

Date

p To: Office of Naval Research Head, Physics Branch (Code 421) p Washington, DC, 20360

From:

p Subject: Skyhook Flight Services; request for 1. It is requested that Skyhook flight services be provided for. 0 flight(s) described below: (a) Principal investigators) If (b) Description of experiment(s) with objectives and equipment utilized. II (c) Funds for the flight(s) (have been/will be) provided by

| n (Agency) I (d) Launch site and date: [1 1. Primary Date 2. Altemate_ Date 0 (e) Anticipated buildup time from arrival date to flight date for I payload: i IS #1 __#2 #3 (Days)

1 G APPENDIX I

- 2 - . '.•'-' • • -

(f) Preference (if any) of aerostat. (g) Name, address and telephone number of persoiihel to be con- tacted regarding flight arrangements. (h) Float altitude and diaratibn: 1. Desired altitude .-•-- feet M*>s Hrs. 2. Minimum Altitude feet Mbs Hrs. (i) Description of payioad(s). (Attach sketch or phonographs). 1. - Weight'^-;^--: '".•"-'Osize.-:. ' '•-.•' -'ShaTC'" ""•-. •" 2. Weight Size Shape- D (j) Special flight requirements (day/night launch, trajectory, launch window, special conditions as to solar flare, etc.). (k) Equipment requirements (flip packages, drop package, tele- metry frequency, telemetry channels, load line suspensions, commands off/on, other). (1) Required ground support and equipment requirements. (Reco- i very, radar tracking, lab space, electric power, compressed gas, telemetry receiving, photo development, time codes and formats, refrigeration, furniture, and any other special range support). I (m) Personnel to be present at launch. Indicate citizenship, pass- I port number or alien status if flight is outside USA. ,1

1 For Code 421 use only: I Copy sent to ONR Field Representative (Date) D D • -vfy APPENDIX II

DEPARTMENT OF SUPPLY REQUEST FORM

The following, headings indicate information required by the American Projects Branch of the Australian Department of Supply. Potential users should provide as much information as possible together with any other details which may be of value to American Projects Brahch or to the Station Director BLS in preparing for the proposed flight.

SECTION 1 GENERAL

1.1 Name of Investigator. 1.2 Postal address, telephone and telex number for communication with investigator. 1.3 Sponsor or agency with which investigator is associated. 1.4 Nature of investigations.

SECTION 2 PERSONNEL

2.1 Name of leader of the group to work with the Mildura team. 2.2 Number in the group. ' 2.3 Details of assistance required in booking accommodation, cars, etc. - - '••''•.'.

SECTION 3 PROPOSED SCHEDULE

3.1 Date of joining Mildura team. 3.2 Date of launch readiness. 3.3 Number of successful flights required. 3.4 Minimum time between flights. 3.5 Constraints on launch date and time. APPENDIX II

- 2 -

SECTION 4 FLIGHT DETAILS

4.1 Balloon type and size. 4.2 Payload weight, shape and size. (Give sketches or photographs if available). 4.3 Details of coupling between payload and balloon. 4.4 Ballasting, total weight and method of stowage. 4.5 Launch site location. 4.6 Float altitude and duration. 4.7 Recovery requirements.

SECTION 5 FLIGHT INSTRUMENTATION

5.1 Radio commands required. 5.2 Telemetry required. 5.3 Electrical power supplies required. 5.4 Frequencies of any radio transmitters to be supplied by scientist, for use on the ground or on the balloon. Where the frequency to be used is not listed in Appendix V the following information will be required by the American Projects Branch in order to seek authorisation from the Australian Postmaster-General's Department. 5.4.1 Bandwidth of transmission. 5.4.2 Method of modulation. 5.4.3 Maximum radiated power. 5.4.4 Description of antenna. 5.4.5 Gain of antenna.

SECTION 6 FACILITIES i 6.1 Requirements for paylpad preparation, handling and transportation. 6.2 Requirements for post-flight examination of payload, records, photographic and data processing.

Jl

M APPENDIX III

FREIGHT AND SHIPPING

DESTINATION PORT OF ENTRY CONSIGNMENT ADDRESS

Mildura Melbourne, Victoria The Manager, Stores & Transport Branch, Department of Supply, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. (For Balloon Launching Station, Mildura, Victoria.)

Parkes Sydney, NSW The Manager, Stores & Transport Branch, Department of Supply, Sydney, NSW, Australia. (HOLD FOR onforwarding advice from - name of person nominated by consignor to co-ordinate freight movement.)

Longreach Brisbane, Queensland The Manager, Stores & Transport Branch, 0 Department of Supply, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, (HOLD FOR onforwarding advice from - i name of person nominated by consignor o to co-ordinate freight movement.) Port of Entry Mailing Address for Shipping Documentation 0 Melbourne, Victoria The Manager, Stores & Transport Branch, Department of Supply, Box 4535, GPO, MELBOURNE. VICTORIA, 3001. AUSTRALIA.

Telegraphic Address:

Shipping Officer, S! o Munlstore, Melbourne, Australia. Sydney, NSW The Manager, Stores & Transport Branch, Department of Supply, Box 4052, GPO, 0 SYDNEY. NSW, 2001. AUSTRALIA. 0 Telegraphic Address: Shipping Officer, 0 Munistore, Sydney, Australia. i 1 - j.

APPENDIX III

- 2 - I

1« 1P Port of Entry Mailing Address For Shipping Documentation 'f Brisbane, Queensland The Manager, Stores & Transport Branch, Department of Supply, Ampol House, 38-52 Herschel Street, BRISBANE. QUEENSLAND, 4000. AUSTRALIA.

Telegraphic Address:

Shipping Officer, 0 Munistore, Brisbane, Australia.

All Ports of Entry One copy of all shipping documents to be forwarded to: D Station Director, Balloon Launching Station, PO Box 1031, MILDURA. VICTORIA, 3500. AUSTRALIA.

B 0 0 B

li MILDURA PAYLOAD PREPARATION FACILITIES

TO HAIN FACILITY

1. I

) i ELEVATION SECTION AA

BENCHES |'-1O'( WIDE PARTITIONS J'lf HIGH V-o"wiDE ] COLO WATER T»P

V HOT WATER T»p g WOW «C-O" LONG FLUORtSceNT L I—I aow «j'-o" LOW; FLUORESCENT I a I5OW INCANIMUHT L.ISHT FITn IWKOUT-I50W1.T, |O*Mf, SWCLE PH fei MR CONMTIOfXR OUT1.ET 3; S , *v i;

Q ALL WALLS TIMftCR fRWI»,UNeP WITH I INTERHALL-f AND ClAt t)!TtHM»l.Vy WITH A 'v? 3 "SISALCRAF1* INSULATIOM MUBL.E £ g i 9 1 a s APPENDIX IV

CORRUCATEP GALVANISE* • 'IRON ROOF , ' TO MAINFKILlTt

CEILIHC LINED WITH CAMEITE

Ill FLOOR LEVEL r-o" VATION SECTION AA

SENCHES j'-iof WIDE PARTITIONS S'-l£ HIGH V-o"wi|>E ^1

COUP WATER T«P

HOT WATER TAP

•tOWflC-0" LONA FLUORESCeNT LIGHT FITTING

20W «2-o" LONG FLUME9CEHT LIGHT FirriNE a ISOW INCAHtUCINT L.IGHT FITTINfi tM>veLT- ZSOVOLT, IDAIIF^ SIMALE PHASff POWIR OUTLET x» AIR CONMTMNEK OvrLET

NOTE:

ALL W'LU TIMBUI |-H«nCP, UM£P WITH H«RPBOAH[> INTeiVMLTf *N[> CLAD EX1EIWMLLY WITH U UEETIHG "SISALCMFT* INSULATION MI/BLE 3l»tp

PLAN SCAtl^i-l'-O" _tUMFOPC» CONCMTC HETWORK SUPPORT FACILITY fAUST) CANBERRA MILDURA •= , PAYLOAD PREPARATION FACILITIES!; 0 APPENDIX V D FREQUENCIES ASSIGNED TO THE BLS FREQUENCY EMISSION POWER SERVICE G (MHz) (Watts) 1.730 0.1 Al 6 W Telemetry, balloon to ground 1.746 n II II n 4.455 6A3 100 W Ground to Air communications D 6.6965 •i II II 40.15 0.8F2 10W Telemetry, balloon to ground 42.45 2A2 5W II u 148.46 36F2 (60 W (base) Command, ground to balloon (25 W (mobile) •I II n 0 152.03 36F3 (60 W (base) Command, ground to balloon (25 W (mobile) a it •• 234.4 200F9 3 W Telemetry, balloon to ground 253.1 46F3 3.5 W n II ii II 255.8 46F3 3.5 W

0 Classification of emissions are quoted in accordance with international radio regulations, the first numeral indicates the bandwidth in kilohertz, the letter indicates the type of modulation and second figure the type of o transmission. D Example 1: 0.1 Al indicates a bandwidth of 0.1 kilohertz (100 hertz) amplitude n modulation, telegraphy without the use of a modulating audio frequency. D Example 2: 36F2 indicates 36 kHz bandwidth, frequency (or phase) modulation, telegraphy by the on-off keying of a modulating audio frequency.

Full details of the classifications of emissions may be obtained by II reference to:- Radio Regulations, published by the International Telecommuni- cations Union, Geneva. o T.V. Engineers Reference Book.