TV00B

35mm Camera on Scan Platform

A servo operated scan platform was used to position a 35mm camera for this flight. The scan platform allows a single camera to photograph at any position within a 180 degree arc. This reduces the need for multiple cameras on a single flight, saving weight.

Marks' command module suspended below the support module. It was a cloudy day when this picture was taken somewhere over Kansas at an altitude of 85,791 feet.

A sight for sore eyes, a functioning parachute. This image is of the recovery parachute as the nearcraft descends below 26,000 feet.

These next set of images were taken of the balloon at four different altitudes. The altitudes are 21,300, 47,700, 67,700, and 89,900 feet. Notice the balloon is expanding as the air pressure drops.

A photograph of the stack as it was raised on lanyards. Launch crews are unwinding lanyards to let the balloon up. Once the entire stack is off the ground and supported by the balloon, crews will release the lanyards (one at time) and let the stack begin its flight. You can tell this launch took place in Kansas because this summer sky is white and hazy, rather than blue.
Photo by Mark Conner

Chase crews in pursuit of a landed nearcraft. You can tell these experienced chase crews are savoring the familiar sweet taste of success. "Hey, who is doing the driving?".
Photo by George Santamaria

Locking in the GPS location of the recovered nearcraft.
"This sure as heck doesn't look like Idaho, why, it's green and flat!"
Photo by Mark Conner