Balloon-Borne Observations of Sprites and Jets

In year 1 of this project we will design and build three balloon payloads as described in the proposal. These payloads will contain 3 axis electric and magnetic field detectors, conductivity and electric current sensors and X-ray detectors as described in the proposal. We will also prepare 6 sets of booms and input pre-amplifier boards, to enable real-time refurbishing of the payloads for immediate reflight. We will also begin to calibrate and environmentally qualify these payloads. In addition, we will conduct detailed site surveys of potential launch and ground observing sites and make the final selections. Finally, we will refurbish and test those portions of the University of Houston Space Physics Group mobile sub-orbital telemetry station that will be required for use during the campaign.