Rajasthan government is reportedly going to organize an event named International Balloon Challenge in collaboration with Space Kidz India. It will go on for two days, i.e. on 25th and 26th July 2018. The event is a tribute to former Indian President and scientist late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The motto of the challenge is ‘Dream, Imagine, Believe’.
In this event, the government has offered a chance to individuals below the age of 21 years to send their payload into “near space” through a balloon. The International Balloon Challenge will be hosted as a part of the three-day event of Rajasthan Digifest 2018 that will be organized from 25th to 27th July. It will offer insightful workshops and exciting events for students, innovators, startups, and investors.
Courtesy: Twitter
The challenge is basically meant for the space enthusiasts who have knowledge as well as the zeal for space exploration. As part of the challenge, the participants will be required to build a working model of a payload which can be flown into near space through a helium balloon. In layman terms, Payload is a satellite that may include cargo, passengers, flight crew, scientific instruments, or other equipment.
There are some grounds to be followed while designing the payload. It must fit inside a 1 U Cube3 and should not weigh more than 500 grams, including the weight of the battery. Besides, it should not contain any hazardous chemicals and any biological experiments involving living macro-organisms is also prohibited.
The selected winners will be required to send their payload models to Space Kidz India in Tamil Nadu by July 20th. However, they can also reach the venue in Bikaner and fly the payload themselves. The facilities of accommodation and food will also be provided to the selected winners. The interested participants can submit their ideas till 5th July 2018 and on 8th July, the top 10 winners will be announced.
For more details visit: http://www.skilabz.in/balloonsat/
