FECORE has begun the planning and discussion phase for a multistage helium balloon project. We are aiming for a launch within 7 months.
The term multistage means it will have more than one helium filled balloon to provide lift. Current plans call for one large balloon and three smaller balloons. The idea is that the larger balloon lifts the entire package to about 40 km (130,000 feet) then helium is released (or the large balloon is let loose) allowing the structure to be neutrally buoyant and remain at nearly the same altitude for a long duration. This is also in an effort to have a more stable flight.
Instruments to be carried aloft include an infrared capable camera, temperature, pressure and humidity sensors with all data recorded. We plan to launch a small solid fuel rocket above 36 km.
The planned launch site would be in Europe.