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Valparaiso Space Program: BCON-2
Valparaiso Space Program students expand nanosatellite communications with their BCON-2 Dream Big payload.
Introducing BCON-2
The BCON-2 mission is to demonstrate increasing data downlink time
from nanosatellites by transmitting to receive-only ground stations
operated by independent amateurs and hobbyists, specifically stations
part of the SatNOGS Network. This allows use of lower cost and
complexity RF systems while increasing useful downlinked information as
compared to using only command stations for downlinking data. BCON-2
also hosts a secondary technology demonstration of a compact ADCS
system of magnetorquer coils and controller developed by the University
of Luxembourg
High-Altitude Balloon Testing
As part of the Dream Big mission, student payloads were tested on high-altitude balloons reaching nearly 90,000 ft. These flights provided a near-space environment similar to orbit, giving teams the chance to evaluate their payloads under real conditions.
Beyond testing, the balloon launches also became an incredible outreach opportunity. Sparking curiosity and inspiring younger students to explore space research and education.
Check out the flight recap from one of Valparaiso’s balloon launches!
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