Mini-Refraction Sonde Laboratory Tests.
Abstract
The purpose of this program is to demonstrate that it is feasible to build a small, lightweight meteorological sonde capable of measuring index of refraction (Mini-Refraction Sonde), which can be launched with a 30-gram Pibal balloon. This minisonde uses a rod thermister for temperature and a carbon hygristor for humidity measurement. For pressure measurement, a Honeywell silicon diaphragm barometer was used. This pressure sensor consists of a small silicon chip with strain-sensitive resistors diffused into the surface. This sensor is mounted on an evacuated tube so that changes in absolute pressure can be measured. The sensors are commutated on a time basis, with a complete cycle every 400 milliseconds. A lightweight telemetry transmitter providing an output of 1/2 watt at 400 to 406 megahertz was designed and constructed. Power for the transmitter and minisonde electronics is provided by a small lithium battery consisting of 5-1/2 A cells. Laboratory measurements in a temperature and pressure chamber demonstrate an rms accuracy of 0.5 C temperature and 0.8 millibar pressure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 30, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA057416
Entities
People
- Curtis D. Motchenbacher
Organizations
- Honeywell International, Inc.