Topband: Balloon Supported Vertical

[Adrian]

I have been doing it here for well over a year. I originally set it all 
up with a 1/4w vertical for 630m,

'which performs very well., Then also 160m and 80m using 3/4w lengths

For 160m I use 90cm latex balloons fully inflated. I use the online wind 
forecast showing area

wind velocity and direction. Over 7km/h it is a waste of time. A small 
wind velocity 5km/h and less is beneficial

if the direction is away from the target DX. It becomes directional back 
in from the line lean angle.

A slight breeze above 7km/h will bring the balloon down quickly, and 
getting snagged in trees with gusts is a common issue.

It is a game of luck as often the wind forecast is inaccurate, but when 
all is well it is unbeatable.

I use a G size industrial supply Helium bottle, for which I also pay 
rent monthly. It is still cheaper than a tower,

that would never get approval on a small block. As the activity is at 
night it is reasonably stealth.


vk4tux


On 9/11/21 06:48, Dick Bingham wrote:
> Greetings All
>
> I want to try a balloon supported Vertical for 160.
> Any advice on sources for balloons? Mylar material
> and diameters up to 2-feet would be my choice.
>
> 73. Dick/w7wkr at CN97uj
> _________________
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