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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