atmospheric sampling via RC

[ghoti]

Check out the video scroll down a bit:

http://www.ppws.vt.edu/people/faculty/dschmale/

[MCarlton]

Looks interesting, but I would be a little concerned that particulates from the exhaust may be picked up by the sensors on the wings. I know it seems unlikely, but its a possiblity and I would vote for some form of shielding.

I would prefer to have the sensor/collectors on long probes some distance from the model.

[Cats Eyes]

... or go electric.

[JustinONE]

would like to see them get up to 30,000 foot level, with all the ranting over aerial spraying from jet liners it would be some interessting data if they can grab a sample and break it down as to what it is they are dropping or seeding up there.

[MCarlton]

Good point Justin, especially as most atmospheric models indicate that micro/nano particles remain at that level, not having the density to drop to lower levels. Thus, a lot of the pollution monitoring which is done at ground level is a bit hit and miss.

Exhaust gases, or anything else which readily disperses to a molecular level, to my mind, will invariably rise in the air to the point at which it floats on the density layer which it is equal to, much like oil in water will eventually seperate and float on top.