Pollen count - using Rocket Science!

[AlexisBV]

Just came across this report, linked by this week's xkcd What-if. A team of high school students measured the profile of pollen distribution vs. altitude using a cleverly designed rocket. Worth reading...

http://westrocketry.com/sli2008/PLAR_MadisonWest2008.pdf

[xcorps]

This report is unacceptable.

There were no explosions.

[AlexisBV]

This report is unacceptable.

There were no explosions.

Well... a burning SRB is a controlled explosion. They do mention that there was "separation" on the second probe, I'm sure an NTSB investigation would uncover some interesting facts. Also, the fact that they didn't reach the target Ap shows that they needed moar boosters = more fireworks potential.

[NASAFanboy]

4,200 feet is not high altitude.

[KvickFlygarn87]

4,200 feet is not high altitude.

Everything is relative, my friend

[peadar1987]

4,200 feet is not high altitude.

It is if you're in a sailboat.

[xcorps]

It is if you're in a sailboat.

Everything is relative, my friend

A cousin in an exploding sailboat...

[NERVAfan]

Everything is relative, my friend

Yeah.

For pollen, it's pretty high altitude, given that there isn't anything to pollinate above 300-400 feet (the tallest trees) at best, and more like 100 feet or less most places.