Build a repeatable student mission architecture for global-scale picoballoon tracking using WSPR telemetry, reliable power, and well-documented launch operations.
K7UAZ Stratocat Project
Around the World in Less Than 80 Days.
Student teams are launching a picoballoon with a WSPR Pico transmitter to pursue long-duration global tracking while advancing flight systems, amateur radio operations, and mission engineering discipline.
Primary Sponsor: ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio
ARRL mission: advance the art, science, and enjoyment of Amateur Radio.
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Mission 3 launched on Sunday, March 22, 2026 and remains in flight. As of March 29, 2026, the active Stratocat balloon has exited the conflict region, is approaching India, and has reached the halfway-around-the-Earth milestone at 20.3128 N, 69.9599 E.
The system continues to perform well, and the trajectory remains stable as the mission moves into its next phase.
Featured Flights
Design A, B, and C mission progression
Flight reports include mission metrics, hardware changes, and lessons learned so sponsors and members can track technical maturity.