View source for Hackerspaces In Space

http://workshop88.com/space/ for more details.
Some information on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weather_balloon Weather Balloons]
We need to beat FUBARLabs into space!
To get involved, join the our [http://groups.google.com/group/hive76-discussion Discussion Group] and send a response [http://groups.google.com/group/hive76-discussion/browse_thread/thread/7a74c4b906dd0569 This Thread] or send an email to [mailto:spacebaloon@hive76.org spaceballoon@hive76.org]
=Rules=
* One team per hackerspace. Any size build team, but only 10 people for the launch and retrieval team.
* Payload must be under 4 pounds.
* Parts cost limit of $250.00. Must show receipts or have other proof of purchase.
* Payload must return with pictures taken from the flight.
* Only one official launch per team allowed. Notice of official launches must be given by 8 a.m., and a judge must be present for the launch to count.
* All local laws and ordinances must be followed throughout the entire competition.
* Balloon camera must take pictures of the curvature of the earth.
* The Event Board may judge any other conduct considered outside “the spirit” of the event and disqualify a team that does not adhere to it by majority vote.
'''Scoring'''
* Retrieval Time Base: 50 points. 1 point off for every minute past 45 minutes.
* Weight of Payload 5 points added for every 1/2 pound under 4 lb.
* Cost of Setup Base: 50 points. 0.5 points off for every dollar over $150.
* Total Points Retrieval Time Score + Weight Score + Cost Score
'''Event Board & Judges'''
* Judges are members of each hackerspace, and will be submitted to the Event Board. They will ensure all rules are followed.
* One person from each hackerspace will be on the Event Board. The Event Board will oversee the event, judge each applicant, and declare winners.
'''Dates'''
* Competition starts immediately upon challenges going out.
* Teams will indicate acceptance of challenge by March 1, 2010 (either at workshop88.com/space, or the attached PDF form).
* Launches will be held between June 1, 2010 and August 31, 2010.
* Results of the official launch must be sent in by September 7, 2010.
* Winner will be announced on or before September 30, 2010.
=Regulations=
Part 101 of the FAA Regulations covers balloons, kites and rockets. The first section of Part 101 spells out exactly which kinds of devices the rest of Part 101 applies to. Regarding "unmanned free balloons," Part 101 applies if the balloon:
# Carries a payload package that weighs more than four pounds and has a weight/size ratio of more than three ounces per square inch on any surface of the package, determined by dividing the total weight in ounces of the payload package by the area in square inches of its smallest surface;
# Carries a payload package that weighs more than six pounds;
# Carries a payload, of two or more packages, that weighs more than 12 pounds; or
# Uses a rope or other device for suspension of the payload that requires an impact force of more than 50 pounds to separate the suspended payload from the balloon.