Project Munchkin is CATiSE's 2026–2027 high-altitude balloon (HAB) mission, with the goal of designing and launching the program's first pico balloon. Unlike traditional HABs, pico balloons are incredibly lightweight and can remain at high altitudes for weeks or even months. The mission aims to accomplish several scientific objectives using a single balloon, including measuring UV radiation, atmospheric composition, and humidity. The team also plans to utilize a WSPR transmitter for communication, marking a departure from the LoRa systems used in previous CATiSE missions. Through this exciting new challenge, Project Munchkin hopes to pave the way for future long-duration balloon missions.
Software & Payload Team Lead: Jeff Davis
Flight Systems Team Lead: Roman Brezitskiy