re- (hot balloon) [Oct. 28]

Since the first trial of the hot balloon experiment was a horrible failure, we were asked to do it again with a different group. This time, we were allowed to bring our own material in order to match different ideas.

        Considering the last failure that the 10 candles could not fly the big garbage bag, we decided to use a relative smaller bag. The bag was relatively thin compared to the garbage bag. The size was one tenth of the big garbage bag, for which we only used two candles instead of 10. Then, we inserted these two candles into the holes that were cut from the straws, and stuck the straws onto the wall of the plastic bag. Therefore, the candles were placed inside the plastic bag.

Depressed, we failed! The hot balloon died right as we lit the candles. The plastic bag was melt because it could not take the heat from the two candles that were put inside the bag. Since the distance between the candles and the top of the bag was very short, it was hotter than the candles that were place underneath the hot balloon.  Plus the smallness and thinness of the bag, the hot balloon failed as soon as the fire touched the candles. The distance where the candles were placed to the top of the bag would be essential to flight. So next time, if we are given another chance (though it is done now), it is necessary try different structure out several times in order to assure the proper distance between the candles and the bag.

 

Star Gazing [Sept. 27]

 

 

This is the photo taken through the telescope. Even though that night was very cold, but the moon fascinates us. This was the first time I have seen the moon like this, very big and clear. We could even see the craters on the moon surface as well as the shadow.

             When enjoying the moon, here is some basic information about the moon. The moon is the only natural satellite of the Earth, and the fifth largest satellite in the Solar System. It is the largest natural satellite of a planet in the Solar System relative to the size of its primary having 27% the diameter and 60% the density of Earth, resulting in 1/81 in mass. The moon is in synchronous rotation with Earth, always showing the same face with its near side marked by dark volcanic maria that will between the bring ancient crustal highland and craters.

The day we saw the moon was a full moon day, meaning that the near side of the moon directly faced Earth, and this was the most beautiful scene.