Modeling and Measurement of Permittivity for Near Space Communications

Description...

Electrical Engineering Goals
The goal of this project is to measure the permittivity of the air, from the ground to near space. We want to send a payload to near space, one hundred thousand kilometers, while measuring the permittivity as it goes up. At the very least, we will simulate this behavior using circuit design software. Permittivity: the ability of a substance to store electrical energy in an electric field. Basically, we want to measure the resistance of the air has to an electric field, or how long it takes for a charged particle to get from point A to point B. We will do this by measuring the capacitance of the air, as it goes higher into the atmosphere. Using equations that relate capacitance to permittivity, we will find what the permittivity of the air is, at certain points in the atmosphere.

Benjamin VanSant
'Mechanical Engineering Student'



Brett Morris
'Mechanical Engineering Student'



Cameron Murdock
'Electrical Engineering Student'



Jeffrey Craig
'Electrical Engineering Student'

Hometown: Enumclaw, WA

Hobbies and interests: I am interested in technology in general. I like to build models, draw, and play videogames. It is fascinating how fast technology is growing, take the Nintendo Switch for example, it is so innovative. I have been involved with many engineering related clubs on campus, including IEEE, IMAPS, and ECE Ambassadors. Working on electrical projects on the side is also pastime of mine, I recently build a board that lights up with LEDs.

Plan for the future: After graduation I would like to work in the Seattle area. I have worked for the same company the past two summers, and would like to work for them again, in the avionics industry. It would be fun to eventually end up working for Nintendo though.

Email: crai5936@vandals.uidaho.edu



Ryan May
'Electrical Engineering Student'

Hometown: Boise, ID

Hobbies and interests: I am interested in communication systems as far as electrical engineering goes, I am also interested in science in general. Since my freshman year I have been involved in a research lab in the biology department investigating how transmissible vaccines could improve how we combat viruses in both epidemic and endemic situations through mathematical models. My hobbies include video games, mountain biking, and skiing.

Plan for the future: After graduating I do not plan to pursue a career involving communication, ideally working either with satellite communication or radar with ships and submarines.

Email: may6552@vandals.uidaho.edu