This page will host instructions on assembling and using the infrared/visible dual camera kit as distributed through the Balloon Mapping Kit Kickstarter project.

This page is under construction and will not be complete until mappers report their early experiences with the equipment. Please get in touch on the mailing list if you want to contribute your knowledge here.

Introduction

• How this works, why we do it -- theory and science
• What it's useful for
  • A proof of concept using the PLOTS modified A495 camera
  • Case study: Gowanus Canal plume identification and great TechPresident.com followup article
  • Case study: Sunol Agpark (write-up coming soon)
• How far we've gotten, and things to try and/or improve: how to contribute

Construction

• The dual camera rig: Assemble the camera bracket (this will be updated soon for the excellent new knurled bolts)
  • Putting the T rig inside a big soda bottle, or other techniques to protect the cameras. (we need to experiment and figure out the best way to do this)
  • Attaching the timer and batteries. (see this photo for an early attempt)
  • Use the camera strap as a safety landyard.
• Simple shutter release: Trigger both cameras separately with rubber bands; photos won't be matched but will likely overlap a lot (Example 1: IR & VIS)
• Advanced "synchronous shutter" triggering - more work but good for getting matched IR and visible photos
  • Hardware for synchronous shutter release: Assemble the electronics
    • Assembling the 555 timer circuit
    • Preparing USB cables
    • Preparing batteries and battery holders
  • Enhanced firmware to enable USB triggering and synchronous shutter release
    • Install and configure CHDK

Using your kit

• Using the Canon A495 cameras: Configuring the camera menus
• Do a test flight

Processing the images

• Link to Photoshop/Gimp technique
• Video screencast of MapKnitter technique
• Brainstorm better techniques

Interpretation

• This will be written last

Attached is the "introduction" document which shipped with each kit (also editable in Google Docs). For help, please contact the mailing list -- either register on Public Laboratory or email publiclaboratory@googlegroups.com.