Transatlantic Balloon Challenge, Powered by Tracer Batteries
We are thrilled to announce that Deborah Scholes and her registered blind veteran husband Mike will be embarking on an extraordinary adventure, the Transatlantic Balloon Challenge, with the support of Tracer Power batteries. Their daring mission aims to raise awareness and funds for Blind Veterans UK, and has caught the attention of Guinness World Records.
The Transatlantic Balloon Challenge will see Deborah and Mike journey over 2,700 miles in a Rozier Balloon, defying the odds and pushing the limits of human achievement. If successful, Deborah will become the first lady to captain a balloon across the Atlantic, and Mike will be the first registered blind person to be part of a crew for such a remarkable endeavour.
Scheduled to launch from Sussex, New Brunswick in Canada on or after June 10th, 2023, (weather permitting) and promises to captivate audiences around the globe.
The success of the Transatlantic Balloon Challenge depends on reliable and lightweight power systems that can be recharged via solar energy during the flight. The Tracer Power BP2607-II LiFePO4 Battery packs are the chosen solution to meet this critical requirement. These batteries offer a consistent power output throughout the flight, ensuring the smooth operation of vital electronic devices.
Deborah and Mike will rely on various equipment throughout their journey, including Trig Avionics VHF and HF radios for communication with air traffic control, a transponder to allow airports and other aircraft to track their location, an auto burner to maintain the balloon’s level flight during the night, and a strobe beacon to ensure the balloon remains visible to other aircraft.
To provide a continuous power supply, three solar panels will be suspended beneath the basket in a triangular configuration to always capture the sun’s energy and allow charging of the Tracer BP2607-II batteries. The Tracer Power TR8180 Buck Boosters will stabilize the input voltage from the panels through a solar charge controller to ensure efficient charging.
Test flights have demonstrated the exceptional performance of Tracer Power batteries, even in challenging temperature conditions ranging from -15°C to +35°C. Deborah and Mike will travel with these batteries in their hand luggage when they journey from the UK to Canada in June 2023. The batteries are UN38.3 approved and fall under the 100 Watt Hours limit, ensuring compliance with safety regulations on commercial flights.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to Tracer Power for their invaluable support, providing the batteries and offering valuable advice in selecting the appropriate power solution. Tracer Power’s reliable and robust batteries have proven instrumental during test flights, powering the on-board equipment with exceptional performance.” – Mike Scholes
“We are honoured to support Deborah and Mike Scholes in their ground-breaking Transatlantic Balloon Challenge, as they embody the spirit of determination and resilience. It is our privilege to contribute to their remarkable journey and showcase the power of innovation from our region.” Aaron Adlington, Marketing Manager Tracer Power
Tracer Power is Cell Pack Solutions brand of High Performance Lithium Rechargeable Batteries. Cell Pack Solutions are based in South Tyneside and are proud to call the region our home.
