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NAVIGATION AND COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT

As the lay-out of the cockpit used during the previous expedition proved satisfactory, that on Breitling Orbiter 3 retains the same features. The new changes lie in the type of equipment. The capsule is fitted with sophisticated new electronic navigation instruments and satellite communications systems. Satellite communications will be handled by two INMARSAT data transmission systems, serving as the main means of communication with mission control. This device enables faxes to be sent and gives real time indications of the exact location of the balloon. In case of an emergency evacuation, a "distress" mode signals the balloon's latest position to mission control.

A Mini-M INMARSAT system enables transmission of vocal communications, meaning satellite phone links. Two radar transponders - one of which is a back-up - will indicate the position, altitude and identity of the balloon to air traffic control centers responsible for the regions being overflown. The extensive range of communications equipment includes two VHF radios for communicating with other aircraft, air traffic control centers and airports - as well as a back-up VHF radio - and two HF radios for communicating with the entire world. Three GPS (Global Positioning Systems) - including one back-up - are the chief navigation instruments and will keep pilots and the Geneva control center informed of the exact location and altitude of the balloon (to within a few meters), anywhere in the world. Moreover, the Breitling Orbiter 3 balloon is equipped with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) operating both on the 121.5 MHz aviation distress frequency and on the 406 MHz maritime frequency.

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