Introduction
We got together on the Downs again on 19 November 2011 for what we hoped would be another successful antenna experiment. Everything had been organised, equipment, personnel and so on. But it was not to be.
Firstly our original venue was being used for sporting fixtures which forced us into quite a small area. Secondly, the wind was really quite low and even with a high lift kite was giving us problems keeping a wire in the air. This would not have been too much of an issue except with the limited space we were concerned about the danger to people if the kite came crashing down.
After a bit of discussion we decided to opt for a change of venue and headed to Blaise Castle
Although only about 55m (180 ft) AOD (above Ordnance Datum), this is a much better venue from the point of view of conflicts between users. There was plenty of space and it would be possible to select a spot and fly the kite and operate without causing and inconvenience to other people.
Sadly, whilst the area is ideal from the point of view of space and the weather conditions were ideal for outdoor activities there was even less wind at Blaise Castle than there had been on the Downs and the kite never made it into the air. So regrettably there are no pictures to show you this time.
Lessons Learnt
It is important to take something away from any experiment and we have learnt some valuable lessons:
- Check if the chosen site is in use on the day
- Check the weather forecast
- Go anyway and have fun but have a plan B
The search continues for a good site. We may be better heading to the coast, Portishead has a number of open spaces that are coastal cliff top and might make a good venue.