Altitude Hold Balloon Controller Kit with Arduino Uno + BMP280
Master Altitude Hold with Arduino Uno & BMP280 Balloon Controller Kit—Precision Hover for Space Simulation
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Designed for engineering students and atmospheric science enthusiasts, this kit lets you build a helium balloon rig that autonomously maintains a target altitude by metering helium release through a servo-actuated valve. Using barometric pressure from the BMP280 sensor, the Arduino runs a control algorithm to counter atmospheric buoyancy shifts—ideal for near-space photography, atmospheric profiling, or Smart India Hackathon projects where autonomous flight is critical. The included OLED and microSD module display live altitude and log pressure, temperature, and valve duty cycle data for post-flight analysis.
What You'll Build
You will assemble a compact flight controller that reads BMP280 pressure readings every second, computes altitude error relative to a setpoint, and commands two SG90 servos: one to pinch or release a helium line, the other to jettison ballast if needed. The 0.96" OLED shows real-time altitude, while the DS3231 RTC timestamps every log entry on the microSD card, giving you a complete atmospheric profile of the flight.
What You'll Learn
- Implementing altitude hold PID control with pressure sensor feedback
- Interfacing I2C devices (BMP280, OLED, RTC) and SPI (microSD) with Arduino
- Designing a failsafe servo actuator for helium valve control
- Data logging and post-flight analysis using timestamped CSV files
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | x1 |
| BMP280 | x1 |
| SG90 Servo | x2 |
| 0.96in OLED | x1 |
| DS3231 RTC | x1 |
| MicroSD Module | x1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | x5 |
| 100nF Caps | x10 |
| 3.7V LiPo 500mAh | x1 |
| TP4056 Module | x1 |
| PCB Prototype Board | x2 |
| Soldering Iron | x1 |
| Solder Wire | x1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part (voltage levels, libraries) | Pre-tested as a system: BMP280 I2C pull-ups matched, servo power rail stable |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project, including PID tuning for this valve mechanism |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging sensor offsets and servo chatter | Hours, with step-by-step guidance and pre-calibrated baseline code |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Ideal for B.Tech ECE/EEE students undertaking final-year projects or Smart India Hackathon entries involving autonomous systems. ATL Tinkering Labs with advanced mentors can guide Class 12 students through the physics of buoyancy and control theory. Makers at IIT, NIT, VIT, BITS, and space clubs will find the ready-to-fly controller a time-saver for high-altitude balloon missions.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code on the box to access the Compoden AI companion, pre-loaded with this kit's schematic, wiring guide, and troubleshooting. For deeper issues, WhatsApp our Bengaluru engineers.
Does this kit include the helium balloon and gas?
No, the kit supplies the electronic controller and valve mechanism only. You will need to source a weather balloon and helium cylinder locally. The AI companion includes a checklist for safe balloon inflation and tethering.
Can I modify the code for a flight data recorder instead of altitude hold?
Absolutely. The microSD and RTC make it easy to repurpose the board as a pure altitude logger. Our AI companion provides commented code and alternate sketches for both use cases.
What skill level is required for soldering the PCB?
This is an advanced kit; you’ll need prior soldering experience to assemble the prototype boards. We include a soldering iron and lead-free solder, and the AI companion’s video walkthrough covers all solder points.
BMP280 pressure feedback controls servo valve releasing helium to maintain constant altitude hover.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
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Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items