The last update told the story of the TEMPO balloon project and how The Mars Society approved its implementation.  At that point, the project was only described in a broad sense, and didn't involve details.

Last night, those details were discussed:  should the project be bare-bones or more involved?  What's the proper balance between images taken and data gathered?  How much of the equipment should we build on our own, how much should we purchase off-the-shelf, and how much should be CubeSat based?

After hitting many of these topics in the talk, a budget was accepted that will provide live telemetry was well as stored-on-board imagery and movies for use after recovery of the craft.  Artificial gravity generated on board will be transmitted to the ground, as well as GPS coordinates of the balloon and dropped TEMPO craft.  While logistics need to be worked out, it is likely that interested Mars Society members will be able to follow the mission live via webcam or balloon tracking websites.

Ordering of and testing on components will begin immediately, as well as design of the gondola 'mothership' and drop craft.  The plan is to fly in the fall from the Denver area, though components will be available for viewing at The Mars Society convention in Washington DC from July 30-Aug 2.  Hope to see you there!