The cosmic ray adventure of Cora the Bear

Our company mascot, Cora the Bear, had the unique opportunity to take flight into the atmosphere. In conjunction with Earth to Sky Calculus, Cora Refining’s sponsored donation allowed for all of the necessary supplies to launch radiation sensors into the stratosphere. All of the collected data was recorded for the “Cosmic Rays in the Atmosphere” section of Spaceweather.com.
Cora Bear Shooting into Space

 

So how did this opportunity come into play?
Earth to Sky Calculus is a teen science program, founded in 2010, under the direction of Dr. Tony Phillips. Based in Bishop, California, students in the program conduct weekly experiments in which they release helium balloons into the stratosphere to monitor the effects of cosmic radiation on the Earth’s atmosphere. Attached to these balloons are radiation sensors that record and measure various elements back at headquarters. All of their experiments and necessary supplies are financially sourced through small-business and non-profits donations.

 

Cora Refining recognized the incredible work of Dr. Phillips and his extraordinary students, and elected to sponsor a balloon flight, which included the option to fly a company logo or item into the stratosphere. Enter Cora the Bear. On September 17, 2016 Cora the Bear launched into the stratosphere from Earth to Sky Calculus headquarters in Bishop, California. Take a look at Cora’s adventures from launch to landing.