I've become interested in launching my own near space project lately. Near space satellites use helium-filled weather balloons to send a small payload up to 30 km. Usually this payload includes a camera and a gps tracking system connected to a cellular modem of some kind. After parachuting back to the surface the phone contacts you and you go pick up the camera.
Here's a picture from a near space satellite a guy built for just $600:
It could be possible to use such a platform for a high-powered rocket, to send a satellite above the 200 km border that marks the beginning of space and the first altitude at which a satellite's orbit can be maintained against atmospheric drag.
How much do you think I could charge to put people's ashes into space?
