I just turned in a grant at the INL for $500. If approved I would use it to defray the cost of the bus cost for the launch. 

The cut down system circuit design is complete. I have a breadboard version that works consistently. The controller is a Basic Stamp 2. A flashing yellow led indicates the unit is powered. A flashing green led indicates the NICR wire is in place. A pot is then used to adjust the countdown timing with an 7 segment led to indicate countdown time. Once a button is pushed the unit is armed and both leds stop blinking and a red led starts blinking. The controller sends a signal to a NPN transistor which then uses a high current source to trigger a mechanical relay. The relay turns on the circuit that has the NICR wire. The wire heats up and cuts through the nylon rope. 

Presentations were today and the students did an outstanding job. Presentations were given in front of the sister class at UI. This class includes engineering, physics, and science university students. A very daunting crowd for high school seniors. The high school student presentations were well put together and the students presented like professionals. I was very proud of their efforts.