An emergency hand brake designed for automobiles allows the scientists to stop and lock the winch at desired heights. (sciencemag.org)
Also, if like me you have lost your tripod, set up a chair, then pile boxes, books and other flat things on top until you reach desired height, then sit the camera on top of all that to take the photo, hehe! (blog.folksy.com)
3 rods allows you to adjust to desired height up to 45» high UL - listed. (pbteen.com)