December 2008 - AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

ARISS special event thanks and suggestion
by andy thomas 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

My greatest thanks for this special ARISS event. It's new challenges encourage me to hone my equipment up to standard (which is arguably the serious point of the thing). My frustration has been that due to work commitments (which I do in my spare time from satellites, hi) I haven't had any time except weekends, and just got my 9k6 tnc adjusted so that it'll properly modulate my rig, and the 9k6 effort has now stopped. But I see that there's a programme gap between the 3rd and 15th of January? So I am sending this to the -bb because others may have their wish list too!! 73 de andy g0SFJ

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Web Audio Ursid Meteor Pings
by Dave Marthouse 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

Is the radar used the one that operates around 216MHZ? Dave Marthouse N2AAM dmart(a)pure.net

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Re: Web Audio Ursid Meteor Pings
by Bob Bruninga 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

Thanks Joanne! I would think that it might also hear the short 1 sec pings of any big satllites (ISS etc) that also went through it unless they have filered those out somehow... Easy to check. Just put a gnd station at the coordinates of kikapoo texas and watch for any ISS or hubble etc passes the instant they pass an azimuth of 91.5 or 271.5 fro m Kikapoo. Bob, WB4APR > Here's something to do while waiting > for the next satellite pass ... > > http://spaceweather.com/ has an audio > feed of the meteor pings from the > Ursid Meteor Shower as they pass through > the Air Force Space Surveillance > Radar in Texas. Note: the Ursid radiant > is circumpolar (always up) over the > radar so the echoes may be heard at any > hour, night or day. I've heard 4 > pings over the past 45 minutes of > listening this morning. > >-- >73 de JoAnne K9JKM >k9jkm(a)amsat.org >Editor, AMSAT News Service >Copy Editor, AMSAT Journal

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Web Audio Ursid Meteor Pings
by JoAnne Maenpaa 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

Here's something to do while waiting for the next satellite pass ... http://spaceweather.com/ has an audio feed of the meteor pings from the Ursid Meteor Shower as they pass through the Air Force Space Surveillance Radar in Texas. Note: the Ursid radiant is circumpolar (always up) over the radar so the echoes may be heard at any hour, night or day. I've heard 4 pings over the past 45 minutes of listening this morning. -- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm(a)amsat.org Editor, AMSAT News Service Copy Editor, AMSAT Journal

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IC910 ctcss - thanks
by andy thomas 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

Thanks to David B and Ib, I now have 67Hz ctcss enambled on the uplink and have found it there using the scan function of my TMD710. There is a whole host of bands and subband combinations when in sat mode and with HRD and in one of them - the critical one! - it was still set to 77Hz. thanks guys andy g0sfj

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Eurpoean IC-910 CTCSS disabled? ISS contact implication!
by andy thomas 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

Hi according to the manual, CTCSS encoding is disabled on all IC-910 s in Europe, Sweden and Italy! I can set it in tone squelch but does that tx it too when in satellite mode? Otherwise it won't be possible for me and other IC910s over here to contact the ISS in the new repeater mode (which I don't think is in operation yet anyway). andy G0SFJ

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aea dsp 2232
by Peter Gibson 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

Hi Does anyone have or know where I can get a copy of Node/Gateway Option Supplement for the dsp 2232 Thanks Pete G7LJA

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ANS-356 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by JoAnne Maenpaa 21 Dec '08

21 Dec '08

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-356 ANS is a free, weekly, news and information service of AMSAT North America, The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor(a)amsat.org In this edition: * AMSAT President's Letter * ARISS 25th Anniversary Adds New Modes * ARISS Discusses L-Band Operating Parameters * Tracking QRM - AO-51 Repeater Pairs Return to Normal Configuration * PCSAT-1 Recovery Partial Success * Satellite Shorts From All Over * Mark Your Calendars - 2009 AMSAT Symposium October 9-10 * Reminder: SKN on OSCAR 2009 SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.01 AMSAT President's Letter AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.01 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.01 Happy Holidays! Best wishes to everyone during this festive time of the year. As I write this, a major snowstorm is pro- viding plenty of 'white stuff' in the Midwest and New England, so I presume this means that we will have a white Christmas here in Massachusetts. While this is certainly a time of economic uncertainty, I also know that our members continue to make a difference for AMSAT. A number of interesting opportunities and events have developed over the past two months for AMSAT that I would like to briefly share with you: 1. ARISS Silver Anniversary. The first amateur radio two-way communication between the Space Shuttle and amateurs on the ground took place on December 3, 1983 when Owen Garriott, W5LFL made his historic flight on STS-9. There are a number of oppor- tunities for amateurs to help celebrate this event and the ARISS International Committee, chaired by AMSAT VP-Human Space Flight, Frank Bauer, KA3HDO have arranged for some special events. Please check ANS and the AMSAT webpage (www.amsat.org) for the latest information and join the fun! 2. AO-16 operations. As expected, performance of this spacecraft is declining as the spacecraft's temperature is dropping due to longer eclipses resulting in less sunlight and a cooler spacecraft. This drop in temperature is causing the satellite's hardware timer to reset until the spacecraft warms up (when there is at least 85% illumination). If you're interested in making two-way contacts using AO-16's unique cross mode, cross band voice repeater, with an uplink on 145.920 FM and downlink on 437.026 MHz reduced carrier AM, now is the time to try it! The satellite is expected to 'go silent' shortly when temperatures stay low enough as to not allow software configuration of the satellite before the hardware timer resets itself again. 3. President's Club. A fundraising appeal letter was mailed this week to all AMSAT members. Please consider donating to the AMSAT President's Club so that we can continue our efforts to maintain amateur radio in space. 4. Near Term Engineering Task Force. I announced at the AMSAT Annual Meeting in Atlanta that a group led by Bill Ress, N6GHZ had been formed to review the 'Rideshare' Proposal developed by Tom Clark, K3IO as well as evaluate AMSAT's ability to develop a modularization strategy to adapt RF packages to various structures. The committee has been diligently meeting every two weeks via tele- conference to discuss future options for AMSAT and to help structure AMSAT's thinking on future spacecraft opportunities. While it is too soon for formal announcements of their findings, it is good to know that we have a formal group actively focused on engineering issues. 5. SuitSat-2. Development work continues to place SuitSat-2 in service sometime in 2009. Several engineering issues have recently surfaced regarding modulation and transmission schemes and the team is evaluating several options regarding how best to resolve the issues. Several individuals have recently joined the engineering team to help overcome these challenges by developing potential alternative solutions. 6. ITAR. I announced at the AMSAT Annual Meeting in Atlanta that AMSAT would actively develop a strategy concerning ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and related export regulations. Our goal is to ensure that AMSAT is in full compliance with ITAR, develop materials to train our satellite builders on ITAR compliance, and to seek ways where we may continue to work with other AMSAT organizations on satel- lite projects. Since the Annual Meeting, Bill Ress, N6GHZ and I have been working with an attorney who specializes in ITAR. We hope to make a formal submission to the State Department regarding ITAR in early 2009. 7. AMSAT Lab. AMSAT is actively seeking a new home for our AMSAT Lab. Unfortunately, due to changes that took place at HISS (Hawk Institute for Space Sciences) in Pocomoke City, MD over the summer, we are forced to remove our equipment and clean room from the current facility. We are in active discussions with several institutions concerning potential relocation, but no decision has been made. If you are in position to provide contacts with a not-for-profit institution that might be inter- ested the hosting the AMSAT Lab, please contact me. 8. AMSAT 40th Anniversary. AMSAT was incorporated in 1969, so this coming year (2009) is our 40th Anniversary! The 2009 AMSAT Symposium will take place the weekend of October 9 in the Washington-Baltimore area. Look for details in the upcoming AMSAT Journal. Please join us that weekend as we celebrate a significant milestone for AMSAT and build the foundation for the next 40 years of AMSAT. As you can see, there are a number of activities that are ongoing within AMSAT. While we are challenged by the impact of current events, we con- tinue to move forward in a number of areas. As always, I appreciate hearing from the AMSAT membership. Should you have any questions or concerns about AMSAT, please don't hesitate to contact me. I will make every effort to respond to e-mails that I receive, but please keep in mind that I travel extensively which may limit my ability to respond quickly. Please know that I read every e-mail that I receive from AMSAT members and that I appreciate every person's willingness and time spent to share their thoughts and suggestions. Seasons Greetings, Barry Baines, WD4ASW President-AMSAT [ANS thanks Barry, WD4ASW for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.02 ARISS 25th Anniversary Adds New Modes AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.02 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.02 ARISS International Chairman and AMSAT-NA V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs Frank Bauer, KA3HDO invites amateur radio operators around the world to join in the ARISS team's 25th anniversary of amateur radio operations from space. Increased activity and new exciting modes of operation from the ARISS amateur radio station aboard the International Space Station are featured in this celebration operating period. To date, the ISS crew has configured the radio to support cross-band repeater operations, they have supported some SSTV downlinks and we have had the opporunity to participate in a special test of 9600 baud packet radio operations on the simplex frequency of 145.825 MHz. This past week featured 1200 baud packet operations on 145.825 MHz to open a dual-hop APRS path in case PCSAT-1 became operational. For the upcoming weeks the following is being planned in the near-term: + December 21-26 - we plan to support the Crossband repeater mode with a twist. Our intent is to configure the radio for 145.99 MHz uplink including PL tone of 67.0 and 437.80 MHz down. This will be performed in low power mode. + December 22 - Expedition 18 Commander Mike Fincke and Flight Engineer Yury Lonchakov plan to perform a spacewalk. As per standard procedure, the ISS ham radio system will be turned off for the EVA. + December 28-January 3 - we plan to reconfigure the Crossband repeater for a special experiment. This will be a test of our L-Band uplink capability, which, to date, has not been proven out. Plan for an uplink of 1269.65 MHz and and downlink on the standard frequency 145.80 MHz using low power. Given the subtan- tial cable losses of the L-band system, we hope some "big guns" are able to penetrate through, keep up with doppler, and make the connection. + And at times, especially during the weekends, you might see some SSTV operations if the crew is available. The ARISS team will provide more updates in the near future. They would like to remind everyone that ISS flight requirements related to EVA and vehicle activity may require the radio to be off for some portion of this schedule. And school contacts and general QSO oppor- tunities by the crew will also preempt this schedule for short periods of time. (But remember that if you hear these, you still qualify for a commemorative certificate). Details of how to receive your ARISS 25th Anniversary Commemorative Certificate can be found at http://www.amsat.org. [ANS thanks Frank, KA3HDO for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.03 ARISS Discusses L-Band Operating Parameters AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.03 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.03 ARISS US Hardware Manager Lou McFadin, W5DID provided a summary of expected parameters for those considering trying to make a contact with the ISS on L-band to VHF crossband repeater experiment planned for December 28 to January 3. Lou reported, "The measured sensitivity of the L band receiver on a D700, as the radio aboard the ISS, is -105dBm for full quieting. The cable loss from the radio to the antenna is 9.3db. The antenna gain is zero db. The polarization is LHCP." Extending the calcuations to cover the entire system path, Lou said, "The path loss at the horizon on L band is -160dB. That means the required EIRP for a full quieting contact at the horizon is 65dBm. The path loss decreases by 15dB at 80 degrees elevation so that means you can get full quieting with 50dBm in that case. To further elaborate if you use a 20dB gain antenna (a small dish), it is estimated that you can complete a QSO with 32 watts at the horizon or 1 watt at 80 degrees elevation." The planned operating frequencies include: Uplink: 1269.650 MHz FM Downlink: 145.800 MHz FM [ANS thanks Lou, W5DID for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.04 Tracking QRM - AO-51 Repeater Pairs Return to Normal Configuration AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.04 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.04 AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew KO4MA reported on behalf of the AO-51 Operations Team, "We are now back to the normal uplink arrangement of 145.920 and 435.300 for normal repeater use. We changed from the QRM mitigation experiment of operating via the 145.880 uplink back to this normal mode to enable low-power repeater QRP operation. The QRP repeater is now operational on 145.880 and 435.150." As a result of the QRM investigation Drew said, "I'm convinced not all of our problems are related to the cordless phones. I heard tonight whistlers, blowing in the mike, and folks giving extended CQs. We are working on finding the general location of the cordless phones, but it takes time. Then we'll work at shutting them down. The AO-51 Operations Team provided results of their QRM investigation on and around the 145.920 uplink. There may be some low level modula- tion on some of the signals in the captured waterfall diagram. It is believed they may be from some of the same long distance phones that were plauging AO-27 and SO-50 a few years ago. Observations indicate the interfering signals are lost about the time the edge of the foot- print crosses the mid Atlantic states. Refer to this page: http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q305/glasbrenner/FO-29QRM-1.jpg [ANS thanks Drew, KO4MA for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.05 PCSAT-1 Recovery Partial Success AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.05 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.05 Bob, WB4APR provided an update on PCSAT-1 recovery status from the U.S. Naval Academy Satellite Laboratory. Bob wrote, "For the first time in 7 years, we were not able to fully recover PCSAT during this full sun period despite the efforts of a number of dedicated volun- teers around the world." PCSAT-1 is only operation when its solar panels are illuminated by sunlight. Full sun periods occur when passes are at sunrise and sunset to earth observers. PCSAT gets sun 24 hours a day then, but only on the side panels due to the orientation of the satellite. Ground station controllers were able to recover PCSAT-1 and the weak solar illumination allowed operation for generally an orbit before the power budget could not support the load. Bob summarized, "Anyway, this is not the last you will hear of PCSAT, but there will probably not be any more several week full sun, full recovery periods as there have been in the past. I really appreciate all the efforts of so many operators. So play packet on the ISS and thanks again for all your efforts!" [ANS thanks Bob, WB4APR for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.06 Satellite Shorts From All Over AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.06 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.06 + The EME DXpedition to Namibia between January 7-16, 2009 plans to include satellite operation via AO-7, FO-29 and AO-51. Their main goal is to activate Namibia on 50, 144, 432 and 1296 MHz EME. The operators will be ZS6WB Hal, ZS6OB Pine, ZS6BUG Dick, ZS6AC Sarel, N7BHC Dave, HB9CRQ Dan. Read more at: http://hb9q.ch/joomla/index.php + John K8YSE says all of the requests for QSL cards for contacts with K8YSE/7 in DM31, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, 18-19 November and DM51, 22 November, Bisbee, Arizona have been put in the mail. + Nader,ST2NH reported an interesting AO-51 QSO with Sarel, S79AC from the Seychelles Islands. Sarel was using an FT-817 and an Arrow antenna. + Please note that the address for ARISS-Europe QSL requests has been updated. The correct address is: F1MOJ - Mr CANDEBAT Christophe, ARISS-Europe QSL Manager, 25th Anniversary Certificate, 19 Chemin des Escoumeilles, 66820 VERNET les Bains, FRANCE. + Jim, ND9M/VQ9JC is operating on a merchant marine ship from the Persian Gulf to Diego Garcia. His gear includes a Kenwood TH-6FA and Arrow-2 to operate on AO-51 and SO-50. He plans to be in Diego Garcia grid (MI62) until April, 2009. + Some of the presentations from Ansoft's Inspiring Engineering workshops covering radio frequency engineering from HF to microwave, EMI, and power systems are available on-line at: http://www.ansoft.com/ie/index.cfm?src=iemailp + AMSAT President Barry Baines' report on the State of AMSAT given at the 2008 AMSAT Symposium in Atlanta is available on-line at: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/pdfs/2008_Annual_Meeting/2008-10-25_WD4ASW_An nual_Meeting.pdf + A video of the September 13, Prairielands Council Scouts ARISS contact has been posted on-line at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsL4OkZb9CQ + Congratulations to Terry G1WPR on his 4000th contact via AO-7. (thanks K3SZH) [ANS thanks everyone for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.07 Mark Your Calendars - 2009 AMSAT Symposium October 9-10 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.07 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.07 The 2009 AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual Meeting will be held on October 9th and 10th. On the 11th and 12th, there will be an ARISS meeting open to the membership. The meetings will be held at the Sheraton Four Points at BWI Airport. 2009 will be the 40th Anni- versary of AMSAT. We hope many of you will be able to come and help us celebrate. AMSAT is also planning an number of activities and displays high- lighting our 40th Anniversary at Dayton this year. The 2009 Dayton Hamvention will be 15-17 May 2009, so mark your calendars and plan on visiting the AMSAT booth and relive 40 years of keeping amateur satellites in space. [ANS thanks Gould, WA4SXM and the 2009 Symposium Committee for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-356.08 Reminder: SKN on OSCAR 2009 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 356.08 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 21, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-356.08 Ray Soifer, W2RS extends the annual cordial invitation to all radio amateurs worldwide to participate in AMSAT's Straight Key Night (SKN) on OSCAR 2009. Participating in SKN on OSCAR 2009 is easy. No rules, no scoring and no need to send in a log. Just operate CW through any OSCAR between 0000 and 2400 UTC on 1 January 2009, using a straight hand key. In keeping with the friendly nature of this event, all participants are encouraged to nominate someone they worked for "Best Fist." Your nominee need not have the best fist of those you heard, just of those you worked. Please send your nomination to w2rs(a)amsat.org. A list of those nominated will appear in ANS and The AMSAT Journal. CU SKN! [ANS thanks Ray Soifer, W2RS for the above information] /EX In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President's Club. Members of the President's Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive additional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT Office. With that do recall that the roundest knight at King Arthur's Round Table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi. 73, This week's ANS Editor, JoAnne Maenpaa, K9JKM K9JKM at amsat dot org

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Re: QRP re deux
by Michael Heim 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

I'd like to weigh in on this topic with my 2 cents worth, being a long time QRP operator on various bands and modes... I think QRP means soething different depending on what kind of operating you do. On HF, its generally 5 watts into a simple antenna, such as a dipole or vertical. HF digital, there isnt much of a distinction (psk31) as many run 5 watts into a dipole vs maybe 20-30 watts into a similar antenna for QRO? I operate VHF and microwave. to me, on 2m SSB tropo, I consider QRP to be 5-10 watts into whatever and however large an array you can muster, as most QRO stations run 50 watts or more into a similar antenna. EME ops typically defines QRP as anything under about 500 watts or so into a single yagi. (no matter how large that single yagi is) Meteor Scatter I've been called QRP running 50 watts into 10 elements. However, on 10 GHz, I run 2 watts into a 18 inch offset fed dish, and I do NOT consider myself QRP. I'm an "average powered station" with that setup. When I ran 200 mW into the same dish, it was questionable even then if I could consider myself QRP. 2 watts = about 2-4KW ERP, 200 mw -= 200-400W ERP. (I havent actually MEASURED the gain, this is calculated ERP) QRP is a relative term. Depending on what kind of operating you do, ERP certainly does take into account whether you're QRP or not. I think in the satellite realm, I would understand QRP to be 5 watts or less into a low gain antenna. Maybe I'm wrong about this, as I'm still a relative newcomer, however This puts everyone on an even keel as far as someone stepping over another to make it fair for everyone. I know there are operators on the main channel that might tweak up the power to get thru on a busy channel. I know, because I have when I started out. I have realised it wasnt right, and now my power stays at 5 watts on the 857. Do i consider myself QRP on AO-51? well, with my homebrew 3 ele/6 ele V/u antenna on a fixed elevation mount, yea, at times I do, when running 5 watts. I actually have LESS antenna gain than someone would have with a handheld yagi because the antenna is hardly ever pointing right at the bird. The QRP channel does provide some interesting experimentation like what Tim, N3TL and others have done, exploring "how low can you go" and still make contact. To me, THAT is the kind of experimentation that seems like a logical purpose for the "QRP" channel. As a side note, hasnt the rule always been to run just enough signal to achieve a downlink of reasonable quality? I remember this from my AO-10 days. Too much power on an SSB bird robs power from everyone. Too much power on an FM bird robs others from getting in. Michael Heim Chief Engineer, Forever Broadcasting New Castle PA WKST WJST WWGY 814-671-0666 ARS KD0AR ----- Original Message ---- From: Sebastian <w4as(a)bellsouth.net> To: AMSAT BB <AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org> Sent: Friday, December 19, 2008 11:10:45 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: QRP re deux I agree 100% with you Jim. If you look at it another way. Standing on relatively flat terrain with 5 watts from an HT on a simplex channel will give you a mile or so on FM. That same 5 watts from the same HT at the Empire State Building observation deck will give you coverage to several miles, if not several states. Either of those two scenarios, I consider to be QRP. 73 de W4AS Sebastian On Dec 19, 2008, at 6:49 PM, Jim Danehy wrote: > the premise that I follow is that QRP in the ham fraternity for > decades prior to AMSAT was 5 watts output from the final stage of > the transmitter . . . any other attempt which hopes to replicate > that simplistic approach is speculation based upon a dynamic that is > flawed from lack of accurate measurements . . . and constantly > changing parameters . . > > HAPPY HOLIDAYS > > Jim W9VNE _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: AO-51 qrp debate
by andy thomas 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

I forgot: YL/G0SFJ/P outside Riga --- On Sat, 20/12/08, andy thomas <andythomasmail(a)yahoo.co.uk> wrote: > From: andy thomas <andythomasmail(a)yahoo.co.uk> > Subject: AO-51 qrp debate > To: "amsat" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Date: Saturday, 20 December, 2008, 8:27 PM > It's hard when you're in the field to uplink on the > main channel with a 5w handheld, an arrow and a following > wind - see my website www.andythomas.eu (and follow the > links) for the evidence in trying. > > I would have opened up more eastern countries but due to > the fm effect was stamped on by siberian stations, etc. > > Would love to uplink in a qrp channel and downlink onto the > main channel so that qro ops could uplink on the main (qro) > uplink and down link onto the same channel as me. > > I don't think qro ops listen to the qrp downlink > channel? > > Maybe we would need some device on the qrp uplink to sit on > abusers. > > all comments gratefully received; and my thanks to the > ao-051 command team who have helped me worldwide!! > > andy G0SFJ: as > EA6/G0SFJ/P > EW/G0SFJ/P > F/G0SFJ/P > G0SFJ/P > LZ/G0SFJ/P > SV8/G0SFJ/P > TA/G0SFJ/P > TK/G0SFJ/P > YO/G0SFJ/P

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AO-51 qrp debate
by andy thomas 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

It's hard when you're in the field to uplink on the main channel with a 5w handheld, an arrow and a following wind - see my website www.andythomas.eu (and follow the links) for the evidence in trying. I would have opened up more eastern countries but due to the fm effect was stamped on by siberian stations, etc. Would love to uplink in a qrp channel and downlink onto the main channel so that qro ops could uplink on the main (qro) uplink and down link onto the same channel as me. I don't think qro ops listen to the qrp downlink channel? Maybe we would need some device on the qrp uplink to sit on abusers. all comments gratefully received; and my thanks to the ao-051 command team who have helped me worldwide!! andy G0SFJ: as EA6/G0SFJ/P EW/G0SFJ/P F/G0SFJ/P G0SFJ/P LZ/G0SFJ/P SV8/G0SFJ/P TA/G0SFJ/P TK/G0SFJ/P YO/G0SFJ/P

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AO-51 QRP...or does anyone actually read the real schedule?
by Andrew Glasbrenner 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

>From http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/echo/CTNews.php: QRP user FM Repeater, V/U (All users restricted to 10 watts or less, omni or handheld antennas) Uplink: 145.880 MHz FM Downlink: 435.150 MHz FM I think the removal of the "graphic" schedule will force people to spend an extra 10 seconds to read what restrictions or intentions are in effect, and this problem will be solved. I'm sorry it's come to this, again, but we cannot sacrifice civility and order on the air for convenience. 73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations

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ERP is not QRP apples and oranges
by Jim Danehy 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

ERP is not QRP . . . . . . I never saw anything in FCC exams about QRP or ERP but it has been a long time for me since I was last examined . . . folks are confusing ERP and QRP . . . 5 watts out QRP driving an amp . . . get real . . . it is 5 watts out of the final stage feeding the antenna . . . the gain of the antenna does not have anything to do with QRP it has to do with ERP . . . one is apples and the other is oranges . . . the original issue arose out of someone feeling that folks using the AO 51 QRP channel were not using QRP . . . well I use 5 watts on the QRP channel but I only have fairly big yagis for satellites . . . If the goal is to have HT users with compromised antennas use the "QRP" channel then drop the QRP designation and ask the users to keep the power to 5 watts out from the final stage of the transmitter and then WHAT ? ? ? 5 watts many can compute but that is it . . . ERP is guess work by most . . . that is my point . . . seems senseless to me but surprising the responses . . . ERP is not QRP different concepts . . . apples and oranges . . . . Jim W9VNE

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QRP re deux
by Jim Danehy 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

Jack KD1PE et al A ham radio antenna installation is not very static (no pun intended) it is rather dynamic ; to wit : improper assembly of a antenna (variation from the instruction), age and mounting losses of the coax from ultra violet rays, water intrusion, the angle of the antenna wave vs. where the satellite is at the moment, use of improper coax connectors, i will keep the list brief . . . to repeat it is a dynamic (constantly changing ) situation not a static (stay put) system . . . when a TV or FM station states its ERP it can do so with more certainty since it uses very sophisticated instrumentation and hardware that is relatively static ( coax with helium etc) . . . commercial antennas that have rigorous specifications installed by professionals etc . . . so for a ham radio QRP set up you can make a SWAG (simple wild a_ _ guess) . . . a db loss from ultra violet, another for water intrusion and still more for bad connectors and you have 2 or 3 db (loss of half your imagined ERP) then find out like I did that M Square sent me elements that did not pass QC (quality control) and I got a simple ; " ah shucks" from my telephone call and confirmation by others on this BB (bulletin board) that indeed they too had received elements that did not conform to spec . . . a hack saw fixed that goof Add to that the db or two loss from the guy in New York State (some university) that told me that he just assembled his M Square antenna by starting with the longest element and progressively assembling the shorter ones to the boom DESPITE admonishment from M Square that there would be 1 or 2 sequences when the progression would require a longer element ( probably to reduce side lobes ) . . OK : so many feet of LMR 400 or RG 213 and what did the manufacture say about db gain ? do the math calculating the feed line loss and multiply that by the gain = simple QRP power . . . OK well what is the mfg's gain . . . advertised , isotropic, vs a dipole . . . read the fine print . . . not many do or even know the difference. . .what if any gain to you give a 1/4 wave ground plane ? ? ? where is its major lobe when the satellite is at 70 degrees of elevation . . . OK let me change my QRP calculation after checking the printout of the ground plane's loss . . . the premise that I follow is that QRP in the ham fraternity for decades prior to AMSAT was 5 watts output from the final stage of the transmitter . . . any other attempt which hopes to replicate that simplistic approach is speculation based upon a dynamic that is flawed from lack of accurate measurements . . . and constantly changing parameters . . HAPPY HOLIDAYS Jim W9VNE

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Re: ERP is not QRP apples and oranges
by Jim Danehy 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

AMSAT started using the term QRP when they probably should have used ERP or more accurately "estimated" ERP . . . after all the goal is to allow those with lesser powered rigs (HT) to have a channel on AO 51 where they could be more competitive with restricted power . . . maybe a better interpretation of ERP should be ESTIMATED RESTRICTIVE POWER rather than EFFECTIVE RADIATED POWER which in amateur radio is more speculative than accurate as I have attempted to point out in prior posts . . . unfortunately when I run 5 watts output on AO51 "QRP" channel I only have one set of satellite antennas to use . . .I could . . .( might be interesting ) use my Bird 25 watt 2 meter slug . . . on the other side of the attenuator (which I built years ago 10 db) so I could use 1/2 watt Uplink to my 10 db antenna or 50 watts estimated ERP . . .before I do that I think I will attempt my last ham goal, EME . . . Jim W9VNE ----- Original Message ----- From: Jim Danehy To: n3tl(a)bellsouth.net Sent: Friday, December 19, 2008 9:40 PM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] ERP is not QRP apples and oranges AMSAT started using the term QRP when they probably should have used ERP or more accurately "estimated" ERP . . . after all the goal is to allow those with lesser powered rigs (HT) to have a channel on AO 51 where they could be more competitive with restricted power . . . maybe a better interpretation of ERP should be ESTIMATED RESTRICTIVE POWER rather than EFFECTIVE RADIATED POWER which in amateur radio is more speculative than accurate as I have attempted to point out in prior posts . . . unfortunately when I run 5 watts output on AO51 "QRP" channel I only have one set of satellite antennas to use . . .I could . . .( might be interesting ) use my Bird 25 watt 2 meter slug . . . on the other side of the attenuator (which I built years ago 10 db) so I could use 1/2 watt Uplink to my 10 db antenna or 50 watts estimated ERP . . .before I do that I think I will attempt my last ham goal, EME . . . Jim W9VNE ----- Original Message ----- From: n3tl(a)bellsouth.net To: Jim Danehy ; amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Friday, December 19, 2008 8:17 PM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] ERP is not QRP apples and oranges Amen, brother. Something occurred to me earlier today in thinking about this ongoing discussion that includes a few different threads. Given all the information I can find about the nominal transmitter powers of the satellites I have worked [AO-7, AO-16, AO-27 (currently inactive), AO-51, FO-29, SO-50 and VO-52], at least half of every satellite contact I've made has been QRP - the half coming this way from space. Most of mine - but not all - have been 2-way QRP. 73, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all, Tim - N3TL -------------- Original message from "Jim Danehy" <jdanehy(a)cinci.rr.com>: -------------- ERP is not QRP . . . . . . I never saw anything in FCC exams about QRP or > ERP but it has been a long time for me since I was last examined . . . > folks are confusing ERP and QRP . . . 5 watts out QRP driving an amp . . . get real . . . it is 5 watts out of the final stage feeding the antenna . . . the gain of the antenna does not have anything to do with QRP it has to do with ERP . . . one is apples and the other is oranges . . . the original issue arose out of someone feeling that folks using the AO 51 QRP channel were not using QRP . . . well I use 5 watts on the QRP channel but I only have fairly big yagis for satellites . . . If the goal is to have HT users with compromised antennas use the "QRP" channel then drop the QRP designation and ask the users to keep the power to 5 watts out from the final stage of the transmitter and then WHAT ? ? ? 5 watts many can compute but that is it . . . ERP is guess work by most . . > . that is my point . . . seems senseless to me but surprising the responses . . > . ERP is not QRP different concepts . . . apples and oranges . . . . > > Jim W9VNE > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Looking for TNC
by D. Mynatt 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

Hi all- I'm looking for TNC and have heard that an MFJ unit is very good. If someone has a TNC for sale, I'd like to see if we could work something out for after the 1st of JAN 2009. Please contact me off-line if you wish. Thanks you, Dave Mynatt Program Director ======================== http://sciencecenter.no-ip.org SID ID: S-0258 APRS Tier II Server @ pueblo.aprs2.net:14501 LAT: 38'16.278" N LON: -104'40.537" W Alt: 1460m DM78qd // KA0SWT

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QRP ????
by Jack K. 20 Dec '08

20 Dec '08

I have been Reading the various comments regarding what is or is not QRP... The various contests have all taken the easy way out - that is with a transmitter output power level - but to my way of thinking it is only the easy way out as the antenna, the coax, and the ability to direct or condense the signal are equally - if not more so - of importance. since the FCC has no problem with specifying ERP (Effective Radiated Power as compared to a specified antenna) for some modes/bands, I see no reason why that would not be the criteria for determining what is and what is not QRP... After all the real goal as I understand it is to level the playing field and the ERP rule would certainly do that. So if you want to QRP (using the 5 watts criteria), then do so, but don't brag to me when your ERP is really 125 watts because of your antennas gain and your ability to place your signal on target and keep it there... It would seem to me that is not in the spirit of the game either... DE Jack - KD1PE

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S band feed on ebay
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

I have a "S" band feed on ebay for those interested http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=110328207714&ssPage… 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it"

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SatPC32 track error help
by Leonard Revelle 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

I have had this happen before and cannot remember how I fixed it. Tried to track ISS today and the track is off. Both the computer and SatPC32 show the correct time and date. Latest Keps have been downloaded. I am hearing ISS packets but the computer says it is over the southern-Indian Ocean. Any sugggestions (I'll write 'em in bold letters on the wall for next senior moment!)? Len Revelle N9IJ n9ij(a)comcast.net

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what is QRP
by Jim Danehy 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

QRP is a measure of the transmitter output . . . on a practical basis how would an operator accurately measure the ERP if you were using ERP (effective radiated power) as a QRP benchmark . . . you would need instrumentation to measure the feedline losses and sophisticated instrumentation to measure the gain of an antenna . . . most of that type of instrumentation is beyond the average amateur radio operator . . . . but most do have access or use of a watt meter . . . . thus the simple way of calculating QRP . . . ERP is used primarily in satellite operations because it affects the transponders (not FM repeaters) I have had several private emails in response to my comments about QRP . . . I have seen folks operate the CQ WW CW contest in the QRP category with stacked beams or monoband beams . . . . I have never seen a definition of QRP that went into ERP . . . . they just use the transmitter output with all of the ambiguities that brings . . . have fun Jim W9VNE

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AO7 G1WPR
by k3szh＠netzero.net 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

Terry Congratulation on the fine achievement on 4000 plus oso's on AO7. It's been a pleasure to be your old friend over the many many years on AO7. It has been fun and I hope we can continue our almost daily qso's. Even Nancy said Congratulation. I bet Kathy will trow a party hi hi. 73 Joe Amsat 3788 ____________________________________________________________ Click for huge discounts on pet food and supplies - up to 70% off http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2241/fc/PnY6rx9sj2kUMfR9il2XmUuA5CqH…

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ISS Packet 11.00utc UK Europe
by David Barber 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

Back to normal this time. Lots of activity. No VHF comms. David G8OQW

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ISS Pass 09.25 UK Europe
by David Barber 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

1200bps on but not accessible again this pass. Beacon only. Russian comms active on 143.625MHz. D700 packet could be heard in the background. David G8OQW

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ISS Packet 07.50utc UK Europe Pass
by David Barber 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

Strong signal as usual from ISS again this morning during the 07.50utc UK pass. 1200bps on 145.825MHz. But unable to get a single packet through and no stations heard, just the ISS beacon. Tried hitting it with a full 100w but nothing. Something up there has changed. Has the attitude of the station been changed / boosted since 17 December? David G8OQW

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Kantronics Data engine batt/backup
by Peter Gibson 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

HI to all who looked at this question On some data engines CR2430 is used on the earlier units They switched to the smaller CR2032 later Regards to all Pete G7LJA

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Majel Barrett 1932-2008
by laura halliday 19 Dec '08

19 Dec '08

I just read in the news that Majel "Number One"/"Christine Chapel"/ "Lwaxana Troi"/"Computer Voice" Barrett-Roddenberry died today. She will be missed. I was a kid in the 1960s and was inspired by a number of things to the technical career I have today. Star Trek was one of those inspirations... Laura Halliday VE7LDH "Que les nuages soient notre Grid: CN89mg pied a terre..." ICBM: 49 16.05 N 122 56.92 W - Hospital/Shafte _________________________________________________________________

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ao-7 next pass
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 18 Dec '08

18 Dec '08

Hello The next pass at 2137Z of AO-7 we will have a mutual window from Seattle WA. (CN87) to northern UK, if you would like to try and "stretch " the footprint I will be 145.958. Also OH, LZ, and SM. Mika is there often. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it"

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ISS Packet Today
by David Barber 18 Dec '08

18 Dec '08

UK / Europe Passes 08.58utc & 10.33utc 1200bps downlink on (145.825) but it doesn't seem to be listening today! David G8OQW

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FO-29 Brazil-Florida
by Luciano G Nachif 18 Dec '08

18 Dec '08

I was on FO-29 at 03:38 UTC, 18 Dec 08, orbit # 60,927, around 435.850 calling CQ but heard no SSB stations at all. There are some windows between GG29qn and Florida, USA. I will be waiting on those who would like to work that grid for the next few days time. Shoot me an email if you want try it. 73, Luciano PT9KK nachif(a)terra.com.br Campo Grande, MS GG29qn Brazil

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Kantronics data engine bat/backup
by Peter Gibson 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Charlie, N5TD Thank you for your most constructed reply it was most helpful not like some others 73's Pete G7LJA

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NEW DXPEDITION on Namibia
by Dimitrios Pallis 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Hello Oms i would like to inform you for a new DXpedition on NamibiaDates of operation will be from moonrise on 7th to moonset on 16th January 2009. QTH will be in Luderitz Namibia, grid locator JG73NI. Their main target is to activate Namibia on 50, 144, 432 and 1296 MHz EME. At the same time they will be QRV for transatlantic Tropo on 144 and 432 and on satellite (AO-7, FO-29 and AO-51). The operators will be ZS6WB Hal, ZS6OB Pine, ZS6BUG Dick, ZS6AC Sarel, N7BHC Dave, HB9CRQ Dan. A good oportunity for a New One for a lot of us Read more:http://hb9q.ch/joomla/index.php Dimitrios Pallis (JIMMY)73 de SW1JGWwww.sw1jgw.com _________________________________________________________________ Send e-mail faster without improving your typing skills. http://windowslive.com/Explore/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_hotmail_acq_speed_…

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IC-910H data port receiving
by Peter 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Happy Holidays, I am trying to receive packet from my data port to the audio in of the computer, unfortunately I have not been successful. I have a 6 pin mini din connector with bare wires at one end, I buzzed out the data out, ground is the shell, and made the connection to the stereo plug, no sound. I'm missing something, any help from someone with the Icom would be appreciated. 73, Pete, WB2OQQ

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IC-910H data port receiving, fixed
by Peter 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Hello, Once again this is a BB with a high electronics IQ! I want to thank all who responded, the problem was related to the receiving software that was looking at the wrong sound card, thank you and have a very Healthy and Happy Holiday Season! 73, Pete, WB2OQQ

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data engine
by Peter Gibson 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Help Please I have a Kantronics data engine 19k2/9k6 The battery was missing from the battery back. Anyone know what type it is 73's Peter G7LJA

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is it really QRP making the difference
by Jim Danehy 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

After 4 months of working the satellites I have the following observation . . . . I have QSLed close to 300 stations with great response (thanks for confirming close to 200 Grid Squares) . . . most but not all of those QSOs were North American stations . . . . many (but not all) QSLs indicate the type of antenna that was used . . . my statistics show that about 2 out of 3 are using some compromise antenna . . . definition of compromise antenna : Elk, Arrow, Eggbeater, Vertical. They are compromised compared to a Yagi or Helix antenna. Some of the compromised antennas are further impaired by being used indoors. I have often worked K9CIS on either FO 29 or AO 7 when Frank was running milliwatts and I had an armchair copy on CW. He was not running compromised antennas. FM mode is the mode of choice for most. Those using FM must realize that there is a difference on how FM receivers work. The strongest signal captures the discriminator and comes out on top compared to a competing signal. That does not occur on SSB or CW. Frank, K9CIS and Mike, K9QHO further assisted me when I got on in August with my use of a dual polarity yagi. . .this type of antenna mitigates the constantly changing polarity heard by those using linear (vertical or horizontal) polarity. . . Many of those compromised antenna users also use QRP power levels ( 5 watts or less). . . . when I got back into satellite operating from a 30 year hiatus, I noted the advertising for the Arrow and its use with an HT (QRP) rig. That was certainly novel and interesting from my 56 years of operating sometimes with stacked yagis on HF and VHF. . . My receiving antenna for satellites has 14 db of gain and dual polarity . . . well 13 db of gain is equivalent to a multiplier factor of 10 for 10 db and double that to 20 for the extra 3 db. A friend of mine has used the Elk and the Arrow. He could not carry on a cross town QSO on 435 mhz using the Elk so he sent it back. I often make QSOs into France, UK, Netherlands and Belgium on AO 7 using my antennas at an elevation of 1 or 2 degrees. I can hear very well with these antennas. Something that a compromised antenna can not do. [ transponder satellites] AO7 , FO29, VO52. . . turn on a preamp and it gets even better for the transponder operator . . . you do not use a preamp on an HT . . . With 5 watts (QRP) on FM and a 10 db transmitting antenna my ERP is 50 watts . . . . and an HT @ 2 or 3 maybe 5 watts to a compromised antenna maybe is lucky to get 6 db gain (a factor of 4) . . . for an ERP of 8 to 10 watts and linear polarity (another compromise) which can reduce the ERP during a pass by a factor of 3 db (half) . . . cutting the HT's operator's power to 4 or 5 watts . . . compare that to my 50 watts ERP ( 5 watt station ) with no compromise antennas used both on FM and Transponder satellites to the HT operator . . you will see that it is not QRP levels but antenna efficiency and effectiveness that is the BIG difference . . . QRP operating refers to the power not to the antennas being used . . . I think folks need to reflect on what QRP operating is compared to QRP and compromised antennas . . . Using an HT is OK but do not expect it to compare to the same 5 watt power level and a set of yagis . . . 5 watts is still 5 watts for either station . . . the difference is the antennas. . . . . yes it is novel and good PR to see HT users use the satellites . . . . . reality is something else . . . A pair of yagis with dual polarity (not linear polarity) and ACCURATE TRACKING is still another advantage that is compromised by the hand held antenna . . . I have seen operators wave the antenna and twist it around . . . well it works . . . the yagi operator using elevation and azimuth rotors can set his antennas to the correct positions within a couple of degrees . . . . that is another advantage over a compromised antenna . . . . yes there is a lot of passion by the Davids out there who want to outdo the Goliaths . . . that is human nature . . . if both are running 5 watts ; the increased gain , tracking and superior polarity all add up to grabbing the FM receiver in the satellite and shutting out the less advantaged station running the same power but with inferior antennas . . .it is the antennas not the 5 watt QRP that makes the difference . . . Probably 20 % of the FM users have the superior antennas compared to those with compromised antennas . . . . so often the compromised antenna user feels good and being able to compete (against other compromised antenna users) for QSOs . . . in the situations where they run into a user who does not have a compromised antennas they should understand the situation for what it is . . . it is not QRP against non QRP it can be the antenna hearing is another issue . . . i call stations that I want to add to my Grid Square or country total like every one else . . . others do not hear the DX stations i call . . .i can get multiple stations replying to my call . . . others get upset . . . . remember what compromise means = PATIENCE and UNDERSTANDING. . . . thanks for reading , I hope this helps some understand the reality of the situation . . . Jim W9VNE

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Re: Programming language recommendation?
by Alan P. Biddle 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Several weeks back, I asked for some recommendations on a programming language. I came across this "helpful" article recently: http://www.aegisub.net/2008/12/if-programming-languages-were-religions.html Mostly humorous, with a bit of fortune cookie profundity, and it tracks with many of the recommendations and accompanying comments. Really OT, but enjoy anyway! Alan WA4SCA

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KX4Y via email
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Some of you may have recently received an email notification from KX4Y regarding the upcoming ARISS contact. I received this with great joy, as Dieter has recently been out of circulation with some medical issues, and this tells me that he is at least connecting to the keyboard some. I send this for those who know Dieter, but may not be on that email list, in case they might wish to send him some holiday greetings by email... Thanks Dieter for everything you do !!! 73 for now /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> <- http://www.linkedin.com/in/alansieg * My 'Day Job' ->

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Re: IC-910H data port receiving
by nader omer 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

HI, Peter The draw of the data socket on Icom 910 manual is for the female socket (on the radio) . The male socket is a mirror of this draw check up this first.!! Pins are:- Pin 4 for 9k6 Pin 5 for 1k2 Pin 2 grounds Pin 1 data in Pin 3 PTT Ground connect to the base of the audio plug and data out to the tip of the plug. On the back of the radio there were two mini sockets one for main band and other for sub make sure you select the right one. The ACC pins configuration can be programmed through setup mode. Make sure the correct baud selected. Checkup and test your PC soundcard input and out put. I hope this will help! seasons greating. Nader , st2nh www.st2nh.com

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AO-7 historic orbit approaching
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

Hey everyone, Based on the AO-7 Log Web page, AO-7 is about to begin its 56,000th orbit! The next pass over the USA, which begins for me in Northeast Georgia at roughly 01:12 UTC (8:12 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) will be part of that orbit. I hope somebody might come up and hear a CW signal around 29.445 (the Grand Old Girl is in Mode A). I think it would be awesome to have a contact on orbit 56k! 73 to all, Tim - N3TL

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Re: very light traffic on AO-51 this morning
by David 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

I wonder just how the QRP repeater is regulated so to speak. I gave up on the regular repeater as 5w in is just a waste of time but this evenings pass on the QRP repeater was just as bad with stations clearly running well in excess of QRP levels. Thankfully the later pass of SO-50 was far better for QRP stations! Sent from my iPod On Dec 16, 2008, at 22:20, "Tim Goodrich" <tim(a)timgoodrich.net> wrote: I agree. It is quite frustrating to be stonewalled by high power stations for an entire pass when you're only running 5 watts. Tim KC2DDS -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@amsat.org] On Behalf Of amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org Sent: Tuesday, December 16, 2008 12:00 PM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 3, Issue 655 Send AMSAT-BB mailing list submissions to amsat-bb(a)amsat.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org You can reach the person managing the list at amsat-bb-owner(a)amsat.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-BB digest..." _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: very light traffic on AO-51 this morning
by Tim Goodrich 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

I agree. It is quite frustrating to be stonewalled by high power stations for an entire pass when you're only running 5 watts. Tim KC2DDS -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@amsat.org] On Behalf Of amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org Sent: Tuesday, December 16, 2008 12:00 PM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 3, Issue 655 Send AMSAT-BB mailing list submissions to amsat-bb(a)amsat.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org You can reach the person managing the list at amsat-bb-owner(a)amsat.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-BB digest..."

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AO7
by k3szh＠netzero.net 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

AO7 at 01:18 utc was in mode "B" , what a surprise from the earlier pass that was in mode "A". I believe it will stay in mode "B" for some time. 73 Joe Amsat 3788 ____________________________________________________________ Click for free info on getting an MBA, $200K/ year potential. http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2241/fc/PnY6rx8PuNxfBmhVbygLqKDNdeIq…

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Here's the latest Newbie Goof
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

You know, it never occurred to me to switch to Mode B and see whether AO-7 had switched ... which she had. So ... I listened to static crashes on 29.445 for 20 minutes. Nice... Congrats to K3SZH, K8DID, W5VG, K9CIS and N0SWE. They made it in on No. 156K! Tim - N3TL

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DM31 and DM51 QSL card status
by John Papay 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

All of the requests for QSL cards for contacts with K8YSE/7 in DM31, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, 18-19 November and DM51, 22 November, Bisbee, Arizona were put in the mail today. About 50 different stations were worked from DM31 and 20 were worked from DM51. Organ Pipe was a real experience from both a radio standpoint as well as hiking through this amazing park. The campground was nearly empty; we had no one in view from our campsite. Every visible AO51 and SO50 pass was worked and only one pass netted zero contacts due to the extraordinary amount of east coast activity. All qso's were made from the campground. DM51 was a night time pass on AO51. The location was scouted out in the afternoon when you could see where the mountains were. Then we drove back to the same gps coordinates later that day when it was pitch dark. This was the only way to insure that we would have a low horizon for the pass. QSL cards for DM31 were printed from a photo taken by my XYL, W8ZJB. The DM51 cards are photos with labels printed for me by my son, KD8CAO. If you need a card for either grid, please send an SASE to my qrz.com address. If you're looking for a little excitement, try doing a portable operation from a relatively inactive grid. There are plenty out there that are not that far from active stations. Take a photo, have them printed at your favorite discount drug store, cut them down to 3-1/2" x 5-1/2", put a label on them and confirm a new grid for those that are paying attention. And if you live in a rare grid, please try to get on the birds now and then. We all need something new to work to make it interesting. A special thank you to WD9EWK, N5AFV, N5ZNL, KD8CAO, ND9M, VO1ONE (N8TLV) and all of the others who have made the effort to operate from grids away from their home QTH. They are the dxpeditioners of our satellite world and do all the work while we sit comfortably in our ham shacks. 73, John K8YSE k8yse(a)amsat.org

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HEO launch possible???
by Luc Leblanc 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Hi satellite fans Just came out of a bad dream tonight after reading this Ariane 5 announcement? "The 186th Ariane mission will launch two communications satellites, primarily intended for direct TV broadcast services and data networks: HOT BIRDTM 9 and W2M, both for Eutelsat. This will be the 42nd Ariane 5 launch. The launcher will be carrying a total payload of 9,220 kg, including 8,340 kg for the two satellites, which will be released separately into their targeted orbits." Just note The 9220Kg payload and theses Ariane 5 figures LEO Payload* (28.5 deg., 550 km) GTO Payload* (7 deg. inclination) 39,600 lb 18,000 kg (single / dual manifest) 15,000 lb / 13,160 lb 6,800 kg / 5,970 kg Configuration Core + 2 SRB + Aestus Second Stage Launch Mass 1,570,000 lb 710,000 kg Estimated Launch Price US $120 M * Performance provided by Arianespace. There is room for a 150kg amateur HEO satellite and at an US$169 per kilo a 150Kg mass should cost US $25350!!! I'm not too quick in calculus but how the +_ millions USD P3E and EAGLE launch cost came from? integration work? shipping and handling? I know that at the top of a Ponzi pyramid numbers added very fast but even with the worst case scenario there is something who's not added up correctly here? The killing question is: Is the actual P3E and EAGLE launch issues are really a financial matter? and those very high HEO launch cost estimates are hiding something else? If you want to see where i got theses figures go to: http://www.spaceandtech.com/spacedata/elvs/ariane5_specs.shtml "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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Cute 1.7 APD-II Packet
by Henk, PA3GUO 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

December 16, 2008 Received (heared) several packets on 437.475 MHz Decoded (only) one 1200 baud FM packet: 20:04:58 !JQ1YTC>JQ1YCZ:0 Henk, PA3GUO

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Seychelles on sat (S79AC-Sarel)
by nader omer 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Hi, Sarel, S79AC was on AO-51 this Nigth with a very good signal from the Seychelles .I worked him with a good 5/5 reports ,sat was AO-51 He is using an FT-817 and an Arrow. Thanks Sarel for NEW ONE And many thanks to OM Hal Lund ZS6WB for info and emails. 73 ,Nader,st2nh www.st2nh.com

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New Row for all oscar satellites at (Satellite Status WebPage) , RE:PO-63 stataus?
by nader omer 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

HI, It wll be more easy to monitor all satellites with OSCAR number If David Carr, KD5QGR and Bob Bruninga, WB4APR add row to all new satellites in their wounderfull webpage http://oscar.dcarr.org/index.php >Hi all, > Does anyone know the status of Peheunsat-1 (PO-63)? The Weekly Satellite >Report only states that it is in orbit and I could not find it listed on any of >the AMSAT sat status pages. I tried listening to the listed frequency >(145.825mhz FM) and heard nothing. > I also can find no website for it either.Thanks in advance. >73 de Doug KA8QCU Doug I have been monitoring PO-63 last two weeks - but Nill copy These links may help with PO-63! http://www.dk3wn.info/sat/afu/sat_pehuen.shtml http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/pehuenst.htm 73,Nader,st2nh www.st2nh.com

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AO16 alive and kicking at 1944 UTC 16 DEC
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Thanks to N8MH and W4UPD for the QSO's on old faithful. Max elevation was 20 degrees, but I had no issues with my Arrow and FT817. Audio was extremely clear. Sure wish we could clone this bird. Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

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PO-63 Status?
by Chris Bloy 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Hi Doug, I believe that this sat has run its mission and was only powered by Batteries with no solar panels.. This is attached to a bigger satelite I believe? Thanks, Chris - M0DQO

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