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

From CO8LY in AO-51
by Eduardo Somoano C 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Dears Freind Hams AO-51 This week the AO-51 UP TX 145.920 or 145.880 ???, Im not sure what frecuency is most better . I receive okey in 435.300 DOWN I wait ur answer. Gook luck. 73 Eduardo. CO8LY

4 3

PO-63 Status?
by Doug Kuitula 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

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

1 0

SO-50, YES!
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Tonight, I worked into SO-50 for the first time. All it took was some patience and listening. My FT817 pair and Arrow antenna worked just fine. I did notice that I could hardly hear anything at the beginning of the pass (330 AZ), but heard the signals quite loudly at the end (180 AZ). The elevation went as high as 70 degrees, and I had good copy from 70 degrees at peak all the way down on the descent. I presume this was due to the rotation of the satellite, which explains why I did not hear anything on the ascent. Also, all I heard was courteous and professional behavior during the pass. I was impressed, there was no "gaggle" of rudeness. Kudos to W8KHP and AA5PK who provided me with new grid squares and copied my 5 watts. To the other FB ops who called but I could not copy, my apologies. I will catch you on a future pass. Thanks to all. This is the BEST hobby, and AMSAT has added a whole new level of excitement for me! Now, the one remaining bird I have not worked is DO-64... Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

1 0

FS: DB6NT MKU 232 A2 preamp
by Christopher Best 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

I have a DB6NT preamp that I picked up a few years ago for use with AO-40 while I was in college. Right now I do not have the time or equipment to work AO-51. It is a MKU 232 A2 Super Low Noise 2.4GHz HEMT Preamplifier with 1268MHz Notch Filter. Measured from the factory with a noise figure of 0.68dB and 40dB gain. Would like to see someone get some use out of it. $100 + sh. 73, Christopher, KB3DXR

1 0

For Sale: Icom 12at, 1.2 GHz HT
by K & R Yoksh 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Hi, I'm selling my like-new Icom 12at, 1.2 GHz handie-talkie. It covers 1260-1300 MHz FM and is outputs up to 1w. It does PL, RIT, etc and features 10 memory channels. It comes with the original Icom battery pack. I'm not sure what these are selling for, so please email me with an offer. Paypal only. I will ship next business day. I will package well and ship insured to your location in the continental USA. Please contact me off list at k0kn at amsat dot org. Thanks. 73, Kyle K0KN

1 0

AO-51 notes and observations
by Andrew Glasbrenner 16 Dec '08

16 Dec '08

Just a few notes on AO-51 to share with the group. We are now back to the "normal" uplink arrangement. 145.920 and 435.300 for normal repeater use, and 145.880 and 435.150 for QRP use ONLY. While switching between the two pairs tonight I heard folks calling stations that were operating on the other repeater. Sorry for the confusion by switching back so fast to the 145.920 uplink, but we had to do it to make the QRP channel available. 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. All of these are totally unnecessary, but to be expected out of some portion of the newbies just getting their feet wet on satellites. I caught some callsigns of some of the ops exhibiting shall we say a lack of "finesse" when it comes to those types of behavior, and will be dropping them a friendly email pointing them to some suggestions. I encourage other regulars to do the same, with a gentle hand. Ben Jackson's guide is a good reference, available at http://www.innismir.net/etc/CourteousAO51_v1.1.pdf . The biggest thing is to not get wound up too tight about the whole thing. To quote my favorite SciFi show, "This has all happened before, and will all happen again". Those that knew and loved UO-14 know what I mean. If it really gets your goat, c'mon up to AO-7, FO-29, and VO-52. We need more SSB/CW ops to use these birds, and it's easy as pie. Got an 817 or other capable rig with 2m and 70cm? Add an arrow, other small beams, or good omnis preferably with preamps, and a PC with SatPC32, and start making QSOs. We are working on finding the general location of the cordless phones, but it takes time. Today I mailed out DVDs with SDR recordings of FO-29's transponder and the QRM to some folks that will treat it as an Easter egg hunt and find the general location of these troublemaker phones from their Doppler curves, and then we'll work at shutting them down. 73, and thanks for the support, Drew, KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations

1 0

Re: ??4MB this morning on FO-29
by Wayne Estes 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Luciano PT9KK wrote: Out of curiosity, today at 15:22 UTC I heard on FO-29 ??4MB on orbit 60,879 around 435,841MHz. ??4MB signal was really booming in Brazil. I wonder who would be this ??4MB. It was great to hear an American stations on satellite after so long... Wayne W9AE replies: My guess is that you heard Jim Huhta AA4MD who is active on satellites. He lives in Tampa, Florida. That is barely in the footprint from Campo Grande, Brasil. It is also possible that Jim AA4MD was operating portable from Central America while doing volunteer medical work. Several years ago he made many Japanese hams very happy when he operated on AO-40 from Belize. Wayne Estes W9AE Oakland, Oregon, USA

1 0

ISS 9K6 with ICOM 910
by Dave Aitch 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Anyone using the 910 on the VHF port for full duplex 9K6 operation with the ISS ? I use a DSP2232, and of course, the upper part of the 910 does the transmitting and the lower for receiving, as with GO-32 9K6. The hardware/software I use is HALLOSAT by DB3DH, for rotator and radio control. I'm using UISS for decoding/displaying. 73, Dave.

6 7

A0-51 Goat Rodeo
by Rick - WA4NVM 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Hi All, I think we had folks transmitting on one uplink and being heard on the other downlink. For those that didn't know, they activated both pairs last night and switched back to 145.920 uplink for the 435.300 downliink. See http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/echo/ControlTeam.php I'm guessing this is why some folks called and didn't get a responds. ?? 73, Rick - WA4NVM

2 1

ISS back in 1200 bps packet mode
by Greg D. 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Hi folks, I listened in on the 22:50z pass of the ISS. Received 1200 bps packet on 145.825, so they've apparently switched it back for the week. Tried doing the email thing again, but no apparent success this time. Greg KO6TH _________________________________________________________________ Send e-mail anywhere. No map, no compass. http://windowslive.com/Explore/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_hotmail_acq_anywhe…

3 3

Re: Kenwood TH-D7 split Tx/Rx
by Bob Bruninga 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

The APRS mode TX/RX is in the APRS menu. There is a separeate TX/RX setting for PACKET mode in the radio menu. You maybe using the wrong one. Bob, WB4APR ---- Original message ---- >Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 19:10:09 -0800 >From: "Greg D." <ko6th_greg(a)hotmail.com> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Kenwood TH-D7 split Tx/Rx >To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > > >Hi folks, > >Ok, so in the manual it says that I can set up the D7 to transmit on one side, and receive on the other, with APRS. With the ISS seemingly in that sort of mode, this would seem to be the configuration to use. APRS menu 2-M gives me that choice, but when I have either of the spilt modes selected (Tx-A, Rx-B, or Rx-A, Tx-B), I can't turn on APRS mode. Packet turns on, but not APRS. > >I tried transmitting blind (simplex) on the last pass, but it would be good to be able to hear what's going on too. > >What is the magic spell to run on split operations with APRS? > >Thanks, > >Greg KO6TH > > >_________________________________________________________________ >Send e-mail anywhere. No map, no compass. >http://windowslive.com/Explore/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_hotmail_acq_anywhe… >_______________________________________________ >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

2 2

Another cross-sat opportunity?
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Looking ahead using HRD Sat Tracker, it looks like FO29 and VO52 will be offering another opportunity for the Northeast US around 1518 UTC on Saturday. Anyone successful in doing this, tips appreciated. Should I just try for FO29 at 435.81, which gives me 145.91 on the downlink? Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

1 0

Re: CO8LY in AO-51
by Bill Dzurilla 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Eduardo, I copied you very well on AO-51 from Jamaica (6Y5). Now I am back home in Florida. Hope to work you again, amigo. 73, Bill NZ5N Eduardo Somoano C wrote: > LAST MINUTES Y COPY MANY STN IN AO51 CALL NZ5N/6Y5 BUT NOT MY COPY DUE TO > PILE UP FROM NA STN. > I LISTEN ALSO : > YV5ZV > KU8L > N3PKC > N2BL > W9VNE > KB1PVH AND OTHERS > > I WILL NEXT PASS TOMORROW AT NIGHT CONTACT WITH NA STATIONS. > > 73.- EDUARDO CO8LY > FL20la

1 0

??4MB this morning on FO-29
by Luciano G Nachif 15 Dec '08

15 Dec '08

Out of curiosity, today at 15:22 UTC I heard on FO-29 ??4MB on orbit 60,879 around 435,841MHz. ??4MB signal was really booming in Brazil. I wonder who would be this ??4MB It was great to hear an American stations on satellite after so long... I will keep on listening. 73, Luciano PT9KK GG29qm

2 1

1.2Ghz antenna on ebay
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

I have an antenna listed on ebay. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=110323412910&ssPage… 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it"

1 0

ISS: new gear up there ?
by Henk, PA3GUO 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Quote (www.AMSAT.org): "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 subtantial 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." Well, this started to make me wonder: - The D700 does not have 23cm, so there is a new transceiver onboard ? - Is this new trx made already in use the past days, with all the new modes and mixes of freq/pairs ? I am very excited about all the experiments clearly going on in the ISS ! More then ever I am looking forward to my upcoming 2 weeks holidays !!! Henk, PA3GUO (will tomorrow continue to Igate 9k6 traffic for those that want to experiment)

3 4

ISS Packet over Europe 08.47utc
by David Barber 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Mode: 9600bps Freq: 145.825MHz David G8OQW

5 8

Re: AMSAT contest
by Gary Lockhart 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

It worked! I joined AMSAT last night so I can participate in the up coming events. 73, de Gary AB3ID

1 0

G-5400B adjustments
by Allen Vinegar 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Obtained a used G-5400B (hope that wasn't a mistake) and need help in getting the azimuth rotor calibrated properly. Don't want to take a lot of bandwidth on the BB but would appreciate it if someone would be willing to discuss it with me off line. Please email me at W8KHP at AMSAT.ORG. Thank you very much. 73 Al W8KHP

1 0

[ans] ANS-349 AMSAT Weekly Bulletins
by Dee 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-349 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: * Special ARISS Certificate * AMSAT donor operations loaners * AMSAT's Volunteer Reporting System Needs Your Input * SKN on OSCAR 2009 * ARISS Status - 08 December 2008 SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-349.01 Special ARISS Certificate AMSAT News Service Bulletin 349.01 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 14, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-349.01 All, The ARISS team has had a number of queries on several topics. It is hoped that this e-mail will answer these for you. 1) 25th Anniversary of Ham in Space Special Event Certificate---Many have asked how to receive the special certificate and what qualifies you for the certificate. Qualification: Those that have had 2 way communications with the ISS on Voice, Packet (APRS), or through the voice repeater. And those that have heard the ISS from space in any of the ARISS operations modes (Voice, SSTV, School Contact, Voice Repeater, Digital). Valid dates to qualify for certificate: November 30 to January 15. Receiving the Certificate: A) Please note on your QSL the ARISS mode of operation (e.g. SSTV, voice, school, etc) and whether the contact with you was 1 way (receive only) or 2 way. B) Send your SASE to the normal ARISS QSL volunteer distributor in your area of the world. C) On the outside of the QSL envelope, please include the words "25th Anniversary Certificate" D) Make sure your envelope is big enough to accept an 8.5 by 11 inch certificate and includes the proper postage. E) Go to www.ariss.org if you do not know where to send your QSL and please use one of the standard international QSL distributors that are noted on the Web page. Important note: We will be sending your certificate to the volunteer distributors in bulk AFTER the event is over. (This saves workload and money). So do not expect to see it until 1-2 months after the event closes on January 15. 2) Richard Garriott QSL Card---there are have several queries about the final results of Richard Garriott's flight and how the QSL cards will be handled. QSO Results: Richard made over 500 voice QSOs during his flight, clearly more than any single ham has made on-orbit during a short duration mission. And he sent down about 1000 SSTV images during his flight. QSL Card: Those that had a QSO with Richard can receive an ARISS QSL card using the normal ARISS process. (See www.ariss.org). Richard Garriott is also planning a personal card which is in development. Once it is developed, they will be shipped to the ARISS international QSL distribution volunteers for distribution. The current plan is that those that have already sent in for an ARISS QSL card will also get a Richard Garriott personal card once it is available. If you made a contact with Richard, have not sent in your QSL, and would like Richard's personal QSL card, please stand by for QSL distribution instructions until the QSL card is ready. The distribution of this special QSL will parallel how we are distributing the 25th Anniversary Certificate. 3) SSTV Operations Web Site---The ARISS team appreciated the special web page support from UC Berkeley. They allowed us to use their server to support SSTV operations during the Richard Garriott's flight. This was a temporary solution. The web site is currently down while we move the web pages from the Berkeley site to the AMSAT server. This should be completed in the next few days. You will see a follow-on e-mail with details on connecting up to the SSTV Operations server. We thank you for your patience. On behalf of the ARISS International team of volunteers, I thank you all for your interest and participation in the ARISS Program. 73, Frank Bauer, KA3HDO AMSAT V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs ARISS International Chairman [ANS thanks Frank, KA3HDO, for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-349.02 AMSAT donor operations loaners AMSAT News Service Bulletin 349.02 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 14, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-349.02 The AMSAT Operations team is in the process of acquiring a few sets of basic loaner gear that will be available to DXpeditions and other groups in order to promote activity on the satellites. Initially these will consist of simple FM portable stations including a full duplex dual band HT and an Arrow or other suitable antenna. Depending on the success of the program, we will likely expand it to include the transponder and digital satellites as well. We also expect to be able to integrate AO-51 operations into the program. In the recent past, similar efforts have been undertaken by individuals within AMSAT, including W9AE's AO-40 package, and KO4MA's gear loaned to the KG4SB Gitmo operation. Thanks to the past generosity of AMSAT-OZ and a few individual donors to a prior personal effort to equip a Peruvian university station for AO-40, I have approximately 140 dollars to redirect to this project. To complete the first phase of this, I'd like to have on hand two split boom Arrow antennas with diplexers and two late model full duplex handhelds. The preferred rig is the Kenwood D-7 or Yaesu FT-530. These will be packaged together in two custom crush-proof PVC carrying tubes. We already have a major DXpedition to a location within LEO range of most of North America interested in participating in the early part of 2009. If businesses, organizations or individuals would like to assist in this program, please email me at ko4ma(a)amsat.org. All sponsors will receive full recognition from AMSAT for their participation. As indicated above, our major needs at this point are two split boom Arrow antennas with diplexers and two full duplex dual band HTs. 73 and thanks for your support of AMSAT, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations [ANS thanks Drew, KO4MA, for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-349.03 AMSAT's Volunteer Reporting System Needs Your Input AMSAT News Service Bulletin 349.03 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 14, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-349.03 AMSAT's Volunteer Reporting System Needs Your Input AMSAT Treasurer, Gunther W8GSM requests AMSAT volunteers update their Time spent on AMSAT Projects in the Volunteer Reporting System. See: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/volunteers/login.php - and - http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/volunteers/about.php Gunther said, "AMSAT's audit firm is going to start the 2008 Audit On January 15, 2009 in an attempt to get it out in a more timely manner. To that end, I need to ask all of you to submit your VRS volunteer time reports to the web site prior to December 31 of this year. I have work to do on that data and need the first couple weeks in 2009 to get that done. SO, PLEASE SUBMIT ANY UNREPORTED VOLUNTEER TIME SPENT FOR AMSAT ASAP!" [ANS thanks Gunther, W8GSM for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-349.04 SKN on OSCAR 2009 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 349.04 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 14, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-349.04 SKN on OSCAR 2009 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 SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-349.05 ARISS Status - 08 December 2008 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 349.05 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 14, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-349.05 1. India College Experiences Successful Contact Students attending St. Anthony’s College in Shillong, India participated in a question and answer session with Mike Fincke, KE5AIT. The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact took place on Monday, December 1 via telebridge station WH6PN in Hawaii. Over 700 students, staff and guests witnessed the contact as 11 students asked one question each of the astronaut. Television stations covering the news included DD National, Peitngor Cable News (PCN) Channel and Ri Khasi Channel. The Shillong Times, Meghalaya Guardian, Sentinel and other Khasi local newspapers were also present. St. Anthony's college is the alma mater of Mr. Rupesh Saikia, father-in-law of astronaut Mike Fincke. 2. Canadian Contact Successful Quispamsis Elementary and Middle Schools in New Brunswick, Canada experienced an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact on Thursday, December 4. Mike Fincke, KE5AIT, answered 20 questions posed to him by twenty students. Representatives from the School District and the Municipal, Provincial and Federal Government were invited. Audio was fed into the EchoLink server and received four connections. Media coverage included television, radio and newspapers. The Telegraph Journal ran an article on the contact. See: http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/article/502323 CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) News also covered the event. Go to: http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2008/12/05/nb-space-talk.html Radio station Country 94 CHSJ posted a short summary: http://www.country94.ca/country94/post/13-1658386395336820565/Thursday/ 3. ARRL Article on ARISS - IEW Events Students from Poolesville, Maryland, Raleigh, North Carolina and Quito, Ecuador experienced a joint Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact on Friday, November 14 as part of International Education Week (IEW). They connected again for another informative session with amateur radio operators from around the world and an expert panel which included astronaut Don Thomas. The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) ran an article on these events. See: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2008/12/02/10489/?nc=1 The ARRL Letter printed the story in its December 5 issue. See: http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter/08/1205/ 5. ARRL Covers ARISS Special Event The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) posted a story on the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) special event to celebrate 25 years of ham radio in space. To view the article, go to: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2008/12/01/10481/?nc=1 The ARRL Letter included the news in its December 5 issue. See: http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter/08/1205/ [ANS thanks Carol, KB3LKI, 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. 73, This week's ANS Editor, Dee Interdonato, NB2F nb2f at amsat dot org

1 0

News Updates on AMSAT Web
by JoAnne Maenpaa 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Hello Everyone, Just a quick note to point you over to the AMSAT Web http://www.amsat.org and catch up on the news updates ... + ARISS 25th Anniversary Adds New Modes to ISS Amateur Radio Operations This lists the upcoming operating modes aboard ISS and includes the QSL addresses for the ARISS 25th Anniversary Certificate. + The latest AO-51 Operation Summary + Get Ready for OSCAR Straight Key Night 2009 -- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm(a)amsat.org Editor, AMSAT News Service Copy Editor, AMSAT Journal

1 0

Namibia VHF expedition in January
by James French 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

This off the VHF reflector this morning. Certainly of interest to satellite operators and 6m operators. James W8ISS ===== On Sat, 2008-12-13 at 17:18 -0500, N7BHC wrote: > The following message came from Dan HB9CRQ this morning. The January > DXpedition to Namibia will focus on VHF and UHF exclusively. Modes > will include EME, tropo, meteor scatter, LEO satellites, etc. Here is > Dab's posting. > > Dave N7BHC > > ______ > > Dear friends > > I am happy to officially announce our Namibia DXpedition! The > reservations and flight tickets are confirmed and we are in the final > stage of preparations. Many thanks especially to Hal, Pine, Dick and > Dave for their huge effort preparing everything! > > > NAMIBIA DXpedition January 2009 > > This information will be updated as more details are available! Please > check www.hb9q.ch and www.mmmvhf.de for updates! > > Dates of operation will be from moonrise on 7th to moonset on 16th > January 2009. QTH will be in Luderitz Namibia, grid locator JG73NI. > See the GoogleEarth Pin (V5 DXpedition JG73ni.kmz)! > > We have applied for a special call for our DXpedition. As soon as we > get it confirmed we will announce it. > > Our main target is to activate Namibia on 50, 144, 432 and 1296 MHz > EME. At the same time we will be QRV for transatlantic Tropo on 144 > and 432 and on satellite (AO-7, FO-29 and AO-51). > > EME operation: > We intend to operate 144 and 432 all our moon-windows, 50 and 1296 > will have limited activity times. We will announce them when on site. > We will be QRV in JT65 on all bands and will do some CW on 144 and > 432. The details of activity will be announced later. As soon as we > arrive in Luderitz we will check-out the QRM situation and announce > our frequencies on www.hb9q.ch and/or www.mmmvhf.de > > Equipment: > For 50 MHz we will be using 1 x 6M7JHV and Acom 1000 (400W). > For 144 MHz we will be using 4 x M2 2M9SSB yagis mounted on the trailer > with az/el rotators. We will have 400W and ARR preamp. > For 432 MHz we will be using 8 x M2 432EME-12 yagis on a low tower > manually rotated. We have a TE Systems 180 watt and ARR preamp. > For 1296 MHz we will be using 1x59el yagi (21wl) and 80W (Transverter > and PA by DJ9YW), no preamp. > For the 144 MHz the cross-Atlantic tropo attempt we will take an M2 > 2M19XXX long yagi and will have 180 & 300 watt amplifiers available. > For Satellite operations we will be using M2 crossed Yagis for 144 & > 432 MHz with az/el rotator as the primary array with M2 Eggbeaters > available for backup. > > The operators will be ZS6WB Hal, ZS6OB Pine, ZS6BUN Dick, ZS6AC Sarel, > N7BHC Dave, HB9CRQ Dan. > > We hope to have (limited) internet access from our QTH. If we can we > will update once a day the stations worked at www.hb9q.ch > > We would like to get as many contacts as possible in the log and all > contacts will be confirmed. > > > vy 73 > > Dan, HB9CRQ/KT6Q > head of HB9Q > > www.hb9q.ch Beginning of second message: On Sat, 2008-12-13 at 17:25 -0500, N7BHC wrote: > In the email I just forwarded from Dan HB9CRQ, he mentions that we > will will also be doing some tropo ducting tests across the South > Atlantic ocean. I am joining the expedition to focus on the trans- > oceanic ducting research and attempts to cross the South Atlantic on > 2m and 70cm. Here are a couple more web pages to look at for > additional data. > > Expedition overview (not an official expedition web page). This page > has many links to additional data on Luderitz Bay where the expedition > will take place. > http://sites.google.com/site/n7bhcvhf/trans-oceantic-ducting/south-atlantic… > > Tropo Ducting from Namibia in January. > http://sites.google.com/site/n7bhcvhf/trans-oceantic-ducting/south-atlantic… > > 73, Dave - N7BHC > =========================================== > Email: n7bhc(a)drasticom.net > > N7BHC/B beacon > FM15PA > 144.291 MHz CW > 50 W - 16 element horizontal pol. > reports by email or phone +1 (704) 225-3928 > ===========================================

1 0

ARISS Update--25th Anniversary of Ham Radio in Space 12/14/08
by Frank H. Bauer 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

All, As I mentioned on November 29, the ARISS team is currently celebrating 25 years of amateur radio operations from space. This e-mail describes some of the planned set of special event opportunities for the remainder of the month of December and the beginning of January. 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 week through December 19, we expect the ISS Ham radio system to be on the 145.825 MHz frequency supporting 1200 baud packet. If PCSAT is configured during the week, double hop APRS is possible. Dec 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. We should also note that an EVA is planned for that week. Expedition 18 Commander Mike Fincke and Flight Engineer Yury Lonchakov plan to perform a spacewalk on December 22. As per standard procedure, the ISS Ham radio system will be turned off for the EVA. Dec 28-Jan 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 subtantial 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. A special certificate is being developed for those who communicate with the ISS. This certificate will be awarded to those that have had 2 way communications with the ISS on Voice, Packet (APRS), or through the voice repeater. And those that have heard the ISS from space in any of the ARISS operations modes (Voice, SSTV, School Contact, Voice Repeater, Digital). Valid dates to qualify for certificate: November 30 to January 15. To receive the certificate: A) Please note on your QSL the ARISS mode of operation (e.g. SSTV, voice, school, etc) and whether the contact with you was 1 way (receive only) or 2 way. B) Send your SASE to the normal ARISS QSL volunteer distributor in your area of the world. C) On the outside of the QSL envelope, please include the words "25th Anniversary Certificate" D) Make sure your envelope is big enough to accept an 8.5 by 11 inch certificate and includes the proper postage. E) Go to www.ariss.org if you do not know where to send your QSL and please use one of the standard international QSL distributors that are noted on the Web page. Important note: We will be sending your certificate to the volunteer distributors in bulk AFTER the event is over. (This saves workload and money). So do not expect to see it until 1-2 months after the event closes on January 15. We will provide more updates in the near future. We 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 opportunities 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). Enjoy the ARISS ops on ISS! 73, Frank Bauer, KA3HDO AMSAT-NA V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs ARISS International Chairman

1 0

ARISS 9K6 / Maritime Mobile
by Dave Ryan 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Hi All Just heard ISS 13:30hrs pass over UK on 9K6 Aprs 145.825 was able to beacon with 2 w and 1/4 wave. Very strong signals. Regards Dave M0GIW / EI4HT Maritime Mobile

1 0

ISS 9600 145.825 over Italy
by Alberto Montardi 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Confirmed ISS 145.825 9600 bps passed today at 13:40 UTC over Italy 73 de IW4BKX

1 0

PCSAT status report.
by Robert Bruninga 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

PCSAT status: 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 volunteers around the world. 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. It is an interesting conundrum that when PCSAT is in full sun its average power is worst because the sun only hits the side panels, but if we can recover it once, then we can lower the average power and keep it alive. (we have been unsuccessful this time). On the other hand, a month later, the peak power available (on the best -Z panel) occurs during the worst case eclipses, (midday passes in the Northern hemisphere) so then there are strong packets for 20 minutes or so, Recovery is very reliable, but useless since then 15 minutes later she goes into 35 minute darkness and she dies. But she is useable during the middle of those sunny side passes which will be approaching in mid January. 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. Remember that PCSAT has its best panel pointing along the magnetic field lines of the Earth towards the South Magnetic pole of the Earth, and so if you are good at 3D visualization, it is easy to see what is happening. There is a plot on the PCSAT web page, and when I get back to it, I will make another plot showing what it looks like during the peak period above. See www.aprs.org/pcsat.html Sun angle is worsening for my location, and this being nearest the winter solstace, the sun won't get any better. Full sun period in Feb will not be as good as this one was. The good news is that I think a colleage of mine will develop a better magnetic attitude model so we can know better exactly when is the max power on the spacecraft. It should be entirely predictible, so that we do not waste any time on poor angles. I really appreciate all the efforts of so many operators. This is my last day for this season due to some long expected family news last night I will be on travel to Alabama for the next weeks and doubt I will get much email access. So play packet on the ISS and thanks again for all your efforts! Bob, WB4APR

1 0

Kenwood TH-D7 split Tx/Rx
by Greg D. 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Hi folks, Ok, so in the manual it says that I can set up the D7 to transmit on one side, and receive on the other, with APRS. With the ISS seemingly in that sort of mode, this would seem to be the configuration to use. APRS menu 2-M gives me that choice, but when I have either of the spilt modes selected (Tx-A, Rx-B, or Rx-A, Tx-B), I can't turn on APRS mode. Packet turns on, but not APRS. I tried transmitting blind (simplex) on the last pass, but it would be good to be able to hear what's going on too. What is the magic spell to run on split operations with APRS? Thanks, Greg KO6TH _________________________________________________________________ Send e-mail anywhere. No map, no compass. http://windowslive.com/Explore/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_hotmail_acq_anywhe…

1 0

email through ISS?
by Greg D. 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

So, how exactly does that go again? Kenwood TH-D7 1200 bps packet (I think someone said that it's on 145.825 right now) Packet Path set to "ARISS" Message set to "email2 me Test message through ISS" (where the "me" alias has already been set up) I just tried this on the 00:00z pass over the west coast. Nothing recorded at http://www.ariss.net/. Did I just not get in, or is something not set up right? Greg KO6TH _________________________________________________________________ Suspicious message? There’s an alert for that. http://windowslive.com/Explore/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_hotmail_acq_broad2…

1 0

ISS Packet 16.17 UK Pass
by David Barber 14 Dec '08

14 Dec '08

Well the guy's up there have certainly had us guessing today. This time round 1200bps. 145.800 Down 145.825 Up David G8OQW

2 1

PCSAT Recovery status
by Robert Bruninga 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

PCSAT Recovery Status: Still no joy on recovery. Still too many unattended stations overloading the bird while we are trying to command it. I get command on the first ascending pass each day (PCSAT over atlantic, out of view of most USA). But next passes are impossible. Today, I plotted packet-attempts-by-PCSAT (noise bursts by ear) and noticed an astonishing 3 times heavier load over the USA compared to over the atlantic. Of these dozens of packet attempts, only 2 decoded. But now that I can tell by ear the huge difference in attempted packets by PCSAT when it is over the USA, I can see why we are having problems. And the sun angle gets worse every day for a chance at recovery. So don't hold your breath this operating period. Have fun on ISS, its working great! And if you have an unattended beacon via W3ADO-1, please turn it off. Thanks Bob, Wb4APR

4 5

WiFI Interference
by Ed Tump 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Folks, Have any of you experienced interference on 145.800 (ISS freq) from your wireless router? I know it is my Netgear wireless router as the interference goes away when I turn the router off. If you have a fix please let me know. 73, Ed KC9GWK

7 6

The Golden Era of Digital Satellites
by nader omer 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

HI, I keep reading these inspiration topics from time to time (The Road Less Traveled) and ( How Low Can You Go) by Steve Ford, WB8IMY April 1996 QST. both reprint on SATELLITE ANTHOLOGY book from ARRL. Thank you Steve. Sadly no bird now works on 1k2 baud (store and forward) Just think of series of Cube digital sat to be build by AMSAT orgs The cost =for sure less than all eggs in one basket satellite The joy = for sure every one will be happy and busy, many Will cut out the DSL line from their shack Benefit = our own satellite net. Way we keep complaining from universities cube sat as long we can build our own cube satellites? pre-sleep dream de st2nh www.st2nh.com

1 0

Re: AMSAT contest??
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

KK5DO sed: > When I called it a contest, it was strictly frowned upon > and the name was changed. > . . . > 73...bruce > AMSAT Director Contests and Awards Perhaps there should be a motion to change your title to AMSAT Director Events and Awards ... I'd hate for someone to eliminate your position. If this were some government agency, there would be a Congressional hearing to understand why we had a director for something we don't do. I'm all for awards and promoting AMSAT operation 'on-the-air' somehow. I like the idea of having our AMSAT# as part of the exchange, and I can see how that might alienate some. BUT, maybe those without could use AMSAT#000 for their report, and it might encourage them to join-up and get a number of their own. It would not have to be an AMSAT-NA member number... Maybe an award for working 100 AMSAT numbers...?... 73 /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> < Satellite Communicators' Club, Achievment Award #440 > <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> <- http://www.linkedin.com/in/alansieg * My 'Day Job' ->

1 0

Re: AMSAT contest??
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Bruce-Yep I can see where this is going. No doubt the logistics would be difficult. I was just listening to voices in my head and trying to push AMSAT membership. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it" -------------- Original message -------------- From: Bruce <kk5do(a)arrl.net> > Please keep in mind that there is a gentleman's agreement amongst the > AMSAT's of the world that contesting would not be done on a satellite. > This is why you have not seen it done in the past. You can call it > something else as I had to do when we had the AO-40 Birthday Bash. When > I called it a contest, it was strictly frowned upon and the name was > changed. If I remember, it was a one or two week event to make contacts > on the first anniversary of the satellite's launch. > > When you have an event, it must be something that is available to all > satellite users worldwide, not just an event for those on one continent > or country. That is why all the awards that AMSAT-NA offers as well as > some other AMSAT's are not called contests. They are operating > achievements and normally do not have a end of life. The AO-51 51 on 51 > award was an event that lasted a year but did not require anything > special other than using the satellite to make contacts with 51 > different stations. You can see where this is going vs. having a true > contest. > > 73...bruce > AMSAT Director Contests and Awards > > On 12/13/2008 2:01 AM, w7lrd(a)comcast.net wrote: > > With the wx getting more "cabin feavorish", the voices in my head are saying > we should have an impromptu AMSAT contest where the exchange would be your grid > square and your AMSAT member number. Something along this idea was suggested > by a member of the BOD of AMSAT some time ago. Lets see if this idea has any > traction. > > 73 Bob W7LRD > > Seattle > > > > -- > > "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it" > > _______________________________________________ > > 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 > > > > > > > -- > > Bruce Paige, KK5DO > > AMSAT Director Contests and Awards > > ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE > > Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0200z on SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 > @97° West, > Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) > Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com > Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes > > Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News > http://www.arrl.org > >

1 0

AMSAT contest??
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

With the wx getting more "cabin feavorish", the voices in my head are saying we should have an impromptu AMSAT contest where the exchange would be your grid square and your AMSAT member number. Something along this idea was suggested by a member of the BOD of AMSAT some time ago. Lets see if this idea has any traction. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it"

3 2

Re: Strong carrier on 145.825
by David Donaldson 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

I have heard of models of flat panel tv's radiating across the street. Also Linksys routers have radiate on 144.390 at least 100 ft. Just idea's. Good luck Dave Burnsville MN Sent with Wireless Sync from Verizon Wireless ---- Original Message ---- From: "David H. Jordan" <n4csitwo(a)bellsouth.net> Date: 12/12/08 5:23 pm To: "Curt Nixon" <cptcurt(a)flash.net> ; "amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org" <amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org> ; "AMSAT-BB" <AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org> Subj: [amsat-bb] Re: Strong carrier on 145.825 Curt, I have a similar problem at my qth occuring at 145.801 MHz. I've had bigger fish to fry and haven't run it down yet. Dave Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile -----Original Message----- From: Curt Nixon <cptcurt(a)flash.net> Date: Fri, 12 Dec 2008 17:43:54 To: 'AMSAT-BB'<amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Subject: [amsat-bb] Strong carrier on 145.825 I am seeing a very strong, full quieting carrier on 145.825. It appears to be external to my house since it is fully directional using the rotator. I expect it might be a fair distance away since it becomes in audible off the back of the beam. (6 el cheap yagi) Anyone suggest any commonly found sources at that freq? Its not my router, I turn that off--and it is pretty weak anyway. Thanks Curt KU8L _______________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________ 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 --- Get FREE High Speed Internet from USFamily.Net! -- http://www.usfamily.net/mkt-freepromo.html ---

1 0

Quesion about ISS crossband repeater
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

OK, maybe I am sleep-deprived. I have been reading all of the threads on ISS, and during this morning's pass over my QTH I tuned in to the downlink on 437.8 but did not hear a thing. I know it is something I am doing wrong, but not sure what. Ideas appreciated. Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

2 1

Re: AMSAT contest??
by Bob Bruninga 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

> With the wx getting more "cabin feavorish", > ... we should have an impromptu AMSAT > contest... And on the digital birds, do not overlook the challenge for everyone to practice their emergency Satellite Email capability. See www.aprs.org/sset.html for the Satellite Simulated Emergency Test. All it takes is one packet via ISS to send an email to anyone on the planet. PCSAT and GO32 are not currently useable. To confirm success, the easiest is to send the email to yourself. You can also confirm it under the message column on he www.ariss.net web page. Bob, Wb4APR

1 0

Are my pre-amps working?
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Two FT817 rigs, one for 440 one for 144. Two new Mirage pre-amps: KP-1/44o, KP-1/2M When I power them on, I definitely can hear significantly stronger signals on 2 meter side. I tested by going to 144.39 and the packet signals near my QTH were stronger by 3 S units. For the 440 pre-amp, the signals seem to get stronger but only slightly. During last night's FO-29 pass, it was a little easier to find my signal while tuning around...but not much of a difference. Anybody else using these pre-amps? Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

2 1

AO-7
by acjohn1＠juno.com 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Good morning I have severial questions about working AO-7 that I hope someone can he= lp me with. How many watts dose it take to get into the bird? Is there a= ny trick to finding your downlink? I am using a Icom 718 for a downlink = on a 80m horizontal loop and a FT-718 for a uplink with a home made eggb= eater antenna. I can hear the bird pretty good but just can't get into i= t or find my signal if I am Thanks and 73 John Rusmiselle KG4VHV John Rusmiselle KG4VHV ____________________________________________________________ Paying too much credit card interest? Find low APR credit cards. Click here. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/PnY6rw2Oq4cNUnobJWxD9aPfXVz7gZ9…

2 1

ISS Packet over Europe 13.05utc
by David Barber 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Back on 145.800MHz at 1200bps over UK / Europe for the 13.05utc Pass. Confusing! David G8OQW

1 0

ISS at 145.800 (1k2) or 145.825 (9k6)
by Henk, PA3GUO 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

As David, G8OQW pointed out, ISS was now at 145.800 in 1200 baud. With a TS2000 one could easily monitor both freq's & speeds: 145.800 (ts2000/main + internal TNC at 1200) + 145.825 (ts2000/sub + external TNC at 9600) One radio, two channels. That should catch them all ! :-) Henk, PA3GUO

2 1

SSET via ISS (in 9k6): lot of fun to experiment !
by Henk, PA3GUO 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

SSET experiments - lot of fun with 9k6 APRS ! I have always seen APRS via satellites as a great way handle communication during emergency situation: - no 'what did you say, can please please repeat ? (digital comms) - no 'did I copy xyz correctly (no need to confirm the data) - no need to write down a message and then type it into email (all doen automatically) - not a single receiver but many (in the footprint of the satellite) - not only in the footprint, but via findu world-wide. live. - very efficient, if saying "we are all doing fine in xxx, no need for help" would take 10 seconds in SSB (voice), APRS can do this in <2 seconds. And now it can be done even faster: With ISS in 9k6 mode this is a good opportunity to test your station & skills: * set up your radio & antenna * connect any TNC and monitor 145.825 MHz * set your SW to autoforward what you hear to the internet (Igate) ... and test if you could send a Simulated Satellite Emergence Message yourself ! Radio: 145.825 (up & downlink) TNC: HBAUD 9600 U APRS VIA ARISS type for example :ALL :dummy text >> this will send 'dummy text' to ISS, and this will be on www.ariss.net within seconds ! type for example :EMAIL :pa3guo@amsat.org SSET via ISS, 9k6 experimental transmission >> this will send 'SSET via ISS, 9k6 experimental transmission' as normal email to pa3guo(a)amsat.org, within ~10 seonds seconds you will see many others these days experimenting, confirm their success: 00:01:40:17 : DL8DR]APRS,RS0ISS-5*,qAS,PA3GUO::Heard :PA3GUO-8,RS0ISS-5,EA2CNC,2E0EXL,EA7AHA,G8OQW,OE1VKW,ON6MU 00:01:42:36 : G8OQW]APRS,RS0ISS-5*,ARISS,qAS,DF9CP::BLNQSL1/1:RS0ISS-5,CT1DHM,PA3GUO-8,EA2CNC,EA7AHA,DF9EY,2E0EXL,DL8DR 00:01:41:35 : PA3GUO-8]APRS,RS0ISS-5*,qAS,PA3GUO::ALL :Experimental Radio Communication via ISS: 9k6 Packet Radio 00:01:43:43 : PA3GUO-8]APRS,RS0ISS-5*,qAS,PA3GUO::EMAIL :pa3guo@amsat.org SSET via ISS, 9k6 experimental transmission My setup: Kenwood TS2000 with its internal TNC running at 1200 baud + a PK96 cheap old TNC, externally at 9600 baud. Both TNC's via ALoger IGating to the internet. Single radio, dual communication channel. Have fun - share your results via the amsat-bb ! Henk, PA3GUO http://www.pa3guo.com

1 0

ISS UK Pass @ 11.30utc
by David Barber 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

ISS UK Pass at 11.30utc. 1200bps Packet heard on 145.800MHz Missed copying the frames as my packet system was monitoring 145.825MHz for 9600bps. David G8OQW

1 0

Re: AMSAT DXpedition loaner gear project.
by Wayne Estes 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Drew wrote: We already have a major DXpedition to a location within LEO range of most of North America interested in participating in the early part of 2009. Wayne replies: Would that be Desecheo? If so, I hope they can use FO-29 or AO-7 to give the west coast a shot. Wayne Estes W9AE Oakland, Oregon, USA, CN83ik

1 0

Re: ISS 9K6 with ICOM 910
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

Alan (VE4YZ) said : ...short passes ...goode olde PacComm NB96 I'm reminded of a comment made by Nader (ST2NH) not so long ago, suggesting local testing between two of your radios to iron out kinks. It sounds like you already even have one side of that link up and runnable with your NB96 old-mode hardware... Thats a great start I'd think. Better than where I'll start with two (un-tested) soundcard solutions running back to back via two (un-tested) radios. (That probably explains why I haven't yet started) (The 9600 testing may well conclude, before I even get started ...) I wonder if my soundcard is good enough to record some downlink audio. Hummm, probably more of the same confusion/frustration. Good luck, be sure to let us know what works... 73 /;^) -- <- 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' ->

2 1

Re: PCSAT Recovery status
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

>> "Why not list the stations heard?" >> There should be a "Wall of Shame." > > Because of the dozens of packets being digipeated by PCSAT, none > or maybe one or two have enough power to get heard. .. .. .. At least there are fewer stations than there were earlier. Apparently not enough, but at least the word IS getting around. Here are a few that did make it recently. As seen via : http://www.findu.com/cgi-bin/pcsat.cgi?absolute=1 20081212083105 : DL0SP]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAS,DF9CP:73 frm Spandau - Clubstation 20081212082514 : IZ1BOH]APRS,W3ADO-1*,qAS,DF9CP:[JN44JV]-73....for ALL,de FRANK (ITALY) 20081211121013 : WP3PK]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAR,WP4YF-3:FK68ka PUERTO RICO GOOD MORNING 20081211103908 : IZ1BOH]APRS,W3ADO-1*,qAS,PA3GUO:[JN44JV]-73....for ALL,de FRANK (ITALY) 20081211085635 : IZ1BOH]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAS,PA3GUO:[JN44JV]-73....for ALL,de FRANK (ITALY) Good Luck.... Thanks /;^) -- <- 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' ->

1 0

CO8LY in AO-51
by Eduardo Somoano C 13 Dec '08

13 Dec '08

LAST MINUTES Y COPY MANY STN IN AO51 CALL NZ5N/6Y5 BUT NOT MY COPY DUE TO PILE UP FROM NA STN. I LISTEN ALSO : YV5ZV KU8L N3PKC N2BL W9VNE KB1PVH AND OTHERS I WILL NEXT PASS TOMORROW AT NIGHT CONTACT WITH NA STATIONS. 73.- EDUARDO CO8LY FL20la

2 1

test
by Jerry 12 Dec '08

12 Dec '08

test

1 0

AMSAT DXpedition loaner gear project.
by Andrew Glasbrenner 12 Dec '08

12 Dec '08

The AMSAT Operations team is in the process of acquiring a few sets of basic loaner gear that will be available to DXpeditions and other groups in order to promote activity on the satellites. Initially these will consist of simple FM portable stations including a full duplex dual band HT and an Arrow or other suitable antenna. Depending on the success of the program, we will likely expand it to include the transponder and digital satellites as well. We also expect to be able to integrate AO-51 operations into the program. In the recent past, similar efforts have been undertaken by individuals within AMSAT, including W9AE's AO-40 package, and KO4MA's gear loaned to the KG4SB Gitmo operation. Thanks to the past generosity of AMSAT-OZ and a few individual donors to a prior personal effort to equip a Peruvian university station for AO-40, I have approximately 140 dollars to redirect to this project. To complete the first phase of this, I'd like to have on hand two split boom Arrow antennas with diplexers and two late model full duplex handhelds. The preferred rig is the Kenwood D-7 or Yaesu FT-530. These will be packaged together in two custom crush-proof PVC carrying tubes. We already have a major DXpedition to a location within LEO range of most of North America interested in participating in the early part of 2009. If businesses, organizations or individuals would like to assist in this program, please email me at ko4ma(a)amsat.org. All sponsors will receive full recognition from AMSAT for their participation. As indicated above, our major needs at this point are two split boom Arrow antennas with diplexers and two full duplex dual band HTs. 73 and thanks for your support of AMSAT, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations

1 1