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

Re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 3, Issue 638
by Tim Goodrich 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

Speaking of recording the passes on a digital recorder (MP3), can anyone recommend an inexpensive mp3 recorder that will allow you to record direct from an HT's audio output line? Thanks, 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: Sunday, December 07, 2008 4:13 PM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 3, Issue 638 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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ISS 9600 pass @ 12.27utc
by David Barber 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

First station seen via ISS 9600 packet. (Still on 145.800MHz) EB1GKS Regards David G8OQW

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Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50??
by Guy Brauning 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

Thanks for reading this. I am considering buying an HT for AO-51 and SO-50 as well as AO-27 (hopefully!). I have been using a Yaesu FT-817 and either an Arrow or Elk antenna and this has worked very well; however, an HT would be easier to carry around. I am looking for recommendations / warnings / etc. specific to the Kenwood TH-F6A. I would like some advice from those who have used the radio for satellite work before I shell out $320.00. I seriously considered a used IC-W32A on e-bay but it went for over $150.00 and I couldn't see paying that much for something that may or may not work properly. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Guy N3SCR Finksburg, MD

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Re: Your posting on AMSAT
by Dave Guimont 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

>I saw your posting on AMSAT-BB about building a quadfilar. I have >those files and have been experimenting with various omnis for SAT >work. So far diploes, verticals, turnstiles, and a moxon. The >quadfilar was next on my list. I even scored some copper clad coax >for the task. For 70 cm it seems pretty tough to do the bending and >get it right. May I ask how you did that (a tubing bender, pliers, >other) and if you heated the copper wire first like they suggest. Anneal the copper tubing for the three copper tubing filars, and it is very easy to shape, simply mark the dimensions on the tubing, and bend away...the length is much more important than the diameter of the bends. And make good solder joints...heat proof dialectric on the coax one,. of course....teflon, and there are some others... Pulling for P3E...

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Re: ISS 9600 succeeded in digipeat
by Mineo Wakita 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

> Just only setup 9600 bps , I still cannot monitoring ISS > in 9600bps use TASCO Modem EJ-50U. > it is a QRV power now ? QRV power is over 50W monitoring TASCO TNC-241 + TMB-965. It is only this one packet that I have digipeated then. > I succeeded in digipeat via ISS 145.825MHz simplex 9600bps G3RUH, > at 07:43:10 UTC (16:43:10 JST) 7Dec2008. > I noticed that there is no [*] via ARISS. > > JE9PEL>CQ,ARISS [12/07/08 16:43:10] <UI R>:Hello JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: AO-7 Mode A Antenna?
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

Hello Sebastian- Back in the days of the RS satellites I used a horizontal one wave length loop. I even hung a reflector 6 feet underneath it and I had a two element quad looking up. I tried dipoles, random wires. Currently I use my HF four element quad, BUT it receives better off the back at 29.45Mhz. The antenna is designed for about 28.4 and at 29.45 the reflector acts like a director. This same thing might be true with yagi type HF beams. A quarter wave ground plane would work good a low elevations. Good luck with your efforts, I'll look for you on AO-7. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it" -------------- Original message -------------- From: Sebastian <w4as(a)bellsouth.net> > I have a Yaesu FT-847 which is dedicated for satellite work, so I > don't have any HF antennas connected to it. > > I'd like to know from those on the group who are (were) using AO-7 > Mode A (10 meter receive), what type of antenna you are using? > > I really don't want to get a directional antenna for several reasons. > Also, is it possible to receive Mode A without the use of an external > preamp? > > 73 de W4AS > Sebastian > > _______________________________________________ > 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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WD9EWK at Mesa AZ hamfest (6 December 2008) - report
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

Hi! The 2008 Superstition Amateur Radio Club hamfest, held yesterday at Mesa Community College in Mesa, Arizona, was a successful event. There was no rain, unlike last year, so the attendance was much larger. Many walking around, and many sellers. AMSAT had a table at the hamfest, and was a very good day. As in the past couple of years, I manned the AMSAT table with the help of Gerry Baker VE4GTB/KD7MDB. Although the hamfest did not start until 1300 UTC (6am local time), I had the AMSAT table ready and was able to start working passes starting with AO-51 around 1245 UTC. WD9EWK was heard on 7 different passes throughout the hamfest - 3 AO-51 passes, 2 passes on the ISS cross-band repeater, an SO-50 pass, and a VO-52 pass. As the morning progressed, the crowds for the demonstrations grew. The largest crowd I had was for my last demonstration, a pass with the ISS and its cross-band repeater, at 1910 UTC. WD9EWK logged contacts with stations across the USA, plus contacts with stations in 3 other countries (Canada, Mexico, and Venezuela!). Once again, I was able to include VO-52 along with the FM satellites (and the ISS) I used for demonstrations, to show the crowds something other than FM satellite operation. Thanks to all who called me, and I apologize if I did not have a chance to add your call to the WD9EWK log at the hamfest. I don't bother to keep track of how many people we talk to during a hamfest. The number would approximately be "a lot". Whether the questions related to my demonstrations or were general questions about satellite operation, many hams are curious about this corner of our hobby. Gerry is a great help, talking with people and answering questions while I am doing the demonstrations. Thanks to Gerry for his help at another hamfest. He allegedly retired from doing this, but he is always willing to help out. And thanks to Judy K7JLF and the Superstition Amateur Radio Club for allowing us to set up an AMSAT table once again at their hamfest. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50??
by Mike Ryan 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

have both the FT-817 and the THF6. I admit I use the F6 more often outside in the yard chasing FM because its smaller/lighter but I'd never exclude my FT-817 from sat operations. Here are my reasons: - If you ever consider SSB birds like vo52 and fo29, or even use ao16 that RX in DSB, the F6 cant transmit SSB and the SSB RX is very, very painful to fine tune for clear copy. - The 817 has more convenient cross band operation. With the F6 you have to flip between vfos/memories by hand during the pass. When its time to change for doppler, you have to flip VFOs, then flip back. Cant count how many times I forgot to do this and just Xmit on the downlink (duh). The speaker/mic makes this much easier because it has 3 soft buttons on top. Normally you set one for toggling between vfos, and the other two for channel up/down. Also lets you clip the HT to your tripod/shirt for convenience - 817 can do computer control (I've seen portable use via laptop and it works) - F6 not full duplex (nor is the ft-817) I do love my F6 though and if you can afford it, keep both. The nice-and-small F6 goes with me every time I take a business trip (especially post 9-11) because it can RX most anything including air traffic control, public service police/fire (except digital), AM/FM broadcast, and even TV audio (for now). The 817, on the other hand, is an awesome ham "all-mode/all-bander", rather like a QRP FT-857. I'm currently using two 817s when its too cold outside for full duplex SAT. BTW, good choices on the Arrow and Elk. I have both and love 'em. The Arrow is a total workhorse for portable ops. As an experiment, the Elk is temporarily sitting in the back yard on a sawhorse with a cheap rotor at fixed 20% elevation. With an outboard duplexor (comet cf-416) I can run two radios inside the house full duplex on it. A little cross talk going VU, but works great on UV (i.e. VO52). ----- Original Message ----- From: "Guy Brauning" <guyjeanbraun(a)comcast.net> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2008 12:06 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50?? > Thanks for reading this. I am considering buying an HT for AO-51 and > SO-50 > as well as AO-27 (hopefully!). I have been using a Yaesu FT-817 and > either > an Arrow or Elk antenna and this has worked very well; however, an HT > would > be easier to carry around. I am looking for recommendations / warnings / > etc. specific to the Kenwood TH-F6A. I would like some advice from those > who have used the radio for satellite work before I shell out $320.00. I > seriously considered a used IC-W32A on e-bay but it went for over $150.00 > and I couldn't see paying that much for something that may or may not work > properly. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. > > > > Thanks, > > > > Guy > > N3SCR > > Finksburg, MD > > _______________________________________________ > 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 ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Sun, 07 Dec 2008 18:43:38 +0000 From: Nigel Gunn G8IFF/W8IFF <nigel(a)ngunn.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Question re rx/tx relays and diplexer To: Curt Nixon <cptcurt(a)flash.net> Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Message-ID: <493C195A.9010004(a)ngunn.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

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ISS/MKS sending SSTV
by andy thomas 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

Two pictures sent from ISS in last orbit, camera is evidently in the same location as it was for Monday's "Shadow" (plasma group) experiment. 73 de andy G0SFJ

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WiSP Load Keps
by Ron Miles 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

First time user of WiSP32. I've set AO-51 as my satellite of choice. However, a message pops up "GSC cannot find satellite AO-51 in Keplerian database". My question is how do I load my Celestrak file into the WiSP Keps database. Right now there's an empty folder for AO-51 in the Database. TIA 73, Ron AMSAT #23760

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AMSAT-BB Digest AO-51 & SO-50 Yaesu VX-7R
by ki6rrq 08 Dec '08

08 Dec '08

I am currently using a Yaesu VX-7R (not the best for satellites, also using it because that's what I had)for the ISS and the FM birds. I don't know if this will help anyone but I found using the memory tune feature is very helpful for working the Doppler, I don't know if your TH-F6A or many other HT's have it but I think it saves me a little time and hassle, when the receive frequency is on 2 meters, anyway. I know the FT-60's have it too. For AO-51, I save a memory channel with the 2 meter receive freq and then add the odd split or odd band split to the TX part of that memory and the pl where appropriate ... Then when I use it out in the field on my Arrow II, I bring up the memory and then select the memory tuning mode, which I guess is similar to the VFO mode but keeps the TX side in place and allows me to tune the RX frequency up and down to adjust for the Doppler and all I have to do is push the PTT when I make my call and the 2 meter TX frequency is automatically used. I don't even have to hold the radio, just get my fingers to the dial tuning knob, a few times during the pass. (tripod mounted radio, per my qrz.com) I haven't found its worth worrying about the Doppler on the 2 meter side, since the radio only does 5k at a time. After trying numerous methods, I found this to be easiest, with everything else you have to deal with on a mobile sat. operation; writing calls down, keeping the antenna on the bird, testing for polarity alignment, dealing with the dark, oh yea what was that guys call again... Its like an Apollo 13 rescue mission to get it all done... except its always a fun ride... LOL, I needed to simplify everything. Best Rich KI6RRQ ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Sun, 7 Dec 2008 13:42:01 -0500 From: "Jim Leder" <k8cxm(a)fuse.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50?? To: "Amsat" <AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org>, "Guy Brauning" <guyjeanbraun(a)comcast.net> Message-ID: <547D1F8574B04DDC801A1FD71EB224FE@Toshibalaptop> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; reply-type=original I have used my Kenwood TH-F6A along with an Arrow antenna, and IMHO it works just fine. You do need to get it programmed right and you need to get used to switching between VFOs as you track the satellite and the Doppler effect on frequency. It is NOT a full duplex radio like the W32A, and you will not be able to hear yourself, but I have never felt that's been a problem.. I programmed mine to transmit on one VFO (uplink) and be able to receive on several different frequencies (downlink) on the other VFO. On the transmit VFO, the squelch is closed all the way, while on the receive VFO, it's open all the way. So, VFO A is set for uplink of 145.920 on memory channel 150 and on memory channels 152-153 I have them programmed for 435.290 and 435.295 (downlink which is in VFO B). 154 is center frequency of 435.300 and of course 155 and 156 are set to 435.305 and 435.310. By switching between VFOs I can change downlink channels/frequencies to fit the Doppler shift. A little cumbersome, but that little radio works very well. You can follow a similar scheme on the QRP channel of AO51 (mine is 160-166) and SO50 (mine is 170-176-get the picture). I have made several contacts with it on the QRP channels but have had no luck on SO50, which is a lot more difficult satellite to hear. I'm using it because it's what I had, and I'm happy to say with a little use and practice you quickly get the hang of it. Of course, either the W32A or the Kenwood TH-D7A do FULL duplex, but both are no longer in production. Hearing yourself is nice, but not necessary. Jim Bob Buckeye AKA **** Jim Leder**** K8CXM since 1961 IBM retiree since 1999

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Cross Band Repeater Active
by David Barber 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Just in case you missed Curt's posting. Cross Band Repeater is active. Good luck.

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RECHERCHE TRANSISTOR...
by F2lq＠aol.com 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Bjr , Je recherche un MRF286... 73's Guy F2LQ IN98eb

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Question re rx/tx relays and diplexer
by RFI-EMI-GUY 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

All the ones I have seen do not short the unused port. -- Joe Leikhim K4SAT "The RFI-EMI-GUY"© "Treason doth never prosper: what's the reason? For if it prosper, none dare call it treason." "Follow The Money" ;-P

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ARISS downlink frequencies
by Ronald G. Parsons 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

ARISS currently has four modes, Packet Radio (1200 and 9600), Voice, Cross-band repeater, and SSTV. All modes use 145.800 MHz as the downlink frequency except Packet which uses 145.825. These last and next few weeks have (and will be) very exciting as all these modes are being used. I currently keep several programs running just in case a mode change occurs. I am using Ham Radio Deluxe for SSTV, AGWTracker for Packet, and SatPC32 and SatPC32ISS for frequency control for all modes with my Icom IC-910H. Why couldn't Packet operate on 145.800 simplex instead of 145.825? Then one could just listen to 145.800 and tell which mode is being used. Currently I must switch between 800 and 825 if no mode is apparent. Ron W5RKN

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BBsat Call for ideas
by JoAnne Maenpaa 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Ok folks, Its time for some fun ... how about we design and fly our own transponder via the amsat-bb? I propose BBSat (sounds better than AdHocSat). This is a call for ideas of a single board transponder in cubesat form factor ... what can we put on a 10cm ^2 circuit board? FM, SDR, packet? Initially there are only two rules ... 1) No griping 2) This is going to be an open source project Let us know what you think right here on the -bb ... -- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm(a)amsat.org

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Re: Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50??
by Jim Leder 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Guy, I have an FT-857D in my car and an old Kenwood TM-G707A in the shack. While neither will do full duplex either, both do a nice job on cross band. The TH-F6A won't do cross band, but it still works just fine as I described the method I use. Good luck 73 ... Jim Bob Buckeye AKA **** Jim Leder**** K8CXM since 1961 IBM retiree since 1999 There are 10 types of people in this world -- those who understand binary and those who don't. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Guy Brauning" <guyjeanbraun(a)comcast.net> To: "'Jim Leder'" <k8cxm(a)fuse.net> Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2008 2:16 PM Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50?? > Jim, > Thanks very much for the detailed information about the TH-F6A. It > sounds > like, based on your experience, it will work very well for my intended > use. > I have programmed my FT-817 in a very similar manner to that which you > described for the TH-F6A except that the 817 allows for split band memory > storage so you don't have to manually switch VFOs while switching from TX > to > RX to compensate for Doppler, you just step through the preprogrammed > memories which are set up for Doppler on both TX and RX frequencies. I > think I could get used to working the TH-F6A the way you have described. > (SO-50 is a lot tougher to work than AO-51.)Thanks a million! > > CUL, > Guy > > -----Original Message----- > From: Jim Leder [mailto:k8cxm@fuse.net] > Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2008 1:42 PM > To: Amsat; Guy Brauning > Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50?? > > I have used my Kenwood TH-F6A along with an Arrow antenna, and IMHO it > works > > just fine. You do need to get it programmed right and you need to get used > to switching between VFOs as you track the satellite and the Doppler > effect > on frequency. It is NOT a full duplex radio like the W32A, and you will > not > be able to hear yourself, but I have never felt that's been a problem.. I > programmed mine to transmit on one VFO (uplink) and be able to receive on > several different frequencies (downlink) on the other VFO. On the transmit > VFO, the squelch is closed all the way, while on the receive VFO, it's > open > all the way. So, VFO A is set for uplink of 145.920 on memory channel 150 > and on memory channels 152-153 I have them programmed for 435.290 and > 435.295 (downlink which is in VFO B). 154 is center frequency of 435.300 > and > > of course 155 and 156 are set to 435.305 and 435.310. By switching between > VFOs I can change downlink channels/frequencies to fit the Doppler shift. > A > little cumbersome, but that little radio works very well. You can follow a > similar scheme on the QRP channel of AO51 (mine is 160-166) and SO50 (mine > is 170-176-get the picture). I have made several contacts with it on the > QRP > > channels but have had no luck on SO50, which is a lot more difficult > satellite to hear. > I'm using it because it's what I had, and I'm happy to say with a little > use and practice you quickly get the hang of it. > Of course, either the W32A or the Kenwood TH-D7A do FULL duplex, but both > are no longer in production. Hearing yourself is nice, but not necessary. > > Jim Bob Buckeye > AKA > **** Jim Leder**** > K8CXM since 1961 > IBM retiree since 1999 > > There are 10 types of people in this world -- those who understand binary > and those who don't. > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Guy Brauning" <guyjeanbraun(a)comcast.net> > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2008 12:06 PM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Kenwood TH-F6A for AO-51 / SO-50?? > > >> Thanks for reading this. I am considering buying an HT for AO-51 and >> SO-50 >> as well as AO-27 (hopefully!). I have been using a Yaesu FT-817 and >> either >> an Arrow or Elk antenna and this has worked very well; however, an HT >> would >> be easier to carry around. I am looking for recommendations / warnings / >> etc. specific to the Kenwood TH-F6A. I would like some advice from those >> who have used the radio for satellite work before I shell out $320.00. I >> seriously considered a used IC-W32A on e-bay but it went for over $150.00 >> and I couldn't see paying that much for something that may or may not >> work >> properly. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. >> >> >> >> Thanks, >> >> >> >> Guy >> >> N3SCR >> >> Finksburg, MD >> >> _______________________________________________ >> 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 > > No virus found in this incoming message. > Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com > Version: 8.0.176 / Virus Database: 270.9.15/1834 - Release Date: 12/6/2008 > 4:55 PM >

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Re: Kenwood TH-F6a
by Clint Bradford 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Do you need 220 capability? The TH-F6a is a great HT...but if you do not need 220, you can spend a lot less for a FM-bird-capable HT. I use the Yaesu FT-60R in my demos and presentations. Not because it's the "ultimate," but to show folks that they don't have to spend an awful lot to get into ham satellites. The FT-60 has a rather unique battery situation, too, compared to several other HTs: Add its optional AA alkaline case and populate it with either NiMH cells or alkalines, and you have the capability of working at FULL TX POWER. Add the optional AA case to the TH-F6a, and you're working at one-half of one Watt (alkalines only - no NiMH). And the rest of the features: 1,000 memories, 108-to-a-gig RX, bulletproof case design, strongest belt clip of ANY amateur HT chassis on the market... If you decide upon the TH-F6a, stick withthe stock antenna for local work. Although physically ugly, Kenwood put a lot of research time into that antenna, and it is quite a capable performer. Of course, a Smiley 270A ($16) or a Diamond SRH-320A ($50) will perform better - but work with the stock antenna for your local repeaters first before you shell out bucks for after-market antennas. Clint Bradford, K6LCS 909-241-7666 -------------------------------------- Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666 - cell

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PCSAT-1 Operations Guidelines
by Robert Bruninga 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

We are attempting to restore PCSAT-1 to full operation. Until we are successful, we need to ask all users to stop using the W3ADO-1 callsign. You may prepare for full operation with the PCSAT-1, ARISS and WIDEn-N digipeating aliases, and as soon as PCSAT is capable of supporting a user load, then your packets will get through. Today, we attempted to logon to do some preparation work, but the satellite was being beat-to-death literally by users. Of the many dozens and dozens of packets, W3ADO-1 could not successfully complete even a single packet without failure. It cannot support this kind of load until we get the batteires charged up, and we cannot restore PCSAT if we cannot get in a few good packets. So we request users to stop using W3ADO-1 until we activate the proper PCSAT-1 callsigns and digipeater. Oh, also, due to problems with outside access to the original PCSAT web page, we have moved it off-site to: www.aprs.org/pcsat.html But notice that all links are broken on this new site until we have time to re-direct them. In the mean time, though, that is where we will put CURRENT information. Thanks Bob, Wb4APR

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Re: Re Choppy ISS signals
by G0MRF＠aol.com 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Hi. If you look at the received signal strength on the downlink, the crew are saving the radios from overheating by having the squelch turned up. i.e. the radios get a big rest over the oceans. Unless you put in a fairly large signal then the squelch drops out and part of the transmission is lost. Result: It sounds 'choppy' David G0MRF In a message dated 06/12/2008 21:53:38 GMT Standard Time, n3tl(a)bellsouth.net writes: I believe it has to do with the relative position of the antenna(s) on the ISS and all the "stuff" connected to the station that run in different directions. I can see how the antennas might be blocked from out "line of sight" as this module or that solar array "gets in the way" on a given pass. Any other thoughts about it out there?

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ISS 9600 succeeded in digipeat
by Mineo Wakita 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

I succeeded in digipeat via ISS 145.825MHz simplex 9600bps G3RUH, at 07:43:10 UTC (16:43:10 JST) 7Dec2008. I noticed that there is no [*] via ARISS. JE9PEL>CQ,ARISS [12/07/08 16:43:10] <UI R>:Hello

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K5OE antenna projects
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

For those unable to locate the original K5OE web pages (thanks AOL)... I found this site today, apparently a sanctioned mirror. http://www.observations.biz/K5OE/ I have built and currently use both the 2m and the 70cm version of the Texas Eggbeater II. These are great omni antennae, suitable for use from the attic. They exhibit horizontal polarization on the horizon and become circular as elevation increases. Makes them useful for the VHF contests as well. Also easy to take and setup at Field Day. Even without a preamp, these are good enough for most LEO satellites. Thanks Jerry, I really like these ... /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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Amsat-BB Elliptical Orbit Satellites & the ISS
by ki6rrq 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

I'm a fairly new ham and been working AO-51 and the ISS, so far. Can anyone tell me which (if any) satellites, that we can work, have elliptical orbits that would give us prolonged passes for longer talk times? Lastly, I can hear lots of traffic on the ISS cross band but my 5 watt HT cant seem to compete. I have not been able to get a QSO on the ISS, in a dozen attempts. (Arrow antenna, got a bunch of SSTV pics from Richard Garriott but no voice) So I hope someone can respond to my call on the pass that begins about 2:01 UTC over Southern California, father away the better. (DM-13) Thanks! Rich KI6RRQ

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Re: K5OE antenna projects
by Bob Bruninga 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

> I have built and currently use both > the 2m and the 70cm version of > the Texas Eggbeater II.... > Even without a preamp, these are good > enough for most LEO satellites. I am very inerested in performance reports from omni leo antennas, so could you clarify "good enough" for us? Even a 1/4 whip is "good enough" for the middle 2 minutes when any satellite is above 30 deg.. But that is only 20% or less of all access times. And of course anything is good enough horizon-to-horizon for the ISS.. thanks Bob, Wb4APR

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Re: K5OE antenna projects
by Bob Bruninga 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

> Perhaps in the mean time I can come > up with some more meaningful methods > to measure the EggbeaterII performance. > Any suggestions or recommendations welcome. A very simple method for OMNI anennas is to simply monitor what you hear relative to elevation angle. Done. To gauge how well an omni antenna performs on a given satellite, you only need one number... that is, you can say a given satellite is generally "useable above elevation angle X on my antenna Y". That is all one needs to compare for any LEO. If you look at the plot of elevation angles and path-loss, shown on www.aprs.org/rotator1.html, you will see a table that shows how LOSS compares to elevation angle. EL CUM-% RANGE PATH-GAIN --- ----- ----- --------- 10 32 3030 0 20 67 2440 2 30 84 1827 5 40 92 1460 6 50 96 1190 7 60 98 1020 9 This shows that you get almost 9 dB of gain on an omni antenna depending on how close the satellite is, and that is simply proportional to elevation angle. The cumulative percent column shows the total access time BELOW that angle. Notice that signals above 30 degrees are 5 or more dB stronger, but you miss 84% of total access times. Above 45 degrees most LEO's are 6 or more dB stronger and can be heard on just about any antenna, but this only occurs less than 5% of the time. But anyway, it gives a universal single number comparison of omni antenna performance. Now of couse, what does "useable" mean is debatable as well. But most people can agree approximately. Of course there are nulls and fades, but I am not counting that. I am counting "mostly" useable as my criteria. Said another way, you can -never- hear some LEO's below some angle on an omni because there are very few things that can "enhance" a signal, though there are lots that can deminish it. So again, lowest-workable-elevation-angle is a pretty good discriminant for a given OMNI installation. Of course vertical gain-omni's can put more gain on the horizon (typical base-station antennas), but then at the expense of higher angle coverage. And since even a vertical gain omni antenna that is great for base station use might just barely hear some satellites low on the horizon, their nulls and poor performance at higher angles (where the satellite is MUCH stronger) is giving up the best part of the omni link to a spaceccraft, and why no one would use one for satelltie work. So as everyone is getting tired of hearing me say... my preferred antenna is a 19" whip over a ground plane (like the roof of my car) with short coax, that has 5 dBi gain on 2m and almost 7 dBi gain at UHF as a 3/4 wave vertical above 25 degrees or so. This combined with the 6dB of range improvement above 30 degrees for a LEO gives you almost 13 dBi gain performance (like a beam) for a simple omni (but only for the best overhead passes). But hey, it sure is simple, consistent and always works for high passes! An no moving parts, or tracking required, and usually, no doppler. I usually tune 5 KHz high for UHF birds so that I hear them the soonest that they get high-enough (and close enough) to be heard. But just fixed tuning at the center freq also works since you only hear the center few minutes of a pass anyway. Just something to consider. Bob, Wb4APR

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LOTW Satellite name for ISS ?
by Bruce Semple 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Does one log contacts through the ISS repeater as a SAT contact? If so -- ISS does not appear to be one of the accepted names. tonights 23:49 UTC pass over East Coast -- the downlink was very choppy -- as if someone was keying their microphone on and off randomly but not saying anything -- was anyone else hearing the same?

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Compatible Radios
by RFI-EMI-GUY 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

You might check with Piexx to see if this module will add CI-V capability to your IC-471. http://www.piexx.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7&products_id=19 -- Joe Leikhim K4SAT "The RFI-EMI-GUY"© "Treason doth never prosper: what's the reason? For if it prosper, none dare call it treason." "Follow The Money" ;-P

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ANS-342 AMSAT Weekly Bulletins
by Lee McLamb 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-342 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: * AO-16 Requires Several Restarts * ARISS 25th Commemorative Event to Feature 9K6 Packet This Week * Sumbandilasat to be Launch from Baikonur * ARISS Status - 01 December 2008 SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-342.01 AO-16 Requires Several Restarts AMSAT News Service Bulletin 342.01 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 7, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-342.01 AO-16 Command Station, Mark N8MH reported this week, "As expected, over the last few days AO-16 has started to again experience 'shutdowns'. So far I've restarted the bird three times, and each time it appears to stay up for a day or more. We can expect the situation to worsen, as the eclipse periods get longer and the satellite temperatures continue to go down. We've been warning you, get those AO-16 contacts in now!" Mark says he will try to restart AO-16 as long as possible when his schedule allows him. Satellite operator reports to the OSCAR Satellite Status page by KD5QGR at http://oscar.dcarr.org/ are very helpful. Mark continues, "If the birds is operational in voice mode, you should clearly hear the "not-so-repressed carrier" on the downlink. I have a special request - if you do not hear the carrier, please do not transmit to AO-16, as your transmissions make it difficult to command the satellite. And, if you hear the "hummmming" of the PSK transmitting, again please do not attempt to transmit to the bird; it's likely that I have restarted the bird and need to collect tele- metry before configuring it into voice mode. Thanks to all you faith- ful AO-16 operators!" Current operational mode for AO-16 (as available!): Mode FM Voice Repeater ( Downlink is DSB) Uplink : 145.9200 MHz FM Downlink 437.0260 MHz SSB [ANS thanks Mark, N8MH for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-342.02 ARISS 25th Commemorative Event to Feature 9K6 Packet This Week AMSAT News Service Bulletin 342.02 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 7, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-342.02 As promised by ARISS, the 25th Anniversary Commemorative radio event started operations from the ISS amateur radio station this week. Early in the week several amateur stations around the world were able to copy the slow-scan television (SSTV) pictures trans- mitted from the ISS. On Friday, December 5 the ARISS crossband FM repeater was enabled with several stations reporting excellent signals. When the crossband repeater is operational its uplink is on 437.800 MHz FM with its downlink on 145.800 MHz FM. Remember to adjust for doppler shift when operating in this mode. For the week of December 7-12 ARISS will run a test of 9600 baud packet operations on the simplex frequency 145.825 MHz. To celebrate our 25 years of amateur radio operations from space, the ARISS team has planned a set of special event opportunities during the month of December and part of January. A special certi- ficate is being developed for those who communicate with the ISS, either 2-way direct (with the ISS crew,the digipeater, or cross band repeater), or 1-way reception of SSTV or voice downlink. Several "surprises" planned over the month-long celebration. The surprises will be announced once ARISS is pre-positioned to accomplish them. ARISS reminds 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 commemor- ative certificate. [ANS thanks Frank, KA3HDO, AMSAT-NA V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs and ARISS International Chairman for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-342.03 Sumbandilasat to be Launch from Baikonur AMSAT News Service Bulletin 342.03 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 7, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-342.03 It is official! South Africa's second satellite, SumbandilaSat, will be launched from the Russian Baikonur Cosmodrome in the December to March time frame. SumbandilaSat has been unpacked and is undergoing testing at SunSpace in Stellenbosch before it will be shipped to Russia for integration with the launch vehicle. Engineers at the launch site are preparing a special adapter ring to accommodate the Sumbandila structure on the rocket. "Sumbandila" means showing or pointing the way. Freely translated into English "Pathfinder" The Amateur Radio Payload will be operating in conjunction with the University of Stellenbosch Software Defined Receiver project as it will share the VHF receiver and UHF transmitter used by the SDR project. SA AMSAT has designed and built a control system to facilitate the following operations: * V/U voice transponder with an uplink in the 2 metre band and a downlink in the 70cm band. * A parrot repeater (voice digipeater) * A voice beacon The control unit will command the various function of the transponder and handle the parrot and beacon messaging. On receipt of a tone from the VUCU VHF receiver, the CTCSS tone will be decoded and depending on the tone received the unit will command the VU transponder operation or the parrot repeater. In the transponder mode the satellite will act like a cross-band FM repeater and allow two way communications with other stations on the ground. If the tone received indicates parrot operation, the interface unit will record 20 seconds of audio on its VHF uplink receiver and replay the recorded audio on the UHF downlink. Should, for a predetermined period, there be no tones received, the controller will initiate a voice beacon, transmitting a pre-recorded message at regular intervals. This facility will offer many opportunities for educational projects. [ANS thanks SA AMSAT for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-342.04 ARISS Status - 01 December 2008 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 342.04 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. December 7, 2008 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-342.04 1. Upcoming School Contacts An Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact has been scheduled with Ellis School in Belleville, Illinois on Monday, December 8 at 16:54 UTC. Space studies have been integrated into the school curriculum. Students have created solar system models, written reports and given presentations to their classes. They have designed rockets and given talks to the class about where the rockets will go and what they will do in space. They have planned space colonies and determined how the astronauts will travel, how they will obtain food and where they will live. They have also sampled space food. Students have learned about Expedition 18, the Space Shuttle, the international partners and the ISS and amateur radio. The class is currently growing seeds that were flown in space. An Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact has been scheduled for Stephen F. Austin Elementary School in Richmond, Texas on Tuesday, December 9 at 15:43 UTC. Students have studied space and the identifying characteristics of objects in our solar system including the sun, planets, and moon. Each year the 5th grade students participate in a simulated space shuttle mission, performing tasks that would happen on a regular shuttle flight. Each grade level is involved in some manner with the various missions that occur throughout the day. The school has integrated the ARISS contact as part of this activity. The Istituto Comprensivo "Marco Polo," in Grado, Italy has been scheduled for an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact on Wednesday, December 10 at 10:08 UTC. An Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact has been scheduled with 2 Circolo Didattico San Giuseppe in Mola di Bari, Bari, Italy on Friday, December 12 at 14:14 UTC. Lesson plans have been developed for students that cover amateur radio and space missions. Newspapers, radio and television, both local and regional, will report on the event. 2. New Zealand Homeschoolers Experience ARISS Contact Wairarapa Home School Association students from Carterton, Wairarapa, New Zealand participated in an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact on Wednesday, November 26 via telebridge stations VK5ZAI and VK4KHZ, both in Australia. Mike Fincke, KE5AIT, answered all 15 questions asked. The audio was available on EchoLink and Internet Radio Linking Project (IRLP). This was the second ARISS contact performed with New Zealand students. 3. Video of ARISS - International Education Week Contact 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). A video of the participating students from North Carolina and Ecuador has been posted to YouTube. See: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6d3D66DbBEo 4. CQ VHF Article on ARISS Meetings Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) member Keith Pugh, W5IU, wrote an article for the Fall 2008 issue of CQ VHF which covered the ARISS meetings held in Moscow during July 2008. An excerpt from the article may be viewed here: http://www.cq-vhf.com/Fall08Sat.html 5. ARISS Commemorative Event Twenty-five years ago, Owen Garriott, W5LFL, became the first amateur radio operator to talk to hams from space on the STS-9 Space Shuttle Columbia mission which was launched on November 28 and landed on December 8, 1983. To celebrate this event, an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) commemorative event will be held during the month of December through early January. A special certificate is being developed for those who communicate with the ISS, either 2-way direct (with the ISS crew, the digipeater, or cross band repeater), or 1-way reception of SSTV or voice downlink. For more details, see: http://www.ariss-eu.org/2008_11_30.htm [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, Lee McLamb, KU4OS ku4os at amsat dot org

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Re: Nothing heard from NO-44 (PCSat-1) Dec 6 23:27 UTC pass
by Bob Bruninga 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

> I heard absolutely no packets from NO-44... Day or night? PCSAT is always dead in the dark. BUT will return to full service in about 3 days when it returns to full sun. And it should be a fun time, if ISS is also doing APRS packets at the same time on the same freq while both support the same ARISS digi callsign. That will be 12 passes per day per location for making contacts on 145.825! If you are an old packet-pounder, get out that old TNC and make some contacts. (NOT CONNECTIONS) Communicate in UI CONVERSE mode only. People with APRS radios (D7, D700, D710 and the new VX-8R) are ready to go. I request that users do NOT use PCSAT over the next few weeks via its default W3ADO-1 callsign because that means it is not fully restored. When it is ready for user load, the callsign will be changed to PCSAT-1 and the usual generic APRS digipeating callsigns will be activated: PCSAT-1, ARISS, WIDEn-N Since it can support additinoal ones, the future callsigns of APRSAT and SATn-N will also be supported, but until there are more APRSat's or SATn-N digipeaters in space, its a moot point. If you ever see the callsign NODIGI, this means we have turned off the digi completely while allowing for the batteries to get fully charged. All it takes is one full orbit in the sun to be restorable, and then a few orbits before we will turn it over to users. Going green. PCSAT-1 is 100% solar powerd! Bob, Wb4APR

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Nothing heard from NO-44 (PCSat-1) Dec 6 23:27 UTC pass
by DeYoung James 07 Dec '08

07 Dec '08

Greetings, I heard absolutely no packets from NO-44, somewhat unexpectedly, as I heard lots of packets on November 29th. N8OQ, Jim

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AMSATNET url
by Bruce 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

sorry i did not post the url in my original message. had i been at home, it would have been in the signature. the new dns entry is active through my comcast and att providers. http://www.amsatnet.com 73...bruce Sent from my iPhone

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ICOM 910 owners
by Dave Guimont 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

I found my manual for the 910, but I am still having problems accessing Compass-1, and I think the problem is in my 910 settings... I'm using MixW, think I have the settings there in good order, but would sure appreciate a 910 owner sending me their phone number... Messaging is ok, but the slight stroke I had a while back makes the keyboard a little clumsy for me... 73, Dave, WB6LLO dguimon1(a)san.rr.com Disagree: I learn.... Pulling for P3E...

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Houston AMSATNET is changing DNS
by Bruce 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

This afternoon before leaving for work I changed the DNS entry for my web page. It should take between 24-48 hours for all servers worlwide to update the entry. Hopefully I have moved everything properly. If you experience a hiccup on the new site with any broken links, drop my a quick email so I can repair it. 73...bruce Sent from my iPhone

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iss cross band report
by Robert Coppock 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

HI ,,,, ,, iss just went by 54 deg west of california. heard only ve4wsc, but did not get a reply. thank you to all for the work in making all this happen. 437.800 -/+ doppler uplink 145.800 downlink 73 and happy holydays, Robert k-f-0-g cm97

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Re: cross-satellite opportunity
by Tom Williams 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

Would you have to go up on 435.23 to get the vo-52 145.92 downlink? Tom Williams 703 402 0869 On Dec 6, 2008, at 10:25, "Alan Sieg WB5RMG" <wb5rmg(a)somenet.net> wrote: I may be reading things wrong, but it appears that this next pass for VO-52 and FO-29 might offer cross-satellite contact... Check me. VO-52 uplink 435.270 -> downlink 145.920 AO-29 uplink 145.920 -> downlink 435.820 I might be a fool . I haven't studied this but a few minutes, but it might just be. Wish I was better prepared to try something. Maybe I'll get on VO-52 at 435.270, and someone else can listen for me on 435.820 ... or thereabouts /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> _______________________________________________ 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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cross-satellite opportunity
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

I may be reading things wrong, but it appears that this next pass for VO-52 and FO-29 might offer cross-satellite contact... Check me. VO-52 uplink 435.270 -> downlink 145.920 AO-29 uplink 145.920 -> downlink 435.820 I might be a fool . I haven't studied this but a few minutes, but it might just be. Wish I was better prepared to try something. Maybe I'll get on VO-52 at 435.270, and someone else can listen for me on 435.820 ... or thereabouts /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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RE Robert Turlington
by Callum Graham 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

Yes thats the call Robert. I worked the call on 12/4/08 at 17:50 and i think that was UK time. QSL card will be on its way. 73. De Callum MM3YCG

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AO 51 special event callsighn (Corrected) Request
by Callum Graham 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

Hi all, Im sorry the callsighn was GB0CD and it was a special event call on AO 51.

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ISS NASA Human Space Flight Pass Prediction
by ki6rrq 06 Dec '08

06 Dec '08

Frank, Thanks for that ISS special event info, when I posted there had been no activity, so that's good news! In fact, I heard lots of activity on the ISS cross band repeater tonight, UTC 02:40 12-6-08, over San Diego, CA. USA....... Now that were getting some HAM activity on the ISS, I sure wish the person that keeps up the ISS pass prediction program on NASA's site, could find the time to update the pass prediction data.......... as of UTC 07:19 12-6-08, its showing pass predictions for November 23rd instead of the current date .......... http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/realdata/sightings/SSapplications/Post/JavaSSOP/ JavaSSOP.html

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A question about the UHF and Vhf Fm repeaters
by Scott Berry 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

Hello there, I am rather new to satellites and I am wondering when you contact So50 is there a plus or minus setting or is it supposed to be a no offset? Otherwise, I have everything else going and heard So50 just about 5 minutes ago. Have a wonderful day. Scott Berry n7zib(a)northlc.com

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Compatible Radios
by Dave 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

Hi group, I decided after listening to the group that two radios for my sat station is the way to go. I have a IC-471 on the horizon but can't find a IC-271/275. I was wondering if there was a good substitute? Is there a Yaesu, Kenwood, another ICOM, or Alinco that will do the same multimode with CAT that will compliment but not duplicate the 471? I have some research about this and that radio, but Thank you, and I really appreciate all the help from the experts. 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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AO 51 Special event callsighn Info request
by Callum Graham 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

On the 12th April 2008 I worked a special call sighn on AO 51. The special event was an anniversary of cosmonaut Yuri Gargaren (April 12 1962) The special call sighn was GB3CD. Did anyone else in the U.K. work this station and if possible could they give me the details of the QSL address etc as i never sent for a QSL for the QSO as i wasn't long on the air, I remember looking the call up on qrz but never noted the details. 73 De MM3YCG

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for Eric W3DQ
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

Pardon the bandwidth, but I'm having trouble replying to an email I received from Eric W3DQ... Apparently you are receiving these OK from AMSAT-BB. I tried a reply to your arrl.net address from your email, but the delivery failure message I got back indicated a problem sending to "wd3q(a)st_________.net ... Which did not appear correct. So I tried another reply directly to "w3dq(a)st_________.net - but it also failed... /;^( Something may be out of whack somewhere, you may want to follow-up. Let me know when to try again ... Thanks /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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Remembering . . .
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

In some vanilla folder in an overcrowded file drawer is my OscarLocator, with several pages of EQX tables for Oscars 6 & 7 . . . We sure do appreciate ya Tom, Mr."Why waste all this space"..!.. And Phil, Ralph, Jan, Perry, and untold dozens of others . . . Where would we be now otherwise ... ... ... Hopefully some of the new SatOps can read enough of these old scans to pick up on the passion of the past and help carry us on into the future. We gotta keep this dream alive. All the easy stuff has been done, now the real work begins - creating the future. Step up to the plate folks ! Thanks AMSAT /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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Remembering a part of AMSAT's History
by Tom Clark, K3IO 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

Phil Karn, KA9Q (with help from W0RPK) has been posting a complete set of AMSAT's history in posting AMSAT's Newsletters/Magazines in the 1975-1999 era at http://www.ka9q.net/newsletters.html. Many of these really bring tears to my eyes! -- especially the ORBIT and ASRs from 1980-1985. This was the era when we built Phase-3A only to have it lost as the 2nd test flight of the Arianne launcher self-destructed seconds after the launch. We took that failure as a challenge to rebuild the AMSAT organization and the replacement Phase-3B spacecraft. Anyone who would like to learn more about our legacy should read the publications from the early 80's. There is another story in those newsletters. In the early 1980's, a few amateurs were learning about computers. The pre-1980 LEO satellites could be tracked using only the time of equator crossing and a simple plotting board. However the HEO Phase-3 satellites in elliptical orbits made the job a lot harder. In Orbit #6 (see http://www.ka9q.net/AMSAT-ORBIT-6.pdf) I started AMSAT on the "open source" software track by publishing the source code (in BASIC) for a the algorithms needed to do the job on a personally owned computer; at the time, the detractors said "Why waste all this space in the magazine. Only a few amateurs will ever own computers with enough horsepower to do these calculations!" I held fast and we published the article anyway. In the next 5-10 years, clones and graphical adaptations of "IWI Orbits" by others for many computers were added. AMSAT's "sales" of copies of the many variants of my open-source software put nearly $100,000 into the till to build AO-10 and -13. My thanks to Phil & Ralph for giving me the chance to reminisce one more time! 73 de Tom, K3IO (ex W3IWI)

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Re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 3, Issue 632
by Frank H. Bauer 05 Dec '08

05 Dec '08

All, Some clarifications. First, it was not NASA that talked about the ARISS Special Events, it was the ARISS team. Second, we have already started the events with some SSTV downlinks. And Mike Fincke was on the air on voice earlier today. Third, as I mentioned in my e-mail on this: "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)." We do need to remember that the crew sets the systems up on their free time and when it does not interfere with other on-orbit activities. And the ARISS team has the same "crystal ball" as you do. We rarely get word from the crew ahead of time if they can support a specific event or not. So stay tuned! 73, Frank Bauer, KA3HDO AMSAT-NA V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs ARISS International Chairman ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 11:29:14 -0800 From: "Call Sign" <ki6rrq(a)cox.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] ISS Special Events Dec 2008 To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <008e01c95646$97b28b90$6401a8c0@agentj07qkr8dt> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" NASA said that December was going to produce some special HAM events on the International Space Station. Included in these, it was reported, that between December 1-7, the ISS cross band repeater would be active and there would be some SSTV pics transmitted. Special undisclosed future December events were to come but not disclosed. As of UTC 1900 12-4-08, HAM reports, as well as my attempts, are negative for any contacts on the cross band repeater. I cant find any additional news, does anyone have any further updates or reality on ISS coms..... right now or this month? Rich KI6RRQ ------------------------------

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ISS Special Events Dec 2008
by Call Sign 04 Dec '08

04 Dec '08

NASA said that December was going to produce some special HAM events on the International Space Station. Included in these, it was reported, that between December 1-7, the ISS cross band repeater would be active and there would be some SSTV pics transmitted. Special undisclosed future December events were to come but not disclosed. As of UTC 1900 12-4-08, HAM reports, as well as my attempts, are negative for any contacts on the cross band repeater. I cant find any additional news, does anyone have any further updates or reality on ISS coms..... right now or this month? Rich KI6RRQ

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Re: Yaesu CT-62
by gregory.beat＠comcast.net 04 Dec '08

04 Dec '08

Nick - I believe that I picked up a Yaesu CT-62 CAT interface cable (part of an estate sale) this past summer. Let me check tonight -- when I get home. IF so, I think that this amateur elf .... can throw the CT-62 in Santa's gift bag before he arrives on Christmas day. Ho Ho Ho (or is it Hi Hi Hi?) 73 de greg w9gb ----- Date: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 06:24:37 -0600 From: "Nick Pugh" <quadpugh(a)bellsouth.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] yease ct-62 To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <004801c9560b$467b8960$d3729c20$@net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Does anyone on the list know where I can get a schematic of a Yaesu CT-62 cat interface cable? Thanks nick

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Re: rotor replacement pots
by Fred A Parker 04 Dec '08

04 Dec '08

A digital encoder would be the most accurate. USdigital http://www.usdigital.com/support/glossary#glossary_opticalencoder manufactures inexpensive encoders. With these and a step servo drive in example a Gecko drive http://www.geckodrive.com/product.aspx?c=2&i=14456 one could build a rotor that would be accurate to a thousand of a degree. Fred KF0AK

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January 2001 CQ Mag
by Angelo Glorioso (n5uxt) 04 Dec '08

04 Dec '08

Hello All, I am posting this here for help in locating an article in the Jan CQ Magazine 2001. The article starts on Page 18 about an inverted L antenna. I use to have all the copy of cq until I lost everything in Katrina. If someone could scan the article I would appreciate it. 73 de Angelo PS: Sorry for posting this here but this group is the most informative of them all.

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