March 2009 - AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

SDR Forum at Dayton Hamvention
by Robert McGwier 26 Mar '09

26 Mar '09

The SDR Forum at the Dayton Hamvention is Saturday 11:15 AM to 1:30 PM May 16. This is the ARRL National convention as well so it should be well attended. Because of missed emails, etc. (I was left off the email addressees so I got none of the emails) we are now in a rush. The initial list, etc. is supposed to be in DARA hands by April 1. This needs to be dealt with ASAP. I will contact some "you should" directly but I am soliciting 15-20 minute talks. I need at least an indiciation of willingness to speak, a few sentence abstract, and your willingness to be flexible in the timing as Irush this together. Thanks Bob McGwier ARS N4HY

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PCSAT
by Armando Mercado 26 Mar '09

26 Mar '09

Greetings, PCSAT is in full sun untill March 30 according to NOVA but is not coming alive as it had in the past. Maybe sun angles are wrong for this season. Time in UTC. 25-Mar-09 21:48:54 W3ADO-1>BEACON,SGATE:T#004,159,159,046,209,214,11111111,0011,1 73, Armando, N8IGJ

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ISS and shuttle viewing
by Luc Leblanc 26 Mar '09

26 Mar '09

On the 0005Z March 26 (2005 EDT on the 25) i just watch ISS lead by Discovery dimmer and slightly below ISS. A great space mechanic lesson an orbital body reducing his altitude increased his speed or it's an optical illusion? Physics has never been my taste of tea but always nice to watch passing space things over us and in bonus our seasonal wild white goose and wild duck and birds migration heading north with their usual sound. (resting and feeding place about 45mn from here see: http://www.pbase.com/descar/ornitho). If clear evening sky remain i will try some photos of the twin moving star "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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Re: software for two-rig doppler control?
by Mark L. Hammond 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

Hi Bill, SatPC32 will let you run two different rigs at the same time. This works well if you use one to TX and another to RX, using SatPC32 ver 12.8 Lately, I have been wanting to simulaneously control 2 radios--both with TX and RX. So, what I do is run a second copy of an older version of SatPC32 (ver 12.7). You can install the older version into a different location and set it up to run only the radio (not track box). I don't think it's possible to run two copies of 12.8 because of the install/default locations for the data files... Fortunately, 12.7 keeps the files in the same directory as the installed program, so you can run as many copies of that as you want! It takes a bit of work to get 2 copies running and configured correctly, since you have to configure them separately. But the files with frequency info, etc. can be copied so they use the same frequencies etc. It's not too bad, really, given the benefits. Why would I want to do this? I have two rigs I want to control...TS-2000X and TS-790A. This lets me hear both AO-51 repeaters at once (or do digital/telemetry on one, voice on the other), let's me use one for S-band receive, and so on. It's actually quite handy to mix/match transmitters/receivers. 73, Mark N8MH -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: [amsat-bb] software for two-rig doppler control? From: Bill Dzurilla <billdz.geo@xxxxxxxxx> Date: Tue, 24 Mar 2009 20:29:55 -0700 (PDT) DKIM-Signature: v=1; a=rsa-sha256; c=relaxed/relaxed; d=yahoo.com; s=s1024;t=1237951795; bh=kNIqCiu26Lrd+NK+w3vlKX0zNsmP7JH2dxyPG7GNu0s=;h=Message-ID:X-YMail-OSG:Received:X-Mailer:Date:From:Reply-To:Subject:To:In-Reply-To:MIME-Version:Content-Type;b=2hiCUUJrCjXfTb5aWOTdiJgO8aGC+Z3/u1hG4sSq7Wa3ljwLj4gBrg0x438eLxHPQ6q5BqpSKnFRuQnRXjDBnrm5ELOJOUNAm/hyYNqMKo49npPaAQelubLJ0PrBSNPKD9a4r4cueKJdGdQYUnqV0CTvoCKtIy7TGfhorHqp894= -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Isn't there a software program that automatically tunes two rigs so that each remains on a sat's uplink and downlink frequencies during a pass and corrects for doppler? I recall reading about such a program but now can't find it. Thanks, Bill NZ5N -- Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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G-5500 Control Box
by Matt Bennett 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

Hi All, Anyone know if you can purchase a G-5500 control box without the rotator? I've been trying to ask Yaesu, but phone messages and emails have gone unanswered... Thanks, Matt KF6RTB

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help
by Jack Barbera 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

I'd like to thank everyone for their help .Iam a member of AMSAT. and am using SATPC32 for my sat program and it is working great. I wanted to join this reflector and have.sounds like an active one. Again thanks for your help and concern Jack WA1ZDV

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software for two-rig doppler control?
by Bill Dzurilla 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

Isn't there a software program that automatically tunes two rigs so that each remains on a sat's uplink and downlink frequencies during a pass and corrects for doppler? I recall reading about such a program but now can't find it. Thanks, Bill NZ5N

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Re: Slow Scan
by John W Lee 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

Try downloading "MMSSTV" and install it. Plug a patch cord from your earphone jack of the radio to the mike jack on your PC, and regulate the level with the volume control on the radio. As I recall, without doing anything else, you should be able to copy pictures. If there's no satellite and you want to test it, try listening to 14.230 on 20 meters. There are quite a few SSTV'ers sending on there daily. This thing is VERY easy to use ! Even I figured it out. And I am NOT a computer geek by any means. One other note: MMTTY is for RTTY. DIGIPAN is for PSK31. They all work in the same simple way (for receiving). You'll need another patch-cord to do the transmit part! 73 JOhn K6YK On Tue, 24 Mar 2009 21:17:18 -0400 WB2LLP <wb2llp(a)optonline.net> writes: > AO-51's handlers are doing a very nice job of presenting us with > several different satellite modes. This week it is an opportunity > to try Slow Scan TV. Now it would be very nice if someone from > the Slow Scan community would tell us how to receive the pictures > and once we have done that, how do we send a picture. We only have > a week to play with something which is very different for some of > us, so let us not waste any time. > > TNX es 73 de WB2LLP Gene > > ARRL 1139432 > AMSAT 33183 > _______________________________________________ > 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 > > ____________________________________________________________ Click to get free auto insurance quotes from top companies. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/BLSrjpTImHZiDoYUtCRp6q5tsylLbXv…

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Slow Scan
by WB2LLP 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

AO-51's handlers are doing a very nice job of presenting us with several different satellite modes. This week it is an opportunity to try Slow Scan TV. Now it would be very nice if someone from the Slow Scan community would tell us how to receive the pictures and once we have done that, how do we send a picture. We only have a week to play with something which is very different for some of us, so let us not waste any time. TNX es 73 de WB2LLP Gene ARRL 1139432 AMSAT 33183

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membership
by Jack Barbera 25 Mar '09

25 Mar '09

Would like to join. Pls advise proceedure Thanks Jack WA1ZDV

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Re: membership
by Clint Bradford 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

>> ... Don't join if ... On the other side of the coin ... JOIN AMSAT if you are interested in supporting ARISS and its school contacts. JOIN AMSAT and promote satellite knowledge to all kinds of audiences - ham or not. JOIN AMSAT and watch your group's eyes widen as you demonstrate working one of the FM birds with only your handheld radio and better antenna. JOIN AMSAT to help support its presence at hamfests and conventions. JOIN AMSAT and volunteer! There are many tasks and activities that need your energy and knowledge. JOIN AMSAT if you are interested in educating the next generation of satellite engineers. INCLUDE AMSAT in your will - it is a painless method to enhance your legacy for the benefit of amateur satellite communications across the globe. That's all I can think of off the top of my head ... I am sure others have even more excellent reasons to get involved with AMSAT. Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.k6lcs.com

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AO-51 SSTV copy
by John Price 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Just got a couple of images from this pass over FM07il. They were a little noisy but not bad considering I guess. There were a few that were to skewed to bad copy. If anyone copied what I sent I would love an email with a copy attached. KB1PVH was a nice fire truck WP4CN ?U or O Nice test pattern. I ran this call in QRZ and neither show as listed there. The top of the call was cut off so I don't know if it was a U or a O on the end. Oh well! 73's << John -- N4QWF Amateur Radio Operator AO-7,AO-27,FO-29,SO-50,AO-51,VO-52,ISS Email N4QWF(a)AMSAT.ORG Echolink nodes #110903 -L #388463 http://home.comcast.net/~n4qwf/site/ Formerly KC4AHW VK3FEZ Amsat Member #27845 DXCC #33,478 VUCC SAT #135 WAS SAT #296 51 on AO-51 #13 LON -79.256 LAT 37.459 Grid FM07il >From the Foothills of the Blueridge *Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming - "WOW, What a ride!"

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Membership- Jack WA1ZDV
by Peter 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Hi, I spoke with Jack, I wanted the membership credit, hi;. Jack was interested in joining this board. Those you answered will get the credit for carrying the AMSAT Flag! 73, Pete, WB2OQQ

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Re: SSTV on AO-51
by Mike Rupprecht 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Hi, see some nice pictures here: http://www.dk3wn.info/p/ 73, Mike DK3WN -----Ursprüngliche Nachricht----- Von: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] Im Auftrag von John W Lee Gesendet: Dienstag, 24. März 2009 16:23 An: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Betreff: [amsat-bb] SSTV on AO-51 Hello folks, Nice pictures from KO4MA, AI7W, K7ULS, N0FJP, N0UOE last night and this morning ! 73, John K6YK ____________________________________________________________ Save money. Click here to find low mortgage rates. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/BLSrjpTIsOgmEiLrXNTdtwXGVyRDUDuR SGk7fkXPmrmHh7pD08UDd1Q3DfK/ _______________________________________________ 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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ANS-083 AMSAT News Service Special Bulletin
by JoAnne Maenpaa 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE SPECIAL BULLETIN ANS-083 In this edition: * Frank H. Bauer, KA3HDO to Step Down from ARISS and AMSAT Duties * Will Marchant, KC6ROL Appointed AMSAT's VP-Human Space Flight SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-083.01 Frank H. Bauer, KA3HDO to Step Down from ARISS and AMSAT Duties AMSAT News Service Bulletin 083.01 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. March 24, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-083.01 Frank H. Bauer, KA3HDO, announced today that, effective immediately, he will be stepping down from all his Amateur Radio on the Internat- ional Space Station (ARISS) duties. This includes his contributions to NASA Education as the ARISS program leader, his support as the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) International Working Group Chair, his appointment as one of two ARISS USA delegates, and as the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation's (AMSAT) Vice Presi- dent for Human Spaceflight Programs. Mr. Bauer cited personal and professional reasons for his departure. He is currently the Chief Engineer for the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. This directorate is developing the next generation human spaceflight vehicles that will take NASA to the International Space Station and then to the Moon, Mars and beyond. He is also providing some backup support to the Space Operations Chief Engineer who supports the Space Shuttle and International Space Station Programs. "Work responsibilities, which have increased substantially over the past couple of years, coupled with some recent health issues within my immediate family, led me to the conclusion that I could not continue to provide the leadership and passion that has been character- istic of my past support to these amateur radio endeavors," Mr. Bauer said. "This was a very hard decision. I will certainly miss the phen- omenal ARISS international team and our mission to inspire the next generation of space explorers using ham radio as our platform. But I thought it would be best to step down at this juncture," Bauer explain- ed. KA3HDO continues, "Over the past 12 years, we have developed, men- tored and matured an outstanding volunteer team with a wide breadth and depth. I am fully confident that they will keep the ARISS program run- ning smoothly without missing a beat." AMSAT President Barry Baines, WD4ASW, has tapped Will Marchant, KC6ROL, to become the next AMSAT Vice President for Human Spaceflight Programs and the AMSAT USA delegate of the ARISS International Working Group. Barry Baines stated that "AMSAT is fortunate that we have a very capable leader in Will Marchant who is intimately familiar with ARISS, our exten- sive human spaceflight program, and is well respected internationally." Barry observed, "Frank's leadership has left a significant mark on the overall ARISS program and the cooperative relationship between amateur radio, NASA and other governmental space agencies. However, Frank also ensured that his team evolved to the point where the work that he pion- eered will be carried on by those that he mentored and encouraged to take on greater responsibility." In his new role, Will Marchant will work with the other ARISS USA delegate, Rosalie White, K1STO, from the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and the other ARISS International Delegates and the ISS Space Agencies to coordinate the development and operations of the amateur radio systems onboard the ISS. Rosalie stated that "I look forward to working with Will in his new role. He has provided outstanding leadership and support to ARISS from its very beginning, most recently as an Operations team leader. And he helped pioneer the school group mentor role as part of the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment (SAREX) program in the early 1990's." She continued, "Frank will be missed tremendously. It is incredible how much volunteer time and effort he put into ARISS educational activities; it was easy to see it was his passion." With Mr. Bauer stepping down from the ARISS International Chairman role, the ARISS International Vice Chair, Mr. Gaston Bertels, ON4WF will become the ARISS International Chairman effective immediately. Mr. Bertels has been a leader of ARISS from its inception and serves as the Chairman of the ARISS-Europe team. Mr. Bertels has established a close relationship between ARISS and ESA, the European Space Agency. This resulted in the development and the installation of ARISS L- and S-band antennas on the nadir of Columbus, the European Space Laboratory. Mr. Bertels also chairs the ARSPEX (Amateur Radio Space Exploration) working group of the International Amateur Radio Union, Region 1. Mr. Bertels stated: "We can understand the reasons of Frank Bauer's resig- nation, but we also feel how difficult this decision has been. Frank has inspired a worldwide group of passionate radio amateurs, working together to a common goal. Now it is up to us to continue in the same direction and with the same spirit. That's the best farewell present we can offer Frank". Mr. Bauer's departure today represents the culmination of over 25 years of leadership and support to amateur radio activities on human space- flight vehicles, including NASA sponsored ham radio activities on the Shuttle, Space Station Mir, and the International Space Station. Start- ing in 1983, he led the Goddard Amateur Radio Club team that provided around-the clock Space Shuttle retransmissions from the WA3NAN club station. These retransmissions provided the international ham radio community up-to-the-minute information during the flight of Owen Garriott, W5LFL on STS-9 and subsequent SAREX flights. These real-time bulletins and frequent orbital element updates could only be obtained through ama- teur radio in the days prior to the internet. In 1991, AMSAT then Presi- dent Bill Tynan, W3XO tapped Frank to be the AMSAT VP for Human Space- flight, a position he has held until today. In 1996, when the International Space Station design development was well underway, NASA Headquarters Education Office executive Pam Bacon (Mountjoy) requested that the amateur radio community form a single, international team to provide one voice for all ham radio development and operations on the ISS. The SAREX Working Group, led by Roy Neal, K6DUE, was tapped to turn this vision into reality. In November 1996, Roy (ARRL), with the other SAREX working group members Frank Bauer, KA3HDO (NASA/AMSAT), Rosalie White K1STO (ARRL), and Matt Bordelon, KC5BTL, (NASA) organized a joint NASA-international amateur radio meet- ing at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. This led to the formulation of the ARISS International Working Group of delegates representing Canada, Europe, Japan, Russia and the USA-and the rest is history. Since those austere beginnings, the ARISS team of volunteers has develop- ed and deployed ham radio equipment that resides in three modules of the ISS---the Service Module, the FGB and the Columbus Module as well as having deployed a short duration satellite in a space suit called SuitSat-1/Radios- skaf/AO-54. These systems enable the ARISS team to inspire over 15,000 students each year, encouraging them to pursue careers in science, tech- nology, engineering and mathematics through amateur radio communications with the ISS on-orbit crew. It also introduces these students and mill- ions from the worldwide general public to the fun, exciting, multi-faceted world of amateur radio. The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT), is an educational, not- for-profit corporation founded 40 years ago and is based in Silver Spring, MD. Its primary objective is to foster Amateur Radio's participation in space research, communications, and education through the development and operation of amateur radio satellites in space. To date, there are over 60 amateur radio satellites that have been built by volunteers around the world and flown in space. [ANS thanks ARISS International for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-083.02 Will Marchant, KC6ROL Appointed AMSAT's VP-Human Space Flight AMSAT News Service Bulletin 083.02 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. March 24, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-083.02 AMSAT President Barry Baines, WD4ASW has appointed Will Marchant, KC6ROL of Marshall, VA as VP-Human Space Flight and to serve as the AMSAT USA delegate to the ARISS International Working Group. These appointments follow the resignation of Frank Bauer, KA3HDO that was announced on Tuesday morning, 24 March due to family and professional reasons. "AMSAT is fortunate that we have a very capable leader in Will Marchant who is intimately familiar with ARISS, our extensive human spaceflight program, and is well respected internationally." Barry observed, "Frank's leadership has left a significant mark on the overall ARISS program and the cooperative relationship between amateur radio, NASA and other governmental space agencies. Frank has also ensured that his team evolved to the point where the work that he pioneered will be carried on by those that he mentored and encouraged to take on great- er responsibility." Will Marchant, KC6ROL was first licensed in 1990 when he was assisting search and rescue organizations in California and wanted to use amateur radio as a backup to local law enforcement communications. One of his early activities as an amateur radio operator was to track and listen for the space shuttle and MIR. Will increased his participation in ama- teur radio in space in 1992 with the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment (SAREX). At that time, he managed a shuttle contact with Lawrence Hall of Science of the University of California, Berkeley, CA with STS-57. >From that point on, Will increased his activities in the SAREX program following his relocation from Berkeley to Virginia in 1994. He served as a mentor for various school contacts and was appointed to serve as Operations Manager for SAREX in 1995. As SAREX Operations Manager Will coordinated both school contacts and 'family & friends' contacts for four years, spending time at Mission Control in Houston during SAREX missions managing these contacts. When the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) Inter- national Working Group was established in 1996, Will was involved under Frank Bauer's leadership. The first International Space Station module was sent into orbit in 1998 and has been continuously manned since 2000. Over the past nine years (with two years 'off' from SAREX and ARISS to complete a Master's Degree in Space Sciences), Will has been heavily involved with ARISS Telebridge operations, School Technical Support, and training of personnel for amateur radio operations in Space. For example, Will worked extensively with Richard Garriott, W5KWQ prior to his 'space tourist' trip to the ISS in Fall 2008 to help him prepare for his amateur radio operations from space. Rosalie White, K1STO of the ARRL is the other US Delegate to the ARISS International Working Group. She commented, "Will and I have worked closely together on a number of SAREX and ARISS projects over the years, and we 'click.' A hard worker, he believes strongly in the use of ARISS by teachers as an educational tool. I will absolutely miss Frank in our work as US ARISS delegates and ARISS International Officers, but having Will step up is the consolation." In response to his appointments, Will noted, "I'm excited about assuming responsibility as AMSAT's VP-Human Space Flight as well as serving as the AMSAT USA delegate to the ARISS International Working Group. ARISS con- tinues to play a significant role in science education as well as provid- ing an opportunity for AMSAT to participate in human activities in space. I look forward to working with an outstanding team that Frank created, en- couraging greater educational outreach by AMSAT as well as working as AMSAT's delegate within ARISS International Working Group." Currently based in Virginia, Will is employed by the University of Cali- fornia Berkeley as a senior programmer and is involved with several space science missions. [ANS thanks AMSAT-NA President Barry Baines, WD4ASW for the above information] /EX

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SSTV on AO-51
by John W Lee 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Hello folks, Nice pictures from KO4MA, AI7W, K7ULS, N0FJP, N0UOE last night and this morning ! 73, John K6YK ____________________________________________________________ Save money. Click here to find low mortgage rates. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/BLSrjpTIsOgmEiLrXNTdtwXGVyRDUDu…

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Fw: AMSAT-NE Digest, Vol 2, Issue 8
by Jack Barbera 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Looking for a little help on this problem. Thanks Jack WA1ZDV --- On Mon, 3/23/09, amsat-ne-request(a)amsat.org <amsat-ne-request(a)amsat.org> wrote: From: amsat-ne-request(a)amsat.org <amsat-ne-request(a)amsat.org> Subject: AMSAT-NE Digest, Vol 2, Issue 8 To: amsat-ne(a)amsat.org Date: Monday, March 23, 2009, 3:00 PM Send AMSAT-NE mailing list submissions to amsat-ne(a)amsat.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-ne or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to amsat-ne-request(a)amsat.org You can reach the person managing the list at amsat-ne-owner(a)amsat.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-NE digest..." Today's Topics: 1. SATPC 32 (Jack Barbera) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Mon, 23 Mar 2009 07:49:33 -0700 (PDT) From: Jack Barbera <barberaalderwood(a)yahoo.com> Subject: [amsat-ne] SATPC 32 To: amsat <amsat-ne(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <923663.58907.qm(a)web33107.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 When turning on program lost all satellite groups.? Am able to download groups, but must download everytime programs is started up.? Did go to menu program satellite & clicked on the o'kay button per instructions.? Didn't work for later starts.? Is there a different procedure I should follow?? Thanks for any help. Jack WA1ZDV ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ AMSAT-NE mailing list courtesy of AMSAT-NA AMSAT-NE(a)amsat.org http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-ne End of AMSAT-NE Digest, Vol 2, Issue 8 **************************************

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SSTV pic collections
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Back when we had SSTV from ISS, I setup a page on my server that would collect recently received pics. http://wb5rmg.somenet.net/sstv/ also explains a bit about what programs were used, etc... In addition to MMSSTV from JE3HHT, I used the FTP Widget by KE5RS - to archive the pics. I had it setup so that my most recent pic was also linked into a page that is maintained by KE5RS that displays SSTV pics from all over the world. You might look into http://www.worldsstv.com/ ... That would be a quick and easy way to let others see what you have received. 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' ->

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Fw: AMSAT booth Timonium MD hamfest
by jeff kb2m 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

I haven't heard from anyone who would like to help out with the AMSAT booth at Timonium MD this weekend. I will be there both days, I just need a few volunteers to help out for a couple of hours each day. Let me know soon (tonite) so I can request the package from Martha. 73 Jeff kb2m

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SSTV via AO-51/2
by John Marranca, Jr 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Good evening all... EXCELLENT pass tonight. Many thanks to Marc, WA2S for the (I hope) 2-way SSTV QSO. Thanks again to the Control Team! John KB2HSH -- _______________________________ John Marranca, Jr PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 BN Systems, Inc Orchard Park, NY (716)972-2006

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AO-51 SSTV @ 2300utc pass
by racer5039 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Well, I was able to copy 2 vary nice pix's from Marc KB2HSH and 1 from David KB1PVH I hope I didn't mess anyone up by trying to send a pix myself. This was my first attempt at SSTV and really have no idea of what I should be doing. Marv N0FJP

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Re: yagi design (DK7ZB)
by Henk, PA3GUO 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Hi Bert ! DK7ZB antennas have a relative small bandwidth. What I did was to make all elements a bit shorter, in order to go from 144.5 to 145.8 MHz. EME stations seem to like the design. Fewer elements compared to other designs. Total boom length is still comparable though. I have built an 145 MHz DK7ZB, and have also done some measurements. Have a look at: http://www.pa3guo.com/dk7zb.html (pictures & measuments) Together with the TS2000 my 2x6 elements DK7ZB does all I need for sats. Used it for RAFT, ANDE and PCSAT-1 commanding. Also enough to relative 'strong' on ISS (with the 100W from the TS2000) Henk, PA3GUO http://www.pa3guo.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Hi all, For the 2m version, I took the following design of DK7ZB as a start: http://www.qsl.net/dk7zb/start1.htm -> 144MHz yasis -> 6 El-28-Ohm (2m60). Because I want to tune this antenna to the upper side of the 2m band (I had 145.800MHz as center frequency in mind), I entered the data of this yagi in MMANA GAL, a free NEC program (http://mmhamsoft.amateur-radio.ca/mmana/). After Calculation, i got totally diferent results as on the DK7ZB website. Please find the MMANA file as an attachment on this mail. What am i doing wrong? 73, Bert - ON4DMD

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Re: AO-51 SSTV
by Mike Rupprecht 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

... grabbed 2 images from DF9EY this afternoon pass (used Robot36). See here http://www.dk3wn.info/p/ Sent also 2 images at 16:30 UTC but got no response until yet. 73, Mike -----Ursprüngliche Nachricht----- Von: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] Im Auftrag von Andrew Glasbrenner Gesendet: Montag, 23. März 2009 18:49 An: Amateur Radio Station WA2S; amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Betreff: [amsat-bb] Re: AO-51 SSTV Not this time, as long as it isn't a really long transmission. It'd be good if users would announce what mode at the beginning of the transmission though. Not all the programs automatically recognize the different modes. 73, Drew KO4MA ----- Original Message ----- From: "Amateur Radio Station WA2S" <WA2S(a)comcast.net> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Sent: Monday, March 23, 2009 12:59 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] AO-51 SSTV > Any recommended SSTV mode by the control group i.e. Robot 36 ? > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > 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

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AO-51 SSTV
by Amateur Radio Station WA2S 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Any recommended SSTV mode by the control group i.e. Robot 36 ?

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Re: QSL Cards
by Rafael Valdez G. 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Hello Jim, For VUCC purposes and AMSAT awards you will need paper QSL but for WAS and DXCC LoTW will do it, the bad news is that is not widely used by satellite community, on the other hand eQSL has its own awards. But anyway from my side I enjoy QSLing as part of the hobby in any way or via..... 73's and good luck XE2RV Ps. Qsl rate in satellite community is quite high...in NA ------Original Message------ From: Jim Heck To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Mar 23, 2009 9:20 AM Subject: [amsat-bb] QSL Cards Hi Folks, I have only recently re-started to operate via the sats after a gap of about 4 years (my last qso was via AO-40!). The buzz is returning!!! I would be interested to know whether ham operators these days send old fashioned cards via the bureau/direct, or whether EQSL cards are now used more extensively. If the later, which service is considered the best/most reliable/most trustworthy/etc/ I have come across www.eqsl.cc <http://www.eqsl.cc> which seems quite reasonable, and I notice that there are some cards waiting for me !!! (I'll be signing up soon, and I'll be interested to see how old they are, etc !!! 73s Jim G3WGM _______________________________________________ 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 <http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb>

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Re: QSL Cards
by books47925＠mypacks.net 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Hello All, Tim you are correct, in that ARRL does not accept EQSL for awards. I'm in the LOTW system, but I still prefer a "real card". I enjoy seeing the envelope in the mail box from the buro, or the QSL cards sent direct! The convenience of LOTW is very nice, but I like to show off the cards received too! Most are in a photo album on the coffee table. When visitors are over, they really get a kick out of seeing the cards too. 73, Steve KB8VAO -----Original Message----- >From: n3tl(a)bellsouth.net >Sent: Mar 23, 2009 10:09 AM >To: Jim Heck <jimlist(a)milnet.uk.net>, amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: QSL Cards > >Hey Jim, > >Welcome back! I've been licensed since 1983, but was totally off the air from 1992 through mid-1997, and have only been working satellites about 10 months. It's the most fun I've ever had in ham radio! > >I picked up where I left off with QSLs and continue to use "hard cards" to confirm my contacts. I also have received many eQSL requests, and honor them - but if I need to confirm a grid or state for an award, I send my card with a SASE and request a card from the other station. Not everyone has complied, but many more have than haven't. I thank all of them for that. > >I haven't signed up for Log of the World yet, but see that some operators also are using it. ARRL does recognize LoTW electronic "QSLs" for its awards, but I don't believe it recognizes those from the eQSL site. I'm confident someone will correct me if that's inaccurate. > >73, > >Tim - N3TL >Athens, Ga., USA - EM84ha >-------------- Original message from "Jim Heck" <jimlist(a)milnet.uk.net>: -------------- > > >> Hi Folks, >> >> I have only recently re-started to operate via the sats after a gap of about 4 >> years (my last qso was via AO-40!). The buzz is returning!!! >> I would be interested to know whether ham operators these days send old >> fashioned cards via the bureau/direct, or whether EQSL cards are now used more >> extensively. >> >> If the later, which service is considered the best/most reliable/most trustworthy/etc/ I have come across www.eqsl.cc which seems quite reasonable, >> and I notice that there are some cards waiting for me !!! (I'll be signing up soon, >> and >> I'll be interested to see how old they are, etc !!! >> >> 73s Jim G3WGM >> >> _______________________________________________ >> 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

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QSL Cards
by Jim Heck 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Hi Folks, I have only recently re-started to operate via the sats after a gap of about 4 years (my last qso was via AO-40!). The buzz is returning!!! I would be interested to know whether ham operators these days send old fashioned cards via the bureau/direct, or whether EQSL cards are now used more extensively. If the later, which service is considered the best/most reliable/most trustworthy/etc/ I have come across www.eqsl.cc which seems quite reasonable, and I notice that there are some cards waiting for me !!! (I'll be signing up soon, and I'll be interested to see how old they are, etc !!! 73s Jim G3WGM

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Re: QSL Cards
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Hi Jim, My response is that perhaps things have not changed much in 4 years, with opinions still currently being debated in respect of both the HF operations and working satellites . As you are aware the RSGB handling is now under a contract so it is little early to say what the impact will turn out to be in terms of time and cards still getting to destinations The cost of posting is of course now a key factor if you intend going direct or via a QSL manager, but if you want to ensure that you have a quick response,this is still the way to do it. However my own opinion and of others is that even when you include cash or payment it is still not 100% At one time I used to send out cards for every contact that I made, but of course that was mainly on HF, it did take time and money and like our club special events we do only get about a 25% returns Printing cost as you have experienced have risen as well as postage adding to the difficult times and exchange rates Main factors are by those that enter contests, go for IOTA or generally want a collection or first card! The problem is that in respect of contests and awards the "E - qsl " method is not accepted I regret to say. Usually also if you do use this method ( and I would say many do ) you may be asked to send off details of your licence etc so that it is registered to count for certain awards. I have found recently that I received cards dating back for contacts over 4 years ago , Others like myself have had complaints from hams asking why I have not sent out a card - Many appear to have gone astray and may be due mail / delivery collection / lost items / or other reasons ? If you are speaking in terms of satellite contacts only , then I think that my experience is that a QSL direct has always been a very positive way of doing things and with such a low number contacts the expense has not been a bother. I do see however various bones of contention on the BBS and that might be because of the bad times with finance and security. Many have been asking why the electronic method cannot count for awards and perhaps you might like to look this up via the ARRL web site. There was even comments about "Verification of your location " using a GPS and photo showing the reading. But that was in the USA with its large area and grid squares that are being chased. I hope my input will help - And by the way I am just as guilty about response times whether it is eqsl, snail mail or the bureau. Personal problems have contributed to this but in general I just don't know where time has gone. Cheers Ken de GW1FKY. PS - With respect to your mail and support for the rally, I would very much like to join you and help out but I think that the distance with a return trip maybe just a bit to much for me, but I will consider it nearer the time.

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Re: down converter
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Tim - VK2XTT said : > . . . you need to find a CalAmp 130415 MMDS down converter to modify. > With the right crystal they produce an IF at 435 Mhz. > > I wrote an article on modification back in 2005 for the local club mag > that I'll send you off list detailing the conversion. Hi Tim, A friend gave me a 130415, which has had some modification... I'd sure like a copy of your mod article for comparison. >From what I've found so far, they had already changed the crystal, disconnected the comb filter, and changed out the voltage regulator... perhaps more that I didn't recognize. Your article may provide me with some new perspective. Please send the article or a link to <mycallsign>at<AMSAT>dot<ORG> Thanks in advance. 73 for now /;^) (pardon the bandwidth, I encountered a failure on Tim's QRZ email address) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> <- http://www.linkedin.com/in/alansieg * My 'Day Job' ->

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ISS/Discovery orbital adjustment
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

The ISS/Discovery combination did a little dance yesterday in adjusting the orbit to avoid some more 'space junk'... It may not have been enough to be noticable right away, but a new element set will be in order soon. More detail is available from : http://spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts119/090322fd8/index4.html 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' ->

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f.s. S-band downverter
by Patrick Marineau 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

For Sale: K5GNA AIDC 3731 downverter. Retuned for 2400 Mhz with 2 meter I.F. installed, with power supply and bias tee, cables, reflector. Unit is new, never used. Purchased for AO-40, but bird died before I could use it. $55 shipped CONUS Thanks, Pat K9HF ____________________________________________________________ Free information - Scholarships for college, university or tech school. Click now! http://thirdpartyoffers.mybluelight.com/TGL2341/fc/BLSrjpderLMf8hQ2znWQLMwV…

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Down converters
by Douglas Anoman 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

I would like to thank everyone for helping me find the downconverters. KC9MLN Thank You Douglas Anoman

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down converter
by Douglas Anoman 23 Mar '09

23 Mar '09

Where and how do i get a down converter from 2.4 to 435 mhz? KC9MLN Thank You Douglas Anoman

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AO51 SSTV
by Ron Miles 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

What are most AMSAT folks using for SSTV software? My objective is to TX and RX SSTV via AO-51 or ISS using a soundcard interface like the Rigblaster Nomic. BTW, enjoyed the VS mode this past week on AO-51. Thanks es 73, Ron, n6paa

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P3E question.......
by Chad Phillips 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

I have been trying to find the latest news on P3E on the NA, UK and Dl websites. Really cannot find anything. Can anyone enlighten me to the status and or current news of the sat? Thanks, Chad kg0mw

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yagi design
by Bert Audenaert 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

Hi all, Hereby my first mail on this BB. I want to start with satellite communication. I already build an eggbeater antenna, but togheter with my TS2000 i receive only very poor signals. To work more comfotable, i want to build two yagi antennas (one for 2m and one for 70cm) with an azimuth/elevation rotor system. For the 2m version, I took the following design of DK7ZB as a start: http://www.qsl.net/dk7zb/start1.htm -> 144MHz yasis -> 6 El-28-Ohm (2m60). Because I want to tune this antenna to the upper side of the 2m band (I had 145.800MHz as center frequency in mind), I entered the data of this yagi in MMANA GAL, a free NEC program (http://mmhamsoft.amateur-radio.ca/mmana/). After Calculation, i got totally diferent results as on the DK7ZB website. Please find the MMANA file as an attachment on this mail. What am i doing wrong? 73, Bert - ON4DMD

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Re: Last heard AO-7 435 beacon?
by Greg Beat 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

Alan - I think you are correct. I heard the AO-7 2-meter beacon the last minute of an overhead pass at sunset (local) the next day (18th) last week -- while waiting for an ISS pass. I actually was surprised (and pleased) to hear it on my Icom IC-211 as it was headed over Canada! greg w9gb Date: Sat, 21 Mar 2009 20:24:51 -0000 From: "Alan Cresswell" <alancresswell(a)xtra.co.nz> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Last heard AO-7 435 beacon? To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <FAAA6A54FC78464AA088362C417DD59F@satellite> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hi Mark, The mode A beacon was always very strong here but I have not heard it for the last few days. The last telemetry I copied was 17 March at 0900 UT. Alan ZL2BX

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Advise on APRS sw
by Edward Cole 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

I have a request that is sort-of off topic with this list - please excuse. I have run win APRS for several years to track vessels on water. But the graphics are all land-based for road travel and show no marine details. Also, they are kind of crude graphics for today's standards. For road travel I obtained an old Delorme Street Atlas program that supported APRS and although the program details are seriously out of date it is still usable. But this is only useful for land travel. So my question is whether there is an APRS program that easily imports map files and overlays mobile tracks? Ideally, I could import any of the newer digital marine charts as a map. There are map programs that allow laying out navigation and trace onto the map display, but the way-points need to be manually input. I need an APRS program that runs a track automatically from an APRS beaconing station. Thanks, Ed - KL7UW

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Re: DM35/DM45 trip today - report
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

Hi! Thanks to WB3JFS for pointing out a typo in my earlier posting. I parked on 112 degrees *West*, not North. My error. The map link had my location right, at least. Time for bed... 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/ On 3/22/09, Jeff Yanko <wb3jfs(a)cox.net> wrote: > Hi Patrick! > > Sounds like you had a good trip and operation. One point I need to make. > You mentioned the 112 degree North location. I think AZ would be a little > off the map. :0 > > > 73, > > Jeff WB3JFS > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)" <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net> > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Sunday, March 22, 2009 12:35 AM > Subject: [amsat-bb] DM35/DM45 trip today - report > > >> >> Hi! >> >> I just returned home in the past hour, after a fun day away from >> Phoenix in the mountains and trees of northern Arizona. It was >> a little breezy, some snow was still on the mountaintops and in >> shady spots in the areas around 7000 feet/2134m elevation or >> higher, and a great day to play radio. >> >> I used the same spot I went to twice in 2008 to park on the >> DM35/DM45 grid boundary (112 degrees North). In fact, I was able >> to put my radio gear in the back of my truck exactly on the spot >> I used for those two trips last year, and then take the now- >> obligatory photos for VUCC documentation. I was along old US 66 >> just north of the I-40 freeway 20 miles/32km west of FLagstaff >> AZ: >> >> http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=35+15.570+n+112+0.00+w&jsv… >> >> I worked two AO-27 passes and two AO-51 passes from here this >> afternoon/evening. The ISS gear was turned off for the spacewalk, >> and remained off into the evening. SO-50 was passing by at almost >> the same times as the two AO-51 passes, and I decided to work the >> AO-51 V/U repeater instead of SO-50. I made 11 QSOs on each of >> the AO-27 passes, 10 on the first AO-51 pass to the east, and 6 >> on the later western AO-51 pass. Stations from southern Mexico >> to Alaska and Canada went in the log from there. Making 38 QSOs >> on 4 passes, and avoiding the heat in Phoenix... not a bad day. >> >> This was my first time on AO-27 since it was brought back from the >> dead earlier this month. Nice to see so many stations on those 7- >> minute passes. Hopefully it stays operational for a long time, to >> fill in those afternoons before AO-51 comes by later in the day >> (for those of us in the western USA). Of course, the first AO-51 >> pass I had was full of stations. Not too many, later in the day, >> on the western pass. >> >> Before I went out to the DM35/DM45 line, I took a bunch of pictures >> of the Flagstaff area including the Lowell Observatory that is >> above downtown Flagstaff. I'm thinking about taking the pictures I >> have from today, and making a small slide show and making it >> available to whoever wants it. With a digital camera I bought a >> year ago, I now have lots of pictures and - with the trips I've >> done in the last year - lots of stories I could put to "paper". >> >> If I missed working you from DM35/DM45 today, I will be back in that >> area during the upcoming summertime. There is a hamfest in Williams, >> a small town about 10 miles/16km west of where I stopped today, and >> I would probably make a trip back to this spot like I did before the >> same hamfest last year. Plus any open weekend I have could be a good >> time to go there, when it is over 110F (44C) here in Phoenix. >> >> Good night, and 73! >> >> >> >> Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK >> http://www.wd9ewk.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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DM35/DM45 trip today - report
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 22 Mar '09

22 Mar '09

Hi! I just returned home in the past hour, after a fun day away from Phoenix in the mountains and trees of northern Arizona. It was a little breezy, some snow was still on the mountaintops and in shady spots in the areas around 7000 feet/2134m elevation or higher, and a great day to play radio. I used the same spot I went to twice in 2008 to park on the DM35/DM45 grid boundary (112 degrees North). In fact, I was able to put my radio gear in the back of my truck exactly on the spot I used for those two trips last year, and then take the now- obligatory photos for VUCC documentation. I was along old US 66 just north of the I-40 freeway 20 miles/32km west of FLagstaff AZ: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=35+15.570+n+112+0.00+w&jsv… I worked two AO-27 passes and two AO-51 passes from here this afternoon/evening. The ISS gear was turned off for the spacewalk, and remained off into the evening. SO-50 was passing by at almost the same times as the two AO-51 passes, and I decided to work the AO-51 V/U repeater instead of SO-50. I made 11 QSOs on each of the AO-27 passes, 10 on the first AO-51 pass to the east, and 6 on the later western AO-51 pass. Stations from southern Mexico to Alaska and Canada went in the log from there. Making 38 QSOs on 4 passes, and avoiding the heat in Phoenix... not a bad day. This was my first time on AO-27 since it was brought back from the dead earlier this month. Nice to see so many stations on those 7- minute passes. Hopefully it stays operational for a long time, to fill in those afternoons before AO-51 comes by later in the day (for those of us in the western USA). Of course, the first AO-51 pass I had was full of stations. Not too many, later in the day, on the western pass. Before I went out to the DM35/DM45 line, I took a bunch of pictures of the Flagstaff area including the Lowell Observatory that is above downtown Flagstaff. I'm thinking about taking the pictures I have from today, and making a small slide show and making it available to whoever wants it. With a digital camera I bought a year ago, I now have lots of pictures and - with the trips I've done in the last year - lots of stories I could put to "paper". If I missed working you from DM35/DM45 today, I will be back in that area during the upcoming summertime. There is a hamfest in Williams, a small town about 10 miles/16km west of where I stopped today, and I would probably make a trip back to this spot like I did before the same hamfest last year. Plus any open weekend I have could be a good time to go there, when it is over 110F (44C) here in Phoenix. Good night, and 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Call for talks
by Bob Mcgwier 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

My last official act as chair of ARRL SDR committee was to agree to chair the SDR FORUM at the Dayton Hamvention. I solicit talks from individuals, groups, or a business. The talk must be about SOFTWARE radio. I encourage Elecraft, Flex, TAPR/AMSAT, Quicksilver and others to participate. I think this is likely to be the last year as through the efforts of individuals, groups, and companies, we are entering mainstream territory. Let me hear from you if you are interested. I will pursue invited talks separately. Bob McGwier ARS N4hy

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Beautiful sighting
by John Price 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

The 00:03 pass of ISS/Shuttle over FM07 was just grand. My wife and myself had a great view from our back deck. You fellows were very active as usual. I listened on the D7 kenwood and the rubber duck antenna. It was almost solid copy continuous. What a show! 73's << John -- N4QWF Amateur Radio Operator AO-7,AO-27,FO-29,SO-50,AO-51,VO-52,ISS Email N4QWF(a)AMSAT.ORG Echolink nodes #110903 -L #388463 http://home.comcast.net/~n4qwf/site/ Formerly KC4AHW VK3FEZ Amsat Member #27845 DXCC #33,478 VUCC SAT #135 WAS SAT #296 51 on AO-51 #13 LON -79.256 LAT 37.459 Grid FM07il >From the Foothills of the Blueridge *Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming - "WOW, What a ride!"

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Last heard AO-7 435 beacon?
by Mark L. Hammond 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

Hi All, It seems to me that perhaps AO-7 has been in mode A but the 435 beacon hasn't been on...can anyone confirm my observations? Thanks, Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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KE5GDB => DL99 tonight
by Andrew Koenig 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

Hello all, I've been active in DL99 since Thursday night. We'll be headed home tomorrow morning, so tonight is the "last call" for DL99 for a while. I only have FM equipment with me. DL99 is about 100 miles west of San Antonio. I will try and work all passes over 5deg. 73 de KE5GDB -- Andrew Koenig

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Wow: AO-51 VS
by Greg D. 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

Hi folks, Just want to put in a plug for AO-51's mode VS. I just finished a nearly horizon-to-horizon pass with Ron, N6PAA, that sounded like a chat on the local repeater. The bird was a solid S5 on my ICOM R-7000 all-mode scanner (the IF receiver), a setup that on a really good day got to maybe S1 on AO-40. Just a few short fades during the pass, and I was able to copy myself down to 2.5 degrees. The rest of the setup includes an infamous Drake 2880, modified to move the IF to 301 mhz, a Khune preamp, 3 turn helix feed in front of a BBQ grill that I lined with window screen. Uplink is my trusty Yaesu 736R transceiver and an 8 element linearly (vertical) yagi. Wow. Greg KO6TH _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail® is up to 70% faster. Now good news travels really fast. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_70faster_032009

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DM35/DM45 on Saturday (21 March)
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

Hi! After the temperatures started going over 90F (33C) here in the Phoenix area before the official end of winter, I have decided to make a quick day trip to northern Arizona tomorrow. I will attempt to park on the DM35/DM45 line for the FM satellite passes and - if available - the ISS cross-band voice repeater in the afternoon and into the evening (early Sunday, on the UTC clock). I have not decided where on the grid boundary I will park, but I will be up there. I'll be happy to send QSL cards to anyone who makes contacts with me from DM35/DM45. Just e-mail me directly with the QSO details, and - if you're in the log - I'll send a card out to you. If your mailing address is not correct in databases like QRZ.com, please include a valid mailing address with the QSO details. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Re: 2400 MHz
by Michael Heim 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

Hi Gene, and thank you for the kind words. Yes, I'm using fixed elevation, about 30 degrees or so. It works quite well for me if you consider that the satellites are rarely above about 45 degrees, and when they are, theyre not at a high elevation for very long. 3 elements on 2 meters is VERY broad. 6 elements on 437 is narrower, but I lose the satellite once it goes above about 60 degrees. So an overhead pass, I lose the bird for a little bit. I lose the satellite (AO-51) to the point I can no longer copy about 5 degrees above the horizon. The gain on S band is greater, so the beamwidth is narrower, however, the signal strength on 2400 is so strong, I actually hear the bird BETTER on S band than I do on 70 cm. I get it a LOT better, except when its toward the south, where I have trees that are fairly close (less than 100 feet) away from the antennas. When the 2400 MHz antenna is looking RIGHT at the satellite, the signal strength meter on my FT-817 is full scale, and totally full quieting. When the satellite is between the trees and my northern horizon, I get it at least S-9 and full quieting until it gets to about 5-6 degrees above the northern horizon, but I can still copy it at 3 degrees above the horizon. I think a lot of the success I'm having is because the front end is so sensitive. I looked at it with a calibrated signal generator, radiating into a halfwave dipole radiator on the generator about 5 feet or so away from the converter, and although how much signal I was feeding the generator, I dont remember exactly, it was VERY low, on the order of -50 or -60 dbm. Remember, this was radiated from the generator, as the converter does not have a spigot to actually physically connect the generator to actually measure its sensitivity. The antennas are elevated and all of the support structure above the rotator is 1 inch ID PVC pipe. I raised it as far as I have above the rotator to keep the rotator out of the 2 meter field. I HAD the 2 meter elements vertical when I first put it up, but swapped polarization because I wanted to work some terrestrial 2 meter SSB. I probably could shorten the vertical support some, but it seems to be working ok the way it is. I may replace the rotator with a larger ham rotator and I also have a U-110 that I can use as an elevation rotator, but thats a lot of weight to put up, and would no longer be a one man job putting it up and taking it down. The antennas are quite small, and the wind load is so little, I dont think that little bit of height above the rotator will not have any ill effect. The crossboom is about 3 feet above the rotator. One thing I did not say in the article, because it was mainly about S band, but I've found that using an insulated support structure makes a difference, no matter what plane the antenna is in. Even with the 70 cm elements perpendicular to the support arm, I gained a couple S-units on the downlink changing from metal to the PVC. I recommend plastic ANYWHERE near the antenna proper. Michael Heim ARS KD0AR ----- Original Message ---- From: WB2LLP <wb2llp(a)optonline.net> To: Michael Heim <kd0ar(a)sbcglobal.net> Sent: Friday, March 20, 2009 4:05:46 PM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] 2400 MHz Mike, I enjoyed your article in the new AMSAT journal and have been pouring over the picture on the front cover. It would appear that you have the "Bruninga fixed elevation" and I will be installing one shortly. However I do have two questions: Bob's argument was based on having a rather wide beam width on the antennas which I suspect you have on the 144 and 432 antennas. I was surprised that the S band antenna had a wide enough beam width considering the number of directors. You appear to have elevated the antenna a couple of feet above the rotator which puts more of a strain on the rotator bearings and mast. Are you trying to get away from all the metal at the top of the pipe mast or is there something else I do not understand? TNX es 73 de WB2LLP Gene

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Re: ISS Repeater / Joe?
by Ransom, Kenneth G. (JSC-OC)[BARRIOS TECHNOLOGY] 21 Mar '09

21 Mar '09

It might have been Joe Acaba - KE5DAR. He has some ties to Puerto Rico. Kenneth - N5VHO ________________________________________ From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org] On Behalf Of Rick - WA4NVM [wa4nvm(a)comcast.net] Sent: Friday, March 20, 2009 6:46 PM To: kg4zlb(a)gmail.com; AMSAT BB Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: ISS Repeater / Richard Hi all, OK .... Sorry...... One more time..... my boo boo..... It was Mike the ISS Commander, not Richard G. That's what I get trying to type and talk on the phone at the same time! Good luck all, Rick > Presumably Richard R. Arnold, Mission Specialist! > > -- > David > KG4ZLB > www.kg4zlb.com > > > > > Ransom, Kenneth G. (JSC-OC)[BARRIOS TECHNOLOGY] wrote: >> Who is Richard? >> >> Kennneth - N5VHO >> >> ________________________________________ >> From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org] On Behalf >> Of Rick - WA4NVM [wa4nvm(a)comcast.net] >> Sent: Friday, March 20, 2009 5:20 PM >> To: Rick - WA4NVM; AMSAT BB >> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: ISS Repeater / Richard >> >> Sorry for the mistake. It should have been WP3UX that I heard >> Richand work in P. R. >> >> RT >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> 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 >> >> > > _______________________________________________ > 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

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ISS Repeater / Richard
by Rick - WA4NVM 20 Mar '09

20 Mar '09

Hi All, The ISS repeater was back on the air. (2150 utc) Then Richard came on the air calling for Puerto Rico stations. I heard him WP4UX. Then he was gone and few others worked each other. 73 all, Rick - WA4NVM #1339

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AO-51 S-mode
by Luc Leblanc 20 Mar '09

20 Mar '09

Traffic is light...on S downlink I heard KB2M but i try to call him a couple of time but without success, Clare VE3NPC show up and a new VE2 VE2FSK making our ve2 satellite users up to 3... S downlink is loud but with the usual slow deep fades guessing satellite is thumbling or slolwly rotating with the S band antenna pointing and not pointing toward the station. It will be interesting to have someone on skype to listen my reception and his to see if the fades are also present at the same time. "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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