October 2017 - AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

Re: [amsat-bb] FalconSat-3 sig level to decode
by Ken Swaggart 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

I'm using the AirSpy (not mini) with SDR#. Doppler tuning with homebrew software. Haven't noticed lost packets when the SDR freq changes, but will be on the lookout for that. The audio loopback is Virtual Audio Cable. SSB Preamp Rotator is a G5500 and LVB Tracker controlled by my homebrew software. (I really like the LVB Tracker!) Sound modem is Dire Wolf which feeds APRS-IS. At the present time I'm just watching the packets scroll by on the Dire Wolf display. My main goal was to Igate the FalconSat-3 packets. 73, Ken, W7KKE -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Rich [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 15:07 To: Ken Swaggart <k.swaggart(a)charter.net> Cc: AMSAT -BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>; Australian APRS Users <ozaprs(a)aprs.net.au> Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] FalconSat-3 sig level to decode Hi Ken I thought you might have good antenna Hey So your on windows + AirSpy Mini + SDR# + What audio loop back + Preamps + Rotator - from what program + What Sound modem ? + What APRS / TNC style program - Andrew - > On 13 Oct 2017, at 4:12 am, Ken Swaggart <k.swaggart(a)charter.net> wrote: > > On this morning's FalconSat-3 pass, I checked the signal required to > decode using Dire Wolf. It was 18 dB SNR, so that's roughly S3 +/- > above the noise floor. > > RX setup: AirSpy SDR, SDRsharp, mast-mounted preamp, 15 X 15 X Yagi, G5500. > > 73, > Ken, W7KKE > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available > to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. > Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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U7ZHO sound modem data to APRS-IS
by vk4tec＠internode.on.net 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

How are you guys and gals getting FalconSat-3 data to the APRS-IS ? I have UI-VIEW looking at soundmodem as a KISS port but I have not seen data passed. Maybe I will turn debug on in UI-VIEW and see what gives Andrew

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Falconsat-3 Success
by vk4tec＠tech-software.net 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

Hello Diamond X300 LDF4-50 AirSpyMini SDR# VB Audio Cable HS U7ZHO soundmodem UI-VIEW Hand doppler corrected 1:Fm PFS3-11 To STATUS <UI R Pid=F0 Len=11> [15:49:54R] [AA] [----++-] B: 8520721 1:Fm PFS3-11 To PBLIST <UI R Pid=F0 Len=11> [15:50:41R] [AA] [+--++++] PB: Empty. 1:Fm PCTRL-8 To PCTRL-8 <UI R Pid=F0 Len=33> [15:50:48R] [AA] [+--++++] CTRL: mode=9 torq0 elog=1 alog=0 1:Fm PCTRL-8 To PCTRL-8 <UI R Pid=F0 Len=33> [15:51:54R] [NN] [-----+-] CTRL: mode=9 torq0 elog=1 alog=0

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Falconsat3 ASTARS Network Concept
by Robert Bruninga 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

Falconsat3 brings back a great satellite capability for emergency response traffic into and out of remote disaster areas. Its file store and forward BBS using the PACSAT protocol is ideal for getting multiline messages, and pictures and data out of an area. Amateur radio Sateliltes sort of abandoned this concept with the rise of the internet. And then the short, real-time contact capability of APRS better matched the shorter attention span of the evolving users. But now we have both in Falconsat3. But we also now have the Internet and can integrate a worldwide collection of satstations capturing all the downlink PACSAT BBS packets and building a WEB portal on the ground that always mirrors the traffic on the bird. Imagine that a remote operator can post a photo or file that can be read on a Falconsat WEB portal by FEMA or emergency operators back here anytime, anywhere. The concept is suggested on this page: http://aprs.org/PFS3.html All we need is someone to write the internet server that collects the BBS packets from all the ground stations like the APRS-IS already does for APRS, but this new PACSAT-IS would be just for PACSAT BBS traffic. Then someone to collect the data and write the WEB Portal. Then people to put up satgates (hopefully using omni antennas) and with enough stations, all packets could be collected. Anyway, I created the above web page to kind of serve as a target for this exciting new Amateur Radio capability. So even stations that are using OMNI antennas now and only decoding a few packets per pass, we need to understand how well this works for high elevation passes. Even this sparse data is good data. Remember, with a standard TNC all you are seeing are the few UI packets in the downlink. I think if you set KISS mode, you will be flooded with all the streaming BBS data too. This continuous stream at 9600 can make it easy to see the effect of an antenna in very short time. Bob, WB4APR

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ForSale: ICOM910H Mint Condition Manuals , Triplexor, CIV interface Desk Mic
by vk4tec＠tech-software.net 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/-/182826587801?ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT Mint condition ICOM 910H Standard Mic and Desk Mic Manuals ( service as well ) Trixplexor included CIV remote box included Free Postage Andrew VK4TEC

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Wanted : Pre Amp for ICOM 910 H
by vk4tec＠tech-software.net 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Hello Dunno unless you ask Does anyone have either 2m or 70 cm preamp for ICOM 910H for sale ? Before I make my own Andrew

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Upcoming ARISS contact with Fleet Science Center, BE WISE Program in San Diego, CA
by n4csitwo＠bellsouth.net 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

An International Space Station school contact has been planned with participants at Fleet Science Center, BE WISE Program in San Diego, CA, on 14 Oct. The event is scheduled to begin at approximately 18:26 UTC. The duration of the contact is approximately 9 minutes and 30 seconds. The contact will be direct between NA1SS and KJ6KDZ. The contact should be audible over the state of California and adjacent areas. Interested parties are invited to listen in on the 145.80 MHz downlink. The contact is expected to be conducted in English. The Fleet Science Center connects people of all ages to the possibilities and power of science to create a better future. Established in 1973, it was the first science museum to combine interactive science exhibits with a planetarium and an IMAX Dome (OMNIMAX) theater, setting the standard that most major science museums follow today. The Fleet is home to many programs that engage girls in science, one of them is BE WiSE (Better Education for Women in Science and Engineering). BE WiSE BE WiSE engages young women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning experiences in collaboration with the region's research, industry and academic institutions. BE WiSE goals are to: stimulate young women's interest in STEM through interactions with professionals, increase participants' opportunities and knowledge of STEM fields of study, develop a community of young women (grades 7-12) engaged in science learning through out-of-school activities, and sustain interest and involvement through alumnae and ongoing participation for women in science at all levels. BE WiSE selects girls from all across San Diego County and has sustained contact with over five hundred girls over the past 14 years. Participants will ask as many of the following questions as time allows: 1. How does being on board the ISS for long periods of time affect your overall health? 2. When deciding to be an astronaut, did you have any doubts? If so, how did you overcome them? 3. What is the most interesting experiment you are doing on the ISS right now? 4. Have you ever dealt with malfunctions on board the ISS? If so, how did you solve it? 5. What do you like most about the ISS? 6. Is it hard to sleep? What do you dream about? 7. If you get sick on the ISS how do you receive treatment? 8. What does weightlessness feel like? 9. What is a typical day like for you? 10. Do you miss "real" food? What kinds of food do you like on the ISS? 11. Do you get heartburn/acid reflux? How do you deal with that? 12. What is the most interesting thing you have seen aboard the ISS? 13. How much does microgravity affect the experiments that you conduct on the ISS? 14. What does the orbital sunrise look like? 15. What kind of medical testing do you go through before/after being in space? 16. Are they currently working on lighter, more flexible space suits? 17. Do scientists from different countries collaborate on projects? If so, what kind? 18. How much time do you spend practicing in zero gravity before going into space? 19. How do you think private space travel will affect the ISS? PLEASE CHECK THE FOLLOWING FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ARISS UPDATES: Visit ARISS on Facebook. We can be found at Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS). To receive our Twitter updates, follow @ARISS_status Next planned event(s): 1. "A.Gramsci-N.Pende", Noicattaro, Italy and Istituto Comprensivo "Tauro - Viterbo", Castellana Grotte (Ba), Italy direct via IZ7RTN The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be IRØISS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 08:47:01 UTC Watch for HamTV 2. Tallaght Community School, Dublin, Ireland, direct via EI2SDR and Gymnasium Räddningsgymnasiet Sando, Sandöverken, Sweden, telebridge via EI2SDR The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The scheduled astronaut is Mark Vande Hei KG5GNP Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 11:57:34 UTC Watch for live stream https://www.youtube.com/user/TogDublin/live 3. Istituto Scolastico Comprensivo "Nardi", Porto San Giorgio, Italy and I.C. Michelangelo Buonarroti, Marina di Carrara, Italy direct via I6KZR and IQ5VR The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be IRØISS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 15:14:34 UTC Watch for HamTV About ARISS: Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) is a cooperative venture of international amateur radio societies and the space agencies that support the International Space Station (ISS). In the United States, sponsors are the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT), the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The primary goal of ARISS is to promote exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) topics by organizing scheduled contacts via amateur radio between crew members aboard the ISS and students in classrooms or informal education venues. With the help of experienced amateur radio volunteers, ISS crews speak directly with large audiences in a variety of public forums. Before and during these radio contacts, students, teachers, parents, and communities learn about space, space technologies, and amateur radio. For more information, see www.ariss.org, www.amsat.org, and www.arrl.org. Thank you & 73, David - AA4KN --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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Re: [amsat-bb] FalconSat-3 sig level to decode
by Ken Swaggart 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Yes, Dire Wolf runs on Windows. My doppler correction is with homebrew software. SatPC or the others ought to work, I'd think. -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Rich [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 15:54 To: Ken Swaggart <k.swaggart(a)charter.net> Cc: AMSAT -BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>; Australian APRS Users <ozaprs(a)aprs.net.au> Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] FalconSat-3 sig level to decode Direwolf is on windows ? Sent from my iPhone > On 13 Oct 2017, at 8:17 am, Ken Swaggart <k.swaggart(a)charter.net> wrote: > > I'm using the AirSpy (not mini) with SDR#. Doppler tuning with > homebrew software. Haven't noticed lost packets when the SDR freq > changes, but will be on the lookout for that. > > The audio loopback is Virtual Audio Cable. > > SSB Preamp > > Rotator is a G5500 and LVB Tracker controlled by my homebrew > software. (I really like the LVB Tracker!) > > Sound modem is Dire Wolf which feeds APRS-IS. At the present time I'm > just watching the packets scroll by on the Dire Wolf display. My main > goal was to Igate the FalconSat-3 packets. > > 73, > Ken, W7KKE > > -----Original Message----- > From: Andrew Rich [mailto:[email protected]] > Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 15:07 > To: Ken Swaggart <k.swaggart(a)charter.net> > Cc: AMSAT -BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>; Australian APRS Users > <ozaprs(a)aprs.net.au> > Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] FalconSat-3 sig level to decode > > > Hi Ken > > I thought you might have good antenna > > Hey > > So your on windows > > + AirSpy Mini > + SDR# > + What audio loop back > + Preamps > + Rotator - from what program > + What Sound modem ? > + What APRS / TNC style program > > - Andrew - > > >> On 13 Oct 2017, at 4:12 am, Ken Swaggart <k.swaggart(a)charter.net> wrote: >> >> On this morning's FalconSat-3 pass, I checked the signal required to >> decode using Dire Wolf. It was 18 dB SNR, so that's roughly S3 +/- >> above the noise floor. >> >> RX setup: AirSpy SDR, SDRsharp, mast-mounted preamp, 15 X 15 X Yagi, > G5500. >> >> 73, >> Ken, W7KKE >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available >> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. >> Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect >> the > official views of AMSAT-NA. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >

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Falconsat-3: Two Rigs, One TNC
by Tony 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

All: I have the opportunity to purchase a used Timewave PK-96 USB TNC for a very reasonable price. I have 2 9600 baud radios which will do nicely for up-link and down-link. I plan on wiring the TNC for both rigs by connecting the TNC's RX pins to one radio and the TX pins to the other. Before I do so, is there anything I should know before trying this setup with Wisp? Anyone using the PK-96 USB? For what it's worth, I'm told a 9600 baud TNC will pop up on eBay now and then. It's worth a look for those interested in Falconsat. 73, Tony -K2MO

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FUNcube-1 AO73 Operational Mode
by Graham Shirville 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Hi All, As we are busy preparing for the AMSAT-UK Colloquium this weekend, FUNcube-1 is now in full time amateur mode. The Transponder is on and the telemetry is operating at low power. This mode should continue until Monday morning UTC time. Nayif-1 EO88 remains in autonomous mode and FUNcube-2 on UKube is in amateur mode as usual. best 73 Graham G3VZV

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FalconSat-3 sig level to decode
by Ken Swaggart 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

On this morning's FalconSat-3 pass, I checked the signal required to decode using Dire Wolf. It was 18 dB SNR, so that's roughly S3 +/- above the noise floor. RX setup: AirSpy SDR, SDRsharp, mast-mounted preamp, 15 X 15 X Yagi, G5500. 73, Ken, W7KKE

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Signalink for 9600 baud (possible Doppler tuning Failure)
by Robert Bruninga 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Be very careful about "Doppler correction" for digital modes. >Falconsat just went over >435.111 MHz to 435.095 MHz doppler corrected using MacDoppler... Digital modes usually cannot stand the phase shift that occurs every time a radio steps in frequency. Those bits are lost. If you set to 100 Hz steps, over the full 18 kHz of Doppler, then 180 times during the pass, you are *destroying* the data you are trying to decode. So it is better to maybe step every 1 KHz and only have 18 blackouts instead of 180. Assuming the decoder can still work with up to 500 Hz offset. Doppler stepping is very helpful for SSB voice modes. But disasterous for digital. That is for step tuned radios anyway.... I assume smart Doppler correction in DSP receivers work around this problem? Bob, WB4aPR

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Re: [amsat-bb] Falconsat-3 Test 2 (turnstyles and amps)
by Robert Bruninga 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

LNA Preamps by all means are required. But I am curious. It would seem that the turnstyle cannot have any more gain than a simple dipole (2.3 dBi) circular, but broadside to each dipole, it should have a net -0.7 dbi since one dipole is contributing nothing and power is split - 3dB between them. Yes, it gives 2.3 dbi circular polarization gain overhead which reduces fading, but has little gain in the quadrant directions. An infinite reflector can gain another 3 dB but this is not achieved with a simple reflector element. On the other hand, a vertical 1/4 wave doesn't do any better. But if the vertical is made 3/4 waves long, (about 20" tall for UHF) and is placed over a good sized ground plane, then the gain is over 7 dBi above about 30 degrees. That's the good news, but the bad news is that Sateliltes only spend about 30% of their total time in view above about 22 degrees as shown on this page: http://aprs.org/LEO-tracking.html But the high elevation gain of the simple 3/4 wave vertical above 30 degrees is shown about 80% down this very long page: http://aprs.org/astars.html As an old fud, I hold to this firmly held belief about the same as other old fud's cling to theirs, so I hope someday to actually make some real comparisions instead of just talking about it. But here is my bottom line, Turnstyles and egg beaters (in my opinion) are excellent omni directional cross polarized antennas for satellite work... but equally poor in all directions. In other words, they sacrifice gain when the satellite is higher and much close, for gain at the horizon where they can never possibly hear a weak satellite anway. So I like the reverse. Sacrificing gain at the horizon, where I can't hear them anyway, for higher gain higher up when they are closer and give a 5 dB stronger signal. So for a simple quick test, put up a 19" quarter wave whip over a ground plane and it will give you 5 dBi gain on VHF above about 15 degrees and 7 dBi gain on UHF above about 20 degrees. Your mileage may vary. Bob, WB4APR -----Original Message----- From: AMSAT-BB [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Andrew Rich Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 7:08 AM To: Dave Webb KB1PVH Cc: AMSAT -BB Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] [OZAPRS] Falconsat-3 Test 2 - Signalink USB Sound Card 9k6 Roger that Turnstiles and amps underway Could not find anyone willing to send me 9k6 locally I would have seen that A Sent from my iPhone > On 12 Oct 2017, at 8:46 pm, Dave Webb KB1PVH <kb1pvh(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > Andrew, > > You need a pretty decent signal with 9600 to be able to decode and > your > X300 vertical isn't going to cut it for satellite work. > > Dave-KB1PVH > > > Sent from my Galaxy S7 > >> On Oct 12, 2017 6:40 AM, "Andrew Rich" <vk4tec(a)tech-software.net> wrote: >> >> Rick >> >> What antenna preamp are you using >> >> And what signal strength do you get >> >> Andrew >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >>> On 12 Oct 2017, at 4:54 pm, Rick Kowalewski <rick(a)vk6xlr.net> wrote: >>> >>> Sure it can: >>> >>> Here's copied data from a few days ago: >>> 1:Fm PFS3-1 To TLMC-1 <UI R Pid=F0 Len=4> [20:56:49R] [AA] >>> [+--++--]CL:0 1:Fm PFS3-1 To LSTAT <UI R Pid=F0 Len=46> [20:56:49R] >>> [AA] [---+---]I >> P:0x13A8 o:0 l:26062 f:26092, d:1 st:6 e:cb >>> 1:Fm PFS3-1 To TIME-1 <UI R Pid=F0 Len=64> [20:56:58R] [AN] >> [-------]PHT: uptime is 707/07:49:24. Time is Fri Oct 06 12:57:53 >> 2017 >>> 1:Fm PFS3-11 To PBLIST <UI R Pid=F0 Len=11> [20:59:01R] [NN] >> [+--+---]PB: Empty. >>> >>>> On 12/10/2017 14:29, Andrew Rich wrote: >>>> ICOM 910H >>>> >>>> 9k6 ON >>>> >>>> Signalink with UZ7HO sound modem FSM G3RUH 9600 baud >>>> >>>> Elevation 89.4 degrees >>>> >>>> MacDoppler correction 435.112 MHz to 435.xxx MHz >>>> >>>> No Packets copied >>>> >>>> 435.112 MHz Start heard a change in static >>>> >>>> I am not convinced the SignalLink can do it >>>> >>>> I am going to move across to a my FunCube Dongle and use Software >> Defined Radio to try and snag it >>>> >>>> Will report back >>>> >>>> I can certainly hear the 9k6 rush from the bird >>>> >>>> Diamond X300 BS antenna LDF4-50 >>>> >>>> Andrew VK4TEC >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum >>> available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. >> Opinions expressed >>> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official >>> views of >> AMSAT-NA. >>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite >> program! >>> Subscription settings: >>> http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available >> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. >> Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect >> the official views of AMSAT-NA. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available > to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. > Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Special Event - Denver Maker Faire (Oct 14-15)
by Jeremy Turner 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Hello all, I will be giving satellite demonstrations for passes Saturday and Sunday from approx 1500-2300z as N0SZ as part of Rocky Mountain Ham Radio at the Denver Maker Faire from DM79. I will primarily focus on FM voice and APRS. However, I will have some borrowed equipment for the linear birds as well. Just go easy on me! Look for me on Twitter (@linuxwebguy) for specific pass and frequency information. I'm not sure who handles log submission for the group, but I will provide ADIF to the club so that they can submit. For more information on Rocky Mountain Ham Radio, visit: http://www.rmham.org For more information on the Denver Maker Faire, visit: http://denver.makerfaire.com Thanks, and hope to work you this weekend! Jeremy / KO6RM -- Jeremy Turner Twitter: @linuxwebguy

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Signalink Modification for 9600 baud
by christy hunter 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

based on discussion with a technician at Tigertronics, the USB signalink will not allow 9600 baud packet due to the frequency response is too narrow. He said none of the commercial external soundcards will work with 9600 bd packet. The only option is to construct a circuit, or use a 9600 baud TNC. (not too many options on that front.) the Tigertronics website is a bit miss-leading because it ref. 9600 baud on its wiring diagram. Mine is setup for the 6pin miniDin connector(the pin 4 - for 9600 bd on my radio dataport- is not connected) for my FT 847. At this time I can only decode by connecting the 9600 pin on my radio (dataport) to a line-in to my Laptop soundcard (and not using a isolation circuit). It would be nice to hear of any solution to this, without buying a $400 TNC (kantronics 9612). there are several websites that talk to this issue, here is one of them https://www.soundcardpacket.org/5modes.aspx 73 Christy KB6LTY --- This email has been checked for viruses by AVG. http://www.avg.com

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Falconsat-3 Test 2 - Signalink USB Sound Card 9k6
by Andrew Rich 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

ICOM 910H 9k6 ON Signalink with UZ7HO sound modem FSM G3RUH 9600 baud Elevation 89.4 degrees MacDoppler correction 435.112 MHz to 435.xxx MHz No Packets copied 435.112 MHz Start heard a change in static I am not convinced the SignalLink can do it I am going to move across to a my FunCube Dongle and use Software Defined Radio to try and snag it Will report back I can certainly hear the 9k6 rush from the bird Diamond X300 BS antenna LDF4-50 Andrew VK4TEC

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Elementary School “21st of May”, Podgorica, Montenegro, direct via 4OØISS
by Dave Ryan 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Hi all We are on Holidays in Cyprus and were able to hear the ARISS QSO with Astro Joe Acaba yesterday from the comfort of the beach near paphos in Cyprus. We downloaded the question and came up with our own best guess answers Dave 5B / M0GIW https://youtu.be/3AdmdJAJm9A

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Success - Falcon Sat 3 - Software Defined Radio and Virtual Audio to soundmodem
by Andrew Rich 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Ok I don’t have good enough signal strength It just landed in the best angle for my antenna and came up and I decoded one packet on an AirSpy Mini I think I will have to go back to to the good old days of a turnstile and amp up the tower

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Digital satellites
by Andrew Rich 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

I am amazed at the radios, both analog and software defined and decoders tnc’s and programs that are out there I really can’t be bothered mapping what works with what I am convinced dire wolf is the best software defined decoder. It has been proved against a TNC I have a Mac Laptop and a Windows Laptop, perl to interface the two MacDoppler author won’t do TCP IP Freq adjustment and Alex is stuck on TCP IP doppler adjustment I just want a single LINUX / Mac based solution that does + Satellite tracking + Doppler Correction + Rotator control + Demods 1k2 9k6 + And passes it to the internet To do this I have stuff everywhere and its messy I am hoping one day that will change Why can’t we have TCP/IP radios ? that demod and doppler correct and decode . Oh well Andrew

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Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2017-10-12 06:30 UTC
by AJ9N＠aol.com 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2017-10-12 06:30 UTC Quick list of scheduled contacts and events: Fleet Science Center, BE WISE Program, San Diego, CA, direct via KJ6KDZ The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Sat 2017-10-14 18:26:17 UTC 33 deg “A.Gramsci-N.Pende”, Noicattaro, Italy and Istituto Comprensivo “Tauro – Viterbo”, Castellana Grotte (Ba), Italy direct via IZ7RTN The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be IRØISS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 08:47:01 UTC 81 deg Watch for HamTV (***) Tallaght Community School, Dublin, Ireland, direct via EI2SDR and Gymnasium Räddningsgymnasiet Sando, Sandöverken, Sweden, telebridge via EI2SDR The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The scheduled astronaut is Mark Vande Hei KG5GNP Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 11:57:34 UTC 47 deg Watch for live stream https://www.youtube.com/user/TogDublin/live Istituto Scolastico Comprensivo “Nardi”, Porto San Giorgio, Italy and I.C. Michelangelo Buonarroti, Marina di Carrara, Italy direct via I6KZR and IQ5VR The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be IRØISS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 15:14:34 UTC 46 deg Watch for HamTV (***) **************************************************************************** ** International Space Station Astronauts are Calling CQ Students – ARISS-US program education proposal deadline is November 15, 2017 September 18, 2017: The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program is seeking proposals from U.S. schools, museums, science centers and community youth organizations to host radio contacts with an orbiting crew member aboard the International Space Station (ISS) between July 1 and December 31, 2018. Each year, ARISS provides tens of thousands of students with oppor- tunities to learn about space technologies and space communications through the exploration of Amateur Radio. The program provides learning opportunities by connecting students to astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) through a partnership between NASA, the American Radio Relay League, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation and other Amateur Radio organizations and worldwide space agencies. The program’s goal is to inspire students worldwide, to pursue interests and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through Amateur Radio. Educators overwhelmingly report that student participation in the ARISS program inspires an interest in STEM subjects and in STEM careers. Ninety-two percent of educators who have participated in the program have indicated that ARISS provided ideas for encourag- ing student exploration, discussion, and participation, and 78 percent said that ARISS was effective in stimulating student interest in STEM. ARISS is looking for organizations that will draw large numbers of participants and integrate the contact into a well-developed education plan. Students can learn about satellite communications, wireless technology, science research conducted on the space station, what it is like to work in space, radio science, and any related STEM subject. Students learn to use Amateur Radio to talk directly to an astronaut and ask their STEM-related questions. ARISS will help educational organizations locate Amateur Radio groups who can assist with equipment for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students. The proposal deadline for 2018 contacts is November 15, 2017. The ARISS website has additional details on expectations, proposal guidelines, and the proposal form. See: http://www.ariss.org/hosting-an-ariss-contact-in-the-us.html ************** **************************************************************** ARISS is always glad to receive listener reports for the above contacts. ARISS thanks everyone in advance for their assistance. Feel free to send your reports to aj9n(a)amsat.org or aj9n(a)aol.com. Listen for the ISS on the downlink of 145.8Ø MHz. **************************************************************************** *** All ARISS contacts are made via the Kenwood radio unless otherwise noted. **************************************************************************** *** Several of you have sent me emails asking about the RAC ARISS website and not being able to get in. That has now been changed to http://www.ariss.org/ Note that there are links to other ARISS websites from this site. **************************************************************************** Looking for something new to do? How about receiving DATV from the ISS? If interested, then please go to the ARISS-EU website for complete details. Look for the buttons indicating Ham Video. http://www.ariss-eu.org/ If you need some assistance, ARISS mentor Kerry N6IZW, might be able to provide some insight. Contact Kerry at kbanke(a)sbcglobal.net **************************************************************************** ARISS congratulations the following mentors who have now mentored over 100 schools: Satoshi 7M3TJZ with 124 Gaston ON4WF with 123 Francesco IKØWGF with 119 Sergey RV3DR with 100 **************************************************************************** The webpages listed below were all reviewed for accuracy. Out of date webpages were removed and new ones have been added. If there are additional ARISS websites I need to know about, please let me know. Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time. All dates and times listed follow International Standard ISO 8601 date and time format YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS The complete schedule page has been updated as of 2017-10-12 06:30 UTC. (***) Here you will find a listing of all scheduled school contacts, and questions, other ISS related websites, IRLP and Echolink websites, and instructions for any contact that may be streamed live. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.rtf http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.txt Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school events is 1164. Each school counts as 1 event. Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school contacts is 1123. Each contact may have multiple schools sharing the same time slot. Total number of ARISS supported terrestrial contacts is 47. A complete year by year breakdown of the contacts may be found in the file. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.rtf Please feel free to contact me if more detailed statistics are needed. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The following US states and entities have never had an ARISS contact: Arkansas, Delaware, South Dakota, Wyoming, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas Islands, and the Virgin Islands. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ QSL information may be found at: http://www.ariss.org/qsl-cards.html ISS callsigns: DPØISS, IRØISS, NA1SS, OR4ISS, RSØISS **************************************************************************** The successful school list has been updated as of 2017-10-11 19:00 UTC. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/Successful_ARISS_schools.rtf Frequency chart for packet, voice, and crossband repeater modes showing Doppler correction as of 2005-07-29 04:00 UTC http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/ISS_frequencies_and_Doppler_correction .rtf Listing of ARISS related magazine articles as of 2006-07-10 03:30 UTC. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/ARISS_magazine_articles.rtf Check out the Zoho reports of the ARISS contacts https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?DBID=412218000000020415 **************************************************************************** Exp. 52 on orbit Randy Bresnik Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Sergey Ryazanskiy Exp. 53 on orbit Mark Vande Hei KG5GNP Alexander Misurkin Joe Acaba KE5DAR **************************************************************************** 73, Charlie Sufana AJ9N One of the ARISS operation team mentors

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Re: [amsat-bb] Signalink Modification for 9600 baud
by Andrew Rich 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

I can confirm that the Signal link wired up as 9k6 transmits 1k2 fine I just tested it Andrew > On 12 Oct 2017, at 12:37 pm, christy hunter <cchunter3(a)mindspring.com> wrote: > > thanks Andrew, > will be interested to hear how it works. > I can decode ok, but not thru the signalink. but it seems to not be practical anyway having to move the internal wire connector to use 9600. > 73 > christy kb6lty > > On 10/11/2017 19:18, Andrew Rich wrote: >> Twitter is flooded with Falconsat Reception reports as is my website >> >> I watched Falconsat on SDR - It has a fair amount of doppler >> >> I have a fully automated ICOM 910H with doppler correction sitting here hooked up to my Signalink having moved the internal jumper to 9k6 >> >> I await the bird >> >> Andrew VK4TEC >> >> >> >>> On 12 Oct 2017, at 11:46 am, David W0DHB <dave(a)w0dhb.net> wrote: >>> >>> Just looking at specs. >>> >>> 9.6 Khz baud packet needs (per G3RUH spec) >>> •Response to DC >>> •Response no worse than -4 db at 4.8 kHz >>> •No worse than -10 db at 7.2 kHz >>> >>> The Tigertronics spec's say audio response 300 Hz to 3.3KHz - ouch >>> Depending on how quickly the audio response curve rolls off the Signallink is kind of iffy for 9.6K . >>> Some folks have gotten it to work. >>> >>> This outfit has an isolation transformer spec'ed 20 to 20KHz. >>> A little pricey, but it is stereo so TX and RX audio are covered with a single unit >>> >>> http://www.fullcompass.com/prod/097486-Radio-Design-Labs-AVHK1 >>> >>> For just RX, a dongle, HDSDR and hs_soundmodem do a great job . >>> >>> Dave W0DHB >>> >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: AMSAT-BB [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of christy hunter >>> Sent: Wednesday, October 11, 2017 15:55 >>> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >>> Subject: [amsat-bb] Signalink Modification for 9600 baud >>> >>> based on discussion with a technician at Tigertronics, the USB signalink will not allow 9600 baud packet due to the frequency response is too narrow. He said none of the commercial external soundcards will work with 9600 bd packet. The only option is to construct a circuit, or use a >>> 9600 baud TNC. (not too many options on that front.) >>> >>> the Tigertronics website is a bit miss-leading because it ref. 9600 baud on its wiring diagram. Mine is setup for the 6pin miniDin connector(the pin 4 - for 9600 bd on my radio dataport- is not connected) for my FT 847. At this time I can only decode by connecting the 9600 pin on my radio (dataport) to a line-in to my Laptop soundcard (and not using a isolation circuit). >>> >>> It would be nice to hear of any solution to this, without buying a $400 TNC (kantronics 9612). >>> >>> there are several websites that talk to this issue, here is one of them >>> >>> https://www.soundcardpacket.org/5modes.aspx >>> >>> 73 >>> Christy KB6LTY >>> >>> >>> --- >>> This email has been checked for viruses by AVG. >>> http://www.avg.com >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. >>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >>> Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available >>> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed >>> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. >>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >>> Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >

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Re: [amsat-bb] Signalink Modification for 9600 baud
by Rick Kowalewski 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

Hi Christy, Correct, pin 4 on the 6 pin mini-din to Signalink SPKR pin. With the IC-9100, for example, it must be set to FMD (FM Data). Looks like the FT-847 needs menu #23 (Pkt-Rate) set to 9600. The cable I'm using is the SL-CAB6PM. This has all 6 wires connected. I was using it with a FT-847 when I had one. Plugs straight into the IC-9100. Just need to change the Signalink jumper from 5 to 4. I'm still yet to try TX. Will get there though :) 73, Rick VK6RK On 12/10/2017 09:56, christy hunter wrote: > Hi Rick. > thanks for commenting. for your setup I assume you are using the IC9100 6pin dataport? > the USB signalink is wired to pin 4(9600)? > and are you also Tx 9600 packet, uplinking to the Satellite? > my signalink has the little plug (sans connection to the pin 4), and with my radio cant test the > receive portion without rewiring to pin 4. (have tested as is with no joy). > 73 > christy KB6LTY > --------- you wrote ---------- > Well that's interesting. > > I've used a USB Signalink with an Icom IC-9100 and hs-soundmodem to > successfully decode 9600 from Falconsat-3. > To my knowledge, the Signalink has not been modified. > > 73, > Rick VK6RK > > On 12/10/2017 05:55, christy hunter wrote: > >/based on discussion with a technician at Tigertronics, the USB />/signalink will not allow 9600 baud packet due to the frequency />/response is too narrow. He said none of the commercial external />/soundcards will work with 9600 bd packet. The only option is to />/construct a circuit, or use a 9600 baud TNC. (not too many options on />/that front.) />//>/the Tigertronics website is a bit miss-leading because it ref. 9600 />/baud on its wiring diagram. Mine is setup for the 6pin miniDin />/connector(the pin 4 - for 9600 bd on my radio dataport- is not />/connected) for my FT 847. At this time I can only decode by />/connecting the 9600 pin on my radio (dataport) to a line-in to my />/Laptop soundcard (and not using a isolation circuit). />//>/It would be nice to hear of any solution to this, without buying a />/$400 TNC (kantronics 9612). />//>/there are several websites that talk to this issue, here is one of them />//>/https://www.soundcardpacket.org/5modes.aspx />//>/73 />/Christy KB6LTY/

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Signalink Modification for 9600 baud
by ab2cj 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

All: Has anyone modified a Signalink interface to work 9600 baud satellites? It's my understanding that transformers and other isolation components introduce phase distortion making the unit inoperable for 9600 baud operation. Has anyone tried the stock USB unit with the built-in sound card on terrestrial 9600 baud packet? Tony -K2MO

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T8 Palau Satellite Activation
by JoAnne Maenpaa 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

Waiting for the weekend would be too late ... If you're in range you might bag a new one on satellite ... T8, Palau: Kay/JH3AZC (T88CX) and Taka/JP3EXR (T88DG) will be active from Palau Island (OC-00) on 2m EME between the 11th and 16th. QRV as T8EM on JT65B. Taki/JH3QFL operates as T88CU via satellites and on HF. QSL direct via JP3EXR. (via the DARC DX Newsletter DXNL 2062 - October 11, 2017) -- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm(a)amsat.org

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Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2017-10-11 19:00 UTC
by AJ9N＠aol.com 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2017-10-11 19:00 UTC Quick list of scheduled contacts and events: Elementary School “21st of May”, Podgorica, Montenegro, direct via 4OØISS The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The scheduled astronaut is Joe Acaba KE5DAR Contact was successful: Wed 2017-10-11 11:48:02 UTC 50 deg (***) The Alice Smith School Primary Campus, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, direct via 9M2RPN The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The scheduled astronaut is Mark Vande Hei KG5GNP Contact was successful: Wed 2017-10-11 15:24:05 UTC 79 deg (***) Fleet Science Center, BE WISE Program, San Diego, CA, direct via KJ6KDZ The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Sat 2017-10-14 18:26:17 UTC 33 deg “A.Gramsci-N.Pende”, Noicattaro, Italy and Istituto Comprensivo “Tauro – Viterbo”, Castellana Grotte (Ba), Italy direct via IZ7RTN The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be IRØISS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 08:47:01 UTC 81 deg (***) Tallaght Community School, Dublin, Ireland, direct via EI2SDR and Gymnasium Räddningsgymnasiet Sando, Sandöverken, Sweden, telebridge via EI2SDR The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The scheduled astronaut is Mark Vande Hei KG5GNP (***) Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 11:57:34 UTC 47 deg (***) Watch for live stream https://www.youtube.com/user/TogDublin/live (***) Istituto Scolastico Comprensivo “Nardi”, Porto San Giorgio, Italy and I.C. Michelangelo Buonarroti, Marina di Carrara, Italy direct via I6KZR and IQ5VR The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be IRØISS The scheduled astronaut is Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Contact is a go for: Fri 2017-10-20 15:14:34 UTC 46 deg (***) **************************************************************************** ** International Space Station Astronauts are Calling CQ Students – ARISS-US program education proposal deadline is November 15, 2017 September 18, 2017: The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program is seeking proposals from U.S. schools, museums, science centers and community youth organizations to host radio contacts with an orbiting crew member aboard the International Space Station (ISS) between July 1 and December 31, 2018. Each year, ARISS provides tens of thousands of students with oppor- tunities to learn about space technologies and space communications through the exploration of Amateur Radio. The program provides learning opportunities by connecting students to astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) through a partnership between NASA, the American Radio Relay League, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation and other Amateur Radio organizations and worldwide space agencies. The program’s goal is to inspire students worldwide, to pursue interests and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through Amateur Radio. Educators overwhelmingly report that student participation in the ARISS program inspires an interest in STEM subjects and in STEM careers. Ninety-two percent of educators who have participated in the program have indicated that ARISS provided ideas for encourag- ing student exploration, discussion, and participation, and 78 percent said that ARISS was effective in stimulating student interest in STEM. ARISS is looking for organizations that will draw large numbers of participants and integrate the contact into a well-developed education plan. Students can learn about satellite communications, wireless technology, science research conducted on the space station, what it is like to work in space, radio science, and any related STEM subject. Students learn to use Amateur Radio to talk directly to an astronaut and ask their STEM-related questions. ARISS will help educational organizations locate Amateur Radio groups who can assist with equipment for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students. The proposal deadline for 2018 contacts is November 15, 2017. The ARISS website has additional details on expectations, proposal guidelines, and the proposal form. See: http://www.ariss.org/hosting-an-ariss-contact-in-the-us.html **************************************************************************** ** ARISS is always glad to receive listener reports for the above contacts. ARISS thanks everyone in advance for their assistance. Feel free to send your reports to aj9n(a)amsat.org or aj9n(a)aol.com. Listen for the ISS on the downlink of 145.8Ø MHz. **************************************************************************** *** All ARISS contacts are made via the Kenwood radio unless otherwise noted. **************************************************************************** *** Several of you have sent me emails asking about the RAC ARISS website and not being able to get in. That has now been changed to http://www.ariss.org/ Note that there are links to other ARISS websites from this site. **************************************************************************** Looking for something new to do? How about receiving DATV from the ISS? If interested, then please go to the ARISS-EU website for complete details. Look for the buttons indicating Ham Video. http://www.ariss-eu.org/ If you need some assistance, ARISS mentor Kerry N6IZW, might be able to provide some insight. Contact Kerry at kbanke(a)sbcglobal.net **************************************************************************** ARISS congratulations the following mentors who have now mentored over 100 schools: Satoshi 7M3TJZ with 124 Gaston ON4WF with 123 Francesco IKØWGF with 119 Sergey RV3DR with 100 **************************************************************************** The webpages listed below were all reviewed for accuracy. Out of date webpages were removed and new ones have been added. If there are additional ARISS websites I need to know about, please let me know. Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time. All dates and times listed follow International Standard ISO 8601 date and time format YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS The complete schedule page has been updated as of 2017-10-12 19:00 UTC. (***) Here you will find a listing of all scheduled school contacts, and questions, other ISS related websites, IRLP and Echolink websites, and instructions for any contact that may be streamed live. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.rtf http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.txt Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school events is 1164. (***) Each school counts as 1 event. Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school contacts is 1123. (***) Each contact may have multiple schools sharing the same time slot. Total number of ARISS supported terrestrial contacts is 47. A complete year by year breakdown of the contacts may be found in the file. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.rtf Please feel free to contact me if more detailed statistics are needed. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The following US states and entities have never had an ARISS contact: Arkansas, Delaware, South Dakota, Wyoming, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas Islands, and the Virgin Islands. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ QSL information may be found at: http://www.ariss.org/qsl-cards.html ISS callsigns: DPØISS, IRØISS, NA1SS, OR4ISS, RSØISS **************************************************************************** The successful school list has been updated as of 2017-10-12 19:00 UTC. (***) http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/Successful_ARISS_schools.rtf Frequency chart for packet, voice, and crossband repeater modes showing Doppler correction as of 2005-07-29 04:00 UTC http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/ISS_frequencies_and_Doppler_correction .rtf Listing of ARISS related magazine articles as of 2006-07-10 03:30 UTC. http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/ARISS_magazine_articles.rtf Check out the Zoho reports of the ARISS contacts https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?DBID=412218000000020415 **************************************************************************** Exp. 52 on orbit Randy Bresnik Paolo Nespoli IZØJPA Sergey Ryazanskiy Exp. 53 on orbit Mark Vande Hei KG5GNP Alexander Misurkin Joe Acaba KE5DAR **************************************************************************** 73, Charlie Sufana AJ9N One of the ARISS operation team mentors

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