February 2023 - AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

NO-104 reentry
by Sasha Tim 11 Feb '23

11 Feb '23

Hi All: It appears that NO-104/PSAT2 is reentering soon. Am I missing something or is this correct? 73! Sasha

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ANS-043 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins for February 12, 2023
by Frank Karnauskas (N1UW) 11 Feb '23

11 Feb '23

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-043 In this edition: * AMSAT Engineering Recruiting Volunteers * NASA Announces Winners of 2022 Annual Space Apps Challenge * Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for February 9, 2023 * ARISS News * Upcoming Satellite Operations * Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events * Satellite Shorts From All Over The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. The news feed on http://www.amsat.org publishes news of Amateur Radio in Space as soon as our volunteers can post it. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor [at] amsat [dot] org. You can sign up for free e-mail delivery of the AMSAT News Service Bulletins via the ANS List; to join this list see: https://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/ ANS-043 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins To: All RADIO AMATEURS From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation 712 H Street NE, Suite 1653 Washington, DC 20002 DATE 2023 Feb 12 AMSAT Engineering Recruiting Volunteers + RF Engineer AMSAT is looking for an EE with RF experience to join its FOX-PLUS team. You'll collaborate with an all-volunteer team of up to ten electrical, mechanical, software and systems engineers. You will have the opportunity to design and build the RF communications subsystems for a series of low earth orbit, 1U-3U CubeSats to support AMSAT's educational and engineering objectives. You should have a working knowledge of analog and digital communications protocols (e.g., FM, PSK, FSK) to provide digitally synthesized audio for FM modulated VHF/UHF/SHF voice and telemetry channels. Development opportunities can begin with modification of previous FOX designs and/or by starting with a blank sheet for an original design. + Mechanical Engineers AMSAT is looking for Mechanical Engineers to join its FOX and GOLF CubeSat teams. You'll collaborate with an all-volunteer team of up to 12 electrical, mechanical, software and systems engineers. You will have the opportunity to use your structural design and analysis skills in the development of a series of low earth orbit and highly elliptical orbit, 1U-3U CubeSats to support AMSAT's educational and engineering objectives. Your contribution may include a) the development of the spaceframe and deployable solar panel subsystem, b) the analysis of the thermal characteristics of the CubeSat and the design of the thermal management system, c) preparation and oversight of the environmental testing procedure, and/or d) management of documentation of the CubeSats adherence to the launch provider's and space vehicle owner's specifications. Our volunteers typically spend five hours per week on their project and attend a weekly online update meeting. An Amateur Radio license and CubeSat experience is helpful but not necessary. U.S. citizenship or proof of permanent residency is required. Interested persons should send an email with their resume/curriculum vitae to: volunteer(a)amsat.org. [ANS thanks Jonathan Brandenburg, KF5IDY, AMSAT Assistant VP, Engineering for the above information.] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ The 2023 AMSAT President's Club coins are here now! To commemorate the 40th anniversary of its launch on June 16, 1983, this year's coin features an image of AMSAT-OSCAR 10. Join the AMSAT President's Club today and help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! https://www.amsat.org/join-the-amsat-presidents-club/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ NASA Announces Winners of 2022 Annual Space Apps Challenge The 2022 Annual Space Apps Challenge which was held October 1 and 2, 2022, brought together a host of participants from different locations, cultures, backgrounds, interests, and skill levels. The theme for the 2022 challenge – Make Space – perfectly describes the primary goals of the event: creating innovative solutions to space-related problems, while also making space for people around the world to participate and engage in a collaborative scientific effort. “NASA’s Space Apps Challenge really puts students around the world to the test, helping to solve some of our time’s toughest problems,” said Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator. “I’m proud of all those who participated and challenged themselves to think creatively. Their remarkable ingenuity is proof that the Artemis Generation will help lead us into the future.” The challenge underscores the importance and value of NASA’s Open-Source Science Initiative that creates more advanced and inclusive research faster, builds a more just and equitable world, and provides access so that great minds from all walks of life can participate in science. The 10 global winning teams proposed solutions using tools, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, 3D globes and maps, web applications, interactive games, and the infusion of art and music into their projects. The winning teams were: - Best Use of Science: What’s New? (Taipei, Taiwan) - Best Use of Data: Starflock (Cleveland, Ohio, USA) - Best Use of Technology: Taming particles (Vilnius, Lithuania) - Galactic Impact: Selene (Jamshedpur, India) - Best Mission Concept: Mars 3D Home (Mendoza, Argentina) - Most Inspirational: Team Diamonds (Cumilla, Bangladesh) - Best Storytelling: MIMBI (Asuncion, Paraguay) - Global Connection: Standard NCTU CS Student (Taoyuan, Taiwan) - Art & Technology: Earth, Wind & Flare (Boston, Massachusetts, USA) - Local Impact: Brute Force (Nisocia, Cyprus) Read the full story at https://tinyurl.com/ANS-043-Apps. [ANS thanks spaceref.com for the above information.] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Need new satellite antennas? Purchase Arrows, Alaskan Arrows, and M2 LEO-Packs from the AMSAT Store. When you purchase through AMSAT, a portion of the proceeds goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space. https://amsat.org/product-category/hardware/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for February 9, 2023 The following satellites have decayed from orbit and have been removed from this week's AMSAT-NA TLE distribution: SurfSat NORAD Cat ID 43614 (decayed from orbit on 01/27/23 per Space-Track) IRVINE 01 NORAD Cat ID 43693 (decayed from orbit on 01/31/23 per Space-Track) RS4S NORAD Cat ID 53306 (decayed from orbit on 01/27/23 per Space-Track) RS3S NORAD Cat ID 53308 (decayed from orbit on 01/31/23 per Space-Track) RS1S NORAD Cat ID 53309 (decayed from orbit on 01/31/23 per Space-Track) RS5S NORAD Cat ID 53310 (decayed from orbit on 01/31/23 per Space-Track) RS6S NORAD Cat ID 53311 (decayed from orbit on 01/27/23 per Space-Track) RS9S NORAD Cat ID 53312 (decayed from orbit on 01/31/23 per Space-Track) RS12S NORAD Cat ID 53313 (decayed from orbit on 01/31/23 per Space-Track) The following satellites have been removed from this week's AMSAT-NA TLE distribution because their TLE's appear not to be updating: AstroBioCubeSat NORAD Cat ID 53107 CELESTA NORAD Cat ID 53111 The following satellite has failed it's NiCad batteries and has gone silent. In hope of a miraculous return, it will be continued in the AMSAT TLE Distribution for the time being: AO-95 NORAD Cat ID 43770 [ANS thanks Ray Hoad, WA5QGD, AMSAT Orbital Elements Manager, for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- ARISS NEWS Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide. + Upcoming Contacts School No. 547, St. Petersburg, Russia, direct via TBD. The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be RS0ISS. The scheduled crewmember is Sergey Prokopyev. Contact is go for February 13, 2023 at 09:35 UTC. Gymnasium Christian-Ernestinum, Bayreuth, Germany, direct via DK0BT. The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS. The scheduled crewmember is Koichi Wakata, KI5TMN. Predicted times drifting earlier by about 4 minutes at this time. This contact will be using the Kenwood radio located in the Service Module. Contact is go for: February 14, 2023 at 10:20:12 UTC. Stella Maris College, Gzira, Malta, direct via 9H1MRL. The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS. The scheduled crewmember is Josh Cassada, KI5CRH. Predicted times drifting earlier by about 4 minutes at this time. Contact is go: February 15,2023 at 12:48:01 UTC. + Completed Contacts About Gagarin From Space Secondary secondary school No. 2, direct via RY6AAC. The ISS callsign was RS0ISS. The crewmember was Anna Kikina Contact was successful on Sunday, February 5, 2023. Cache County School District, Millville, UT, direct via W7IVM. The ISS callsign was NA1SS. The crewmember was Josh Cassada, KI5CRH. Contact was successful on February 7, 2023. Colegio Diocesano Santa María Nuestra Senora, Ecija, Spain, telebridge via IK1SLD. The ISS callsign was OR4ISS. The scheduled crewmember was Josh Cassada, KI5CRH. Contact was successful on February 8, 2023. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html [ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information.] -------------------------------------------------------------------- Upcoming Satellite Operations FN10; Sunday, February 12, 2023 K4DCA - Will be there with his FM gear. [ANS thanks Paul Overn, KE0PBR, AMSAT rover page manager, for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events. + Orlando Hamcation February 10-12, 2023 Central Florida Fairgrounds and Expo Park 4603 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida 32808 https://www.hamcation.com/ + 2023 CubeSat Developer’s Workshop April 24-27, 2023 California Polytechnic State University 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, California 93407 https://www.cubesatdw.org/ [ANS thanks Paul Overn, KE0PBR, AMSAT Events page manager, for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Shorts From All Over + Newly found is the SARCTRAC Mk3b, a $290 satellite antenna rotator from Australia. USARCTRAC comes with all its components enclosed in a waterproof IP65 rated enclosure. It makes use of a 3D position sensor with magnetometer, allowing the unit to know its orientation at all times, meaning that it should be able to automatically position itself from startup. The design also makes use of DC motors with a built in worm gear drive, so the motors back driving is not possible. The system is controlled via a built in Raspberry Pi 3B+ and can communicate with the controlling PC via WiFi. More information available at https://www.sarcnet.org/sarctrac.html. [ANS thanks rtl-sdr.com for the above information.] + The 2022 edition of State-of-the-Art of Small Spacecraft Technology At NASA is now available for download. As with all previous editions of this report, the 2022 edition captures and distills a wealth of new information available on small spacecraft systems from NASA and other publicly available sources. This report should not be considered as a comprehensive overview of all the technologies but a great reference for the current state-of-the-art SmallSat technologies. Read the complete description of the report and download it at https://tinyurl.com/ANS-043-Report. [ANS thanks spaceref.com for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/ In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to: * Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization). * Primary and secondary school students are eligible for membership at one-half the standard yearly rate. * Post-secondary school students enrolled in at least half time status shall be eligible for the student rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. * Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms. Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information. 73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! This week's ANS Editor, Frank Karnauskas, N1UW n1uw [at] amsat [dot] org

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Fwd: F3 Award
by Jean Marc Momple 11 Feb '23

11 Feb '23

Dear All, See trailing mails below about the F3 re-entry Award. Mark (VK5QI) was presented with the Award electronically yesterday and the hard copy was put in the post today. I wish to stress (see Mark's VK5QI mail below) that Satnogs network and Fredy Damkalis were instrumental to capture the last F3 signals. Congratulation to you Freddy and to Satnogs, the award was delivered to the receiving station as per our rules and thanks to Mark (VK5QI) to have brought this fact to our knowledge, in all modesty, so that things be clear to all. I just want to inform all and per Mark’s (VK5QI) wish, officially give the credit to Satnogs and Fredy as deserved. I take this opportunity to again thanks Mark (N8MH) for having kept F3 operational for so many years 73 Jean Marc (3B8DU) > Begin forwarded message: > > From: Mark Jessop <vk5qi(a)rfhead.net> > Subject: Re: F3 Award > Date: February 11, 2023 at 3:24:03 AM GMT+4 > To: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond(a)gmail.com> > Cc: Jean Marc Momple <jean.marc.momple(a)gmail.com>, Ujodha Doorga <ujodha(a)gmail.com> > > Hi Jean-Mark, > > Thanks for this! Certainly not expected! > > I should give credit where credit is deserved - SatNOGS. > While the receiving station is mine, I was not aware that F3 was re-entering, and all the scheduled observations for this period were by Fredy Damkalis (In fact, I've barely touched the station in 6 months, it's been running on automatic the whole time). I only found well after the re-entry that my station picked up the last few packets. > > 73 > Mark VK5QI > > On Sat, Feb 11, 2023 at 3:08 AM Mark L. Hammond <marklhammond(a)gmail.com <mailto:marklhammond@gmail.com>> wrote: > Congratulations, Mark VK5QI! What a nice accomplishment and accolade. Bravo! > > Thanks Jean-Marc and friends for doing this lovely award. > > 73, > > Mark L. Hammond [N8MH] > AMSAT Director and Command Station > > > > On Fri, Feb 10, 2023 at 10:48 AM Jean Marc Momple <jean.marc.momple(a)gmail.com <mailto:jean.marc.momple@gmail.com>> wrote: > Dear Mark, > > I am pleased to present to you the attached F3 AWARD on behalf of the Mauritius Amateur Radio Society (MARS). > > The printed copy and a MIR-SAT 1(MO112) first day cover will be sent to your postal address by next week, please send me an e-mail when you receive same. > > Congratulations and thanks for your support to the F3 end of mission. > > 73 > > Jean Marc (3B8DU) > President MARS > >

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Re: SatPC32 Problem
by Burns Fisher 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

This probably does not help much but Google Translate shows that message to be "Invalid Floating Point Operation". I might guess that HO-119's keps are screwed up, but that is just a guess. Another possibility: Might it not like the "/" in the last field of Doppler.sqf (which should be a comment.) I also notice that FO-119 and HO-119 have a different number of fields. Just ideas. I mostly use MacDoppler, although I have a license for SatPC32 as well and used to use it regularly. On Fri, Feb 10, 2023 at 8:57 AM crohtun--- via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> wrote: > Update: deleting and re-adding the last satellite from my Selected list > clears the error message and brings back the Countdown menu of upcoming > passes. The deletion and add is letter W for HO-119. But W remains greyed > out when it’s re-added and the error message returns although the countdown > menu stays. Don’t see anything in Doppler.sqf that’s changed with HO-119. > It’s the last entry in the file. Deleting and retyping HO-119 didn’t help. > If deleted altogether, then FO-118, letter V, gets greyed out. Wonder what > I’m not seeing? > > . > . > . > FO-118,435650,USB,USB,NOR,0,0,Telem Beacon > HO-119,435180,145870,USB,LSB,REV,0,0,V/U Transponder > ; > ; Erlauterungen: > ; Das File enthalt… > > > > > Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS > <https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aol-news-email-weather-video/id646100661> > > On Friday, February 10, 2023, 8:02 AM, crohtun--- via AMSAT-BB < > amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> wrote: > > When activating SatPC32, the Countdown submenu under Accy has stopped > displaying upcoming satellite passes and I get an error message “ungultige > Gleitkommaoperation.” How do I fix it? > > Ray KN2K > > > Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS > <https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aol-news-email-weather-video/id646100661> > > ----------------------------------------------------------- > > 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. > Acceptable Use and Privacy Policies available at > https://www.amsat.org/about-amsat/ > > View archives of this mailing list at > https://mailman.amsat.org/hyperkitty/list/amsat-bb@amsat.org > To unsubscribe send an email to amsat-bb-leave(a)amsat.org > Manage all of your AMSAT-NA mailing list preferences at > https://mailman.amsat.org > > > ----------------------------------------------------------- > > 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. > Acceptable Use and Privacy Policies available at > https://www.amsat.org/about-amsat/ > > View archives of this mailing list at > https://mailman.amsat.org/hyperkitty/list/amsat-bb@amsat.org > To unsubscribe send an email to amsat-bb-leave(a)amsat.org > Manage all of your AMSAT-NA mailing list preferences at > https://mailman.amsat.org

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Re: SatPC32 Problem
by crohtun＠aol.com 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

Update: deleting and re-adding the last satellite from my Selected list clears the error message and brings back the Countdown menu of upcoming passes. The deletion and add is letter W for HO-119. But W remains greyed out when it’s re-added and the error message returns although the countdown menu stays. Don’t see anything in Doppler.sqf that’s changed with HO-119. It’s the last entry in the file. Deleting and retyping HO-119 didn’t help. If deleted altogether, then FO-118, letter V, gets greyed out. Wonder what I’m not seeing? ...FO-118,435650,USB,USB,NOR,0,0,Telem BeaconHO-119,435180,145870,USB,LSB,REV,0,0,V/U Transponder;; Erlauterungen:; Das File enthalt… Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS On Friday, February 10, 2023, 8:02 AM, crohtun--- via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> wrote: When activating SatPC32, the Countdown submenu under Accy has stopped displaying upcoming satellite passes and I get an error message “ungultige Gleitkommaoperation.” How do I fix it? Ray KN2K Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS ----------------------------------------------------------- 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. Acceptable Use and Privacy Policies available at https://www.amsat.org/about-amsat/ View archives of this mailing list at https://mailman.amsat.org/hyperkitty/list/amsat-bb@amsat.org To unsubscribe send an email to amsat-bb-leave(a)amsat.org Manage all of your AMSAT-NA mailing list preferences at https://mailman.amsat.org

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SatPC32 Problem
by crohtun＠aol.com 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

When activating SatPC32, the Countdown submenu under Accy has stopped displaying upcoming satellite passes and I get an error message “ungultige Gleitkommaoperation.” How do I fix it? Ray KN2K Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS

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Re: Waterproofing antenna-mounted pre-amps
by Clint Bradford 09 Feb '23

09 Feb '23

>> … I didn’t know where to buy … the sealing washers. This gives me lots of options. I just found those on Amazon … might not be the right dimensions for you, but that might be the source! Clint K6LCS

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Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2023-02-09 15:00 UTC
by aj9n＠aol.com 09 Feb '23

09 Feb '23

Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2023-02-09 15:00 UTC Quick list of scheduled contacts and events: School No. 547, St. Petersburg, Russia, direct via TBD The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be RSØISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Sergey Prokopyev Contact is go for Mon 2023-02-13 09:35 UTC Gymnasium Christian-Ernestinum, Bayreuth, Germany, direct via DKØBT The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Koichi Wakata KI5TMN Contact is go for: Tue 2023-02-14 10:20:12 UTC 64 deg Predicted times drifting earlier by about 4 minutes at this time. This contact will be using the Kenwood radio located in the Service Module. Stella Maris College, Gzira, Malta, direct via 9H1MRL The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Josh Cassada KI5CRH Contact is go: Wed 2023-02-15 12:48:01 UTC 60 deg Predicted times drifting earlier by about 4 minutes at this time. Watch for Livestream at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fk-Onkbr6PY Coming to the Orlando HamCation this weekend? Stop by the ARISS booth and say hi. (***) The crossband repeater continues to be active. If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never 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 2023-02-09 15:00 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. https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.rtf https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.txt The successful school list has been updated as of 2023-02-08 18:00 UTC. https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/Successful_ARISS_schools.rtf ####################################################################################################################################### Comments on making general contacts I have been seeing a lot of traffic on Facebook and I suspect on other social media sites with people asking why they are not hearing the crew make general contacts. First off the crew is very busy on the ISS and they simply may not have the time to just pick up the microphone and talk. Also, one needs to be aware of their normal daily schedule. I have listed below the constraints that we at ARISS have to follow in order to schedule the school contacts. Hopefully this will help you better schedule your opportunities. Typical daily schedule Wakeup to Workday start= 1.5 hours Workday start to Workday end=12 hours Workday end to Sleep= 2 hours Sleep to wakeup= 8.5 hours The crew's usual waking period is 0730 - 1930 UTC. The most common times to find a crew member making casual periods are about one hour after waking and before sleeping, when they have personal time. They're usually free most of the weekend, as well. SSTV events are not that often. So please check out https://www.ariss.org/ for the latest information or watch for the ARISS announcements. And don’t forget that the packet system is active. As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html ######################################################################################################################################## A multi-point telebridge contact means that each student will be on the telebridge from their own home. **************************************************************************************************************************************** ARISS is very aware of the impact that COVID-19 is having on schools and the public in general. As such, we may have last minute cancellations or postponements of school contacts. As always, I will try to provide everyone with near-real-time updates. Watch for future COVID-19 related announcements at https://www.ariss.org/ The following schools have now been postponed or cancelled due to COVID-19: Postponed: No new schools Cancelled: No new schools **************************************************************************************************************************************** The ARISS webpage is at https://www.ariss.org/ Note that there are links to other ARISS websites from this site. The main page for Applying to Host a Scheduled Contact may be found at https://www.ariss.org/apply-to-host-an-ariss-contact.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ARISS Contact Applications (United States) Call for Proposals The next proposal window for US schools and educational organizations to host an Amateur Radio contact with a crew member on board the ISS opens February 20, 2023 for contacts to be scheduled for January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024. This proposal is due to ARISS by March 31, 2023 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. Find more information and proposal instructions, visit the ARISS-USA website at: https://ariss-usa.org/hosting-an-ariss-contact-in-the-usa/ Please direct any questions to ariss.us.education(a)gmail.com. For future proposal information and more details such as expectations, proposal guidelines and proposal form, and dates and times of Information Webinars, go to www.ariss.org. 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 ISS National Lab and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The primary goal of ARISS is to promote exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEAM) topics by organizing scheduled contacts via amateur radio between crew members aboard the ISS and students in classrooms or public forms. Before and during these radio contacts, students, educators, parents, and communities learn about space, space technologies, and amateur radio. For more information, see www.ariss.org. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ARISS Contact Applications (Europe, Africa and the Middle East) Schools and Youth organizations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East interested in setting up an ARISS radio contact with an astronaut on board the International Space Station are invited to submit an application from September to October and from February to April. Please refer to details and the application form at www.ariss-eu.org/school-contacts. Applications should be addressed by email to: school.selection.manager(a)ariss-eu.org ARISS Contact Applications (Canada, Central and South America, Asia and Australia and Russia) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Organizations outside the United States can apply for an ARISS contact by filling out an application. Please direct questions to the appropriate regional representative listed below. If your country is not specifically listed, send your questions to the nearest ARISS Region listed. If you are unsure which address to use, please send your question to the ARISS-Canada representative; they will forward your question to the appropriate coordinator. For the application, go to: https://www.ariss.org/ariss-application.html. ARISS-Canada and the Americas, except USA: Steve McFarlane, VE3TBD email to: ve3tbd(a)gmail.com ARISS-Japan, Asia, Pacific and Australia: Satoshi Yasuda, 7M3TJZ email to: ariss(a)iaru-r3.org, Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL) https://www.jarl.org/ ARISS-Russia: Soyuz Radioljubitelei Rossii (SRR) https://srr.ru/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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 unless otherwise noted. ******************************************************************************* 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 https://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? Please note that the HamTV system has been brought back to earth for troubleshooting. Please monitor ARISS-EU or ARISS-ON for the very latest news on the troubleshooting efforts. 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 The HamTV webpage: https://www.amsat-on.be/hamtv-summary/ **************************************************************************** ARISS congratulates the following mentors who have now mentored over 100 schools: Sergey RV3DR with 195 Francesco IKØWGF with 149 Satoshi 7M3TJZ with 148 Gaston ON4WF with 124 Peter IN3GHZ with 115 Steve VE3TBD with 103 **************************************************************************** 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. Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school events is 1604. Each school counts as 1 event. Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school contacts is 1513. Each contact may have multiple schools sharing the same time slot. Total number of ARISS supported terrestrial contacts is 48. Please feel free to contact me if more detailed statistics are needed. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The following US states and entities have never had an ARISS contact: South Dakota, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas Islands, and the Virgin Islands. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ QSL information may be found at: https://www.ariss.org/qsl-cards.html ISS callsigns: DPØISS, FXØISS, GB1SS, IRØISS, NA1SS, OR4ISS, RSØISS **************************************************************************** Frequency chart for packet, voice, and crossband repeater modes showing Doppler correction as of 2005-07-29 04:00 UTC https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/ISS_frequencies_and_Doppler_correcti… Check out the Zoho reports of the ARISS contacts https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?DBID=412218000000020415 **************************************************************************** Exp. 68 on orbit Sergey Prokopyev Francisco Rubio Dimitri Petelin SpaceX Crew-5 on orbit Josh Cassada KI5CRH Nicole Mann Anna Kikina Koichi Wakata KI5TMN **************************************************************************** 73, Charlie Sufana AJ9N One of the ARISS operation team mentors

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Re: Waterproofing antenna-mounted pre-amps
by Bob Hammond 08 Feb '23

08 Feb '23

Weep holes are often overlooked, and in my opinion, a simple yet highly important thing people overlook with "outside" electronics of all types. Bob W7OTJ On Wed, Feb 8, 2023 at 7:52 AM Zach Metzinger via AMSAT-BB < amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> wrote: > On 2/7/23 17:58, Joseph Amato via AMSAT-BB wrote: > > I recently built two low noise amplifiers (2 m and 70 cm) for > > satellite work, hoping to mount them right at the antennas. They are > > in small Hammond die cast aluminum boxes. To mount the boards > > inside, I had to drill several 4-40 thru holes through each box. I’m > > worried about slow water seepage through these screw holes. Can you > > suggest a good way to seal them? > > Hello Joseph, > > Instead of drilling holes in the box for screws, I've used 1/2" > standoffs (threaded) and JB-Weld-ed them to the bottom of the box. > > Rough up the general area where the standoffs will go in the box when > attached to the board and then screw the standoffs to your board. Use > that as an approximate template as to where they'll hit inside the box > and mark that with an indelible marker. Remove the board and put a > generous glob of JB-W in those four locations. Then put your board in, > submerging the standoffs in the JB-W. Let the whole assembly sit, > undisturbed, overnight. It will be nearly impossible to remove those > standoffs from the box, but you can easily unscrew the PCB for servicing. > > Also, you have to assume that any sealed box is not perfect and that > you'll eventually get some moisture inside of it. So, I drill a small > weep hole (1/8") in the side which will face down and cover it with > window screen on the inside to keep out the spiders, etc. That will > allow the box to breathe. > > I have an SGC ATU (CPVC/fiberglass box) and several other projects > outside which have had this treatment. They've all survived for more > than a decade with no observable corrosion or water inside the box. > > Might I ask: Which LNAs did you build? > > 73, > > --- Zach > N0ZGO > > ----------------------------------------------------------- > > 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. > Acceptable Use and Privacy Policies available at > https://www.amsat.org/about-amsat/ > > View archives of this mailing list at > https://mailman.amsat.org/hyperkitty/list/amsat-bb@amsat.org > To unsubscribe send an email to amsat-bb-leave(a)amsat.org > Manage all of your AMSAT-NA mailing list preferences at > https://mailman.amsat.org

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Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2023-02-08 18:00 UTC
by aj9n＠aol.com 08 Feb '23

08 Feb '23

Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule as of 2023-02-08 18:00 UTC Quick list of scheduled contacts and events: Colegio Diocesano Santa María Nuestra Señora, Écija, Spain, telebridge via IK1SLD The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Josh Cassada KI5CRH Contact was successful: Wed 2023-02-08 10:13:59 UTC 74 deg (***) Congratulatons to the Colegio Diocesano Santa María Nuestra Señora students, Josh, and IK1SLD! (***) Starting about 15 minutes before AOS, watch for Livestream at http://www.ariotti.com/. They are also streaming at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nYFP7qzUtk School No. 547, St. Petersburg, Russia, direct via TBD The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be RSØISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Sergey Prokopyev Contact is go for 2023-02-13 09:35 UTC Gymnasium Christian-Ernestinum, Bayreuth, Germany, direct via DKØBT The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Koichi Wakata KI5TMN Contact is go for: Tue 2023-02-14 10:20:12 UTC 64 deg Predicted times drifting earlier by about 4 minutes at this time. This contact will be using the Kenwood radio located in the Service Module. Stella Maris College, Gzira, Malta, direct via 9H1MRL The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The scheduled crewmember is Josh Cassada KI5CRH Contact is go: Wed 2023-02-15 12:48:01 UTC 60 deg Predicted times drifting earlier by about 4 minutes at this time. Watch for Livestream at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fk-Onkbr6PY The crossband repeater continues to be active. If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never 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 2023-02-08 18:00 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. https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.rtf https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/arissnews.txt The successful school list has been updated as of 2023-02-08 18:00 UTC.(***) https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/Successful_ARISS_schools.rtf ####################################################################################################################################### Comments on making general contacts I have been seeing a lot of traffic on Facebook and I suspect on other social media sites with people asking why they are not hearing the crew make general contacts. First off the crew is very busy on the ISS and they simply may not have the time to just pick up the microphone and talk. Also, one needs to be aware of their normal daily schedule. I have listed below the constraints that we at ARISS have to follow in order to schedule the school contacts. Hopefully this will help you better schedule your opportunities. Typical daily schedule Wakeup to Workday start= 1.5 hours Workday start to Workday end=12 hours Workday end to Sleep= 2 hours Sleep to wakeup= 8.5 hours The crew's usual waking period is 0730 - 1930 UTC. The most common times to find a crew member making casual periods are about one hour after waking and before sleeping, when they have personal time. They're usually free most of the weekend, as well. SSTV events are not that often. So please check out https://www.ariss.org/ for the latest information or watch for the ARISS announcements. And don’t forget that the packet system is active. As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html ######################################################################################################################################## A multi-point telebridge contact means that each student will be on the telebridge from their own home. **************************************************************************************************************************************** ARISS is very aware of the impact that COVID-19 is having on schools and the public in general. As such, we may have last minute cancellations or postponements of school contacts. As always, I will try to provide everyone with near-real-time updates. Watch for future COVID-19 related announcements at https://www.ariss.org/ The following schools have now been postponed or cancelled due to COVID-19: Postponed: No new schools Cancelled: No new schools **************************************************************************************************************************************** The ARISS webpage is at https://www.ariss.org/ Note that there are links to other ARISS websites from this site. The main page for Applying to Host a Scheduled Contact may be found at https://www.ariss.org/apply-to-host-an-ariss-contact.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ARISS Contact Applications (United States) Call for Proposals The next proposal window for US schools and educational organizations to host an Amateur Radio contact with a crew member on board the ISS opens February 20, 2023 for contacts to be scheduled for January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024. This proposal is due to ARISS by March 31, 2023 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. Find more information and proposal instructions, visit the ARISS-USA website at: https://ariss-usa.org/hosting-an-ariss-contact-in-the-usa/ Please direct any questions to ariss.us.education(a)gmail.com. For future proposal information and more details such as expectations, proposal guidelines and proposal form, and dates and times of Information Webinars, go to www.ariss.org. 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 ISS National Lab and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The primary goal of ARISS is to promote exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEAM) topics by organizing scheduled contacts via amateur radio between crew members aboard the ISS and students in classrooms or public forms. Before and during these radio contacts, students, educators, parents, and communities learn about space, space technologies, and amateur radio. For more information, see www.ariss.org. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ARISS Contact Applications (Europe, Africa and the Middle East) Schools and Youth organizations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East interested in setting up an ARISS radio contact with an astronaut on board the International Space Station are invited to submit an application from September to October and from February to April. Please refer to details and the application form at www.ariss-eu.org/school-contacts. Applications should be addressed by email to: school.selection.manager(a)ariss-eu.org ARISS Contact Applications (Canada, Central and South America, Asia and Australia and Russia) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Organizations outside the United States can apply for an ARISS contact by filling out an application. Please direct questions to the appropriate regional representative listed below. If your country is not specifically listed, send your questions to the nearest ARISS Region listed. If you are unsure which address to use, please send your question to the ARISS-Canada representative; they will forward your question to the appropriate coordinator. For the application, go to: https://www.ariss.org/ariss-application.html. ARISS-Canada and the Americas, except USA: Steve McFarlane, VE3TBD email to: ve3tbd(a)gmail.com ARISS-Japan, Asia, Pacific and Australia: Satoshi Yasuda, 7M3TJZ email to: ariss(a)iaru-r3.org, Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL) https://www.jarl.org/ ARISS-Russia: Soyuz Radioljubitelei Rossii (SRR) https://srr.ru/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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 unless otherwise noted. ******************************************************************************* 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 https://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? Please note that the HamTV system has been brought back to earth for troubleshooting. Please monitor ARISS-EU or ARISS-ON for the very latest news on the troubleshooting efforts. 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 The HamTV webpage: https://www.amsat-on.be/hamtv-summary/ **************************************************************************** ARISS congratulates the following mentors who have now mentored over 100 schools: Sergey RV3DR with 195 Francesco IKØWGF with 149 Satoshi 7M3TJZ with 148 Gaston ON4WF with 124 Peter IN3GHZ with 115 Steve VE3TBD with 103 **************************************************************************** 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. Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school events is 1604. (***) Each school counts as 1 event. Total number of ARISS ISS to earth school contacts is 1513. (***) Each contact may have multiple schools sharing the same time slot. Total number of ARISS supported terrestrial contacts is 48. Please feel free to contact me if more detailed statistics are needed. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The following US states and entities have never had an ARISS contact: South Dakota, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas Islands, and the Virgin Islands. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ QSL information may be found at: https://www.ariss.org/qsl-cards.html ISS callsigns: DPØISS, FXØISS, GB1SS, IRØISS, NA1SS, OR4ISS, RSØISS **************************************************************************** Frequency chart for packet, voice, and crossband repeater modes showing Doppler correction as of 2005-07-29 04:00 UTC https://www.amsat.org/amsat/ariss/news/ISS_frequencies_and_Doppler_correcti… Check out the Zoho reports of the ARISS contacts https://reports.zoho.com/ZDBDataSheetView.cc?DBID=412218000000020415 **************************************************************************** Exp. 68 on orbit Sergey Prokopyev Francisco Rubio Dimitri Petelin SpaceX Crew-5 on orbit Josh Cassada KI5CRH Nicole Mann Anna Kikina Koichi Wakata KI5TMN **************************************************************************** 73, Charlie Sufana AJ9N One of the ARISS operation team mentors

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