- AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

ISS - SSTV
by Raul Romero CA3SOC 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ro8iaokaw57sghj/1979644_10205117603757336_6680246… https://www.dropbox.com/s/d5gdj21rgc4qzmc/10885150_10205117604477354_452937… pass recorder in IPhone post decode mmsstv Copy Santiago CHILE FF46RJ TS-2000 Vertical Opek UVS-200 Raul CA3SOC

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R: Re: ISS - SSTV
by Claudio Ariotti, IK1SLD 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

Yes SSTV active with solid copy during 20:36 UTC pass. Two images sent PD180 mode. 73' Claudio IK1SLD Sent by Mobile DroidSimon Brown <simon(a)sdr-radio.com> ha scritto:AOS in SW England now, heard the last 3 seconds of SSTV, so transmissions are happening. Simon Brown G4ELI http://v2.sdr-radio.com -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Roland Zurmely Sent: 31 January 2015 18:56 To: AMSAT Subject: [amsat-bb] ISS - SSTV 18:49 UTC over Brazil:Very strong carrier, 3 mn ON, 3 mn OFF, and no SSTV modulation :-( 73 de Roland PY4ZBZ _______________________________________________ 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://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://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: [amsat-bb] Need help understanding inverting transponder
by Ronald G. Parsons 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

The way MacDoppler and SatPC32 handles Doppler shift is by keeping the frequency a constant on both the uplink and downlink AT THE SATELLITE. This is commonly called Full Doppler Tuning. As the satellite approaches you, the frequency you receive on the downlink is higher than the frequency at the satellite and decreases as the satellite passes the point of closest approach (when the Doppler shift is zero) and continues to decrease as the satellite approaches LOS. MacDoppler compensates for the Doppler shift in order to keep the frequency at the satellite a constant. This is advantageous as others can join the QSO and everyone will be at the same frequency at the satellite. It will appear to you that there is no Doppler shift -- the best method and easily accomplished by computer control. If you tune your receiver up or down, MacDoppler will compensate by tuning your transmitter down or up by the same amount, and then compensate for Doppler shift as above. Hope this helps. Ron W5RKN Message: 5 Date: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 18:29:42 -0500 From: Jacob Tennant <jakewf8s(a)gmail.com> To: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Subject: [amsat-bb] Need help understanding inverting transponder operation Message-ID: <CAMM2CtW4axkair6JszYPaqXa7TEx=7V=wxF=3h8uVsHLo7iqMQ(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 I am very new to satellite operations and I am running MacDoppler on my home Mac Mini computer and trying to get the modes setup as I am having a little trouble with how / where the program should be tuning my Yaesu FT857D. As I think I understand it for a inverting transponder (FO-29 for example), the downlink frequency range is 435.800 to 435.900 and that would be USB and the frequency would move lower as the pass happens starting at 435.900 and going down to wards 435.800. The uplink frequency range is 145.900 to 146.000 and that would be LSB and the frequency would move higher as the pass happens starting at 145.900 and going up to wards 146.000. Is this correct? Jake WF8S

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ISS - SSTV
by KO6TZ BOB 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

North America pass. On the 10:15 UTC Pass I received an S-9+15 Carrier with no SSTV Video. KO6TZ Bob

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Fwd: SMAP & Other Satellites Launched
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

Hi, >From information displayed on their web sites it appears that the launch of SMAP,FIRBIRD 11,EXOCUBE (A/B) and GRIFEX has been a success. Deployment has also been achieved according to the progress reports. Congratulations to all concerned and "Good Luck " with missions/Objectives. Apologies if the information has already been posted to the BBS - nothing seen in my inbox. Ken Eaton GW1FKY

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Starter antenna question
by Jacob Tennant 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

I am exploring the purchase of my first satellite operations antennas. I live in a very small lot and the area for antennas is very small. I am just starting to try to operate the FM satellites so as to learn the ropes before trying anything bigger as a wise man once guided me (Thank you Don). I have seen many favorable reviews of the Antennas.US UC-4364-328 UHF QFH antenna. Not having ever used one of these type of antennas (QFH & Circular polarized) I was hoping for some advise from others in the satellite community. I was looking at getting this antenna set for Right-Hand circular polarization and the higher-power capability. I know and understand that this is a compromise antenna and as time goes by ( and I buy my own house & property) I will expand out to bigger & better things. For the 2 meter uplink I was hoping for suggestions such as I had read that for these FM satellites a basic 2 meter antenna (1/4 wave or 5/8 wave antenna will do the job? If by now you haven't figured out my theory of ham radio, Keep It Simple Stupid KISS. Jacob Tennant WF8S

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UT1FG next destination
by Andrew Glasbrenner 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

I noticed this morning that Yuri's ship AIS has updated with the next destination of Riga, Latvia. He is more or less out of range for me on all but the best passes of AO-7, but I thought those further north or east would be interested. 73, Drew KO4MA

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ISS - SSTV
by KO6TZ BOB 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

Second North America Pass at 64 degrees On the 11:50 UTC pass I received two 180 second cycles of S-9+60dB FM carrier. No SSTV Video. KO6TZ BOB

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ANS-025 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by Lee McLamb 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-025 The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and infor- mation service of AMSAT North America, 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.org. In this edition: * Listen In To Radar Observations of Near-Earth Asteroid 2004 BL86 * SKN on OSCAR Best Fist Nominations Due * Upcoming ARISS Contact * Containerized Satellite Survey * Search for NASA Educational Resources With New Search Tool SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-025.01 ANS-025 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins AMSAT News Service Bulletin 025.01 From AMSAT HQ Kensington, MD. January 25, 2015 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-025.01 Listen In To Radar Observations of Near-Earth Asteroid 2004 BL86 On 2015 January 26, the near-Earth asteroid 2004 BL86 will pass within 0.008 AU of Earth (3.1 times as far away as the Moon). This will be the closest approach to Earth by this asteroid for at least the next 240 years. As part of an extensive campaign of radar observations to learn about BL86’s shape, spin state, and surface; and to refine knowledge of its trajectory; the Arecibo Observatory’s S-band planetary radar plans to illuminate the asteroid with a continuous-wave signal over 2015 January 27 03:45 – 04:00 UTC. Over that time, BL86’s radar echo will be received by elements of the Very Long Baseline Array and the Very Large Array in New Mexico. Anyone with an antenna and receiver capable of detecting the echo is welcome to listen in. BL86 will be above the horizon for most observers in North and South America, and for some parts of western Europe and western Africa. To readily detect its radar echo, observers should have an antenna with an effective collecting area of at least 10 square meters. BL86 will be moving rapidly across the sky. Over Jan 27 03:45 – 04:00, it will move by ~0.5º. The asteroid’s exact position on the sky will depend on where it is observed from as well as the time, but will be near (RA,Dec) = (130º,+17º). A current ephemeris can be obtained from JPL’s Horizons system: http://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/?horizons. The Arecibo transmission will be tuned to give a nominal echo center frequency of exactly 2380 MHz at geocenter. Without correction for Earth’s rotation, BL86’s radar echo will appear as slowly-drifting and within 15 kHz of 2380 MHz. Predicted echo frequency as a function of time for a given location can be obtained on-request by emailing Michael Busch (mbusch(a)seti.org). We expect an echo bandwidth of 6 Hz or less. Details of the BL86 radar observing campaign at the Arecibo Observatory, NASA’s Goldstone Solar System Radar facility, and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory are available at: http://echo.jpl.nasa.gov/asteroids/2004BL86/2004BL86_planning.html. [ANS thanks JPL for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- SKN on OSCAR Best Fist Nominations Due Thanks to all who participated in AMSAT's Straight Key Night on OSCAR 2015. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to nominate someone you worked for Best Fist. Your nominee need not have had the best fist of those you heard, only of those you worked. Send your nomination to w2rs(a)amsat.org [ANS thanks Ray, W2RS, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Upcoming ARISS Contact An International Space Station school contact has been planned with participants at Masakame" event, Shibuya, Japan on 24 Jan. The event is scheduled to begin at approximately 14:21 UTC. The duration of the contact is approximately 9 minutes and 30 seconds. The contact will be direct between NA1SS and JK1ZRW. The contact should be audible over Japan 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. Japan Broadcasting Corp. (NHK) are televising a regular science program Masakame (means Good Heavens) for young people and their parents. Aa special program focusing ARISS program and Amateur radio satellites, etc. on 2015-02-28 on air, with video record of ARISS school contact. Members of contact are TV talent (who has a amateur radio license) and high school students (age 15 to 18). [ANS thanks David, AA4KN, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Containerized Satellite Survey Bungo Shiotani is a Ph.D. student working with Dr. Norman Fitz-Coy at the University of Florida. He is requesting your assistance with this survey to assess the potential impact that containerized satellite have on the debris population in low Earth orbit. The results will be used as part of his Ph.D. dissertation to create a statistical database and to quantify the growth of debris population. The hope is the outcome will increase the awareness to the community regarding the potential growth of debris population due to containerized satellites. Your identify will not be collected unless you choose to disclose it in the survey. Additionally, if you would like the results sent directly to you, please disclose your contact information when requested in the survey. Please respond to this survey by Friday, February 27th 2015. The survey should take less than 30 minutes to complete. Survey link: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8CYyyDTFUGKHFbL Please forward this information to other members of the space community. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact: Bungo Shiotani Graduate Researcher bshiota(a)ufl.edu Dr. Norman Fitz-Coy Research Advisor nfc(a)ufl.edu [ANS thanks Bungo Shiotani for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Search for NASA Educational Resources With New Search Tool Are you looking for a lesson plan about the planet Jupiter? Do you need a poster with information about the Wright Brothers' first flight? Or maybe you're hunting for a website with information about NASA's deep space missions. NASA Education has a new tool to help you in your search! NASA's new Educational Resource Search Tool can help you find lesson plans, posters, educator guides and other materials to supplement your science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum. Search hundreds of resources by subject, grade level, type and keywords. To check out the new search tool and begin your educational resource hunt, visit http://www.nasa.gov/education/materials/ [ANS thanks the NASA Education Express Message -- Jan. 22, 2015 for the above information] /EX In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President's Club. Members of the President's Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive addi- tional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT Office. 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 stu- dent rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. Contact Martha at the AMSAT Office for additional student membership information. 73, This week's ANS Editor, Lee McLamb, KU4OS ku4os at amsat dot org

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ISS - SSTV
by Roland Zurmely 31 Jan '15

31 Jan '15

Only a strong carrier, no SSTV audio, at 10:35 UTC over Brazil :-( 73 de Roland PY4ZBZ

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Re: [amsat-bb] Delta-2 with onboard Firebird-II, GRIFEX and Exocube (CP-10)
by Rick Tejera 30 Jan '15

30 Jan '15

Launch was scrubbed due to unfavorable high altitide winds. Rescheduled for tomorrow morning. 73 Rick Tejera K7TEJ Saguaro Astronomy Club www.saguaroastro.org Thunderbird Amateur Radio Club www.w7tbc.org PE0SAT | Amateur Radio <pe0sat(a)vgnet.nl> wrote: > > >Hi James, > >Thanks for the info, I'll make sure to be home from work >on time ;-) > >73 Jan PE0SAT > >On 29-01-2015 13:59, James Cutler wrote: > > >> Hi Jan, my estimate of the times are below. >> >> UTC, these times >should be: >> >> * 14:20:42 - Launch window opens >> * 16:07:29 - PPOD >Ejection (Predicted) >> * 16:52:29 - GRIFEX begins transmissions >(Predicted) >> >> First European pass times are around 17:00 so you'll >see them first! >> >> On Thu, Jan 29, 2015 at 7:52 AM, PE0SAT | Amateur >Radio <pe0sat(a)vgnet.nl> wrote: >> >>> Hi, >>> >>> Thanks for reading is >message. >>> >>> Does anybody now the launch sequence from the Delta-2 >rocket with the SMAP as primary payload? >>> >>> I wonder when the >Cubesats will be released and transmitting there first data. >>> >>> >Cubesat info: http://www.dk3wn.info/p/?p=54555 [1] >>> >>> 73 Jan >PE0SAT >>> >>> -- >>> With regards PE0SAT >>> Internet web-page >http://www.pe0sat.vgnet.nl/ [2] >>> DK3WN SatBlog >http://www.dk3wn.info/p/ [3] >>> >_______________________________________________ >>> 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://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb [4] >> >> -- >> >> James W. >Cutler, Associate Professor >> University of Michigan >> Department of >Aerospace Engineering >> 1320 Beal Avenue >> 3013 FXB Building >> Ann >Arbor, MI 48109-2140 >> Ph: 734-615-7238 >> Fax: 734-763-0578 >> >http://www.umich.edu/~jwcutler/ [5] > >-- >With regards PE0SAT >Internet >web-page http://www.pe0sat.vgnet.nl/ >DK3WN SatBlog >http://www.dk3wn.info/p/ > > >Links: >------ >[1] >http://www.dk3wn.info/p/?p=54555 >[2] http://www.pe0sat.vgnet.nl/ >[3] >http://www.dk3wn.info/p/ >[4] >http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >[5] >http://www.umich.edu/~jwcutler/ >_______________________________________________ >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://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: [amsat-bb] ISS CubeSat Deployment
by M5AKA 30 Jan '15

30 Jan '15

Edson PY2SDR has confirmed the deployment is at 1430 UT on Thursday, February 5. He says the AESP-14 team would like to ask the help of the AMSAT community to forward any received telemetry frames back to the team. For this, please save the AX.25 frames in KISS format and forward the file to aesp14(a)ita.br AESP-14 website http://www.aer.ita.br/~aesp14/ Telemetry format is at http://www.aer.ita.br/~aesp14/AESP-14Telemetry.pdf The AESP-14 CubeSat, 437.600 MHz 9k6 AX25http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/17/aesp-14-cubesat-on-iss-awaiting-deployme… ----Trevor M5AKAAMSAT-UKWebsite http://amsat-uk.org/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amsatukTwitter https://twitter.com/AMSAT_UK----

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ISS CubeSat Deployment
by M5AKA 30 Jan '15

30 Jan '15

Tetsurou Satou JA0CAW posts there will be a CubeSat deployment from the ISS. http://blogimg.goo.ne.jp/user_image/74/1a/890949c37017cb075fec35deada287ef.… http://blog.goo.ne.jp/ja0caw-je0mzi/e/d168897a5a3156c2ed1ece4646a0b8af The February 5 deployment is presumably of the Brazilian AESP-14 CubeSat ? http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/17/aesp-14-cubesat-on-iss-awaiting-deployment/ ---- Trevor M5AKA AMSAT-UK Website http://amsat-uk.org/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amsatuk Twitter https://twitter.com/AMSAT_UK ----

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AO-73 Doppler tuning conventions
by Bryan Green 30 Jan '15

30 Jan '15

I know I asked this before, but I want to be sure: When tuning on AO-73 (or any satellite where the UPLINK is of a higher frequency than than the DOWNLINK), Leave the downlink fixed, and adjust the uplink to compensate? I am familiar with the One True Rule for Doppler Tuning. I am interested in what most people DO. Thanks! -- bag KL7CN/W6 CM98

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MMSSTV Setup ?
by Ted 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

Hi, Is there a set-up guide somewhere for at least the setup with the radio? The instructions in the read me file don't seem to have any info on the initial setup. I assume it needs to see the sound card somewhere (I have a SignaLink USB) (I have noted the other setup notes on the UK Amsat page) Any help appreciated 73, Ted K7TRK

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Hamsat uses for a 3d printer?
by andy thomas 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

Hi I am thinking of investing in a 3D printer or using one at our local makespace. Here in the UK a magazine is offering a weekly build-by-component series to make a 3d printer that will run on a pc or mac and uses DOT stl files for the design. A lsow build but an interesting idea nonetheless. I have seen at ESTEC 3d printed model plastic cubesats and am aware of the experiment on the ISS but do not know the software used or data file format. I was wondering if anyone on the -bb has experience of using a 3D printer for outreach or (like SATNOGS) for building rotator gears, and if so whether the file extension DOTstl is an industry standard for this work? I wonder if the estec and nasa files would be reachable by, say, the freedom of information legislation, or would be handed over. many thanks 73 de andy g0sfj

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ISS contact protocol
by Ted 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

I guess I'm a little fuzzy about what constitutes a valid contact when using the packet route. I have UISS up and running properly and can get into the ISS repeater and back out ok. So, last night there was a good pass for me and I throw out my CQ. The repeater heard me and came back in red. Couple of tries later I see, in red "K7TRK N6YG, 599 in Carmichael". I try to respond several times with my return message but never see me come back in red. So, is this just a partial contact as I did not see a red message from me to N6YG ? (I suspect it is) Second question: Can ISS contacts via packet be logged in LOTW as SAT contacts? Thank you, Ted K7TRK VUCC Sat #226

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VHF Items for Sale [ PRICES REDUCED ]
by Les Rayburn 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

FOR SALE==================FOR SALE===============FOR SALE=================== DEMI 2370 PA 60 WATT OUTPUT Built by Merle Cox, W7YOZ in November of 2012. This 11 1/4" X 17 1/4" rack mount amplifier includes a DEMI 2370PA, 2 DOW-KEY 12VDC input and output coaxial relays, a NARDA microwave 20 db directional coupler and detector (this samples power to display on the output power meter, which is located on the front face of the rack mount). It also includes T/R time delay (which can be varied), and rear panel TR control. Hookup is nearly as simple as adding a "brick" amplifier on the lower bands. I ran a short piece of flex from my IC-910H into a Bird wattmeter to measure input power, connected the phono plug T/R to a short cable running to the DIN plug on the back of the Icom, and connected the antenna. Maximum power is achieved with about 6.5 watts on input power, with measured output power at 64 watts! That's a lot of power on 1296. Perfect for DXing, contests, or even EME. The build quality is very professional. Enamel gray, with toggle switches, super neat wiring, labeled connections, etc. 12 VDC is via PowerPole cables, rig input and antenna output connections are all Type N. It even includes an instruction sheet provided by Merle to make set-up easy for an "appliance operator" like myself. $650 ================= Kenwood TS-60S 6 Meter, All Mode Transceiver. Good condition. Includes microphone and mounting bracket. Legendary receiver make this a high performance rig for the Magic Band. $425 =================== Yaesu G-800DXA Rotor. New condition, unused in original packaging. Great medium duty, 450 degree rotor with preset. Very fast rotor. $300 ================= Mirage D3010N 430 Amplifier. 30 watts input with 100 watt output. All mode amp. Powerpole connector. Untested but working fine when I put it in storage. (replaced with larger TE amp) $125.00 =============== Mirage D-26 430 Amplifier. 4 watts input with 60 watt output. All mode amp. Powerpole connector. Untested but working fine when last used in rover operation. $100.00 ================== -- -- 73, Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf 6M VUCC #1712 AMSAT #38965 Grid Bandits #222 Southeastern VHF Society Central States VHF Society Life Member Six Club #2484 Active on 6 Meters thru 1296, 10GHz & Light

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Delta-2 with onboard Firebird-II, GRIFEX and Exocube (CP-10)
by PE0SAT | Amateur Radio 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

Hi, Thanks for reading is message. Does anybody now the launch sequence from the Delta-2 rocket with the SMAP as primary payload? I wonder when the Cubesats will be released and transmitting there first data. Cubesat info: http://www.dk3wn.info/p/?p=54555 73 Jan PE0SAT -- With regards PE0SAT Internet web-page http://www.pe0sat.vgnet.nl/ DK3WN SatBlog http://www.dk3wn.info/p/

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Re: [amsat-bb] AMSAT membership
by tom.wz9u＠gmail.com 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

> Happy to hear you have joined…where about are you located? I’m about 40 miles west of Chicago, in EN52xb. To all who took the time to respond: It was precisely this community -- and responses from this list that I’ve received to past queries -- that prompted me to enlist. I’m not usually a “joiner” but for exceptional organizations I do make exceptions. AMSAT certainly qualifies. Thank you all for the welcome and encouragement, and I’ll definitely now have my eye out for the mail carrier! I am definitely looking forward to exploring new operating opportunities, and hope to work you all. vy 73 de Tom WZ9U

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WD9EWK @ DM23vx/DM24va on Saturday (31 January)
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

Hi! I will make a day-trip out to the DM23vx/DM24va grid boundary in La Paz County, Arizona, on Saturday, 31 January 2014. The spot I will use is a place I have visited several times in the past few years, at 34.0 N 114.21533 W - along a road north of the AZ-72/AZ-95 junction southeast of Parker, and north of Quartzsite. The weather forecast appears to have the rain clearing out by Saturday morning, and I'm hoping to be out there starting with the SO-50 pass around 1545-1554 UTC. I plan on being out there until sunset, or possibly through the SO-50 pass around 0158-0212 UTC just after sunset. While I am out there, I will work whatever satellites are passing by, including the NO-44 passes Saturday afternoon. I may also work the ISS passes around 0252-0301 and 0428-0437 UTC from wherever I happen to be, on my drive home. I *might* try to linger out in that area long enough to work the 0252 UTC ISS pass, but won't guarantee that at this time. I will use my @WD9EWK Twitter feed to post updates while I am out there. Use http://twitter.com/WD9EWK if you want to see those updates, but don't use Twitter. APRS also covers well in that part of western Arizona, and I will use WD9EWK-9 as my APRS call sign. You should be able to see my location using a browser at http://aprs.fi/WD9EWK-9 during my drive to and from that grid boundary, and at times during the day out there (including the NO-44 passes, if my packets are retransmitted by the satellite). After the road trip, I will upload my log to Logbook of the World. If you would like a QSL card to confirm QSOs with WD9EWK, please e-mail me with the QSO details. If you are in my log, I will be happy to send QSL cards. No need to send me your QSL card or SASE first. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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iphone6 APRS (packet) program?
by Scott Smith 28 Jan '15

28 Jan '15

Hi folks, what’s the best program for the iphone 6? 73 de Scott VE6ITV

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73 on 73 Awards #8-10
by Paul Stoetzer 28 Jan '15

28 Jan '15

Good afternoon, Three more 73 on 73 Awards have been issued since my last update. Congratulations to the following operators for working 73 different stations on AO-73 since September 1, 2014: #8 - Jari Ahdenkari, OH2FQV #9 - Abdel Mesbah, M0NPT #10 - Glenn Miller, AA5PK For more information on the award see http://amsat-uk.org/funcube/73-on-73-award/ 73, Paul Stoetzer, N8HM

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Replacement or Alternate radio to FT-847?
by Jacob Tennant 28 Jan '15

28 Jan '15

Since the Yaesu FT-847 is discontinued, what would be a good alternative to this radio for satellite operations? Just in case I can't find one when I am ready to purchase a new radio? Jake WF8S

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AMSAT membership
by tom.wz9u＠gmail.com 28 Jan '15

28 Jan '15

I finally decided to put my money where my mouth is and joined AMSAT on 18-Jan. I received my robot-response about my “order in processing” but so far, that's all. Should I expect something more? (I also realize this is a small, volunteer effort, so Amazon-like service is not what I expect. Perhaps I'm just impatient to dig in the archives) Tom WZ9U Sent from Windows RT

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HDSDR & SatPC32
by Richard Lawn 27 Jan '15

27 Jan '15

I'm trying to get HDSDR, which is connected via CAT & Omni Rig to my KX3, to then be controlled by SatPC32 via DDE. In the Options menu of HDSDR I selected DDE to HDSDR and selected SatPC32. The result was a green connected message and smiley face so I assumed all would work. However when I select a satellite on SatPC32 nothing what so ever changes on the KX3. Am I trying to do something that is impossible with the KX3? Rick W2JAZ

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Need help understanding inverting transponder operation
by Jacob Tennant 27 Jan '15

27 Jan '15

I am very new to satellite operations and I am running MacDoppler on my home Mac Mini computer and trying to get the modes setup as I am having a little trouble with how / where the program should be tuning my Yaesu FT857D. As I think I understand it for a inverting transponder (FO-29 for example), the downlink frequency range is 435.800 to 435.900 and that would be USB and the frequency would move lower as the pass happens starting at 435.900 and going down to wards 435.800. The uplink frequency range is 145.900 to 146.000 and that would be LSB and the frequency would move higher as the pass happens starting at 145.900 and going up to wards 146.000. Is this correct? Jake WF8S

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CHIPSTAR + Solar-Powered Balloons
by M5AKA 27 Jan '15

27 Jan '15

Two solar-powered Southern Hemisphere balloons still transmitting on HF http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/27/ham-radio-pico-balloons-keep-flying/ CHIPSTAR "Your personal satellite Programmable in BASIC, affordable launch from the ISS" http://hackaday.io/project/3612-your-personal-satellite On the first flight, the TRSI Sat will be part of the CHIPSTAR project http://hackaday.io/project/2915-trsi-pocketqub-satellite/log/13075-trsi-sat… Article about Phil Crump M0DNY Volunteer RF Engineering Consultant for the Southampton University UOS3 Cubesat Project http://3dprint.com/38917/3dp-camera-battery-emulator/ The RSGB is selling a new book about satellites, HAMSAT - Amateur Radio Satellites Explained https://www.facebook.com/theRSGB/posts/1428837687407417 ---- Trevor M5AKA AMSAT-UK Website http://amsat-uk.org/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amsatuk Twitter https://twitter.com/AMSAT_UK ----

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2m or 70cm masthead preamp first?
by Dominic Hawken 27 Jan '15

27 Jan '15

Hi all, If you could only afford one of the above, which one would you go for? If you have both I'm interested in which one you currently use the most? I'm a few weeks away from setting up a simple az/ele system on 2 and 70 having moved house 18 months ago, so have not worked the birds for a while and am out of touch with what's available / popular. Can only afford the one, at least to start with so could do with the wisdom of this group to help the choice. Many thanks for any advice, Dominic G6NQO

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VHF Items for Sale
by Les Rayburn 27 Jan '15

27 Jan '15

Several items for sale of interest to VHF and Satellite operators. Ship to lower 48 only. No international orders. Prefer PayPal or USPS Money order. Prices include UPS Ground shipping. If you want insurance, buyer pays for that (at cost). I've been on Ebay since 1996. 100% positive feedback with over 900 transactions. Buy with confidence. FOR SALE==================FOR SALE===============FOR SALE=================== Yaesu FT-736R Transceiver with 6 Meters, 2 Meters, 432, and 1296. Includes manual and microphone. Good condition, with some shelf wear. Purchased in an estate sale from original owner's wife. Very little use, he was a doctor and didn't have much time to get on the air. I used it briefly during September contest last year, then packed it away as my "backup" rig to my Icom IC-910H. A solid performer for weak signal or satellite operation. $1,050 ================ HIGH POWER AMP FOR 1296! Built by Merle Cox, W7YOZ in November of 2012. This 11 1/4" X 17 1/4" rack mount amplifier includes a DEMI 2370PA, 2 DOW-KEY 12VDC input and output coaxial relays, a NARDA microwave 20 db directional coupler and detector (this samples power to display on the output power meter, which is located on the front face of the rack mount). It also includes T/R time delay (which can be varied), and rear panel TR control. Hookup is nearly as simple as adding a "brick" amplifier on the lower bands. I ran a short piece of flex from my IC-910H into a Bird wattmeter to measure input power, connected the phono plug T/R to a short cable running to the DIN plug on the back of the Icom, and connected the antenna. Maximum power is achieved with about 6.5 watts on input power, with measured output power at 64 watts! That's a lot of power on 1296. Perfect for DXing, contests, or even EME. The build quality is very professional. Enamel gray, with toggle switches, super neat wiring, labeled connections, etc. 12 VDC is via PowerPole cables, rig input and antenna output connections are all Type N. It even includes an instruction sheet provided by Merle to make set-up easy for an "appliance operator" like myself. $750 ================= Kenwood TS-60S 6 Meter, All Mode Transceiver. Good condition. Includes microphone and mounting bracket. Legendary receiver make this a high performance rig for the Magic Band. $500 =================== Yaesu G-800DXA Rotor. New condition, unused in original packaging. Great medium duty, 450 degree rotor with preset. Very fast rotor. $400. ================= Mirage D3010N 430 Amplifier. 30 watts input with 100 watt output. All mode amp. Powerpole connector. Untested but working fine when I put it in storage. (replaced with larger TE amp) $175.00 =============== Mirage D-26 430 Amplifier. 4 watts input with 60 watt output. All mode amp. Powerpole connector. Untested but working fine when last used in rover operation. $150.00 ================== -- -- 73, Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf 6M VUCC #1712 AMSAT #38965 Grid Bandits #222 Southeastern VHF Society Central States VHF Society Life Member Six Club #2484 Active on 6 Meters thru 1296, 10GHz & Light

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LightSail-1 + DESPATCH 3D Printed QSL Card
by M5AKA 26 Jan '15

26 Jan '15

ARTSAT2:DESPATCH 3D Printed QSL Card http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/26/despatch-3d-qsl-card/ LightSail-1 launch announced http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/26/lightsail-1-launch-announced/ 3400 MHz and 10 GHz – ARRL’s comments on WRC-15 http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/22/3400-mhz-and-10-ghz-arrl-wrc-15/ ED-SAT CubeSat Training Kit http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/22/ed-sat-cubesat-training-kit/ Radio ham interviewed on TV about Beagle 2 http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/19/radio-ham-tv-interview-beagle-2/ UK's Sarah Brightman Discusses Upcoming Trip to Space https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDt-9wByEbs ---- Trevor M5AKA AMSAT-UK Website http://amsat-uk.org/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amsatuk Twitter https://twitter.com/AMSAT_UK ----

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AMSAT-IT / ARISS on the National Italian broadcasting company (RAI)
by Fabio A. IZ5XRC 26 Jan '15

26 Jan '15

Dear all, here below a television report produced by the Italian national public broadcasting company, RAI 3 channel, about AMSAT Italia and ARISS contacts: http://www.rai.tv/dl/RaiTV/programmi/media/ContentItem-7c260ac3-0c03-4dea-a… The service was hosted in "Spaziolibero", a television program sponsored by Italian parliament. The video gives "visibility" also to ARISS school contacts and HAMTV. 73 Fabio - IZ5XRC *www.amsat.it <http://www.amsat.it>twitter.com/iz5xrc <http://twitter.com/iz5xrc>*

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1 meter S-band dish available
by Jerry Pixton 26 Jan '15

26 Jan '15

I have an N3IYR 1 meter offset dish that I used for AO-40. It is about to go to the landfill as I have to downsize. If anyone wants to pick it up in Strasburg, VA it is free. It has a slight ding on the rim edge where it hit my tower when my elevator rotor bracket broke. It has a home make helix driver Contact me off-line if interested in picking it up for free. Otherwise it goes to the land fill in March. 73 Jerry, W6IHG -- ---------------------------------------------- Dr. Jerry R. Pixton, PIXOS Designs http://www.shentel.net/pixosdesigns/RadioTuner jpixton(a)shentel.net ----------------------------------------------

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Re: [amsat-bb] 2m or 70cm masthead preamp first?
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 26 Jan '15

26 Jan '15

Hello Dominic, It really depends upon what you intend doing so please note the following: If you want to work the satellites with a transponder - Then the only main satellites with a 70cm downlink are FO-29 (analog,ssb,cw ) and SO-50 (Fm ) and if it is operating AO-27. AO-7, AO-73 (Funcube -1 ) ,Funcube-2, have 2 metre downlinks and of course with reasonable coax the loss is far less in this band. . Future launch of Fox-1A will be also be 2 metre (FM ) downlink. For data AO-73,UKcube -1 + Funcube-2, UO-11, DO-64, ISS, EO-79,EO-80,NO-44 etc operate with a downlink on 2 metres. Many of the cube sats. built by Universities and experimental have a downlink 435 and 437 MHz regions and of course numerous modes and baud rates. Trusting that my information will assist you. Ken Eaton GW1FKY

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Need 435mhz down converter
by Richard Lawn 26 Jan '15

26 Jan '15

You guys were very helpful in tracking down an excellent older 2m down converter. Now I'm looking for either a converter or transverter for 435mhz. I have a nice FT-8900 to trade for the right transverter. Let me know if you have anything in excess of your needs. 73 Rick W2JAZ

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60 Grid Squares for APRStt satellite?
by Robert Bruninga 24 Jan '15

24 Jan '15

The next APRS satellite will have a DTMF uplink for people to get into the global APRS system with any old HT, not just the expensive APRS integrated radios. THey will hear a voice QSL in return. I want to indicate all grid squares as 4 decimal digits for this application to keep it short. Instead of FN19 for my grid, it can be nn19 where nn translates on the spacecraft to "FN". I just counted and all of the countries and locations that have any nominal ham radio population appear to fit in under 60 major grids. We just need a mapping on the satellite to map these 60 in to the two digit nn number. It would be nice if there was an easy encoding method so that an entire 60 deep table is not needed, but simply an algorithm. If any such system exists let me know. As it is, I see exactlyl TEN major country areas, and so the first digit could simply indicate the area. And each of those areas have 0 or less smaller populous grids. So it should work out well. Of course no one is excluded. Its just the 99.99% of hams that live in these 60 grid squares can encode their grid in 4 digits. Those anywhere else in the world will take 6 DTMF digits for their posi (2 each to spell the two letters).. For info about APRStt (Touchtone) see http://aprs.org/aprstt.html So, do I have to create and figure out a cute encoding method for this top 60 (to 99) list, or does something like this already exist? Bob, Wb4APR

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For Sale 2m - 10m transverter
by Mike Sprenger 24 Jan '15

24 Jan '15

For Sale: (Too much stuff laying around, this transverter works fine) Ten-Tec 1210A 2 Meter transverter for sale - $100 (plus shipping) Details: http://www.tentecwiki.org/webarchive/1210/ Allows you to get on 2 Meters (all mode, transmit and receive) from a 10 meter rig (even the HF Flex DSP radios). With a Flex it allows you to "see" the activity output from 2m passband of a satellite. Also worked great with the Icom IC-703+ for 2m capability. Full 10 watts RF output. ALC-controlled 10M input handles power range of 4 to 20 watts. Solid-state T-R switching. Engineered for optimized l0M-2M conversion performance. 1.5"H x 5 "W x 8"D. This is a Factory Built transverter (not the kit version) Contact Mike W4UOO if interested. *Model 1210 Specifications:* - *Frequency Coverage: 144-148 MHz band, typically 144-145.7 MHz, based on 28-29.7 MHz tuning range of most 10 meter transceivers. 116 MHz local oscillator.* - *Power requirement: 12-14VDC, 100 mA. receive, 600 mA in transmit with no drive, 2.0A on transmit at 10 watts output.* - *Construction: Black texture painted clamshell-type steel top and bottom, aluminum panel chassis and heatsink. One 5.5 "X 3.75" double-sided circuit board.* - *Semiconductors: 2 IC's, 13 transistors, 25 diodes. RF final. BLW81.* *TRANSMIT:* - *RF Output: 10 watts maximum an CW and FM, 10 watts PEP on SSB.* - *T/R Switching: solid state, RF sensing.* - *Output Power Adjustment Range: 2 to 10 watts.* - *Spurs and Harmonics: Greater than -56 dBc at 10 watts out.* - *Standard TX Hang Time: Approximately 1 second.* - *Input Drive: Less than 0.5 watts input to key TX mode. 4 watts input for 10 watts output. Input drive level is ALC controlled between 4 and 20 watts. Input SWR less than 1.5:1.* *RECEIVE:* - *Noise figure: less than 7 dB.* - *Conversion Gain: Approximately 17 dB.* - *Image Rejection: Greater than 60 dB.* - *Input Intercept: -6.5 dBm typical.*

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Icom 703+ for Sale
by Mike Sprenger 24 Jan '15

24 Jan '15

For Sale: (Reason: I've got too many Rigs, this radio works great) ICOM IC-703 Plus - HF+6M Radio with microphone ICOM LC-156 Backpack (Matching for this radio). These are rare to find I believe. OPC-581 Separation Cable Original Box for Radio and Separation Cable (Pack came in a bag) Asking $600 No trades Please. Selling as a package., US sale only please, I'd rather not ship overseas. I've got the original box for the Radio and the Faceplate Separation kit. Backpack info: http://www.icomamerica.com/en/products/amateur/hf/703/LC-156.aspx CI-V Supported on IC-703+ , allowing connection to computer. Works with SATPC32 The Icom IC-703 Plus all-mode transceiver delivers efficient QRP operation on HF (160-10 meters) and 6 meters. Output can be set for 10, 5, 2.5, 1 or 0.5 watts. Energy conservation is realized by lowering the power source voltage and this rig draws only 300 ma in Standby mode, not 2 amps like some other radios. Many features, usually extra charge, are built-in including: automatic antenna tuner, AF DSP, memory keyer and TCXO (± 0.5 ppm). A large high contrast, backlit LCD keeps you informed. An easy-to-use menu system allows you to tailor many aspects of the radio's operation to your preferences. Other features include IF shift, AF speech compressor, spectrum scope, and SWR analyzer. Four types of scanning are supported. Includes: OPC-1229 DC power cable, spare fuses, key plugs, acc cable and HM-103 hand mic. CI-V Supported, allowing connection to computer.

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Fox-1C FundRazr matching donation offer
by Andrew Glasbrenner 24 Jan '15

24 Jan '15

Just posted on the AMSAT Facebook and Twitter feed: Saturday afternoon challenge! Next 10 $100 donations to Fox-1C at https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/6pz92/ab/561Zd will be matched 100%! We had two donors in the first 2 minutes, but there is still time to double the money! 73, Drew KO4MA

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LVBTracker push button digi-key part #
by kb2m＠arrl.net 24 Jan '15

24 Jan '15

Does anyone have the Digi-Key part number for the correct front panel push buttons for the LVBTracker ? 73 Jeff kb2m

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Re: [amsat-bb] tracking interfaces
by Pedro Converso 23 Jan '15

23 Jan '15

Hello Jim, Besides Nova that is an excellent program give a try to Satrack, it is free. You can find, run or download from http://amsat.org.ar/Satrack.htm , it handles some rigs and RC2800PX rotor thru a 4800 baud Com either legacy or USB. It includes tracking Amsat Oscar-0 A web only application (no com ports) can be seen at http://amsat.org.ar/sat.htm that also runs on tablets or smart phones besides PCs. The comport application (Satrack.exe) doesn't need any driver or external program. Good luck with your new setup. 73, lu7abf, Pedro Converso

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Handheld for LEO satellites?
by Juan Antonio Fernandez 23 Jan '15

23 Jan '15

Hello Steve, If you have the intention to build your own antenna. I will advice you the IOio antenna to work by handheld. It is easy to build and it works great V/U and U/V. The SO-50 is easy with it. You can find further info: http://www.ea4cax.com EA4CYQ Juan Antonio

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Testing SatPC32
by Jake Tennant 23 Jan '15

23 Jan '15

As I am new to satellite operations I am testing out SatPC32 for radio control/tuning. I am running SatPC32 in the DEMO mode currently and cannot get the radio CAT control to function at all. I have a Yaesu FT-857D connected to my computer via a RT Systems USB-62 cable that functions properly with FTBasicMMO software as well as on my Mac computer where I am also testing MacDoppler. Does the CAT radio control only operate when there is a viable satellite? or should it adjust the radio all of the time.

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tracking interfaces
by Jim White 23 Jan '15

23 Jan '15

As part of getting my sat station back on the air it's time for a new track box. It needs to work with NOVA and an older Yaesu G5400. I'll be using a newer PC with it so a USB interface would be required. A bonus would be if it also would drive the M2 RC2800PX control boxes on the EME array. What are the recommendations? Jim

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CP vs. LP and all that implies
by Kevin M 22 Jan '15

22 Jan '15

> What do others think? This last fall, I put up a couple of linear yagis... 11 elements on UHF and 7 elements on 2m. I actually started with 10 elements on 2m and cut it down. I don't appear to have any problems with not being CP and/or not being dual polarity except for maybe SO-50... "the fade". It doesn't last but under a minute and it just isn't worth the expense or hassle to me to bother changing over to CP. Because if you do CP, you need to have it switchable between RHCP and LHCP... if you are on the wrong CP, the loss is just as bad as the bird being horizontal when your antenna is vertical. In short, no switch... same "fade". And to be honest, I'm not sure that fade is from polarity problems, I've only been told it is... I actually think it could be the antenna being blocked by the bird as I've also experienced it with a handheld yagi that I could adjust polarity on. The 1/4 wave whip on SO-50 is canted inward towards the spacecraft and would block the signal on the 'far side' of the craft. As for my antennas, I think I'd add switchable dual polarity rather than circular polarity if anything. I've seen a number of stations do that. Even before that, I might add some more elements to the UHF. I have trouble penetrating the house next door when the pass gets low. But then again, more transmit power would do the same, but either way, it might not matter. I've never used CP antennas, so I cannot speak 'absolutely' but other than the possible issue with SO-50, I can't tell that I am missing anything. I have preamps and can hear most of the linear birds down to 0-1 degrees (in my clear horizon directions). Even SO-50 I hear down to 5 degrees and sometimes as far as 3 degrees with noise. I spent about $100 on a couple of used linear yagis... and they work. Can't ask for much more than that. My extra money was FAR BETTER spent installing preamps and diplexers for filters; the preamps make a huge difference overcoming coax loss and I have no desense at the antennas. Pics of my installation can be seen here: http://n4ufosat.blogspot.com/ I'm not the only sat op that was going to go CP at one time and opted to just do linear. And the cheaper antennas seem to work just fine... Diamond makes a 10 and a 15 element UHF antenna I've seen used a lot. I opted for Cushcraft... there are others. This isn't EME or terrestrial weak signal work. You are essentially talking through a repeater... a flying repeater, but a repeater. And anyone with a 2m HT can understand that you need enough to clearly 'hit' and hear the repeater... beyond that, little payoff for the extra effort. Just my two cents, your mileage may vary, no warranties expressed or implied and batteries not included... 73, Kevin N4UFO

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EL86 Tomorrow and Wednesday
by Andrew Glasbrenner 22 Jan '15

22 Jan '15

I'll be in EL86 for work tomorrow and Wednesday if anyone needs a QSO and QSL for VUCC. My only caveats are that a)working hour passes are as-available, no promises, and b) UT1FG is not in the footprint at the same time. I or someone else will be back here soon, so he has priority. I'll pass through 87 and will be staying in 96 as well. Drop me a note if you need it, or tweet/follow me at @glasbrenner on Twitter. 73, Drew KO4MA

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CP vs. LP and all that implies
by Chris Spacone 22 Jan '15

22 Jan '15

Greetings all; I'm in the process of doing a complete station rebuild. I've been debating with a fellow ham regarding the relative merits of CP (fixed or switchable RHCP, LHCP) vs. LP and I was wondering about any technical resources that are available to help with the decision making process. I'm open to everything from anecdote to detailed technical information but in essence I'd really like to understand what kind of system performance and reliability issues I'd expect for a typical installation. My station is an IC-9100 and will soon be lashed to a Yaesu AzEl rotor sitting on a Glen Martin 4.5 foot tower. I like the idea of (but not necessarily the price) the M2 70cm and 2m with the switchable polarity kit. Anybody have any direct experience with this antenna system and advice regarding same? 73, Chris, KD6OUB

3 2

full duplex
by Bob- W7LRD 21 Jan '15

21 Jan '15

Last evening (Tuesday) there was a K6 calling on SO-50 almost the entire pass. He obviously had a rx issue as he didn't respond to many calls. He unintentionally QRM'd several QSO's. Full duplex is not necessarily mandatory however if after a few calls without a return call, one may have a rx problem. Caution with that PTT button especially on the FM birds. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle (Go Seahawks)

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Handheld for LEO satellites?
by Steve Kristoff 21 Jan '15

21 Jan '15

I'm new to the list and have been listening to some satellites. I'd like to move on to QSOs. Can folks recommend a handheld that will get me on the most commonly used satellites? I'd be grateful for multiple suggestions and reviews. Thanks! Steve Kristoff AI9IN skristof(a)etczone.com

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UT1FG/MM in HN88 1645 UTC 21 January on SO-50
by Ib Christoffersen 21 Jan '15

21 Jan '15

Hi all, He is traveling fast :) 73 OZ1MY/Ib

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Test
by Daniel Estévez 21 Jan '15

21 Jan '15

Test. Please disregard.

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REMINDER Containerized Satellite Survey
by Bungo Shiotani 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

Dear colleagues, I would like to remind you to participate in the survey regarding containerized satellites as part of my PhD research. Thanks to those who have provided inputs to the survey, I greatly appreciate your help! Additionally, please forward this survey to any colleagues that you may know. Also, please make sure to proceed to the very end of the survey! Again, thank you in advance for your help. Sincerely, Bungo Shiotani ------------------------------------------ Bungo Shiotani, KK4LXH Graduate Researcher Space Systems Group University of Florida (352) 846 3020 bshiota(a)ufl.edu Dear Fellow Member of the Space Community, My name is Bungo Shiotani and I am a Ph.D. student working with Dr. Norman Fitz-Coy at the University of Florida. I am requesting your assistance with this survey to assess the potential impact that containerized satellite have on the debris population in low Earth orbit. The results will be used as part of my Ph.D. dissertation to create a statistical database and to quantify the growth of debris population. We hope the outcome will increase the awareness to the community regarding the potential growth of debris population due to containerized satellites. Your identify will not be collected unless you choose to disclose it in the survey. Additionally, if you would like the results sent directly to you, please disclose your contact information when requested in the survey. Please respond to this survey by Friday, February 27th 2015. The survey should take less than 30 minutes to complete. Survey link: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8CYyyDTFUGKHFbL Please forward this information to other members of the space community. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact us: Bungo Shiotani Dr. Norman Fitz-Coy Graduate Researcher Research Advisor bshiota(a)ufl.edu nfc(a)ufl.edu We would like to thank you in advance for your participation in completing this survey. Thank you and best regards, Bungo Shiotani Graduate Researcher Space Systems Group University of Florida (352) 846 3020 bshiota(a)ufl.edu

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AO27 future?
by John Geiger 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

Is there any hope of getting AO27 operational again? Kind of miss it. 73 John AF5CC

2 1

Satellite access
by jacob.tennant 20 Jan '15

20 Jan '15

Am I mistaken as I thought the satellites were only accessible when in sunlight? Heard a few stations on SO-50 last night around 10:30pm Eastern time and it was definitely after sundown locally. Jacob Tennant WF8S Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S® 5 ACTIVE™, an AT&T 4G LTE smartphone

2 1

UT1FG/mm
by Tom Lubbers K8TL 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Just worked Yuri in FN17 on FO29 (1936Z) . Looks Like I can start adding new grids again.

4 3

UT1FG/MM heard on FO-29 today
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Hi! I just saw a tweet from Abdel M0NPT, who reported that he worked Yuri UT1FG/MM on a shallow FO-29 pass. Abdel reported that Yuri's grid was GN67, east of Newfoundland in the North Atlantic. Thanks for the report, Abdel! Good luck, and 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

5 4

Comet Duplexers CF-4160J
by Bryan Green 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Anyone have trouble with these? Mine seems unreliable. Sent from my iPhone

2 1

KL4E on SO-50 @ DM16 tonight
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Hi! I received an e-mail from Craig KL4E. After working some SO-50 passes from grid DM16 in southern Nevada yesterday, he will be on SO-50 again tonight from DM16 for two more passes - 0441 and 0620 UTC. If you missed him yesterday and want to work him out there, you have another chance or two tonight. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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For Sale - M2 EB-432 and EB-144 with radial kits
by Chris Spacone 19 Jan '15

19 Jan '15

Greetings all, I have the following for sale: M2 EB-432 w/RK70CM, asking $110.00 plus delivery by shipping method of your choice. M2 EB-144 w/RK2M, asking $120.00 plus delivery by shipping method of your choice. Both antennas have been mounted outside and have minor oxidation on the aluminum parts and the copper loops but otherwise are in fine shape. 10% of the sale goes to AMSAT. Please respond off list. 73, Chris, KD6OUB

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Office Closed
by Martha 18 Jan '15

18 Jan '15

The AMSAT Office will be closed on January 19th in observance of Dr Martin Luther King Day. -- 73- Martha

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Audio Mixer for Portable recording?
by Bryan Green 18 Jan '15

18 Jan '15

Hello, all! Bryan KL7CN/W6 CM98fn here. Regarding portable operation, I like to record my QSOs using a small MP3 device. I feed the audio from the radio (an IC-W32A) through the MP3 player to my headphones. It works so-so. I can hear my own downlink sometimes. And, sometimes I can't. I've often though it would be nice to mix my mic and speaker together somehow, and then feed that to the MP3 recorder. It would be some sort of an audio mixer. I found this device for motorcycle operators, and it comes close to what I have in mind: http://www.mixitproducts.com/ It lacks a passthrough for the mic. Any ideas on a device to do that? -- bag

2 1

Radio control software
by Jake Tennant 18 Jan '15

18 Jan '15

Good afternoon everyone, My name is Jacob Tennant WF8S and I am just getting started in Amateur Satellites and was wondering about what all software folks were using for radio control to adapt for the doppler shift changes and tuning differences (inverted tuning)? My main station computer is a Mac but I also have a Windows laptop available. I had been looking at MacDoppler. . . Currently I only have a Yaesu FT85D for satellite use but that will improve over time. Jacob Tennant WF8S

5 4

First ever reception attempt.
by wf8s 18 Jan '15

18 Jan '15

Got a 3 day weekend so going to try to see if I can hear some activity on my mean setup. Trying both the FM and SSB satellites. Yaesu FT857d to a Diamond 2/70 base vertical. Since I already use all Apple computers I am going with MacDoppler for tracking and radio tuning. I am located in Morgantown, WV FG 09 AP just for informational purposes. Will post my results if anyone is interested. Jacob Tennant WF8S Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S® 5 ACTIVE™, an AT&T 4G LTE smartphone

2 1

AESP-14 CubeSat on ISS awaiting deployment
by M5AKA 17 Jan '15

17 Jan '15

AESP-14 CubeSat on ISS awaiting deployment http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/17/aesp-14-cubesat-on-iss-awaiting-deployment/ UK Space Industry in Guardian Newspaper http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/14/uk-space-industry-in-guardian/ Video of FUNcube-1 demonstration at IARU-R1 conference http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/14/video-funcube-1-demo/ UK’s Sarah Brightman starts space flight training January 15 http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/13/uks-sarah-brightman-starts-space-flight-trai… ---- Trevor M5AKA AMSAT-UK Website http://amsat-uk.org/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amsatuk Twitter https://twitter.com/AMSAT_UK ----

1 0

testing again
by Kevin Deane 17 Jan '15

17 Jan '15

1 2 3 test KF7MYK

1 0

KL4E on SO-50 from southern Nevada on Saturday (17 January)
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 17 Jan '15

17 Jan '15

Hi! Craig KL4E sent an e-mail detailing his plans to work two SO-50 passes on Saturday (17 January) afternoon and evening. The first pass will be a demonstration for the Saturday afternoon VE test session at the Nye County EOC in Pahrump, Nevada (grid DM16) at 2120-2130 UTC. Later in the evening, Craig plans to be on the SO-50 pass at 0554-0604 UTC from either grid DM16 or DM26 in southern Nevada. If you have a preference on which of those grids you would like to work Craig in, please e-mail him using his e-mail address listed on QRZ.com. Good luck, and 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK (on behalf of Craig KL4E)

1 0

AA2TX estate items on eBay
by Joe Fitzgerald 17 Jan '15

17 Jan '15

I am working with Tony's family to find new homes for his gear. Just search for items being sold by eBay user km1p Presently there is an opportunity to snag an AEA 140-525 SWR and Return Loss Meter. Starting bid is $200 with no reserve. There are other goodies including an oscilloscope, FUNcube dongle and a Bird wattmeter. 73 de KM1P Joe

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List Etiquette?
by cspacone＠socal.rr.com 17 Jan '15

17 Jan '15

Is is appropriate for me to place a message in this BB indicating I have something for sale? Thanks and 73, Chris, KD6OUB

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Search Amsat-BB with Google
by Daniel Schultz 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

It is possible to search the Amsat-BB archives by using the "site:" command in Google. For example, to find all mentions of the word "Diplexer" in Amsat-BB, type this line into Google: Diplexer site:http://amsat.org/pipermail/amsat-bb To restrict the search to a particular year, type Diplexer site:http://amsat.org/pipermail/amsat-bb/2014 73, Dan Schultz N8FGV ------ Original Message ------ Received: Fri, 16 Jan 2015 07:06:29 +0000 Subject: [amsat-bb] Advice for a portable ground station The lack of a fully searchable archive for this list has made this post necessary, my apologies for a noob-style query.

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Advice for a portable ground station
by tom.wz9u＠gmail.com 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

The lack of a fully searchable archive for this list has made this post necessary, my apologies for a noob-style query. I’m gradually assembling a portable ground station for the FM satellites, primarily using John Heath’s (G7HIA) article “Down-to-Earth Satellite Communications” (PDF), focusing on his “Awesome” configuration: Dual-band HT Diplexer 2m amplifier 70cm preamplifier Arrow II antenna In that article he uses RG58 coax, perhaps 15-20 feet max. Is there a better choice that also works in that application? Considering the lengths involved, price per foot is not really an issue. He also calls out an RF choke at the feed point of the 70cm antenna, but gives no detail about its material or construction. It looks to me like a few turns of RG58 on some type of ferrite core. I’ve spent hours Googling for information (commercial or DIY) and have come up mostly empty-handed. All the “meaty” stuff is for HF only. A final question concerns the various connectors involved. The illustrations in that article aren’t the best, but it seems that he’s using BNC terminators on all the cables, and BNC-to-UHF adapters where required. I’m concerned (perhaps too much) about cumulative losses, both from the coax and all those adapters. My goal is a tripod-mounted antenna, operating on battery power from various parks and forest preserves nearby. Can anyone clarify my understanding here? Tom WZ9U Sent from Windows Mail

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Re: [amsat-bb] Advice for a portable ground station
by Kevin M 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

Tom, I work satellites with AZ-El yagis from home but I also have an Arrow II antenna... I've played around using it in different configurations and asked a lot of advice. I'm currently putting together a setup to take roving. Let me share what I've learned based on the premise that you said 'for the FM satellites', keeping in mind what's already been said... right now, there is only the one. Does your dual band HT operate full duplex? if not, you would be better off with a couple of small, cheap handheld size HTs. And if your HT is full duplex, does it suffer from desense problems? Only way to know is to test and again, if there is any desense, better to use two HTs. (Weight alone, in my case, 2 smaller HTs is better!) I have an Icom W32A and two Baofengs (UV-3R+ and UV5R)... I'm going with the two Baofengs because the version of W32A I have has desense issues. (And you CANNOT tell from the serial number on the W32A as published on the internet... mine has a serial number in the supposedly 'good' range.) Tripod... while many first time sat ops see it as a near necessity, most (but not all) of the prolific roving sat ops I know just use their Arrow or Elk antennas hand held. Even to me, the antenna seemed heavy on my first pass or two, but after a few times, I guess I built a little muscle up, because it's not a problem any more. When you mount the antenna to a tripod it sort of 'ties you down'. It's not as easy to adjust position or orientation and you become tethered to the mount; you are stuck where you are, can't move to aim around a tree, etc. But if you do decide on a tripod, make sure it has the ability to tilt the mount 90 degrees. You really need to be able to 'twist' the antenna to change the UHF yagi's orientation from horizontal to vertical and back to match the satellite. Without that reception will be much more difficult. 2m amplifier... if you mean a receive preamp, wait until the new FM birds are launched, you will likely not need it. If you mean a transmit amplifier, I can't see the need. I transmit with an entire 2 watts and worked J79TX in Dominca standing on my porch... I think he was using 1 watt. Even with an amplifier on a busy bird, at best you would 'double' with someone, not over ride them. That's why you need full duplex capablity... if you can't hear yourself, then unkey... let the other guy go and wait for another turn. Otherwise, nobody makes a QSO and the doubling continues 70 cm preamp... it would definitely help. But just try to make it small and lightweight and mount to the handle of antenna; as close to the grip as possible to reduce the lever effect. It WILL increase the weight some, so you may just want to try without it first. See how you do and if you feel it is necessary. A lot of guys are working the bird without one. Coax... as short as possible, as low loss as possible. W5PFG and I have both advised ops to cut off a couple feet from the cable of a home made antenna and it made all the difference on UHF receive. The numbers say it shouldn't matter that much, but real world experience says it does. Diplexer... if you use two HTs, one is not necessary. Save the weight, the loss, the extra cables and the hassle. The diplexer designed for the ARROW that goes in the handle is what I would use anyway; light and out of the way. I plan to hook up my receive HT through it since the cable is short and i know it hears with it. I will have a second jumper to bypass the diplexer and run to the 2m yagi for TX. Recording... Something most consider critical that you didn't mention; an audio recording device. Forget relying on a notepad... it just doesn't work. You will invariably miss writing a call down or can't read your own writing later. Some use their phone... I have used a digital recorder strapped to the back of my HT. But the best way and one I bought the cabling to do, is wire up a splitter to run direct audio to a set of headphones and the recorder. This may also require some 'padding down' to keep from over driving the recorder input... I got an 'attenuating cable' for this. And running full duplex, hooking the recorder to the downlink, I will hear the other stations AND I will hear what actually GOT HEARD of what I said... Not just want I spoke into the microphone. Microphone/headset... another big consideration you didn't mention. Remembering that you only have two hands, will be moving around and may be in a noisy environment, combined with full duplex and the potential for feedback... earphones or a headset is pretty much a must. If you purchase a good headset, try to have it so that the PTT switch can be mounted conveniently... like on the Arrow handle where your thumb will be. Since my Baofeng HTs are not much larger than a hand mic, I am going to start off trying one hand holding the antenna, the other holding the TX HT and crossing over with the thumb and forefinger holding that HT to adjust the RX HT's frequency. (On the new birds which will be U/V, I will be adjusting the TX frequency of the HT in that hand, much easier.) Then the RX HT has a splitter going to the recorder and a set of headphones. If it doesn't work well enough on initial testing, an order for a headset (mic and earphones) will be in my future. =^) Hope you benefit from the research I've been doing... lots to think about and consider. Tripod versus handheld is a big consideration and one not taken lightly, but as I said, there are lots of pics and videos of many popular roving sat ops waving their handheld yagis around. Also a number of pics of tripod mounted setups, too. All a case of personal preference but the point I am making is to not assume automatically that tripod mounted antennas are better. You will have to try it and see what works best for you. Looking forward to working you in a rare grid! =^D 73 es GL! Kevin N4UFO

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UISS and NO-44
by ingejack＠cox.net 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

thanks to all who helped me with the UISS program to run NO-44 SAT. Especially thanks to Patrick WD9EWK who took his time to walk me through the changes with multiple emails. Thanks again to ALL who helped 73 JACK/KC7MG

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Re: [amsat-bb] satpc32 port problem
by Scott Smith 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

Tnx for the reply folks. I using the Kenpro G5400a rotor system and noticed my “elevation” rotor has stopped working. Wonder if this has anything to do with it?. It’s getting pretty old. so in the spring, I’m going to buy a new satellite rotor setup. 73 de Scott VE6ITV

3 2

UISS and NO-44 SAT
by ingejack＠cox.net 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

I am currently using the program UISS to work the space station on packet, However I would like to know if the UISS software can also be used to work the NO-44 Satellite on packet. Anyone currently doing this ?? Thank You KC7MG

2 1

73 on 73 Award #7 - EA4AYW
by Paul Stoetzer 16 Jan '15

16 Jan '15

Congratulations to Jorge Gallardo Sanchez, EA4AYW, for becoming the seventh recipient of the 73 on 73 Award. He submitted a list of 73 stations worked via AO-73 between September 1, 2014 and January 9, 2015. For more information on the award see http://amsat-uk.org/funcube/73-on-73-award/ 73, Paul Stoetzer, N8HM

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HRD and USB/Serial under Windows 8.1
by PA3GUO 15 Jan '15

15 Jan '15

I just migrated to a new, Windows 8.1 PC. Just installed HRD (HamradioDeluxe). I have a Prolific USB to Serial converter. Worked always fine on Win XP. Installed also fine under 8.1. When I now open HRD, the Connect menu shows indeed the USB serial port as COM3 (next to COM1). However, in the connect menu I can only select COM1 in the pull down menu for the radio connection (not COM3). For sure someone has been here before :-) Looking forward! Henk - PA3GUO

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UISS and NO-44 Satellite
by ingejack＠cox.net 15 Jan '15

15 Jan '15

I was wondering if anyone has used the software UISS to work NO-44 Satellite ??

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KL7R/P and W5CBF/P working FO-29
by Clayton Coleman 15 Jan '15

15 Jan '15

Yesterday, Dale KL7R visited Hector W5CBF and me in Palestine, Texas - EM21es. During the visit, we were able to work SO-50 and FO-29 satellite passes. This YouTube video shows Dale and Hector working AC0RA using a very simple station - a Yaesu FT-817 and an Arrow antenna. Check out the video here: http://youtu.be/xbQ9G6bKrz8 73 Clayton W5PFG

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Kenwood HT for sale-does SSB for AO7/FO29/AO73
by John Geiger 15 Jan '15

15 Jan '15

I have for sale a Kenwood TH-F6A Triband HT in excellent condition. It covers 2m/222mhz/70cm with wideband receive, and it not only receives AM/FM, but it also receives SSB and CW. You can use it to listen to the HF bands while you are away from the shack, or use it for a satellite downlink rig for FO29/AO7/AO73. It also does dual receive, including dual inband receive. Has built in VOX, AM and FM broadcast bands receive, including a built in bar antenna for the AM broadcast bands and lower HF bands. It comes with the stock antenna, box, charger, manual, and 3 batteries! These are all Lion, long life batteries. I am asking $230 for this nice package plus a little for shipping. I can take paypal/check/MO/cash. Trade offers always considered. 73 John AF5CC

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Tracking Demo (active satellites!)
by Robert Bruninga 15 Jan '15

15 Jan '15

Local Boy Scout AMSAT demo this weekend… BUT I don’t have a list of the ACTIVE hamsats. … Ah, JUST FOUND IT!!! Mike, DK3WN’s list: http://www.dk3wn.info/p/?s=active+satellites&x=0&y=0 And don’t forget these other great tools for live demos: http://oscar.dcarr.org/index.php - D Carr’s page of active reports http://Heavens-above.com gives a great real-time track list of EVERY ham satellite in view and when, but for the morning of this jamboree, there are 160 passes!!!! Impossible to separate the dead ones from the live ones. Hence a need for the list of ones we can actually hear. http://ariss.net - the live APRS downlink from the ISS http://pcsat.aprs.org – the live APRS downlink from PCsat http://aprs.fi – Terrestrial ham radio APRS. Nice to show in contrast to those heard by ISS… http://amsat.org – finishing off with this page to tell them were to learn more… With 60 new cubesats launched last fall, it is impossible to know what is best to go after… Hence the need for the list… Thanks Bob, Wb4APR

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blocked emails
by Nick Pugh K5QXJ 15 Jan '15

15 Jan '15

I am also having trouble receiving emails from amsat-bb(a)amsat.org. I read the emails from the digest. I can post to the list and the emails are not going to my junk folder. My isp is ATT-Yahoo . I receive emails from the HEO and the education list but not the amsat-bb list Help Thanks nick Office 337 593 8700 Cell 337 258 2527 Helping UL become a world Class Engineering and Educational School Disagree I Learn

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Re: [amsat-bb] Satpc32 rotor problem "FIXED"
by Scott Smith 14 Jan '15

14 Jan '15

Hi folks, thanks to everyone for there kind help. The problem in now fixed. The problem was as mentioned in the Com port settings.... Glenn AA5PK has same setup as me and I changed to his settings. Funny thing, in my device manager it shows it’s on Com 3 but I changed the settings in rotor setup LVP to Com 2 and it now works. tnx again to all. 73 Scott VE6ITV

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re satpc32 rotor problem
by Scott Smith 14 Jan '15

14 Jan '15

Well now I have my radio tracking ok, checked ports, it says device working properly . but when the sat (FO29) comes up... get a darn message “operation is valid only when port is open” hmm, in device management it says it’s on Com3. checked on my “rotor setup” and it’s showing Com3. what the heck is going on lol. 73 de Scott VE6ITV

1 0

one more time
by wa4hfn＠comcast.net 13 Jan '15

13 Jan '15

test only

1 0

test
by wa4hfn＠comcast.net 13 Jan '15

13 Jan '15

not rec email again

2 1

K1N on FO-29
by Andrew Glasbrenner 13 Jan '15

13 Jan '15

Hi All, Just a quick follow-up on earlier messages about K1N on satellite. I spoke at length yesterday with Gregg, W6IZT and he agreed to refocus the team's satellite efforts on FO-29 in order to maximize their success. In support of that, AMSAT is providing an FT-817 and associated equipment, pass predictions, operational plan, and training. Due to the logistics of the expedition, this is the best solution allowing them to be on satellite, while maximizing the number and ease of QSOs possible. Additional details are being worked out now, and will be shared via AMSAT ANS, amsat.org, AMSAT-bb email list, @AMSAT on Twitter, and the AMSAT North America Facebook group, when available. Gregg did mention that the group is still in need of donations to fund the very expensive helicopter service to and from the island. If the chance to work K1N on satellite excites you, then please show your support by going to http://www.navassadx.com/ and clicking on the Donate button. More to follow soon. 73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-VP Operations

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re Satp32 rotor problem
by Scott Smith 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

Well at least I have my rotor problem fixed... sort of. The temperature went up to –15deg. and now the elevation is working. must have frozen up. lol but still cannot get the darn sat program to talk to the LVB tracker. I think ill try deleting the program on the computer (again) and reinstall all the drivers etc. if that don’t work?............ maybe ill have some how check the serial adaptor I bought between the compputer and the LVB tracker. Hmmm, was all working fine before I went on vacation. 73 de VE6ITV Scott

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W5PFG/P Northern Maine Grid Expedition - TONIGHT
by Clayton Coleman 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

I will depart for a grid expedition to northern Maine starting around 23:00 UTC, January 9, 2015. I'll try to work passes toward Europe on FO-29 and AO-7 mode B. Planned grids will be: FN53-54, FN57, FN65-67. I'll try to operate as many satellite passes and gridlines as possible in the same fashion as AC0RA's March 2014 trip. I need to conclude the trip and end up in FN42 by Sunday, January 11 evening. Twitter via @w5pfg will be my primary form of communications. I'll follow-up afterwards with some pictures on my blog at www.w5pfg.us. If you have interest in specific grids from the above list, please email me directly. 73 Clayton W5PFG

4 4

AMSAT @ Thunderbird Hamfest last Saturday - report
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

Hi! First of all, thanks to everyone who worked WD9EWK during last Saturday's Thunderbird Hamfest in Phoenix. Having other stations calling and mentioning some details about their location - beyond the grid locator - helps the crowd better understand the coverage of our satellites. Due to the passes that morning, I was only able to work an early FO-29 pass and a couple of AO-73 passes later in the morning. WD9EWK was also on an early ISS pass, trying to make packet QSOs from the hamfest site, and two NO-44 passes. Unfortunately, no packet QSOs were logged, but I did copy KC9ELU in Indiana and N8HM in Washington DC during the NO-44 passes. After the 1345-1355 UTC ISS pass, I received an e-mail from EMike KC8YLD. EMike was in Portland OR, and happened to have his Yaesu VX-8R monitoring that pass. EMike saw my call and location appear on the radio's display. We did not make a QSO through the ISS packet digipeater, but EMike did send me photos of his radio's display showing my call sign and location. My first SWL report for packet transmissions. I owe him a QSL card to confirm that report. :-) The hamfest had a great turnout, both for sellers and those walking around the site - a church parking lot. The weather helped as well, with no rain and temperatures at the start of the event around 50F/10C. A couple of years ago, the temperatures were around 24F/-4C at the start of the event, and didn't reach 32F/0c until late that morning. During the morning, I was using my @WD9EWK Twitter feed to post updates and some photos from the hamfest. Those photos are still available to view, even if you do not use Twitter, by scrolling back through my tweets at http://twitter.com/WD9EWK in a web browser. The demonstrations, especially the two AO-73 demonstrations later in the morning, had great crowds watching and listening. Thanks to the Thunderbird Amateur Radio Club (W7TBC), and in particular Israel AD7ND and Rick K7TEJ (both AMSAT members), for once again providing AMSAT space for a table and operating location at the hamfest! 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Frequency Deviation used in AX.25 FSK
by Rupesh Lad 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

Hello all, Few satellites like Bugsat-1 and Unisat-6 transmit FSK packet in AX.25 format. As these satellites transmit '1's and '0's in FSK, thus there must be a deviation or difference in the freq on which 1 and 0 is transmitted. Is there any standard value for this frequency deviation? If yes what is that value? Thanking you -- Regards, Rupesh Lad +91 8237679081

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Need user reports on Ham Radio Deluxe 6.2.X for satellites
by Alan 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

Hi, We are starting on the yearly update of the Getting Started on Satellites book, and in the past I have had questions about including HRD in the information on tracking programs. Many people already have a copy for HF and logging. My own experience was with older 5.X versions, many of which had significant issues which made me hesitant to recommend it to new users. However, the current owners are making a real effort to update the satellite functions. This is not an effort to determine the "best" tracking program; that is often a matter of personal preference. I am looking for reports from ACTIVE users of the CURRENT version 6.2.X of HRDSatTrack. What I would like to know is: Do you use it regularly? Do you find it easy to use and update for new satellites? Does it do a good job on Doppler correction for both FM and transponder satellites? Does it have any features which are broken for your particular rig and/or antenna control? Any quirks or glitches? Would you recommend it to a new satellite operator? Have you switched between HRDSatTrack and another program, and if so why? Any other comments? Also, if you use the HRDLogbook for satellites: Does it support LoTW and eQSL properly for satellites? Does it integrate with satellite operations from SatTrack? Any other comments? Thanks in advance for your input. Off list replies preferred. 73s, Alan WA4SCA

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Your AMSAT.ORG remailer problems
by Tom Clark 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

Damon, WA4HFN asked for help: I have been unable to receive any email from the amsat bb. I found this Delivery to the following recipient failed permanently: amsat-bb at amsat.com <http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb> Technical details of permanent failure: Google tried to deliver your message, but it was rejected by the server for the recipient domain amsat.com by mx2.daemonmail.net. [216.104.161.5]. The error that the other server returned was: 554 5.7.1 <amsat-bb at amsat.com <http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb>>: Relay access denied Why has amsat blocked me? I have done nothing to cause this . This is the second time this has happened, is it a glich or is someone doing it WA4HFN Damon em55 www.starcommgroup.org It would appear that the problem may be that you are trying to post amsat-bb(a)amsat.com. The remailer addresses are all @amsat.*ORG*. You might also find it useful to do what I do -- I get my amsat-bb once per day from the archives at http://amsat.org/pipermail/amsat-bb/. When you go to http://amsat.org/pipermail/amsat-bb/ you can select to see the mail Messages sorted by: [ thread ] [ subject ] [ author ] [date] -- I usually choose the date option because it is more convenient for me. YMMV 73 de Tom, K3IO

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email not getting back to me
by wa4hfn＠comcast.net 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

I know my email is being sent through ,because Im using wa4hfn(a)comcast.net to send to amsat-bb(a)amsat.org the problem I am having is I am not receiving any emails back to the Gmail account that I have set up for the BB to reply back to me . This is the second time this has happened in 4 months. I have had it,to much wastes time with the bb WA4HFN Damon

6 6

re satpc32 rotor problem
by Scott Smith 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

yes, the baud rate is checked out ok. Scott

1 0

satpc32 port problem
by Scott Smith 12 Jan '15

12 Jan '15

Hi folks, i reloaded my Satpc32 program and did all the setup for radio and rotor etc( I use LVB tracker). Now when I start the satellite program I get a message saying “could not open Port 3) I checked the port and it says device working properly. Anyone know what I may be doing wrong?. Tnx in advance. 73 de Scott VE6ITV

3 2

OGMS-SA CubeSat to provide FM transponder
by M5AKA 11 Jan '15

11 Jan '15

OGMS-SA CubeSat to provide FM transponder http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/11/ogms-sa-cubesat-to-provide-fm-transponder/ Shin’en2 spacecraft designated as Fuji Oscar 82 http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/11/shin-en2-designated-fuji-oscar-82/ FUNcube-2 on UKube-1 – January 2015 Update http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/05/funcube-2-ukube-1-update/ Jan 15 Talk – A Beginners Guide to Amateur Satellites http://amsat-uk.org/2015/01/10/beginners-guide-to-satellites/ ---- Trevor M5AKA AMSAT-UK Website http://amsat-uk.org/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amsatuk Twitter https://twitter.com/AMSAT_UK ----

1 0

UT1FG/mmm Status?
by Sean K. 11 Jan '15

11 Jan '15

Hi all- Haven't heard anything about Yuri UT1FG in a while. Does he still own the cargo ship? Is he still QRV? Sean Kutzko Amateur Radio KX9X

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Gmail account test
by damon runion 11 Jan '15

11 Jan '15

This email sent using Gmail damonwa4hfn(a)comcast.com

1 0

test email
by wa4hfn＠comcast.net 11 Jan '15

11 Jan '15

test email only

1 0

ANS-011 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by E.Mike McCardel 11 Jan '15

11 Jan '15

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-011 The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and infor- mation service of AMSAT North America, 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.org. In this edition: * Dayton to Host 2015 AMSAT Space Symposium Oct 16-18 * Space Station Crew Available for Interviews Live from Orbiting Laboratory * NASA History Program Office Summer and Fall 2015 Internships * Dariusz Dabek, SP9TTX Earns 6th 73 on 73 Award * Next US ARISS Contact Proposal Window opens February 15 * FUNcube-2 on UKube-1 - Jan 2015 update * SHIN-EN2 Designated as Fuji Oscar 82 * FOX Challenge Coins Still Available * ARISS News * Satellite Shorts From All Over SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.01 ANS-011 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.01 >From AMSAT HQ KENSINGTON, MD. DATE January 11, 2015 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.01 Dayton to Host 2015 AMSAT Space Symposium Oct 16-18 Mark Your Calendars !! AMSAT NA announces that the 2015 AMSAT Space Symposium will be held on Friday through Sunday, Oct 16, 17, 18, 2015 in Dayton, Ohio. Location will be at the Crowne Plaza , 33 East 5th Street, in Downtown, Dayton. The Crown Plaza is a 3.5 star Hotel which has been recently renovated. Some of the perks include + Free parking for attendees (with validation from the hotel). + Free transportation to and from the airport and within 5 miles of hotel for side trips. + Several restaurants are in close proximity and within walking distance. + Several alternate activities and attractions are in the Dayton area. Air Force Museum Mendelsons R&L, Historical Carillon Park America's Packard Museum Local PBS Station, Think TV + If you are staying longer in the Dayton area, there are several other points of interest close by. 2015 AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual Meeting The annual AMSAT Space Symposium features: + Space Symposium with Amateur Satellite Presentations + Operating Techniques, News, & Plans from the Amateur Satellite World + Board of Directors Meeting open to AMSAT members + Opportunities to Meet Board Members and Officers + AMSAT-NA Annual General Membership Meeting + Annual Banquet, Keynote Speaker and Door Prizes !! Several members from The Dayton Amateur Radio Assn as well as many other local clubs will be participating in helping with this event. Additional information about the 2015 AMSAT Symposium will be posted on the AMSAT web site, www.amsat.org, as it becomes available. [ANS thanks Steve Coy K8UD and the AMSAT Office for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Space Station Crew Available for Interviews Live from Orbiting Laboratory Crew members of Expedition 42, currently aboard the International Space Station, are available for live interviews with media and social media during their mission aboard the orbital laboratory. Space station commander Barry Wilmore and Flight Engineer Terry Virts of NASA and European Space Agency Flight Engineer Samantha Cristoforetti are on board the station along with their three Russian crewmates, performing scientific research, demonstrating technology and maintaining the complex. Interviews will be offered in windows of 10 minutes. Interview opportunities will be evaluated based on media audience size, and relevance to current station activities and individual astronauts aboard the space station. All three crewmembers may not be available for every interview. Interested media should contact Rob Navias at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston at rob.navias-1(a)nasa.gov and provide a two-hour window of availability between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. The crew also is available for interactive, social media events that have the potential to reach significant audiences. All social media platforms will be considered, but interviewers must meet the same requirements as traditional media. No direct web connection to the space station is available for conducting social media interviews. To schedule a live social media interview, media should contact Megan Sumner at megan.c.sumner(a)nasa.gov, and provide a two-hour window of availability. Actual dates and times for each interview will be provided to approved media approximately two weeks before the interview date and are subject to change or cancellation based on operational activity aboard the station. Television clients will use NASA Television Media Channel 103 to conduct the interviews. Print, radio and internet media must conduct the interviews using a land-line telephone connection and have an additional telephone connection of any type for coordination. All interviews will be broadcast live on NASA TV. Further technical information will be provided to all media upon interview approval. The International Space Station is a convergence of science, technology and human innovation that demonstrates new technologies and makes research breakthroughs not possible on Earth. The space station has had continuous human occupation since November 2000. In that time, it has received more than 200 visitors and a variety of international and commercial spacecraft. The space station remains the springboard to NASA's next great leap in human space exploration. Satellite tuning information is available at: http://go.nasa.gov/1pOWUhR For information about the International Space Station, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/station Source NASA Media Advisory M15-005: http://tinyurl.com/ANS011-ISSinterviews [ANS thanks NASA for the above information]] --------------------------------------------------------------------- NASA History Program Office Summer and Fall 2015 Internships The NASA History Program Office is seeking undergraduate and graduate students for summer and fall 2015 internships. The History Program Office maintains archival materials to answer research questions from NASA personnel, journalists, scholars, students at all levels and others from around the world. The division also edits and publishes several books and monographs each year. It maintains a large number of websites on NASA history. Students of all majors are welcome to apply. While detailed prior knowledge of the aeronautics and space fields is not necessary, a keen interest and some basic familiarity with these topics are needed. Strong research, writing and editing skills are essential. Experience with social media is a plus. Intern projects are flexible. Typical projects include handling a variety of information requests, writing posts for the NASA history Twitter and Facebook pages, editing historical manuscripts, doing research and writing biographical sketches, and identifying and captioning photos. Applications for summer 2015 internships are due Feb. 1, 2015. Fall 2015 internship applications are due June 1, 2015. For more information, visit http://history.nasa.gov/interncall.htm. If you have questions about this opportunity, please contact Bill Barry at bill dot barry at nasa.gov. [ANS thanks NASA Education Express Message for Jan. 8, 2015 for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Dariusz Dabek, SP9TTX Earns 6th 73 on 73 Award Congratulations to Dariusz Dabek, SP9TTX, for becoming the sixth recipient of the 73 on 73 Award. He submitted a list of 78 stations worked via AO-73 between September 1, 2014 and January 3, 2015. Reviewing the recent log submissions for the award, it appears that the full time transponder activation over the holiday season attracted several new users to the satellite. Paul Stoetzer N8HM is sponsoring the award for contacts made via the AO-73 (FUNcube-1) amateur radio satellite. 1. Work 73 unique stations on AO-73. 2. Contacts must be made on or after September 1, 2014. 3. There are no geographic restrictions on your operating location. There will be no cost for this award (donations to AMSAT-UK and AMSAT-NA's Fox program are encouraged though). No QSL cards are required. When you complete the requirements, email your log extract including the callsign of each station worked, time GMT, and date to n8hm(a)arrl.net as well as the address where you'd like the award certificate sent. For more information on the award see http://amsat-uk.org/funcube/73-on-73-award/ [ANS thanks Paul Stoetzer N8HM for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Next US ARISS Contact Proposal Window opens February 15 The next call for proposals for US entities to host an ARISS contact is coming up in February, 2015. Call for Proposals Proposal Window February 15 - April 15, 2015 The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) Program is seeking formal and informal education institutions and organizations, individually or working together, to host an Amateur Radio contact with a crew member on board the ISS. ARISS anticipates that the contact would be held between January 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016. Crew scheduling and ISS orbits will determine the exact contact dates. To maximize these radio contact opportunities, ARISS is looking for organizations that will draw large numbers of participants and integrate the contact into a well-developed education plan. The deadline to submit a proposal is April 15, 2015. The Opportunity Crew members aboard the International Space Station will participate in scheduled Amateur Radio contacts. These radio contacts are approximately 10 minutes in length and allow students and educators to interact with the astronauts through a question-and- answer session. An ARISS contact is a voice-only communication opportunity via Amateur Radio between astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the space station and classrooms and communities. ARISS contacts afford education audiences the opportunity to learn firsthand from astronauts what it is like to live and work in space and to learn about space research conducted on the ISS. Students also will have an opportunity to learn about satellite communication, wireless technology, and radio science. Because of the nature of human spaceflight and the complexity of scheduling activities aboard the ISS, organizations must demonstrate flexibility to accommodate changes in contact dates and times. Amateur Radio organizations around the world, NASA, and space agencies in Russia, Canada, Japan and Europe sponsor this educational opportunity by providing the equipment and operational support to enable direct communication between crew on the ISS and students around the world via Amateur Radio. In the US, the program is managed by AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation) and ARRL (American Radio Relay League) in partnership with NASA. More Information Interested parties can find more information about the program at www.ariss.org and www.arrl.org/ARISS. More details on expectations, audience, proposal guidelines and proposal form, and dates and times of Information Sessions are available at http://www.arrl.org/hosting-an-ariss-contact Please direct any questions to ariss(a)arrl.org. [ANS thanks ARISS for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- FUNcube-2 on UKube-1 - Jan 2015 update Limited testing of the FUNcube-2 435/145 MHz linear transponder on the UKube-1 spacecraft has been undertaken during the recent holiday period. This testing has shown that the transponder is able to work effectively and that it is capable of a similar performance to the transponder already operating on FUNcube-1. AMSAT-UK and the FUNcube team have now submitted a detailed report on the testing to the UK Space Agency, who are the owners and prime operators of the UKube-1 spacecraft. It is expected that a meeting will be held with them late January or early February to plan possible future testing and operations. Reception of UKube-1 FUNcube-2 Beacon http://tinyurl.com/ANS011-FuncubeBeacon [ANS thanks AMSAT-UK for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- SHIN-EN2 Designated as Fuji Oscar 82 William A. (Bill) Tynan, W3XO, OSCAR Number Administrator has confered on SHIN-EN2 the designation Fuji OSCAR-82 or FO-82. In reply to Seiji Fukushima's, JH6RTO, request for an OSCAR number, Bill said, "I along with all in AMSAT-NA and the world's Amateur Radio satellite community congratulate you and all involved with Fuji OSCAR-82 and trust that it will fulfill all of its mission objectives. FO-82 joins an illustrious line of Fuji spacecraft built and launched by Japan." Shin-En2 is a 17 kg satellite measuring 490×490×475 mm built by students at Kagoshima University in Japan which will carry a 145 to 435 MHz linear transponder into a deep space orbit. The aims of the mission are: * To establish communication technologies with a long range as far as moon. * To establish a new technology of the ultra-light-weight satellite. Proposing a WSJT 29dBm UHF downlink and a 29dBm 20 kHz linear transponder and a CW beacon all on UHF with a VHF uplink for the transponder The orbit will be quite different from the previous satellites. Shin- En2 will have an elliptic orbit around the Sun and travel to a deep space orbit between Venus and Mars. Its inclination will be almost zero, which means Shin-En2 will stay in the Earth's equatorial plane. The distance from the Sun will be between 0.7 and 1.3 AU. An Astronomical Unit (AU) is 149,597,871 km. Shin-En2 IARU coordinated frequencies: * 437.505 MHz CW beacon * 437.385 MHz WSJT telemetry * Inverting SSB/CW transponder - 145.940-145.960 MHz uplink LSB - 435.280-435.260 MHz downlink USB Shin-En2 launched in the 4th quarter of 2014 with another amateur radio satellite, ARTSAT2:DESPATCH, on a H-IIA rocket with the asteroid explorer Hayabusa 2 as the main payload. Kagoshima University satellite development team http://tinyurl.com/Kagoshima-Satellite Shin-En2 English Website http://www.eee.kagoshima-u.ac.jp/~fuku-lab/sinen,english.html ARTSAT2:DESPATCH - Art and Ham Radio in Deep Space http://amsat-uk.org/2013/11/03/art-and-ham-radio-in-deep-space/ [ANS thanks AMSAT-NA and AMSAT-UK for the above Information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- FOX Challenge Coins Still Available It's a new year, and hopefully we have all recovered from the holidays. Here at AMSAT Fox fundraising HQ, we are busy packing up the new batch of coins that came in over the holidays, to ship to our generous donors. This year will see the launches of Fox-1A and -1C, both carrying university experiments and VHF/UHF ham radio repeaters. Help us keep ham radio in space with your donation and sharing our FundRazr link via social media. http://www.amsat.org/?p=3275 The Fox program is designed to provide a platform for university experiments in space, as well as provide FM repeater capability for radio amateurs worldwide. Fox-1A and 1C are set to launch in 2015, and Fox-1B (also known as RadFXSat) is awaiting NASA ELANA launch assignment. Further information on the Fox project can be found at http://www.amsat.org/?page_id=1113. [ANS thanks Drew KO4MA for the above Information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Successful ARISS Contacts with three Italian schools Contacts with 3 Italian schools Friday January 9, 2015 were successful. The events included students at Scuola Santa Teresa del Bambin Gesù, Roma, Italy, direct via IKØUSO, students at Istituto Salesiano Villa Sora, Frascati, Italy, direct via IWØCZC, and students at Scuola Pontificia Pio IX, Roma, Italy, via telebridge with IK1SLD. The contact was with Samantha Cristoforetti using the callsign IRØISS the contact began 10:14:09 UTC, which is 11:14:09 CEWT. The downlink was audible in Europe on 145.800MHz FM. Images of event taken at Scuola Pontificia Pio IX, Roma: https://www.flickr.com/gp/82104276@N02/xvhd78/ Audio of both contacts established per direct/telebridge today: http://www.amsat.it/audio/ARISS_January092015_1011UTC.mp3 http://www.amsat.it/audio/ARISS_January092015_1145UTC.mp3 Schools represented: Scuola Santa Teresa del Bambino Gesù The school "Santa Teresa del Bambino Gesù" is a catholic primary school in Rome, established to answer to the needs and demands for Catholic education by the local population. The school belongs to the Congregation of Missionary Carmelitane Sisters of Saint Therese of Jesus Child. The school is open to families that take care of the religious education and formation of their children. Preparation for the ISS radio contact has been underway for a long time, including educational projects on different scientific topics to support the special event. Istituto Salesiano Villa Sora Villa Sora is located on the side of the ancient Roman boulevard (now Via Tuscolana) in an area known as Tusculanus ager, which is full of sumptuous villas, including those of Cicero, Lucullus and Sulpicius Galba. This villa was built as a country house in the same grounds of Lucullus` villa in the mid-16th century and it was originally known as 'Torricella'. The earliest documentation of its history dates back to 1546, when the Chapel of Sancta Sanctorum of Rome owned the villa. The land currently measures over 6 acres and includes, in addition to the house and the school, a large park with several building lots. The school of Villa Sora has a notable historical tradition. Since 1925, it has a primary school and a liceo classico. The liceo scientifico was founded in 1966 and in 1986 its admission was opened to girls. In 1989, the middle school was created, and finally, in 2011, a new liceo economico sociale was founded. The middle school now has 200 students divided in three classes. The liceo classico has 180 students, the liceo scientifico 280 and the liceo economico sociale 80, for a total of 740 students. The space conversation was conducted in Italian. The following 20 questions were answered by Samantha Cristoforetti as well as greetings and wishes before LOS. This was amazing as Samantha responded very exhaustively and with many details. Translation: 1. The time of the re-entry into the atmosphere seems to be less evolved. There are studies underway to modify or change this stage? 2. How long does it take to arrive on the international space station? 3. What is the equipment of the astronaut during extra vehicular activity? 4. What kind of material is made the surface that covers the lower part of the spacecraft re-entry? 5. How many km / h you travel to reach the international space station? 6. The extra vehicular activities that you will do will umbilical or free? What goals and how they will be held? 7. How does the deceleration during re-entry? 8. The control of the flight on the Soyuz is automatic or are you a pilot? 9. How does the return to the international space station after an extra vehicular activity? 10. After take-off part of the missile is dispersed in space? 11. Which angle is formed between the trajectory of the spacecraft and the Earth's surface during re-entry? What are the risks an angle of re-entry is not correct? 12. Samantha, you are the first Italian woman to do extra vehicular activity. What are your feelings and what your concerns about it? 13. What happens to take off when passing through the Earth's atmosphere? 14. During the return to earth, how much gravitational force suffer the astronauts? 15. There is the possibility of accidents during extra vehicular activity? 16. When it takes off there is a lot of turbulence? 17. Why do astronauts after the mission should go in quarantine? What happens at the neurological level? 18. How do you prepare for extra vehicular activity? What is the training and simulations? 19. It was more exciting to enter into the international space station or the time of takeoff? 20. How do you manage to fit into a specific point on the earth, without risk to human life and the environment? ARISS is an international educational outreach program partnering the participating space agencies, NASA, Russian Space Agency, ESA, CNES, JAXA, and CSA, with the AMSAT and IARU organizations from participating countries. ARISS offers an opportunity for students to experience the excitement of Amateur Radio by talking directly with crewmembers onboard the International Space Station. Teachers, parents and communities see, first hand, how Amateur Radio and crewmembers on ISS can energize youngsters' interest in science, technology and learning. [ANS thanks Gaston ON4WF and Francesco IK0WGF, ARISS for the above information] ARISS News Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule Richmond Heights Middle School, Miami, FL, anticipates a direct contact via W1HQL, scheduled for Thursday 2015-01-15 16:09:40 UTC. Because this is a reschedule due to the delay of the SpaceX resupply mission timing depends on the the school confirming availability. As of press time, ARISS was still awaiting word of the confirmation. The downlink should be audible across the SE USA. The contact will be held in English and is scheduled to be with Samantha Cristoforetti IZØUDF using the callsign NA1SS. RICHMOND HEIGHTS MIDDLE SCHOOL Richmond Heights Middle School opened its doors in 1963 in the Richmond Heights community in southwest Miami, Florida. The now 50 year old school, is located in a historic African American Community. An army captain by the name of Frank C. Martin believed it to be a wise investment as well as the right thing to do to establish a housing development in which Black veterans of WWII could purchase their own home. There are currently 636 students and a teaching staff of 41 faculty members. Along with its exemplary athletics program, full time gifted program, and Cambridge program, Richmond Heights Middle School offers a Zoology Magnet program to the students of Miami Dade County Public Schools. This is an extremely unique magnet program that is one of only three in the nation. The zoology magnet is a result of a partnership with Zoo Miami, the Zoological Society of Florida and Richmond Heights Middle School. It has been in existence since 1988. Students have the unique opportunity to visit the zoo to study the animals within their exhibits while engaging in STEM fields of study. BIOTECH @ RICHMOND HEIGHTS 9-12 HIGH SCHOOL BioTECH @ Richmond Heights 9-12 High School is the only Conservation Biology public magnet high school is the United States and boasts three campuses: our educational center at Richmond Campus, our Research Station at Zoo Miami, and our Botanical Outpost at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. BioTECH provides students with a challenging and advanced level math and science curriculum focused on Conservation Biology that exposes them to rigorous STEM coursework as well as research opportunities with practicing scientists in state-of- the-art laboratories. In classes taken on-site at Zoo Miami, students study the human impact on biological diversity, making BioTECH the only school in the country to offer a full research and teaching facility within zoo grounds. Research experiences are offered in collaboration with the local zoo and the local research and botanic garden. BioTECH is currently home to 130 students that travel within the boundaries of a 467 square mile area to attend this unique school. The school opened its doors in August 2014 with a total of 8 faculty members, 7 support staff members, and an arsenal of practicing scientists and conservation educators from Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Zoo Miami, Zoological Society of Florida, Everglades National Park, The Dumond Conservancy, and Biscayne National Park. The following is the list of the anticipated questions: 1. How would astronauts combat disease, say an accidental infection by a Salmonella culture, given the increased virulence of microbes in space? 2. What kind of work is the crew doing in support of the future missions to Mars? 3. We have a 3D printer in our school. What are the future implications of having a 3D printer on-board? What types of prints will you create? 4. Does experiencing a sunrise/sunset every 90 minutes change your sleep/wake cycles? 5. Do you feel physical exhaustion in space at the end of your work day? How long is your work day? 6. Without gravity, how do plants, such as Arabidopsis, determine orientation germination? Geotropism what do roots do? Do plants on the ISS grow in all different directions? 7. Do you feel stressed on the space station? How do you cope with stress on a space station and does it have more or less of an effect on your immune system in space? Measure muscle conditioning? 8. How are astronaut diets altered to accommodate the changes to the digestive system in microgravity? 9. All work and no play can be boring. What do you do for fun up in space? 10. How do you keep from feeling trapped in the space station? 11. What role did your education play in becoming an astronaut? 12. Which teacher influenced you the most in your life and why? [ANS thanks ARISS for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Shorts From All Over + CQ To Combine Jan/Feb 2015 Issues (Hicksville, NY, January 9, 2015) -- CQ magazine today announced that it will be publishing a combined January/February 2015 issue and will be ceasing publication of its "CQ Plus" digital edition supplement as of the March 2015 issue. Both moves are intended to help restore the magazine's normal schedule for its print edition and to strengthen its foundations moving forward as it enters its eighth decade of publication, said Publisher Dick Ross, K2MGA. "These decisions were not made lightly," he added, "but in recognition of the realities of the publishing industry. It's a tough time to be in the magazine business, and we appreciate the patience and loyalty of both our readers and our advertisers." CQ will continue to publish both print and digital editions, but the digital edition will no longer contain the 50-60 additional pages each month that constituted "CQ Plus." Editor Rich Moseson, W2VU, noted that he hopes to include some former CQ Plus content within the pages of CQ, but says ham radio will remain the magazine's primary focus, as it has been for the past seven decades. CQ is marking its 70th anniversary of publication as of its January/February issue. As a consequence of the changes, CQ Plus Editor Richard Fisher, KI6SN, will be leaving the CQ staff after serving for many years as a columnist for, and then as editor of, Popular Communications, WorldRadio Online and CQ Plus. He was also CQ magazine's Emergency Communications Editor. "We will miss Richard's many contributions to CQ's products," noted Moseson, "and thank him for his many years of service to our readers." Subscribers to both the print and digital editions of CQ will have their subscriptions extended by one month due to the combined January/February issue. CQ <www.cq-amateur-radio.com> is the world's leading independent amateur radio magazine, serving the amateur radio community worldwide since 1945. It is published in three languages (English, Spanish and Portuguese) and in both print and digital formats. [ANS thanks Rich Moseson, W2VU, CQ Magazine for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- /EX In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President's Club. Members of the President's Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive addi- tional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT Office. 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 stu- dent rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. Contact Martha at the AMSAT Office for additional student membership information. 73, This week's ANS Editor, EMike McCardel, KC8YLD kc8yld at amsat dot org

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