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Arrow Antennas
by Clint Bradford 26 Apr '11

26 Apr '11

Spoke with Allen Lowe the past few days. He has formally passed the baton of Arrow Antennas to fellow ham, Tim Chapman - KB7MDF, for the future of Arrow Antennas. Allen needs more time to devote to the recovery of his lovely wife from her health problem of last year. He will not disappear entirely - his "hand" will still be on the products for a few years. My personal experience began with Arrow Antennas began as a mere consumer six or seven years ago, then quickly a "devotee" (OK, "groupie"), then one who exclusively uses my Arrow for scores of satellite presentations and demonstrations the past few years ... (During my AMSAT presentations, I hold up my Arrow, and tell the audience a little story ... "This is my setup. And this antenna, faded purple as it is." (I have a six-year-old unit, but purchased a pair of new elements from Allen recently - to show what a new one looks like, versus my beloved faded purple unit) "This antenna was actually sold to a client when I worked at Ham Radio Outlet a few years ago. The gentleman who I sold it to was waiting for me to open up the shop the next day. "This cannot possibly work," he declared. "It is engineered all wrong ... " " Well, Tim, part of me wanted to pry into the guy's problem, and find out what his true problem was. BUT - the OTHER part of me thought: "I can purchase this returned item myself at a greatly reduced price ... " And I did. I cheerfully refunded the client his money. Immediately bought it myself. And use it to this day for ALL my demos and presentations. In my wanderings 'round the 'Net, detractors of Arrow Antennas' product line seem to fall into these categories - 1. Arrow doesn't give away products for us as raffle prizes at our ham fests. My reply? SHAME ON THOSE who demean a small business owner's decision to produce a high-quality product at a reasonable price, and not give 'em away to all who ask. I include this "shame" on many AMSAT members - I am an AMSAT area coordinator and benefactor myself - but have been irritated with fellow AMSAT members' attitude display towards Arrow the past few years on this point. 2. Arrow doesn't publish gain figures. I absolutely love Allen's behind-the-scenes reply to these people. It boils down to, "They work. And I can sell every one I produce." Yes, that may be interpreted as "arrogance" by some. And part of me smiles at that answer (my wife is a public relations professional ... and I have been on the 'Net for over 20 years - we bring our own online histories to the equation). But part of me DOES want to know gain figures. And I KNOW what they are. I have tested them with calibrated, quality equipment. And if people dig enough on Google, they can find the info, too. But should Arrow prominently post "gain figures" on their units? Personally, I'd leave this topic alone as the new ownership of Arrow creates its new marketing / business plan for the company. A valid study would involve hiring an outside firm to conduct independent studies (otherwise, detractors would dismiss any results). And argumentative hams would argue the merits of ay such study, anyway. Well, there you go. Un-solicited testimonial from an Arrow devotee - and one who owns most of the "alternatives" - acquired via money from my own wallet. And as you read "reviews" from others debating "Arrow versus the others" - I only ask that you make sure you determine where the "reviewers" are coming from. Make sure they actually own what they are "reviewing." And in these days of anyone being able to post anything at will, ask if the "reviewer" paid cash for the units, or had them "supplied" to them for review purposes. Sad to say, but some are not as "up front" with honesty and integrity as I would like 'em to be. Thank you, Allen, for your support of the amateur radio community. You will be missed. Clint Bradford, K6LCS 909-2410-7666 - cell http://www.work-sat.com

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Re: Arrow and ELK Comparative Antenna Tests
by K5OE 26 Apr '11

26 Apr '11

Patrick, I don't mean to quibble, but don't you think using a Large Capacity Filter could have biased the Arrow tests? 73, Jerry, k5OE

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Trying to find Specs
by Farrell Winder 26 Apr '11

26 Apr '11

Looking for specifications on old PBS Ch 24 amplifier. Originally mfg by Comark Southwick, MA. Believe Comark was sold to Thompson. Amplifier module is model # B400698 and has 2 TRW 5030 RF transistors. If anyone has specs or source for info please reply off line. Many thanks. Farrell Winder, W8ZCF.

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Arrow and ELK Comparative Antenna Tests
by John Kopala 26 Apr '11

26 Apr '11

On Saturday, April 23, Pat Stoddard (WD9EWK) and I did some antenna testing in an attempt to answer the questions about which is the best antenna for portable satellite operation. We only tested the antennas in receive mode to determine their relative gain. Time constraints prevented us from performing additional testing to determine if the transmitted output was consistent with the receive gain of the antennas. For the time being we will assume (and we all know the dangers of doing so) that the transmit performance closely matches the receive performance. The antennas tested were an Arrow (3 x 7 elements), an ELK (4 elements), a PortaFox configured for 145/435 operation (4 elements), and a Home Brew 4 by 9 element "arrow" antenna. The standard Arrow antenna was the only antenna equipped with duplexer, but not the basic duplexer which is installed in the handle. We did not measure the insertion loss of the duplexer on the Arrow antenna, but this was obviously not a significant factor in the overall performance. A duplexer could still be required depending upon the antenna chosen and the radio(s) to be used. Using the Arrow antenna as the reference antenna and 145.300 MHz as our test frequency, our measurements indicated that the Arrow and the ELK antennas had identical gain. The PortaFox antenna showed 2db less gain than the Arrow and the ELK. The Home Brew 4/9 element crossed yagi showed 2db more gain than the Arrow and the ELK. On 435.300 MHz, the Arrow antenna had 2db more gain than the ELK and 8db more gain than the PortaFox. The Home Brew 4/9 element had 3db more gain than the Arrow. Although the ELK antenna shows slightly less (2db) gain on 435.300 MHz, it does have one potential advantage over the Arrow antenna. With the ELK, transmit and receive are in the same plane. With any satellites that have linear polarized antennas, such as AO-27, SO-50, the ISS and maybe SO-67, a crossed yagis can maximize the performance on one band while minimizing it on the other. That does not mean the Arrow won't work, as has been demonstrated by the thousands of satellite QSO's that are made on a regular basis using Arrow antennas. It just means that when you rotate the antenna to maximize the downlink signal, you may be significantly impacting you uplink signal strength in marginal situations. Even though a satellite may have a circular polarized uplink and downlink, don't assume that the orientation of your station antenna as horizontal, vertical, or something in between won't have a significant effect on your signal strength. My experience operating portable with my home brew antenna has convinced me that my horizontally polarized Qagi should either be remounted vertically polarized or replaced with a circular polarized antenna. That is another ongoing project. In summary, unless you plan to build your own, the performance of the Arrow crossed yagi antenna and the ELK log periodic antennas are very comparable and should provide lots of solid satellite contacts. The overall results reflect the adage that bigger is better, but along with more gain, you also get a more bulky antenna that is harder to handle. The home brew crossed yagi I built for portable operation is tripod mounted, can be rotated on its axis, and disassembles for storage in a roll up case. But because of its size, it would be very tiring to attempt to use it hand held for an extended period of time. Pictures of the home brew crossed yagi antenna are on my QRZ page. John Kopala N7JK

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Re: 2m/70cm Quadrifilar Helix antenna Antenna Kit fromAntennas.us
by K5OE 26 Apr '11

26 Apr '11

Zack, Any solution could have benefits, depending on your needs. These antennas would be very stealthy, if deed restrictions are an issue. Also, they are simple (as all omnidirectional antenna) and you would not have to worry about tracking (rotors, software, PC interfaces, etc.). >From a cost perspective, you could buy a brand new TV rotor, an Arrow or Elk (user's choice, or any similar-gain pair of antennas), and a AAR/SSB/Mirage preamp for less and have a system far superior (~6 dB) in both uplink and downlink capability. Besides just the obvious gain benefit, directional antennas also noticeably reduce local noise/IM exacerbated by a preamp--thus your S/N ratio is also improved dramatically. If you do want to go with an omni solution, I concur with Mark's suggestion a pair of Tony's parasitic Lindenblad's and a separate RF-sensed preamp would be a good choice. You could build a pair in an afternoon for about $25 in parts and find a used preamp for $75 or so. UO-14 and SO-35 you could hear easily with an omni antenna. AO-27 you can't. FO-20 was easy to hear, FO-29 not quite so loud. AO-51 when at high power you can hear above 25 degrees with an omni and good preamp, but you will be frustrated by the short pass time available (and when it is set to lower output power). The bottom line is there are no truly "easy-sats" in 2011 and omni antennas are a real compromise that makes operating with them only attractive if there is a good reason you cannot use directioinal antennas. I'll give you a personal example: after moving back to Texas late last year I wanted to get back on the birds, so I "threw" up an old omin antenna (Eggbeater II from a long, long time ago) and put a Landwehr preamp in the attic (it was easy and fast). See my comment above about being frustrated--I didn't operate much. When ND9M was at sea I got really frustrated! So I swapped out the Egg II with a slightly-less old antenna, a TPM II and pointed it due West (fixed, no rotor) and worked Jim a few times, mostly on FO-29, when he was in the Pacific Ocean. After he went through the Panama Canal, I went back on the roof and pointed the antenna to the SE and worked him a few more times in the Carrib and GoM. I worked him in 9 grids, but was not able to work much else. Last weekend I finally made the time to run the cables through the house walls for the rotor and quickly built up a small homebrew beam for 70 cm (3x3), installed a coaxial relay for polarity switching, and moved the preamp to just below the antenna: a world of difference, as you can imagine. Solid copy on all those birds now. Sorry for the long story, but my recommendation is borne out of experience--only use the omni if you can't use a beam. 73, Jerry, K5OE --- original message --- Interesting, Zack. I would ask them about transmitting through the one with the preamp built in. Can you do it? (i.e., is it RF-sensed/switched) Or does the preamp make it a "receive only" antenna, with the accidental transmission through it smoking the device :) It's bound to happen on a dual band radio... (I think you'd be better off building a pair of AA2TX style Lindenblads...) Mark N8MH At 12:01 PM 4/25/2011 +0000, vtnn43e(a)comcast.net wrote: >Antennas.us is selling a combo package of 2M and 70cm quadrifilar helix >antennas and a bias tee for $330.00. The 70cm antenna has a built-in 15db LNA >BTW. > >http://www.antennas.us/store/p/391-UC-AMSAT-KIT-2-m-70-cm-Amateur-Satellite… > > >The UC-AMSAT-KIT, 2 m / 70 cm Amateur Satellite Antenna Kit is a discounted >bundle combination of quantity 1 each of the following three antenna products: >UC-1464-433, VHF Amateur Satellite QFH Antenna, Passive >UC-4364-513, UHF Amateur Satellite QFH Antenna, with built-in LNA and SMA Male >connector >BIT-1500-385, UHF Bias Tee > >I was wondering though what some of you on the list think of these antennas >for FM LEO users that are looking for fixed outdoor antennas? > > >73 >Zack >N8FNR

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Re: Arrow and ELK comparative antenna tests
by John Kopala 26 Apr '11

26 Apr '11

One supplemental note on the testing of the Arrow and ELK antennas. I indicated that having both the transmit and receive antennas in the same plane with the ELK might have some advantages. I failed to mention that having the crossed yagi design of the Arrow isolates the 2 antennas from each other and may help to minimize UHF downlink desensing when transmitting on a VHF uplink. This can vary greatly with the configuration and the radios used, but certainly would provide significant isolation when separate radios are used for the uplink and downlink. Recent posts on the Alinco DJ-G7 also highlight the fact that the radio itself my desense on one band when transmitting on the other. In that case, all the isolation in the world might not make any difference. John Kopala N7JK

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Re: Arrow and ELK Comparative Antenna Tests
by John Kopala 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Mark, The testing method for the antennas was fairly basic. The antenna range was my front yard, the only easy location free of obstructions, other than a public park. Our signal source was an IFR-1200S station monitor feeding an aftermarket dual band rubber duck antenna vertically polarized and about 3 feet above the ground. The antennas, vertically polarized for the band being tested, were supported one at a time at about 44 inches above ground by resting their boom on the top edges of a large cardboard box positioned about 93 feet from the station monitor across the front yard. The receiver for the tests was an IC-910. The signal level was set on the station monitor to produce a mid scale, S9 reading on the receiver S meter. An attenuator was used at the receiver input to reduce the signal so that the addition on 1 db attenuation would cause a single step reduction in the S meter bar length. We used the Arrow antenna to establish this reference level against which each antenna could be measured. Each antenna was then tested to determine how much attenuation was required to match the signal to the reference level. With the PortaFox, the signal strength was below the reference level on 435 MHz, so we had to create a new reference level for that antenna. We then used the Arrow antenna and measured how much additional attenuation was required to get down to the signal level of the PortaFox antenna. The difference between the amounts of attenuation required to match the reference level indicate the relative performance of the antennas. John Kopala N7JK At 08:34 AM 4/25/2011 -0400, Mark Hammond wrote: Thanks John and Patrick. Interesting results and a very nice study. Question---what was your testing method? I can't glean that from the information below. Thanks! Mark N8MH At 08:49 PM 4/24/2011 -0700, John Kopala wrote: > >On Saturday, April 23, Pat Stoddard (WD9EWK) and I did some antenna testing in an attempt to answer > >the questions about which is the best antenna for portable satellite operation. We only tested the > >antennas in receive mode to determine their relative gain. Time constraints prevented us from > >performing additional testing to determine if the transmitted output was consistent with the receive > >gain of the antennas. For the time being we will assume (and we all know the dangers of doing so) > >that the transmit performance closely matches the receive performance. > > > >The antennas tested were an Arrow (3 x 7 elements), an ELK (4 elements), a PortaFox configured for > >145/435 operation (4 elements), and a Home Brew 4 by 9 element "arrow" antenna. The standard Arrow > >antenna was the only antenna equipped with duplexer, but not the basic duplexer which is installed > >in the handle. We did not measure the insertion loss of the duplexer on the Arrow antenna, but this > >was obviously not a significant factor in the overall performance. A duplexer could still be > >required depending upon the antenna chosen and the radio(s) to be used. > > > >Using the Arrow antenna as the reference antenna and 145.300 MHz as our test frequency, our > >measurements indicated that the Arrow and the ELK antennas had identical gain. The PortaFox antenna > >showed 2db less gain than the Arrow and the ELK. The Home Brew 4/9 element crossed yagi showed 2db > >more gain than the Arrow and the ELK. > > > >On 435.300 MHz, the Arrow antenna had 2db more gain than the ELK and 8db more gain than the > >PortaFox. The Home Brew 4/9 element had 3db more gain than the Arrow. > > > >Although the ELK antenna shows slightly less (2db) gain on 435.300 MHz, it does have one potential > >advantage over the Arrow antenna. With the ELK, transmit and receive are in the same plane. With > >any satellites that have linear polarized antennas, such as AO-27, SO-50, the ISS and maybe SO-67, > >a crossed yagis can maximize the performance on one band while minimizing it on the other. That > >does not mean the Arrow won't work, as has been demonstrated by the thousands of satellite QSO's > >that are made on a regular basis using Arrow antennas. It just means that when you rotate the > >antenna to maximize the downlink signal, you may be significantly impacting you uplink signal > >strength in marginal situations. > > > >Even though a satellite may have a circular polarized uplink and downlink, don't assume that the > >orientation of your station antenna as horizontal, vertical, or something in between won't have a > >significant effect on your signal strength. My experience operating portable with my home brew > >antenna has convinced me that my horizontally polarized Qagi should either be remounted vertically > >polarized or replaced with a circular polarized antenna. That is another ongoing project. > > > >In summary, unless you plan to build your own, the performance of the Arrow crossed yagi antenna and > >the ELK log periodic antennas are very comparable and should provide lots of solid satellite contacts. > > > >The overall results reflect the adage that bigger is better, but along with more gain, you also get > >a more bulky antenna that is harder to handle. The home brew crossed yagi I built for portable > >operation is tripod mounted, can be rotated on its axis, and disassembles for storage in a roll up > >case. But because of its size, it would be very tiring to attempt to use it hand held for an > >extended period of time. Pictures of the home brew crossed yagi antenna are on my QRZ page. > > > >John Kopala > >N7JK

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GO-32
by jerry keeton 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

recieved this from GO-32 on 435.325 9600k 1:Fm 7-14 To Z-7 Via c8-10*,,-8,-8,-8 <RR P/F R1 [DAMA] [EAX25]>[18:06:01]

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amsat-bb
by nh6vb Scheller 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

I am always looking for a change amsat-bb this was absolutely flawless its brought me nothing but good fortune http://lnk.co/G2MCN now im finally standing on my own two feet hope that you consider it

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AO-51 update 25 April 2011
by Mark L. Hammond 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Hi All, For now, it looks like the PL tone management (and changes to other settings) has helped to keep AO-51 running and supporting normal operations. We are now running around 475 mW of power out on 435.300 MHz. Over the last few days, some of you on the east coast of the U.S. have probably heard command stations downloading telemetry files on the 435.300 frequency. You can expect this to happen every few days; sometimes in the AM, sometimes in the PM. Because it's 9600 baud packet, it sounds like a carrier or open squelch with a "SSSSSHHHHHHHHHH" sound to it. If you hear that sound, there isn't much use in trying to uplink; it means we're collecting telemetry and the voice repeater is off for the moment. Wait for the "SSSHHHHHHH" sound to go away, and you'll know the voice repeater is active again. The current power budget makes it very hard to run both transmitters at the same time. Also, we are trying to keep the amount of commanding to a minimum, so using the single transmitter for both voice and telemetry is our current approach. We'll see how it goes. It does mean that it eats into voice operations a little, but the trade off is worth it-both for the short and long terms. In the meantime, keeping using our old bird when it's active! We don't want to take it for granted... 73 on behalf of the Command Team, Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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VUCC, grids, and a new QTH
by Zachary Beougher 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Hi All, I have an “out of the blue” question that hit me the other day since I am a freshmen in college and will likely move away from home sometime in the next 5+ years... I know the VUCC rules say you can count any grid towards VUCC that was worked from two locations no more than 120km apart. Lets say I have 500 grids worked by the time I move out (which is a LOT of time, work and $$), and I decide to move to SC. Are those 500 grids that I worked/confirmed no longer valid towards VUCC (if I wanted to get an endorsement)? 73! Zack KD8KSN

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Re: 2m/70cm Quadrifilar Helix antenna Antenna Kit from Antennas.us
by Richard Lawn 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

I purchased their 440 antenna built a year or so ago and waited forever to get it. The wait wasn't really worth it in the end and I felt like I got a better downlink signal with a homebrewed K5OE design. In both cases I used a preamp close to the antenna mounted at about 20' above ground. I'm now in the process of trying to build a few other stationary antennas and will let the group know the results if they are worth reporting! Rick W2JAZ

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Special event for Royal Wedding
by Chris Bloy 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Hi All, For those in Europe we will be operating on all FM sats on Friday under a special event callsign of MR0DQO. Please visit our website after the event for callsigns worked. http://wordpress.projectoscar.co.uk/#/?cat=45 Many thanks, Chris Bloy M0DQO - Founder Project OSCAR Uk www.projectoscar.co.uk Sent from my iPhone

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Re: VUCC, grids, and a new QTH
by Lowell White 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

HeeHee... Worked All Planets. :-) I must presume that's limited to the solar system... otherwise will take many eons to complete. Talk about being an OM... Lowell ------ Original Message ------ Received: Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:10:41 PM CDT From: Eric Christensen <eric(a)christensenplace.us> To: K5OE <k5oe(a)aol.com>Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VUCC, grids, and a new QTH > On Mon, 2011-04-25 at 12:50 -0400, K5OE wrote: > > Zack, > > Other things to consider before moving to CO: > > - your WAS award will only count for contacts made from OH > > - your DXCC award will count from anywhere in the lower USA > > - your WAC award will count from anywhere in N.A. > > - your WAP award will count from anywhere on Earth > > WAP? > > --Eric W4OTN > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: VUCC, grids, and a new QTH
by K5OE 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Zack, Other things to consider before moving to CO: - your WAS award will only count for contacts made from OH - your DXCC award will count from anywhere in the lower USA - your WAC award will count from anywhere in N.A. - your WAP award will count from anywhere on Earth 73, Jerry, K5OE --- original message --- Hi Patrick, Your response does confirm what I thought the answer was. I guess the only thing I am wondering now is, if I move to SC, would it be acceptable to say I have 500 grids confirmed, or should I say 0? VUCC is one aspect of it, but how about the day to day grid collecting. Since it would not be counted towards an award, I do not see an issue with that, as long as you keep track of what grids were working in OH and which ones were worked in SC. I also know it is 200km - I was confusing it with 124mi. ;-) BTW, I am not considering moving to SC (no offense to SC residents). If I had to move somewhere other than OH it would be CO. Thanks for the response! Zack KD8KSN -----Original Message----- From: Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) Sent: Monday, April 25, 2011 12:08 PM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VUCC, grids, and a new QTH Hi Zack! > I have an “out of the blue” question that hit me the other day since I am > a freshmen in college and will likely move away from home sometime in > the next 5+ years... I know the VUCC rules say you can count any grid > towards VUCC that was worked from two locations no more than 120km > apart. Actually, the limit for the maximum distance between the locations you use for satellite VUCC is 200km, or approximately 124.2 miles. See section 6 in the current VUCC rules at: http://www.arrl.org/files/file/Awards/VUCC%20Rules%202011_Rev%2020110215.pdf > Lets say I have 500 grids worked by the time I move out (which is a LOT > of time, work and $$), and I decide to move to SC. Are those 500 grids > that I worked/confirmed no longer valid towards VUCC (if I wanted to get > an endorsement)? If your location in South Carolina is more than 200km from all locations you are currently operating from and using toward your current satellite VUCC, then the South Carolina location could not be used toward your existing satellite VUCC. You would have to start working on a new satellite VUCC based on your new location in South Carolina. You would still maintain your existing satellite VUCC award, and could add to it if you operate from other locations that would fall within the 200km limit for that satellite VUCC. This probably isn't the answer you were looking for, Zack. Then again, you would have a new challenge to work stations from a new location further east than you are now. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Fw: VUCC, grids, and a new QTH
by Zachary Beougher 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Resending in plain text.... -----Original Message----- From: Zachary Beougher Sent: Monday, April 25, 2011 11:48 AM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] VUCC, grids, and a new QTH Hi All, I have an “out of the blue” question that hit me the other day since I am a freshmen in college and will likely move away from home sometime in the next 5+ years... I know the VUCC rules say you can count any grid towards VUCC that was worked from two locations no more than 120km apart. Lets say I have 500 grids worked by the time I move out (which is a LOT of time, work and $$), and I decide to move to SC. Are those 500 grids that I worked/confirmed no longer valid towards VUCC (if I wanted to get an endorsement)? 73! Zack KD8KSN _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Arrow and ELK Comparative Antenna Tests
by JOHN FICKES 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Gentlemen Great work,very informative. As I read the article I wondered to myself how my homebrew portable satellite antenna would stack up ? The Tape Measure Beam. I don't expect any results, as one could spend a lifetime analyzing everyone's homebrew antennas. But topics like this it just goes to show that there are many many options and some at little expense to get on the birds. Great Job 73 KCØBMF John

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Re: 2m/70cm Quadrifilar Helix antenna Antenna Kit from Antennas.us
by Mark L. Hammond 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Interesting, Zack. I would ask them about transmitting through the one with the preamp built in. Can you do it? (i.e., is it RF-sensed/switched) Or does the preamp make it a "receive only" antenna, with the accidental transmission through it smoking the device :) It's bound to happen on a dual band radio... (I think you'd be better off building a pair of AA2TX style Lindenblads...) Mark N8MH At 12:01 PM 4/25/2011 +0000, vtnn43e(a)comcast.net wrote: >Antennas.us is selling a combo package of 2M and 70cm quadrifilar helix antennas and a bias tee for $330.00. The 70cm antenna has a built-in 15db LNA BTW. > >http://www.antennas.us/store/p/391-UC-AMSAT-KIT-2-m-70-cm-Amateur-Satellite… > >The UC-AMSAT-KIT, 2 m / 70 cm Amateur Satellite Antenna Kit is a discounted bundle combination of quantity 1 each of the following three antenna products: >UC-1464-433, VHF Amateur Satellite QFH Antenna, Passive >UC-4364-513, UHF Amateur Satellite QFH Antenna, with built-in LNA and SMA Male connector >BIT-1500-385, UHF Bias Tee > >I was wondering though what some of you on the list think of these antennas for FM LEO users that are looking for fixed outdoor antennas? > > >73 >Zack >N8FNR >_______________________________________________ >Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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2m/70cm Quadrifilar Helix antenna Antenna Kit from Antennas.us
by vtnn43e＠comcast.net 25 Apr '11

25 Apr '11

Antennas.us is selling a combo package of 2M and 70cm quadrifilar helix antennas and a bias tee for $330.00. The 70cm antenna has a built-in 15db LNA BTW. http://www.antennas.us/store/p/391-UC-AMSAT-KIT-2-m-70-cm-Amateur-Satellite… The UC-AMSAT-KIT, 2 m / 70 cm Amateur Satellite Antenna Kit is a discounted bundle combination of quantity 1 each of the following three antenna products: UC-1464-433, VHF Amateur Satellite QFH Antenna, Passive UC-4364-513, UHF Amateur Satellite QFH Antenna, with built-in LNA and SMA Male connector BIT-1500-385, UHF Bias Tee I was wondering though what some of you on the list think of these antennas for FM LEO users that are looking for fixed outdoor antennas? 73 Zack N8FNR

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Congresswoman Giffords Will Attend ...
by Clint Bradford 24 Apr '11

24 Apr '11

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords will attend husband Mark Kelly's space shuttle launch in Florida on Friday, Kelly said, allowing the Arizona congresswoman to travel for the first time since she was flown from Tucson to Houston more than three months ago to recover from a gunshot wound to the head. In an interview with CBS' Katie Couric, Kelly said Giffords' doctors had given her permission to travel to Cape Canaveral, Fla., for the launch of Endeavour, which is scheduled for 3:47 p.m. Friday. Kelly is the commander of the shuttle mission. There will not be a dry eye in the Bradford household on the 29th ... Clint, K6LCS

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Endeavor's Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer
by Clint Bradford 24 Apr '11

24 Apr '11

My wife and I "rate" books and articles on their topic sentences - the initial declarative sentences - and whether or not that initial sentence grabs and holds our attention or not. Those that do, we continue to read, Those that do not, we dismiss and move on. >From the Orlando Sentinel yesterday, here's one that grabbed me ... "Stowed in the cargo hold of space shuttle Endeavour for its final launch Friday is a science experiment that could upend astronomy in ways unparalleled since the Hubble Space Telescope. Or — if it flops — it could end up as a $1.5-billion hood ornament on the International Space Station." Read more about the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer at NASA's Web site. Clint, K6LCS

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XE3DX On EK08
by David Maciel 24 Apr '11

24 Apr '11

Hi All, next Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th I'll be working from the Grid EK08, State of Morelos in Mexico, all contacts will be confirmed via LOTW or direct, I will work passes just after 17:00z, I hope to hear soon. David XE3DX EK08

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Cat/Pin numbers NON Sat Question
by Kevin Deane 24 Apr '11

24 Apr '11

Does anyone know the pin numbers for the back of the computer/soundcard? I have a new Yaesu FT-7900 cable and one of the wires is black instead of blue like the manual says... How do I know what number the pins are on the computer side of the cable where I would connect the ends too I am sure that is standard? Any help would be greatly appreciated, not having any luck looking it up on the web. Thanks Kevin KF7MYK

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Today EK09
by David Maciel 24 Apr '11

24 Apr '11

Hi All, this day will be operating from ek09 in satellites AO-27 AO-51 and SO-50 all passes Dave XE3DX

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Re: FO 29 help
by K5OE 24 Apr '11

24 Apr '11

Ted, It sounds like you are hearing a "reflection" of your signal, not the downlink from FO-29. This is a common malady associated with 3rd harmonic interference on mode J (V/U) satellites. Try this on a pass that will reach at least 30 degrees above the horizon: 1. Turn HRD control of your TS2K off 2. Set your uplink at 145.950 CW 3. At AOS you should hear the beacon about 8-10 kHz above the beacon freq of 435.895 (about 435.904 MHz) 4. Tune your receiver to 435.850 plus that same delta from beacon (about 435.859 USB). You should be able to tune your receive and hear your CW dits (clearly). 5. Zero beat the CW dits on the low side, switch to LSB and you should be exactly on frequency and can turn on TRACE and go anywhere in the passband. If you have auto-Doppler turned on in HRD, your program should do the same thing as this manual procedure. You should be able to hear yourself. If not, Google the diplexer fix for the harmonic problem. >From the center of the passbands, whatever the UHF Doppler shift is, the VHF Doppler will be approximately 1/3 in the opposite direction. This is a helpful rule for finding your downlink manually. 73, Jerry, K5OE -- original message -- Good morning, Since putting up the Elk on a rotor (fixed el +- 25 deg), I decided to try some linear birds. I have tried FO 29 about 3x but seem to have some issues. I am using TS-2000 in SAT mode with HRD Sat program. Up: 145.9 LSB Dn: 435.8 USB I am clearly able to track the bird with doppler as I can hear the CW beacon through the entire pass (switching back and forth). I can also TX into the bird and hear my signal coming back duplex. However, what is coming back is my voice signal but totally unintelligible. Also, I have heard no other stations on these passes. Am I doing something wrong? Tnx for any help Ted, K7TRK

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Re: KB5WIA / P in Death Valley Next Week (DM17, etc)
by herr＠ridgenet.net 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

No, they do not close DVNP after Easter. It is open all year around. There are a couple of camp grounds closed after mid April that is only due to the lower attendance. I was there last year well after Easter and walked from Furnace Creek to Stovepipe with about 70 other fools for the Death Valley Walk for Life. Was there just last week, nice 103f weather. The summer months there is considerable traffic in the park, lots of Europeans visit then. I will go up in June for the VHF / UHF contest and operate out of Mahogany Flats near Telescope Peak - nice 8,000 foot spot, a bit cooler than at Badwater. ...Mike WA6ARA >Wow, Dave, did you know that they close down DVNP after Easter for >the rest of the summer? It can reach +125F or higher at Easter so be >prepared with lots of water. I loved to visit Bodie and Scottie's >Castle. I lived in Barstow 1971-1976. The desert was my playground >with my old 66 GMC suburban V6. > >But been there, done that, and don't miss it! ;-) GL on the sats! > >73, Ed - KL7UW

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Thank You
by Mike1234 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

I would thank everyone who commented on my question about the diplexer. The discussion opened up some new thoughts where, had I not read about duplexers I may have been kicking myself in the rear. Hopefully if weather holds I will have everything going ! Thanks again to everyone and I hope to eyeball some of you at Dayton ! Mike N8GBU

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Re: FO 29 help
by Bill Dzurilla 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

It sounds like you when you are hearing your distorted voice it is some cross-mod from your own radio rather than a downlink signal from the bird. I assume you are using a diplexer to split the coax from the Elk to 2m and 70cm, and then running coax to each output on the TS-2000? The diplexer may not be providing adequate isolation. The center of the FO-29 passband is 435.85, not 435.8, so as the bird is approaching you most of the SSB signals will be at .85 and higher, you need to tune around. Signals from this bird are usually quite loud, so there must be a problem if you are not hearing anybody. This bird is under-utilized but there are usually at least a couple of people on. I am also using an Elk with fixed elevation (12 degrees) and it works great with my FT-847, can work FO-29 almost to the horizon. 73, Bill NZ5N > Date: Sat, 23 Apr 2011 11:08:29 -0700 > From: "Ted" <k7trkradio(a)charter.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] FO 29 help > To: "'amsat-bb'" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: > <4EDCCDC24E15410BA806C31CEDA08866@HamComputer> > Content-Type: text/plain; > charset="us-ascii" > > Good morning, > > Since putting up the Elk on a rotor (fixed el +- 25 deg), I > decided to try > some linear birds. > > I have tried FO 29 about 3x but seem to have some issues. I > am using TS-2000 > in SAT mode with HRD Sat program. > Up: 145.9 LSB > Dn: 435.8 USB > > I am clearly able to track the bird with doppler as I can > hear the CW beacon > through the entire pass (switching back and forth). I can > also TX into the > bird and hear my signal coming back duplex. However, what > is coming back is > my voice signal but totally unintelligible. Also, I have > heard no other > stations on these passes. > > Am I doing something wrong? > > Tnx for any help >

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SSB/FM
by Kevin Deane 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

Thank you for your responeses, I finalley get a good answer other than just "Stay off the linear birds" I knew some of you would get your panties all in a bunch, take a chill pill! So it makes sense, thanks for taking the time to explain... Kevin

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Re: FO 29 help
by Dave Guimont 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

That's a weird one...let us know when u find it!! >Totally clear and full quiet no distortion > > >---------- >From: Dave Guimont [mailto:[email protected]] >Sent: Saturday, April 23, 2011 1:48 PM >To: Ted >Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] FO 29 help > > > > >I am clearly able to track the bird with doppler as I can hear the CW beacon >through the entire pass (switching back and forth). I can also TX into the >bird and hear my signal coming back duplex. However, what is coming back is >my voice signal but totally unintelligible. Also, I have heard no other >stations on these passes. > > >Ted, what does it sound like on cw?? > > 73, Dave, WB6LLO dguimon1(a)san.rr.com Disagree: I learn.... Pulling for P3E...

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FO 29 help
by Ted 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

Good morning, Since putting up the Elk on a rotor (fixed el +- 25 deg), I decided to try some linear birds. I have tried FO 29 about 3x but seem to have some issues. I am using TS-2000 in SAT mode with HRD Sat program. Up: 145.9 LSB Dn: 435.8 USB I am clearly able to track the bird with doppler as I can hear the CW beacon through the entire pass (switching back and forth). I can also TX into the bird and hear my signal coming back duplex. However, what is coming back is my voice signal but totally unintelligible. Also, I have heard no other stations on these passes. Am I doing something wrong? Tnx for any help Ted, K7TRK

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Re: Logsat anyone?
by Joe Leikhim 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

Thanks; I found it. Turns out if the screen is maximized the status bar rolls off the page. I thought I was losing my mind. On 4/23/2011 7:18 AM, John Wright wrote: > > At 23:59 22/04/2011, you wrote: >> I have just reinstalled LOGSAT and Y2k upgrade after a hiatus. If I >> recall, the program would report the age of the KEPs on screen. Does >> anyone remember how to bring this up? I can't make it show up. Thanks. > > > > Select the one you want to know the age of, and set it as active > satellite. It then shows age of keps bottom left corner. > > > -- Joe Leikhim Leikhim and Associates Communications Consultants Oviedo, Florida www.Leikhim.com JLeikhim(a)Leikhim.com 407-982-0446

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DJ-G7 for LEO
by Bill Acito 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

Anyone using (first hand) one of these for FM LEO's? I have read that the sub-band (when running full duplex) may not be as sensitive? How well does it work? Bill W1PA

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Echolink
by Robert Collester Jr 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

Echolink Users, I have Echolink but my 2-meter hand-held has no connectivity. Is there someone who will allow me to conference with them on Thursday nights, just before the start of the net? Bob Collester -- DaddyBob KJ4HUH

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advice request for FUNcube
by Graham Shirville 23 Apr '11

23 Apr '11

hi All, A simple question this time! What is the best coax cable to use in a cubesat? Size, flexibility/min radius, existing space heritage, ease of applying connectors are our main design drivers - we are only using UHF and VHF so losses are not going to be too much of a problem hopefully.. many thanks in advance 73 Graham G3VZV

5 6

Aluminum Ant Element Corrosion
by Clint Bradford 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

Thanks for your quick replies, which ranged from ... >> ,,, I've rebuilt antennas that were VERY corroded by using 600 grit sand paper to polish off all the crud, blew the dust off with dry compressed air, then wiped them down with denatured alcohol, gave them a good coat of self-etching primer, and after waiting a few days for the primer to fully set up, painted them with one-part epoxy paint. I've never seen ANY evidence of detuning from this process, and some of the antennas I did 5 years ago still look like the day I finished them. >> ,,, I was just told that the phosphoric acid in LocTite's "Aluminum Jelly" works well, too. >> ... I was recommending the cleaning of the elements, then a liberal dousing of marine spar varnish for protection. But after years of recommending that, I had one person tell me that it wasn't good for him ... Clint

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ISS APRS
by Andrew Squires 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

copied ISS APRS 5 degree elevation pass at 2305Z this morning.Unable to get a packet in due low power TH-D72.Will check again next pass. 73 Andy VK3AS

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Logsat anyone?
by Joe Leikhim 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

I have just reinstalled LOGSAT and Y2k upgrade after a hiatus. If I recall, the program would report the age of the KEPs on screen. Does anyone remember how to bring this up? I can't make it show up. Thanks. -- Joe Leikhim Leikhim and Associates Communications Consultants Oviedo, Florida www.Leikhim.com JLeikhim(a)Leikhim.com 407-982-0446

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pots for Yaseu G5400 rotors
by n4csitwo＠bellsouth.net 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

Can anyone recommend a good source for the pots that go into the Yaseu G5400 rotors? Dave, AA4KN

3 2

ICOM Giving Away D-Star Repeaters
by Clint Bradford 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

http://www.icomamerica.com/en/dstarpromo/ Sent from my iPod touch.

4 3

Re for sale
by Gerry 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

To clear up any confusion, all prices listed in my previous message are Canadian Funds. Sorry but the rising Canadian dollar makes this necessary. Gerry

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FS: Downconverter and antenna
by Matt Patterson 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

Would anyone be interested in a California Amplifier 2.4Ghz downconverter with the bias t and patch antenna? I put this together for AO-51 downlink but I've never gotten to use it. It's just setting here and I haven't been on the birds in quite a while so I thought I'd see if someone else could use it. E-mail me off list and we can discuss and perhaps make a deal. Comes with all connectors and terminates into a male BNC for easy connection to a HT. 73 Matt W5LL

1 1

ISS back on today
by Armando Mercado 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

ISS will turn the ham station back on at 1730 UTC today. http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/537815main_042211_tl.pdf Armando N8IGJ

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re listed for sale
by Gerry 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

Further to my previous listing. Following items for sale: TNC7 Multi dual speed TNC 1200/9600 Bd RS232/USB also 38.4kbaud modem $175.00+S&H Uni Track 2003……………………………………………… $125.00 +S&H SSB SP-2000 Mast Mount Preamp …………………………………………. $200.00 +S&H DCW-2004 B Sequence Controller…………………………………………..$120.00 + S&H SSB SP-7000 Mast Mount Preamp…………………………………………. .$200.00 + S&H DCW-2004 B Sequence Controller………………………………………… ..$120.00 +S&H Directive System Antennas: 1…..DSH12-27 Helix, 2.3 – 2.5 GHz……………………………………………….$115.00 +S&H 1…..DSH23-12 Helix, 1.24 – 1.3 GHz…………………………………………….$110.00 +S&H DSH23-12 23 cm RHCP 12 turn helix 14.5 dBic gain in a machined radome for best weather protection. 1.2-1.3 GHz bandwidth. 50 ohm feed with N (f) connector on 8" backplane. All stainless hardware; Designed for PHASE 3D uplink operation. Wide bandwidth actually covers from 900 - 1600 MHz. DSH23-12 DSH12-27 2400 MHz (12cm) RHCP 27 turn helix 18.1 dBic gain in a machined PVC radome for best weather protection. 2.3-2.5 GHz bandwidth. 20 degree beam width; 50 ohm feed with N (f) connector on 8" backplane; All stainless hardware; 34" overall length; Designed for PHASE 3D operation, and other circular polarization modes within the 1.8 to 2.8 GHz frequency range. If interested in any of the above items. Please contact me off list at ve4gtb(a)mts.net Gerry VE4GTB We’ll meet again, don’t know where don’t know when. But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day.

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Successful ISRO Launch
by Trevor . 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

Good to see another successful launch by ISRO yesterday. Youthsat and two others went into a 800km orbit. The Hindu - Three satellites in good health http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/article1715486.ece >From http://www.zarya.info/Calendar.php YouthSat is a 92 kg satellite, developed by students of Russian and Indian universities to study the relationship between solar variability and thermosphere-lonosphere changes. The satellite has a two-year life will carry two Indian and one Russian payloads. http://events.eoportal.org/presentations/7336/10001307.html I've not seen any mention of frequencies in relation to Youthsat, anyone know which part of the spectrum it's operating in? 73 Trevor M5AKA

3 2

AO-51 Silent
by Mal Pizzey 22 Apr '11

22 Apr '11

Nothing heared from AO-51 over VK at 06:25 UTC. I tryed uplink 145.880MHz with 67hz tone. -- Regards Mal Pizzey VK2MAL - Sydney, Australia WebRep Overall rating

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Re: AO-51 Silent
by Andrew Glasbrenner 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Thanks for the report. I reduced power and restarted on the 0900 pass. Eclipses are getting longer rapidly now. 73, Drew KO4MA -----Original Message----- >From: Mal Pizzey <vk2mal(a)gmail.com> >Sent: Apr 22, 2011 3:04 AM >To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Subject: [amsat-bb] AO-51 Silent > >Nothing heared from AO-51 over VK at 06:25 UTC. > >I tryed uplink 145.880MHz with 67hz tone. > >-- >Regards Mal Pizzey >VK2MAL - Sydney, Australia > >WebRep >Overall rating >_______________________________________________ >Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: Successful ISRO Launch
by Bob- W7LRD 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Indeed congradulations! However with 92kg at 800km that bird will be up for awhile. I can not help but thinking, "c ould there not have been room for a PE1RAH http://www.leijenaarelectronics.nl/ transponder on it"?? back to my corner 73 Bob W7LRD ----- Original Message ----- From: "Trevor ." <m5aka(a)yahoo.co.uk> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Thursday, April 21, 2011 2:41:04 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Successful ISRO Launch Good to see another successful launch by ISRO yesterday. Youthsat and two others went into a 800km orbit. The Hindu - Three satellites in good health http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/article1715486.ece >From http://www.zarya.info/Calendar.php YouthSat is a 92 kg satellite, developed by students of Russian and Indian universities to study the relationship between solar variability and thermosphere-lonosphere changes. The satellite has a two-year life will carry two Indian and one Russian payloads. http://events.eoportal.org/presentations/7336/10001307.html I've not seen any mention of frequencies in relation to Youthsat, anyone know which part of the spectrum it's operating in? 73 Trevor M5AKA _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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a launch oppurtunity
by R Oler 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

http://spaceflightnow.com/news/n1104/21taurus2/

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ARISSat-1 update
by G0MRF＠aol.com 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

This is an update on the ARISSat activities. We had a telecon with the ARISSat team in Russia. Here is the situation as described by them. The Russian suit battery that was intended to be used on ARISSat was used during testing both on the ground and onboard ISS when it first arrived. When it was tested prior to the planned April 12 operation, it was discovered that the battery was low on charge. The suit battery's are specified for only five cycles of charge. It was decided to not recharge the battery at this time in order to keep the number of cycles as low as possible and thus saving the battery for the actual mission. That deployment is currently scheduled for July 26. We are still trying to get more information on the storage status and the battery health from the Russian team. We will keep you informed as we prepare for the eventual deployment of ARISSat. Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager

3 2

KB5WIA / P in Death Valley Next Week (DM17, etc)
by David Palmer 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Hi Everyone, Early next week (April 25th) I'll be taking my brother on a tour of the remote backroads of Death Valley National Park, and I'll bring my portable satellite station along. This will primarily be a camping and sightseeing trip, but I'll try to be on a number of morning/evening passes of the linear and FM sats. My tentative plan for now is the following locations and grids: Sun pm / Mon am: Bodie ghost town or Mono Lake in DM08 on Sunday, Bishop area DM07 Monday. Mon pm / Tue am: Eureka Dunes in DM17 Tue pm / Wed am: Racetrack Playa in DM16 Wed pm / Thu am: Furnace Creek in DM16 My actual real-time location will be updated with the SPOT tracker, you can find the link on my QRZ page. 73 de Dave KB5WIA

3 3

DN75 and DN85
by KERRY LA*DUKE 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

All, My plan is to activate DN75 on 4/22/2011Z by around 0100Z. I will travel to DN85 later in the day 4/22Z and return to DN75 for an overnight stay. I will operate from DN75 on some morning passes 4/23/2011Z. I will be returning home by around 0100Z on 4/24/2011Z. Look for me on ao51, ao27, and so50. 73 WC7V Kerry

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STS-134 and Ham Activity
by Scott Schmautz 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

As mentioned previously, the LISATS repeater on 146.940 does a good job of re-transmitting audio during a launch. I believe they come on an hour or two before launch time, and it's a great place to listen. Also give a holler on our 442.400 repeater http://k4rpt.com/ we are south of KSC in Melbourne, but have reasonable coverage up that way, especially if you have a mobile radio. HT's should work OK, but will probably be spotty, although we have had people check in from the Canaveral National Seashore with HT's with no problem. We also re transmit some launch audio, but on an informal basis. Echo/IRLP is available as well. A good repeater list is at http://florida-repeaters.org/dblist.htm search for Brevard County. An incomplete list is at http://www.repeaterbook.com/repeaters/LocationSearch.php?state_id=12&loc=Br… That way you can have someone to talk to while sitting in the traffic that is likely to ensue! Scott/WB2UZR

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4A0IARU today in FM Sats
by Omar Alvarez 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Hello Isamel XE1AY (DK79) will be in the FM Sats like 4A0IARU, if someone wants that special Call, he will be QRP with FT-60R and Arrow II antenna. Good luck Omar XE1AO DK89df ******************************** M.C. Omar Alvarez Cárdenas Facultad de Telematica, U de C 316 1075 xe1aom(a)ucol.mx omar_ac(a)hotmail.com ********************************

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HO-68?
by Reid Crowe 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Has anyone heard if or when HO-68 will be back on? I am back in Greenland and had a lot of good QSOs on this bird last year, I'd like to repeat that again this year. If it's down it looks like the only bird I'll have to use is AO-51 73, Reid OX/N0RC

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Re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 6, Issue 231
by Louis McFadin 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

This is an update on the ARISSat activities. We had a telecon with the ARISSat team in Russia. Here is the situation as described by them. The Russian suit battery that was intended to be used on ARISSat was used during testing both on the ground and onboard ISS when it first arrived. When it was tested prior to the planned April 12 operation, it was discovered that the battery was low on charge. The suit battery's are specified for only five cycles of charge. It was decided to not recharge the battery at this time in order to keep the number of cycles as low as possible and thus saving the battery for the actual mission. That deployment is currently scheduled for July 26. We are still trying to get more information on the storage status and the battery health from the Russian team. We will keep you informed as we prepare for the eventual deployment of ARISSat. Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager On Apr 21, 2011, at 10:29 AM, amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org wrote: > Send AMSAT-BB mailing list submissions to > amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org > > You can reach the person managing the list at > amsat-bb-owner(a)amsat.org > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-BB digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. 51 on, then off again (Andrew Glasbrenner) > 2. Re: 51 on, then off again (CA3SOC Raul Romero) > 3. Re: 51 on, then off again (Ted) > 4. Re: 51 on, then off again (Andrew Glasbrenner) > 5. Fwd: ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch > (Stuart Balanger) > 6. Re: HF Satellite Experiment? (hi Z) (i8cvs) > 7. Element Corrosion (Clint Bradford) > 8. Re: Element Corrosion (Clint Bradford) > 9. Looking for Yaesu azimuth/elevation Rotors (Frank Viggiano) > 10. ICOM Giving Away D-Star Repeaters (Clint Bradford) > 11. Balloon across Atlantic delayed to 27/29 apr (Bob Bruninga) > 12. STS-134 (Bobby Lacey) > 13. Re: STS-134 (Tom Williams) > 14. AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; activity reports > appreciated (Mark L. Hammond) > 15. CO6CBF from EL92 QRV tomorrow on AO7 mode A > (hmartinez(a)ucf.edu.cu) > 16. Re: AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; activity reports > appreciated (Eric Knaps, ON4HF) > 17. Re: [ao51-modes] Re: AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; > activity reports appreciated (Andrew Glasbrenner) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:06:00 -0400 (GMT-04:00) > From: Andrew Glasbrenner <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again > To: amsat-bb <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: > <19826895.1303319160942.JavaMail.root(a)elwamui-ovcar.atl.sa.earthlink.net> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 > > I turned AO-51 back on, and tried to turn the PL system on unsuccessfully before the end of the pass. Sorry about that, I'll get it on on the next pass. Get your 67Hz PL tone programmed back in! > > 73, Drew KO4MA > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 2 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 18:08:23 -0300 > From: "CA3SOC Raul Romero" <ce3soc(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: 51 on, then off again > To: "Andrew Glasbrenner" <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com>, "amsat-bb" > <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <CD3A0C76DF4C4565A5C53CD54988A32B@dualcore> > Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; > reply-type=original > > now here off > send tone 67.0 is off > > Raul Romero > 9-7190753 > ce3soc(a)gmail.com > > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Andrew Glasbrenner" <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com> > To: "amsat-bb" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 2:06 PM > Subject: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again > > >> I turned AO-51 back on, and tried to turn the PL system on unsuccessfully >> before the end of the pass. Sorry about that, I'll get it on on the next >> pass. Get your 67Hz PL tone programmed back in! >> >> 73, Drew KO4MA >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 3 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:06:43 -0700 > From: "Ted" <k7trkradio(a)charter.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: 51 on, then off again > To: "'Andrew Glasbrenner'" <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com>, "'amsat-bb'" > <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <7A46AF569C854D3FAEBC5A83A3381648@HamComputer> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > RU changing the uplink back to the old freq? > > -----Original Message----- > From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On > Behalf Of Andrew Glasbrenner > Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 10:06 AM > To: amsat-bb > Subject: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again > > I turned AO-51 back on, and tried to turn the PL system on unsuccessfully > before the end of the pass. Sorry about that, I'll get it on on the next > pass. Get your 67Hz PL tone programmed back in! > > 73, Drew KO4MA > > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 4 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:18:36 -0400 (GMT-04:00) > From: Andrew Glasbrenner <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: 51 on, then off again > To: Ted <k7trkradio(a)charter.net>, "'amsat-bb'" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: > <11802921.1303327116744.JavaMail.root(a)elwamui-ovcar.atl.sa.earthlink.net> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 > > No, I'll let everyone know when we do though. > > 73, Drew KO4MA > > > -----Original Message----- >> From: Ted <k7trkradio(a)charter.net> >> Sent: Apr 20, 2011 6:06 PM >> To: 'Andrew Glasbrenner' <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com>, 'amsat-bb' <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >> Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again >> >> RU changing the uplink back to the old freq? >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On >> Behalf Of Andrew Glasbrenner >> Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 10:06 AM >> To: amsat-bb >> Subject: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again >> >> I turned AO-51 back on, and tried to turn the PL system on unsuccessfully >> before the end of the pass. Sorry about that, I'll get it on on the next >> pass. Get your 67Hz PL tone programmed back in! >> >> 73, Drew KO4MA >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >> > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 5 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 18:16:38 -0400 > From: Stuart Balanger <wa2bss(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Fwd: ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon > Launch > To: roster(a)wr2abb.org, members(a)wr2abb.org, kt2d(a)arrl.net > Cc: AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <BANLkTimrq09W95hDwe6phKzNEHHmf=StNQ(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > *Hi Guys & Gals, (Note, the top fart is for MBARC > Members; & anyone can read the top part, which > is not private!) > Since I know that some of the new "Hams" are not > ARRL Members, I thoughtthat this would be a perfect > oppertunity to have the "New Hams" join ARRL & MBARC & the club would get > alittle back, when the "New Hams joun both ARRL & MBARC! > The ARRL home page is: www.arrl.org > & MBARC home Page: www.wr2abb.org/home/ > Next MBARC "In Person" meeting (5/10); 7PM, > Po'k Gallaria (Community Room), In back of Food Ct. > (On 2nd. floor, & SW Corner of Bldg. (Where City Po'k > & Dut. Co. Loop Buses Stup!) > 73,.Stu (WA2BSS;Director) > * > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: ARRL Web site <memberlist(a)www.arrl.org> > Date: Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 2:07 PM > Subject: ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch > To: wa2bss(a)gmail.com > > > SB SPACE @ ARL $ARLS006 > ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch > > ZCZC AS06 > QST de W1AW > Space Bulletin 006 ARLS006 >> From ARRL Headquarters > Newington, CT April 20, 2011 > To all radio amateurs > > SB SPACE ARL ARLS006 > ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch > > The Project Blue Horizon 5 high-altitude transatlantic balloon is > scheduled for launch, weather permitting, at 0400 UTC (midnight > EDST) Friday, April 22, from Oswego, New York. The weather forecast > for launch time calls for clear to partly cloudy conditions. > > The Project Blue Horizon team is attempting to break current Amateur > Radio high-altitude balloon records for distance (3361.81 miles) and > duration (49 hours, 45 minutes). The payload will be carried beneath > a 54,000 cubic foot capacity helium-filled balloon cruising between > 85,000 and 100,000 feet. > > Amateurs worldwide are encouraged to monitor the N2XE CW telemetry > beacons at 7.1023 and 10.1466 MHz. The balloon is also equipped with > an APRS beacon at 144.39 MHz using the call sign KC2ZJH. Amateurs > can send reports via e-mail to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. > > More information about the program, including the latest projected > flight path, is at the Project Blue Horizon website at, > http://www.projectbluehorizon.com. Launch and flight updates will > also be available on Twitter at, http://twitter.com/#!/PBH5 . > NNNN > /EX > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 6 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 02:26:08 +0200 > From: "i8cvs" <domenico.i8cvs(a)tin.it> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: HF Satellite Experiment? (hi Z) > To: "Bob Bruninga" <bruninga(a)usna.edu>, "'James Duffey'" > <jamesduffey(a)comcast.net> > Cc: 'amsat-bb BB' <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <000001cbffba$f5da1060$0401a8c0@b3o7f1> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > Hi Bob, WB4APR > > I suggest you to take a look at the succesful 20 MHz and 40 MHz > HF antennas used by SPUTNIK-1 > > http://www.antenna-theory.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?p=451&sid=e909b07b8e95c79 > ac9a04a6adec04932 > > The 58 cm sphere had four antennas, two were 2.4 meters long and > two were 2.9 meters long. They were V shaped turnstile angled at 35 > degrees from the longitudinal axis, and two transmitters alternately > emitted 20 or 40 MHz. > > Following your proposal a deployed 1000m tether have a very poor > radiation efficiency and will have so much drag and the Cubesat will > de-orbit in only a few days > > On the other side the V shaped turnstile are very short and your Cubesat > experiment will not be limited by the drag factor and will last a very long > time . > > Also take a look at the HF antennas of OSCAR-6, OSCAR-7, RS-10/11, > RS-12/13, RS-15 and RS-16 > > 73" de > > i8CVS Domenico > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Bob Bruninga" <bruninga(a)usna.edu> > To: "'James Duffey'" <jamesduffey(a)comcast.net> > Cc: "'amsat-bb BB'" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 8:41 PM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: HF Satellite Experiment? (hi Z) > > >> Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] HF Satellite Experiment? >> >>> Bob - Calculate the resistance of 1000M of whatever >>> wire you are using at the frequencies you are operating on. >>> It will be low. The resistive component of the impedance >>> will dominate the reactive component, so a simple >>> transformer will do. >> >> Turns out I just learned today that the tether is going to be about 2k > ohms. >> That's 2 ohms per meter or Huge! For the first half wavelength at 7 MHz, >> this is 40 ohms or a nice dummy load... >> >> Putting that into EZNEC changes the antenna from the expected long-wire > cone >> with 14 dBi gain straight down to a nearly perfect Dipole pattern (off the >> sides) with a gain of - 64 dBi and a feed point impedance of 50000 > +j36000. >> In other words, only the first 1/2 wave is really doing anything as far as >> pattern. >> >> Again, these are only 1st cut assessments(we haven't really modeled the >> actual cubesat structure yet), but this high resistance of the tether is >> really going to need some looking at... >> >> Bob, WB4APR >> >>> Cubesat HF experiment: >>> >>> >>> >>> We have revised our HF satellite experiment proposal to be a CW > telemetry >>> beacon on 40, 20, 15 and 10 meter bands. The experiment will last only > a >>> few days, since the deployed 1000m tether will have so much drag, we > will >>> de-orbit in only a few days. >>> >>> >>> >>> The idea is a keyed CW oscillator on 7.010 MHz with harmonics on 14.020, >>> 21.030 and 28.040 MHz. These bands are all in the IARU Satelilte >>> allocation. We will filter all harmonics above 28 MHz. >>> >>> >>> >>> The challenge will be how to feed a 1000m long wire from only a 4"x4"x7" >>> counterpoise (on all bands). transformer coupling? >>> >>> >>> >>> The tether will be vertical and can act as a long wire antenna with a > very >>> narrow cone angle pointed straight down. Antenna gain will be more than >> 10 >>> dB on all bands. This moving donut gain pattern sweeping across the > earth >>> should pose some interesting reception reports (If any of it gets > through >>> the ionosphere). >>> >>> >>> >>> Launch Opportunity no earlier than March 2012. Putting us closer and >> closer >>> to the Solar Max which would be the worst time for this experiment. >>> >>> >>> >>> Other than a nice AMSAT experiment, if anyone can use this for valid >>> ionosphereic science, come join us. >>> >>> >>> >>> Bob, WB4APR >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite > program! >>> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >> -- >> KK6MC >> James Duffey >> Cedar Crest NM >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 7 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 21:33:27 -0700 > From: Clint Bradford <clintbradford(a)mac.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Element Corrosion > To: AMSAT BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <AC58FEEE-4B4F-4604-B5A7-02B7A9D681E1(a)mac.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; CHARSET=US-ASCII > >> From my in box this evening - any ideas for this gentleman? > > What do you recommend to treat aluminum corrosion? My HyGain 14-AVQ > seems to have problems with that issue even here in dry heat Palm Springs, CA. > > I used to recommend cleaning and a liberal slathering of marine spar varnish - > which works for me in Riverside, CA. But what is better for a harsher environment? > > Clint > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 8 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 22:20:05 -0700 > From: Clint Bradford <clintbradford(a)mac.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Element Corrosion > To: AMSAT BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <78592835-2468-4E19-ADE9-B9ABA497CCC8(a)mac.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; CHARSET=US-ASCII > > THANK YOU all for your immediate and informative replies! > > Clint > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 9 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 21:46:36 -0700 (PDT) > From: Frank Viggiano <frankviggiano(a)rocketmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Looking for Yaesu azimuth/elevation Rotors > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <751908.60219.qm(a)web113015.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii > > Any one have G5400 or sim rotor 4 sale?73Kb2mvn > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 10 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:09:04 -0700 > From: Clint Bradford <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] ICOM Giving Away D-Star Repeaters > To: AMSAT BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <3E52C1FD-1643-4BA7-8977-8C79DEC51E25(a)earthlink.net> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii > > > http://www.icomamerica.com/en/dstarpromo/ > > Sent from my iPod touch. > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 11 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 07:54:25 -0400 > From: "Bob Bruninga" <bruninga(a)usna.edu> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Balloon across Atlantic delayed to 27/29 apr > To: "'amsat-bb BB'" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Cc: 'TAPR APRS Mailing List' <aprssig(a)tapr.org> > Message-ID: <07c001cc001a$dca592d0$95f0b870$@edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" > > I have been informed: > > The trans-atlantic balloon attempt, PBH-15, has been postponed until next week due to unfavorable flight predictions and some last minute testing issues. > > They will now be attempting to launch PBH-15 sometime next week (4/27-4/29). Latest info can always be found on Twitter (@PBH5) or by contacting <triebwasser(a)gmail.com> > > Thanks for the help and hope to hear from you next week. > > PBH5 Team > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Bob Bruninga <bruninga(a)usna.edu> > Date: Tue, Apr 19, 2011 at 4:22 PM > Subject: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? > To: Amsat <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>, TAPR APRS Mailing List <aprssig(a)tapr.org> > Cc: Tom Triebwasser <triebwasser(a)gmail.com>, Bob Bruninga <bruninga(a)usna.edu> > > > KC2TUA announces: Balloon attempt across the Atlantic. 21 April 2011 > > Hams in the USA and worldwide are needed to listen on 7.1023 and 10.1466 MHz > and to send readings of the balloon's progress to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. More > information about the program, including the latest projected flight path, > can be found at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/ > https://twitter.com/PBH5. > > It also has an APRS GPS tracker on 144.39 with the callsign KC2ZJH and will > launch from Oswego, NY around midnight Thursday. Thanks in advance for your > help! > > The HF downlink exact frequency will vary 10 Hz or so with temperature. > Accurate recording of frequency will be useful. > > 73, > -Tom Triebwasser > PBH Alumnus '09 > KC2TUA > > ----------------------------------------------------------------------- > > The Project Blue Horizon Increment 5 (PBH V) team has finalized a launch > window for the third and final flight of Increment 5; launch of PBH-15 is > tentatively planned for 4/21/11 ? 4/22/11. The team will be rolling out GO/ > NO-GO communications to all parties to provide adequate time for interested > individuals to plan accordingly for observing the launch or tracking and > following the mission progress. > > The PBH-15 mission will be the Increment 5 teams attempt at breaking the > current ARHAB distance (3,361.81 miles) and duration (49 hours, 45 minutes) > records. It will include integration of an altitude control mechanism for > reducing air vehicle weight during flight to sustain float and 30m HF > communications via an Enhanced Morse Decoder provided by Dylan Thorner of > Enhanced Solutions. PBH-15 will be lifted with a 54,000 cubic foot > Zero-pressure envelope and is projected to float for long durations between > 85,000-110,000. > > The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM ? > 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. > > At conclusion of Thursday?s Flight Readiness Review (2PM - 3PM), the team > will provide updated GO/ NO-GO information. > > During the PBH-15 mission, the Twitter feed will be updated in 30 minute > increments at: http://twitter.com/PBH5 > > -------------------------------------- > > For those interested in tracking the Mission Payload, the following band > plan and call signs will be used for PBH-15: > > Function > Frequency > Required > HAM Level > > Payload > Call Sign > Primary Voice / Mission Communication > 147.500MHz > Technician > > Mission Payload HF (40m) > N2XE > Secondary Voice / Mission Communication > Owego Repeater (Duplex) > 146.760MHz > Technician > > Mission Payload HF (30m) > N2XE > > > > > Mission Payload APRS > KC2ZJH > APRS > 144.390MHz > Technician > > > > 40m HF (Morse Code) > See attached > Technician > > > > 30m HF (Morse Code) > See attached > General > > > > > Users can input data received from the Mission Payload via the ?User Input? > tab at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/. > > Points received from the PBH-15 payload over HF can also be submitted to: > PBH15.data(a)gmail.com > > Thanks, > > Matthew T. Lewis > > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 12 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:26:12 -0400 > From: Bobby Lacey <amsat(a)duaneallman.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] STS-134 > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <BANLkTinZvAvwDrNot8cr6AgLtYh36Ha72w(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > I will be down at KSC to cover Endeavour's last launch from the press site > next week, and I was just wondering if any hams on the list would be making > the trip down to the cape? The white house announced yesterday that POTUS > will be attending this launch, so security may be interesting. > > I'll be tweeting and posting photos of RSS retraction + launch. > > http://www.twitter.com/kf4gta > http://www.flickr.com/photos/rllacey > > 73 > Bobby > KF4GTA > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 13 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:01:29 -0400 > From: Tom Williams <tdub20120(a)yahoo.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: STS-134 > To: Bobby Lacey <amsat(a)duaneallman.net> > Cc: "amsat-bb(a)amsat.org" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <51123887-5F5F-430D-A6AD-098622FAD203(a)yahoo.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii > > There's a good bunch of hams in the area that cover just about all of the Cape launches and rebroadcast the countdown nets on a local repeater. > > You can get the skinny at http://www.lisats.org/. > > I was able to view a shuttle launch a while back from next to the VAB, and had my little VX-3 tuned to their freq. I was consistently up to date on holds, issues, and the like. > > 73s > > Tom Williams > KJ4EAW > > On Apr 21, 2011, at 8:26 AM, Bobby Lacey <amsat(a)duaneallman.net> wrote: > >> I will be down at KSC to cover Endeavour's last launch from the press site >> next week, and I was just wondering if any hams on the list would be making >> the trip down to the cape? The white house announced yesterday that POTUS >> will be attending this launch, so security may be interesting. >> >> I'll be tweeting and posting photos of RSS retraction + launch. >> >> http://www.twitter.com/kf4gta >> http://www.flickr.com/photos/rllacey >> >> 73 >> Bobby >> KF4GTA >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 14 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:09:04 -0400 > From: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; activity > reports appreciated > To: Amsat - BBS <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Cc: ao51-modes(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <BANLkTik5rv632SpUCMXqqwYDWtmgD=5bqg(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > Hello AO-51 users, > > As you have noticed, AO-51 has recently experienced a few shutdowns > due to a low battery voltage trip. This is because of increasing > eclipses (now at 20 mins per orbit and increasing), poor sun angles > (still getting worse), and a "weak" battery. > > We are now using the 67 Hz PL tone required mode in order to turn the > transmitter(s) OFF when not in use. The transmitter power is down to > about 550 mW. We will continue adjusting various parameters, > including transmitter power, trigger voltages, etc. in order to keep > the battery temperatures reasonable. Keep in mind that the power > management feature keeps the transmitter(s) OFF during eclipses, so > you can't bring it up even with a PL tone while the satellite is in > eclipse. > > Here is our current schedule, which will continue until further notice: > > AO-51 Schedule > > Mode V/U FM Voice Repeater (**67 Hz PL tone required**) > Uplink: 145.880 MHz FM (Temporarily from 145.920) > Downlink 435.300 MHz FM > > > The AO-51 Command Team can use your help! > > 1-Please make activity reports to: http://oscar.dcarr.org/ This is > very useful to all users. Until everyone knows that the 67 Hz tone > is required, we might see some conflicting reports. > > 2-Please help spread the word about needing the 67 Hz tone! > > 73, > > -- > Mark L. Hammond [N8MH] > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 15 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:45:38 -0400 (EDT) > From: hmartinez(a)ucf.edu.cu > Subject: [amsat-bb] CO6CBF from EL92 QRV tomorrow on AO7 mode A > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <1212.10.14.32.15.1303393538.squirrel(a)correo.ucf.edu.cu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" > > > > > > Hello friends > > ? > > > > ? > > I will try to be QRV on AO7 in mode (A) tomorrow morning and tomorrow afternoon > around 29.447 KHz in CW. > > ? > > > > ? > > This is a great experiment for me because I will be trying my homemade setup. > > Thank you and 73 > > ? > > ? > Hector, CO6CBF > > ? > > EL92 > > ? > > > > *************************************** > Genius is one per cent > inspiration, > and ninety-nine per cent > perspiration. > -- Thomas A. > Edison > *************************************** > > > --- > Free the Cuban Five! > http://www.injusticia.cubaweb.cu/, http://www.antiterroristas.cu/ > > Participe en Universidad 2012, del 13 al 17 de febrero de 2012. Habana, Cuba. > http://www.congresouniversidad.cu/ > > Consulte la Enciclopedia Colaborativa Cubana: http://www.ecured.cu/ > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 16 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:17:54 +0200 > From: "Eric Knaps, ON4HF" <on4hf(a)telenet.be> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; activity > reports appreciated > Cc: Amsat - BBS <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>, ao51-modes(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <4DB03C92.2080201(a)telenet.be> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed > > Hello, > > Just worked AO-51 without 67Hz tone. I noticed that the carrier drops > out sometimes. I guess you activate the carrier again with subtone but > i'm not sure. > 73, > Eric. > > Amateur Radio Station ON4HF > Eric Knaps > Satellite manager UBA > > Tel. +32472985876 (mobile) > > http://www.on4hf.be > > > Op 21/04/2011 15:09, Mark L. Hammond schreef: >> Hello AO-51 users, >> >> As you have noticed, AO-51 has recently experienced a few shutdowns >> due to a low battery voltage trip. This is because of increasing >> eclipses (now at 20 mins per orbit and increasing), poor sun angles >> (still getting worse), and a "weak" battery. >> >> We are now using the 67 Hz PL tone required mode in order to turn the >> transmitter(s) OFF when not in use. The transmitter power is down to >> about 550 mW. We will continue adjusting various parameters, >> including transmitter power, trigger voltages, etc. in order to keep >> the battery temperatures reasonable. Keep in mind that the power >> management feature keeps the transmitter(s) OFF during eclipses, so >> you can't bring it up even with a PL tone while the satellite is in >> eclipse. >> >> Here is our current schedule, which will continue until further notice: >> >> AO-51 Schedule >> >> Mode V/U FM Voice Repeater (**67 Hz PL tone required**) >> Uplink: 145.880 MHz FM (Temporarily from 145.920) >> Downlink 435.300 MHz FM >> >> >> The AO-51 Command Team can use your help! >> >> 1-Please make activity reports to: http://oscar.dcarr.org/ This is >> very useful to all users. Until everyone knows that the 67 Hz tone >> is required, we might see some conflicting reports. >> >> 2-Please help spread the word about needing the 67 Hz tone! >> >> 73, >> > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 17 > Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:32:45 -0400 (GMT-04:00) > From: Andrew Glasbrenner <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: [ao51-modes] Re: AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL > tone; activity reports appreciated > To: "Eric Knaps,ON4HF" <on4hf(a)telenet.be> > Cc: Amsat - BBS <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>, ao51-modes(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: > <3230746.1303392765706.JavaMail.root(a)elwamui-chisos.atl.sa.earthlink.net> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 > > > > > -----Original Message----- >> From: "Eric Knaps, ON4HF" <on4hf(a)telenet.be> >> >> Hello, >> >> Just worked AO-51 without 67Hz tone. I noticed that the carrier drops >> out sometimes. I guess you activate the carrier again with subtone but >> i'm not sure. >> 73, >> Eric. > > Thanks Eric. You are correct. In this newer PL scheme, the 67 Hz tone turns the transmitter on for two minutes, and the uplink receiver is open squelched. If someone else on the satellite has their tone on and activates the repeater, you can have a QSO with them in the 2 minute window. The open squelch also prevents the logjam effect we see on the older PL mode, where multiple stations may be transmitting simultaneously with none getting through, and maybe not realizing why. > > 73, Drew KO4MA > AMSAT-NA VP Operations > > > > > ------------------------------ > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via amsat-bb(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 6, Issue 231 > **************************************** Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager

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Re: multi-sat, chronilogical pass predictions
by Bill W1PA 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Thanks to all who responded to my inquiry, here and directly. I found AOS.exe, and the satellite scripting (red, blue, yellow "orbit" icon) in NOVA. I am pretty embarrassed about the latter, since I have owned NOVA for a long time _and_ I am a software professional. I just assumed if it wasn't under Utilities-->Listing, the capability wasn't there. RTFM, I know, I know... Anyway, thanks again. Bill W1PA

1 0

STS-134
by Bobby Lacey 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

I will be down at KSC to cover Endeavour's last launch from the press site next week, and I was just wondering if any hams on the list would be making the trip down to the cape? The white house announced yesterday that POTUS will be attending this launch, so security may be interesting. I'll be tweeting and posting photos of RSS retraction + launch. http://www.twitter.com/kf4gta http://www.flickr.com/photos/rllacey 73 Bobby KF4GTA

3 2

AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; activity reports appreciated
by Mark L. Hammond 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

Hello AO-51 users, As you have noticed, AO-51 has recently experienced a few shutdowns due to a low battery voltage trip. This is because of increasing eclipses (now at 20 mins per orbit and increasing), poor sun angles (still getting worse), and a "weak" battery. We are now using the 67 Hz PL tone required mode in order to turn the transmitter(s) OFF when not in use. The transmitter power is down to about 550 mW. We will continue adjusting various parameters, including transmitter power, trigger voltages, etc. in order to keep the battery temperatures reasonable. Keep in mind that the power management feature keeps the transmitter(s) OFF during eclipses, so you can't bring it up even with a PL tone while the satellite is in eclipse. Here is our current schedule, which will continue until further notice: AO-51 Schedule Mode V/U FM Voice Repeater (**67 Hz PL tone required**) Uplink: 145.880 MHz FM (Temporarily from 145.920) Downlink 435.300 MHz FM The AO-51 Command Team can use your help! 1-Please make activity reports to: http://oscar.dcarr.org/ This is very useful to all users. Until everyone knows that the 67 Hz tone is required, we might see some conflicting reports. 2-Please help spread the word about needing the 67 Hz tone! 73, -- Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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Re: [ao51-modes] Re: AO-51 now requires 67 Hz PL tone; activity reports appreciated
by Andrew Glasbrenner 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

-----Original Message----- >From: "Eric Knaps, ON4HF" <on4hf(a)telenet.be> > >Hello, > >Just worked AO-51 without 67Hz tone. I noticed that the carrier drops >out sometimes. I guess you activate the carrier again with subtone but >i'm not sure. >73, >Eric. Thanks Eric. You are correct. In this newer PL scheme, the 67 Hz tone turns the transmitter on for two minutes, and the uplink receiver is open squelched. If someone else on the satellite has their tone on and activates the repeater, you can have a QSO with them in the 2 minute window. The open squelch also prevents the logjam effect we see on the older PL mode, where multiple stations may be transmitting simultaneously with none getting through, and maybe not realizing why. 73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations

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Balloon across Atlantic delayed to 27/29 apr
by Bob Bruninga 21 Apr '11

21 Apr '11

I have been informed: The trans-atlantic balloon attempt, PBH-15, has been postponed until next week due to unfavorable flight predictions and some last minute testing issues. They will now be attempting to launch PBH-15 sometime next week (4/27-4/29). Latest info can always be found on Twitter (@PBH5) or by contacting <triebwasser(a)gmail.com> Thanks for the help and hope to hear from you next week. PBH5 Team ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Bob Bruninga <bruninga(a)usna.edu> Date: Tue, Apr 19, 2011 at 4:22 PM Subject: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? To: Amsat <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>, TAPR APRS Mailing List <aprssig(a)tapr.org> Cc: Tom Triebwasser <triebwasser(a)gmail.com>, Bob Bruninga <bruninga(a)usna.edu> KC2TUA announces: Balloon attempt across the Atlantic. 21 April 2011 Hams in the USA and worldwide are needed to listen on 7.1023 and 10.1466 MHz and to send readings of the balloon's progress to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. More information about the program, including the latest projected flight path, can be found at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/ https://twitter.com/PBH5. It also has an APRS GPS tracker on 144.39 with the callsign KC2ZJH and will launch from Oswego, NY around midnight Thursday. Thanks in advance for your help! The HF downlink exact frequency will vary 10 Hz or so with temperature. Accurate recording of frequency will be useful. 73, -Tom Triebwasser PBH Alumnus '09 KC2TUA ----------------------------------------------------------------------- The Project Blue Horizon Increment 5 (PBH V) team has finalized a launch window for the third and final flight of Increment 5; launch of PBH-15 is tentatively planned for 4/21/11 – 4/22/11. The team will be rolling out GO/ NO-GO communications to all parties to provide adequate time for interested individuals to plan accordingly for observing the launch or tracking and following the mission progress. The PBH-15 mission will be the Increment 5 teams attempt at breaking the current ARHAB distance (3,361.81 miles) and duration (49 hours, 45 minutes) records. It will include integration of an altitude control mechanism for reducing air vehicle weight during flight to sustain float and 30m HF communications via an Enhanced Morse Decoder provided by Dylan Thorner of Enhanced Solutions. PBH-15 will be lifted with a 54,000 cubic foot Zero-pressure envelope and is projected to float for long durations between 85,000-110,000. The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM – 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. At conclusion of Thursday’s Flight Readiness Review (2PM - 3PM), the team will provide updated GO/ NO-GO information. During the PBH-15 mission, the Twitter feed will be updated in 30 minute increments at: http://twitter.com/PBH5 -------------------------------------- For those interested in tracking the Mission Payload, the following band plan and call signs will be used for PBH-15: Function Frequency Required HAM Level Payload Call Sign Primary Voice / Mission Communication 147.500MHz Technician Mission Payload HF (40m) N2XE Secondary Voice / Mission Communication Owego Repeater (Duplex) 146.760MHz Technician Mission Payload HF (30m) N2XE Mission Payload APRS KC2ZJH APRS 144.390MHz Technician 40m HF (Morse Code) See attached Technician 30m HF (Morse Code) See attached General Users can input data received from the Mission Payload via the “User Input” tab at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/. Points received from the PBH-15 payload over HF can also be submitted to: PBH15.data(a)gmail.com Thanks, Matthew T. Lewis

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Re: Element Corrosion
by Clint Bradford 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

THANK YOU all for your immediate and informative replies! Clint

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Looking for Yaesu azimuth/elevation Rotors
by Frank Viggiano 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Any one have G5400 or sim rotor 4 sale?73Kb2mvn

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Element Corrosion
by Clint Bradford 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

>From my in box this evening - any ideas for this gentleman? What do you recommend to treat aluminum corrosion? My HyGain 14-AVQ seems to have problems with that issue even here in dry heat Palm Springs, CA. I used to recommend cleaning and a liberal slathering of marine spar varnish - which works for me in Riverside, CA. But what is better for a harsher environment? Clint

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HF Satellite Experiment?
by Bob Bruninga 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Cubesat HF experiment: We have revised our HF satellite experiment proposal to be a CW telemetry beacon on 40, 20, 15 and 10 meter bands. The experiment will last only a few days, since the deployed 1000m tether will have so much drag, we will de-orbit in only a few days. The idea is a keyed CW oscillator on 7.010 MHz with harmonics on 14.020, 21.030 and 28.040 MHz. These bands are all in the IARU Satelilte allocation. We will filter all harmonics above 28 MHz. The challenge will be how to feed a 1000m long wire from only a 4"x4"x7" counterpoise (on all bands). transformer coupling? The tether will be vertical and can act as a long wire antenna with a very narrow cone angle pointed straight down. Antenna gain will be more than 10 dB on all bands. This moving donut gain pattern sweeping across the earth should pose some interesting reception reports (If any of it gets through the ionosphere). Launch Opportunity no earlier than March 2012. Putting us closer and closer to the Solar Max which would be the worst time for this experiment. Other than a nice AMSAT experiment, if anyone can use this for valid ionosphereic science, come join us. Bob, WB4APR

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Fwd: ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch
by Stuart Balanger 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

*Hi Guys & Gals, (Note, the top fart is for MBARC Members; & anyone can read the top part, which is not private!) Since I know that some of the new "Hams" are not ARRL Members, I thoughtthat this would be a perfect oppertunity to have the "New Hams" join ARRL & MBARC & the club would get alittle back, when the "New Hams joun both ARRL & MBARC! The ARRL home page is: www.arrl.org & MBARC home Page: www.wr2abb.org/home/ Next MBARC "In Person" meeting (5/10); 7PM, Po'k Gallaria (Community Room), In back of Food Ct. (On 2nd. floor, & SW Corner of Bldg. (Where City Po'k & Dut. Co. Loop Buses Stup!) 73,.Stu (WA2BSS;Director) * ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: ARRL Web site <memberlist(a)www.arrl.org> Date: Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 2:07 PM Subject: ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch To: wa2bss(a)gmail.com SB SPACE @ ARL $ARLS006 ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch ZCZC AS06 QST de W1AW Space Bulletin 006 ARLS006 >From ARRL Headquarters Newington, CT April 20, 2011 To all radio amateurs SB SPACE ARL ARLS006 ARLS006 Transatlantic Amateur Radio Balloon Launch The Project Blue Horizon 5 high-altitude transatlantic balloon is scheduled for launch, weather permitting, at 0400 UTC (midnight EDST) Friday, April 22, from Oswego, New York. The weather forecast for launch time calls for clear to partly cloudy conditions. The Project Blue Horizon team is attempting to break current Amateur Radio high-altitude balloon records for distance (3361.81 miles) and duration (49 hours, 45 minutes). The payload will be carried beneath a 54,000 cubic foot capacity helium-filled balloon cruising between 85,000 and 100,000 feet. Amateurs worldwide are encouraged to monitor the N2XE CW telemetry beacons at 7.1023 and 10.1466 MHz. The balloon is also equipped with an APRS beacon at 144.39 MHz using the call sign KC2ZJH. Amateurs can send reports via e-mail to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. More information about the program, including the latest projected flight path, is at the Project Blue Horizon website at, http://www.projectbluehorizon.com. Launch and flight updates will also be available on Twitter at, http://twitter.com/#!/PBH5 . NNNN /EX

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51 on, then off again
by Andrew Glasbrenner 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

I turned AO-51 back on, and tried to turn the PL system on unsuccessfully before the end of the pass. Sorry about that, I'll get it on on the next pass. Get your 67Hz PL tone programmed back in! 73, Drew KO4MA

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Re: 51 on, then off again
by Andrew Glasbrenner 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

No, I'll let everyone know when we do though. 73, Drew KO4MA -----Original Message----- >From: Ted <k7trkradio(a)charter.net> >Sent: Apr 20, 2011 6:06 PM >To: 'Andrew Glasbrenner' <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com>, 'amsat-bb' <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again > >RU changing the uplink back to the old freq? > >-----Original Message----- >From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On >Behalf Of Andrew Glasbrenner >Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 10:06 AM >To: amsat-bb >Subject: [amsat-bb] 51 on, then off again > >I turned AO-51 back on, and tried to turn the PL system on unsuccessfully >before the end of the pass. Sorry about that, I'll get it on on the next >pass. Get your 67Hz PL tone programmed back in! > >73, Drew KO4MA > > >_______________________________________________ >Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > >

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Re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 6, Issue 229
by Louis McFadin 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Graham, Here is one source. http://www.micro-coax.com/pages/products/producttypes/cabletypes/Semi-Rigid… Semi rigid coax with SMA or SMB connectors. Most of them have teflon insulators which meet all the space specs. Lou McFadin W5DID w5did(a)mac.com On Apr 20, 2011, at 11:12 AM, amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org wrote: > Send AMSAT-BB mailing list submissions to > amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org > > You can reach the person managing the list at > amsat-bb-owner(a)amsat.org > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-BB digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements (Bill Howell) > 2. ISS Over North America (Clint Bradford) > 3. Re For sale (Gerry) > 4. XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. (David Maciel) > 5. XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. Correct SORRY (David Maciel) > 6. PLAN-13 porting to visual studio (Andy Brian) > 7. Re: HF Satellite Experiment (Richard Limebear) > 8. CN77 (Bob- W7LRD) > 9. Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements (KM9U) > 10. advice request for FUNcube (Graham Shirville) > 11. AO-51 down 1150 utc 20 April (Mark L. Hammond) > 12. Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? (Joe) > 13. Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements (Zachary Beougher) > 14. Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? (Zachary Beougher) > 15. Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? (Stephen Davis) > 16. Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements (Tom Workman) > 17. Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > (Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:10:05 -0500 > From: Bill Howell <bhowell(a)mail.utexas.edu> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > To: Tom Workman <k0tw(a)cox.net> > Cc: Amsat List <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <E148B312-A47B-4898-BA2D-8F995C3FECC5(a)mail.utexas.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; delsp=yes; format=flowed > > Tom, > > Here's the link. Scroll down a bit for Sat specifics... > http://www.arrl.org/files/file/LoTW%2520Instructions/N5JB.pdf > > N5AB > > On Apr 19, 2011, at 6:48 PM, Tom Workman wrote: > >> I've decided to give Logbook of the World (LOTW) another try. I >> keep losing >> my passwords and have to start over. Maybe I'll write them down >> this time >> :-) >> >> When I tried uploading a couple of my satellite QSOs as a test LOTW >> says >> that the MODE field is invalid. I had entered "SAT". I know this >> has been >> discussed in recent months here but I couldn't find that >> discusssion in >> looking at the archives. Would someone put me on the right track as >> to what >> fields are required for a satellite QSO to be considered valid by >> LOTW? >> >> Thanks. >> Tom - K?TW >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the >> author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite >> program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 2 > Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 21:37:33 -0700 > From: Clint Bradford <clintbradford(a)mac.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] ISS Over North America > To: AMSAT BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <B95773DC-B38F-4E1C-AD65-4C6CD10B061D(a)mac.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; CHARSET=US-ASCII > > ISS passes over North America make WIRED Magazine ... > > Look Up: Spectacular Space Station Flybys This Week | Wired Science | Wired.com http://bit.ly/hs0pZu > > Clint > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 3 > Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 18:21:52 -0500 > From: "Gerry" <ve4gtb(a)mymts.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re For sale > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <BLU137-DS3E9C92D900E72B728A05183900(a)phx.gbl> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > Trak-Box sold > > Further listing of items to follow. > > Gerry VE4GTB > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 4 > Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:17:00 -0500 > From: "David Maciel" <xe3dx(a)prodigy.net.mx> > Subject: [amsat-bb] XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. > To: <Undisclosed-Recipient:;> > Message-ID: <6D3F92A12B30463DB66A7E5DA3AC9F29@Dell> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > > now I can send the job the next day, I be in some passes just listening, > some stationsdid not respect my work or others, many removed rework > opportunity to others, call upothers. if someone wants to can send me > an email and tell me you want the grid towork, I will always be happy to > help. please use the international phonetic code,M will always be "Mike" > never change it for "mexico". everything will be easier. > > > 20/april/2011 02:29Z SO-50 EK19 18:32 pm > 20/april/2011 04:09Z SO-50 EK19 18:32 pm > 20/april/2011 11:54Z AO-51 EK19 18:32 pm > 20/april/2011 12:51Z SO-50 EK19 18:32 pm > 20/april/2011 19:40Z AO-27 EK18 18:32 pm > 20/april/2011 21:15Z AO-51 EK18 04:15 pm > 20/april/2011 22:52Z AO-51 EK18 17:52 pm > 21/april/2011 02:56Z SO-50 EK18 21:56 pm > > > > Dave > EK18 EK19 > > Next ===>EK08 EK08 > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 5 > Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:45:55 -0500 > From: "David Maciel" <xe3dx(a)prodigy.net.mx> > Subject: [amsat-bb] XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. Correct SORRY > To: <Undisclosed-Recipient:;> > Message-ID: <D249AF895F274ACE83DFD6BFA9646B3B@Dell> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > > > From: David Maciel > Sent: Tuesday, April 19, 2011 7:17 PM > Subject: XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. > > > now I can send the job the next day, I be in some passes just listening, > some stationsdid not respect my work or others, many removed rework > opportunity to others, call upothers. if someone wants to can send me > an email and tell me you want the grid towork, I will always be happy to > help. please use the international phonetic code,M will always be "Mike" > never change it for "mexico". everything will be easier. > > > 20/april/2011 02:29Z SO-50 EK19 > 20/april/2011 04:09Z SO-50 EK19 > 20/april/2011 11:54Z AO-51 EK19 > 20/april/2011 12:51Z SO-50 EK19 > 20/april/2011 19:40Z AO-27 EK18 > 20/april/2011 21:15Z AO-51 EK18 > 20/april/2011 22:52Z AO-51 EK18 > 21/april/2011 02:56Z SO-50 EK18 > > > > Dave > EK18 EK19 > Next ===>EK08 EK08 > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 6 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:20:33 +0200 > From: Andy Brian <briaandy(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] PLAN-13 porting to visual studio > To: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <BANLkTikX=zoY=uu=uMNvmVwWQx9PRpKZtw(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > Hi, > > > Anyone succefuly ported PLAN-13 tracking programe to Microsost Visual studio? > I having problem with header unistd.h and function > "strncasecmp(buffer, satellite,strlen(satellite)) " > > best regards Andy > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 7 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:03:04 +0100 > From: Richard Limebear <Richard(a)g3rwl.demon.co.uk> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: HF Satellite Experiment > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <4DAE8528.9030208(a)g3rwl.demon.co.uk> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed > > Bob > >> The idea is a keyed CW oscillator on 7.010 MHz with harmonics on 14.020, >> 21.030 and 28.040 MHz. > > As an HF operator may I suggest you have a base frequency of 7.020 or higher > rather than 7010. The lower parts of the bands can get quite congested at times > so this would give ground stations a better chance of hearing them. Certainly > 7.020 is often occupied. > > 73 > Richard G3RWL > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 8 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 07:40:53 +0000 (UTC) > From: Bob- W7LRD <w7lrd(a)comcast.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] CN77 > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: > <741254962.118705.1303285253165.JavaMail.root(a)sz0126a.emeryville.ca.mail.comcast.net> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 > > > > hello > > I am planning on putting CN77 on the satellites several times later this spring and summer.? Will anounce on this bb well in advance. > > 73 Bob W7LRD > > CN87 > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 9 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 07:37:02 -0400 > From: "KM9U" <arskm9u(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > To: <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net>, <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <F98569F8573249D7821A24DA4673288C@dv9000> > Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; > reply-type=original > > I just read the LOTW FAQ and it stated that the satellite name HO-68 is > supported by LOTW. > I have never been able to upload any logs containing HO-68 as the sat name. > TQSL 1.13 does not have HO-68 in the satellite drop-down menu box. > > Is there something I'm missing? > > Chuck, KM9U > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)" <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net> > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Tuesday, April 19, 2011 22:48 > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > > >> Hi Tom! >> >>> When I tried uploading a couple of my satellite QSOs as a test LOTW says >>> that the MODE field is invalid. I had entered "SAT". I know this has been >>> discussed in recent months here but I couldn't find that discusssion in >>> looking at the archives. Would someone put me on the right track as to >>> what >>> fields are required for a satellite QSO to be considered valid by LOTW? >> >> The MODE field refers to the transmission mode - FM, SSB, etc. The >> fields related to a satellite QSO are PROP_MODE (this is always set >> to "SAT") and SAT_NAME matches the names in the list at: >> >> https://p1k.arrl.org/lotw/faq >> >> I'm pretty sure Rick e-mailed you the PDF written by N5JB that shows >> the 7 fields that must be present for a valid satellite QSO in LOTW, >> including the two I mentioned above. Others can be added, but are >> optional. The document is found at: >> >> http://www.arrl.org/files/file/LoTW%20Instructions/N5JB.pdf >> >> Hope to see some of our QSOs match up as QSLs in LOTW soon. >> >> 73! >> >> >> >> >> Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK >> http://www.wd9ewk.net/ >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 10 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:41:13 +0100 > From: "Graham Shirville" <g.shirville(a)btinternet.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] advice request for FUNcube > To: "CubeSat @ CubeSat.org" <cubesat(a)cubesat.org>, "AMSAT BB" > <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <10E7E1059053412895D8DD02C84E4C2F(a)allgood.local> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > hi All, > > A simple question this time! > > What is the best coax cable to use in a cubesat? Size, flexibility/min radius, existing space heritage, ease of applying connectors are our main design drivers - we are only using UHF and VHF so losses are not going to be too much of a problem hopefully.. > > many thanks in advance > > 73 > > Graham > G3VZV > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 11 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:16:20 -0400 > From: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] AO-51 down 1150 utc 20 April > To: Amsat - BBs <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Cc: ao51-modes(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <ZoGN1g00856cfur05oGNTC(a)gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Hi All, > > This morning AO-51 was down on the early AM pass. I reset it, and decreased power out. One orbit later, it is apparently down again (another battery trip). There just isn't much left in the battery. > > It will this afternoon before one of us (command stations) can turn it back on. > > It is likely that we'll be going to PL tone activation soon. Please check your radio memories and PL tones; it'll be 67 Hz once we activate it. > > We'll provide updates here on the BB. > > 73, > > > > Mark L. Hammond [N8MH] > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 12 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:21:04 -0500 > From: Joe <nss(a)mwt.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <4DAEDDC0.7090506(a)mwt.net> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed > > Can we please have the location of the launch? I know it has a 2 land > call sign, but now days that's meaningless. > > Plus the date and time. How about in UTC time for both? This > announcement says, > > The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM -- > 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. > > But especially the midnight thing and then EDT CDTGMT, since there is no > indication of launch site, 11:00 PM Where? Lets keep everything in > Amateur Radio on one time zone please? UTC. aka: GMT. > > Joe WB9SBD > > The Original Rolling Ball Clock > Idle Tyme > Idle-Tyme.com > http://www.idle-tyme.com > > On 4/19/2011 3:22 PM, Bob Bruninga wrote: >> KC2TUA announces: Balloon attempt across the Atlantic. 21 April 2011 >> >> Hams in the USA and worldwide are needed to listen on 7.1023 and 10.1466 MHz >> and to send readings of the balloon's progress to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. More >> information about the program, including the latest projected flight path, >> can be found at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/ >> https://twitter.com/PBH5. >> >> It also has an APRS GPS tracker on 144.39 with the callsign KC2ZJH and will >> launch from Oswego, NY around midnight Thursday. Thanks in advance for your >> help! >> >> The HF downlink exact frequency will vary 10 Hz or so with temperature. >> Accurate recording of frequency will be useful. >> >> 73, >> -Tom Triebwasser >> PBH Alumnus '09 >> KC2TUA >> >> ----------------------------------------------------------------------- >> >> The Project Blue Horizon Increment 5 (PBH V) team has finalized a launch >> window for the third and final flight of Increment 5; launch of PBH-15 is >> tentatively planned for 4/21/11 -- 4/22/11. The team will be rolling out GO/ >> NO-GO communications to all parties to provide adequate time for interested >> individuals to plan accordingly for observing the launch or tracking and >> following the mission progress. >> >> The PBH-15 mission will be the Increment 5 teams attempt at breaking the >> current ARHAB distance (3,361.81 miles) and duration (49 hours, 45 minutes) >> records. It will include integration of an altitude control mechanism for >> reducing air vehicle weight during flight to sustain float and 30m HF >> communications via an Enhanced Morse Decoder provided by Dylan Thorner of >> Enhanced Solutions. PBH-15 will be lifted with a 54,000 cubic foot >> Zero-pressure envelope and is projected to float for long durations between >> 85,000-110,000. >> >> The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM -- >> 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. >> >> At conclusion of Thursday's Flight Readiness Review (2PM - 3PM), the team >> will provide updated GO/ NO-GO information. >> >> During the PBH-15 mission, the Twitter feed will be updated in 30 minute >> increments at: http://twitter.com/PBH5 >> >> -------------------------------------- >> >> For those interested in tracking the Mission Payload, the following band >> plan and call signs will be used for PBH-15: >> >> Function >> Frequency >> Required >> HAM Level >> >> Payload >> Call Sign >> Primary Voice / Mission Communication >> 147.500MHz >> Technician >> >> Mission Payload HF (40m) >> N2XE >> Secondary Voice / Mission Communication >> Owego Repeater (Duplex) >> 146.760MHz >> Technician >> >> Mission Payload HF (30m) >> N2XE >> >> >> >> >> Mission Payload APRS >> KC2ZJH >> APRS >> 144.390MHz >> Technician >> >> >> >> 40m HF (Morse Code) >> See attached >> Technician >> >> >> >> 30m HF (Morse Code) >> See attached >> General >> >> >> >> >> Users can input data received from the Mission Payload via the "User Input" >> tab at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/. >> >> Points received from the PBH-15 payload over HF can also be submitted to: >> PBH15.data(a)gmail.com >> >> Thanks, >> >> Matthew T. Lewis >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >> > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 13 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:28:12 -0400 > From: "Zachary Beougher" <zack.kd8ksn(a)hotmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > To: "KM9U" <arskm9u(a)gmail.com>, <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net>, > <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <SNT111-DS13F3C83592C50227274CDEB3930(a)phx.gbl> > Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; > reply-type=original > > I have TQSL 1.13 and it supports HO68 and SO67.... It is supposedly the > latest version. > > Zack > KD8KSN > > -----Original Message----- > From: KM9U > Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 7:37 AM > To: amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net ; amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > > I just read the LOTW FAQ and it stated that the satellite name HO-68 is > supported by LOTW. > I have never been able to upload any logs containing HO-68 as the sat name. > TQSL 1.13 does not have HO-68 in the satellite drop-down menu box. > > Is there something I'm missing? > > Chuck, KM9U > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)" <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net> > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Tuesday, April 19, 2011 22:48 > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > > >> Hi Tom! >> >>> When I tried uploading a couple of my satellite QSOs as a test LOTW says >>> that the MODE field is invalid. I had entered "SAT". I know this has been >>> discussed in recent months here but I couldn't find that discusssion in >>> looking at the archives. Would someone put me on the right track as to >>> what >>> fields are required for a satellite QSO to be considered valid by LOTW? >> >> The MODE field refers to the transmission mode - FM, SSB, etc. The >> fields related to a satellite QSO are PROP_MODE (this is always set >> to "SAT") and SAT_NAME matches the names in the list at: >> >> https://p1k.arrl.org/lotw/faq >> >> I'm pretty sure Rick e-mailed you the PDF written by N5JB that shows >> the 7 fields that must be present for a valid satellite QSO in LOTW, >> including the two I mentioned above. Others can be added, but are >> optional. The document is found at: >> >> http://www.arrl.org/files/file/LoTW%20Instructions/N5JB.pdf >> >> Hope to see some of our QSOs match up as QSLs in LOTW soon. >> >> 73! >> >> >> >> >> Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK >> http://www.wd9ewk.net/ >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 14 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:47:12 -0400 > From: "Zachary Beougher" <zack.kd8ksn(a)hotmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? > To: "Joe" <nss(a)mwt.net>, <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <SNT111-DS21CB6B18CBC11A7734B10FB3930(a)phx.gbl> > Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; > reply-type=original > > Hi Joe, > > I think you overlooked the paragraph - it is #3 in the original email. > >> It also has an APRS GPS tracker on 144.39 >> with the callsign KC2ZJH and will launch from >> *Oswego, NY* around midnight Thursday. > > Being that NY is EST, it would be scheduled to launch sometime between > 22/0300z and 23/0400z. > > I think that is right... > > 73, > > Zack > KD8KSN > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: Joe > Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 9:21 AM > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? > > Can we please have the location of the launch? I know it has a 2 land > call sign, but now days that's meaningless. > > Plus the date and time. How about in UTC time for both? This > announcement says, > > The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM -- > 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. > > But especially the midnight thing and then EDT CDTGMT, since there is no > indication of launch site, 11:00 PM Where? Lets keep everything in > Amateur Radio on one time zone please? UTC. aka: GMT. > > Joe WB9SBD > > The Original Rolling Ball Clock > Idle Tyme > Idle-Tyme.com > http://www.idle-tyme.com > > On 4/19/2011 3:22 PM, Bob Bruninga wrote: >> KC2TUA announces: Balloon attempt across the Atlantic. 21 April 2011 >> >> Hams in the USA and worldwide are needed to listen on 7.1023 and 10.1466 >> MHz >> and to send readings of the balloon's progress to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. >> More >> information about the program, including the latest projected flight path, >> can be found at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/ >> https://twitter.com/PBH5. >> >> It also has an APRS GPS tracker on 144.39 with the callsign KC2ZJH and >> will >> launch from Oswego, NY around midnight Thursday. Thanks in advance for >> your >> help! >> >> The HF downlink exact frequency will vary 10 Hz or so with temperature. >> Accurate recording of frequency will be useful. >> >> 73, >> -Tom Triebwasser >> PBH Alumnus '09 >> KC2TUA >> >> ----------------------------------------------------------------------- >> >> The Project Blue Horizon Increment 5 (PBH V) team has finalized a launch >> window for the third and final flight of Increment 5; launch of PBH-15 is >> tentatively planned for 4/21/11 -- 4/22/11. The team will be rolling out >> GO/ >> NO-GO communications to all parties to provide adequate time for >> interested >> individuals to plan accordingly for observing the launch or tracking and >> following the mission progress. >> >> The PBH-15 mission will be the Increment 5 teams attempt at breaking the >> current ARHAB distance (3,361.81 miles) and duration (49 hours, 45 >> minutes) >> records. It will include integration of an altitude control mechanism for >> reducing air vehicle weight during flight to sustain float and 30m HF >> communications via an Enhanced Morse Decoder provided by Dylan Thorner of >> Enhanced Solutions. PBH-15 will be lifted with a 54,000 cubic foot >> Zero-pressure envelope and is projected to float for long durations >> between >> 85,000-110,000. >> >> The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM -- >> 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. >> >> At conclusion of Thursday's Flight Readiness Review (2PM - 3PM), the team >> will provide updated GO/ NO-GO information. >> >> During the PBH-15 mission, the Twitter feed will be updated in 30 minute >> increments at: http://twitter.com/PBH5 >> >> -------------------------------------- >> >> For those interested in tracking the Mission Payload, the following band >> plan and call signs will be used for PBH-15: >> >> Function >> Frequency >> Required >> HAM Level >> >> Payload >> Call Sign >> Primary Voice / Mission Communication >> 147.500MHz >> Technician >> >> Mission Payload HF (40m) >> N2XE >> Secondary Voice / Mission Communication >> Owego Repeater (Duplex) >> 146.760MHz >> Technician >> >> Mission Payload HF (30m) >> N2XE >> >> >> >> >> Mission Payload APRS >> KC2ZJH >> APRS >> 144.390MHz >> Technician >> >> >> >> 40m HF (Morse Code) >> See attached >> Technician >> >> >> >> 30m HF (Morse Code) >> See attached >> General >> >> >> >> >> Users can input data received from the Mission Payload via the "User >> Input" >> tab at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/. >> >> Points received from the PBH-15 payload over HF can also be submitted to: >> PBH15.data(a)gmail.com >> >> Thanks, >> >> Matthew T. Lewis >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >> > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 15 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 07:25:11 -0700 (PDT) > From: Stephen Davis <davism294(a)yahoo.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? > To: Joe <nss(a)mwt.net>, amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <729823.39249.qm(a)web161820.mail.bf1.yahoo.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii > > According to the info at http://www.arhab.org/ARHABlaunchannouncements.html > > The launch of PBH-15 is schedule for 2330 EDT from Owego, NY (Lat/Lon: > 42.09/-76.22). > 73, > Steve > KJ4FEL > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Joe <nss(a)mwt.net> > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Sent: Wed, April 20, 2011 9:21:04 AM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April? > > Can we please have the location of the launch? I know it has a 2 land > call sign, but now days that's meaningless. > sat-bb > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 16 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 07:57:02 -0700 > From: "Tom Workman" <k0tw(a)cox.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <326B19D06ABA4244AC5EC771C7F482F2@K0TWHOME> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > Thanks to all who provided the info I needed. My biggest problem was not > using a PROP_MODE field. > > Now back to correcting the problem. And saving my private key where I can > actually find it next time. > > Tom - K?TW > >> I've decided to give Logbook of the World (LOTW) another try. I keep > losing >> my passwords and have to start over. Maybe I'll write them down this time > :-) >> >> When I tried uploading a couple of my satellite QSOs as a test LOTW says >> that the MODE field is invalid. I had entered "SAT". I know this has been >> discussed in recent months here but I couldn't find that discusssion in >> looking at the archives. Would someone put me on the right track as to > what >> fields are required for a satellite QSO to be considered valid by LOTW? >> >> Thanks. >> Tom - K?TW > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 17 > Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:12:53 -0700 > From: "Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)" <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <BANLkTikoUDn-7FVe7oq-e+RYbf24mg4z4A(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > Hi Chuck! > >> I just read the LOTW FAQ and it stated that the satellite name HO-68 is supported by LOTW. >> I have never been able to upload any logs containing HO-68 as the sat name. >> TQSL 1.13 does not have HO-68 in the satellite drop-down menu box. >> >> Is there something I'm missing? > > Probably an updated TQSL configuration file. > > You can get that by logging into the LOTW web site, then go to "Your Account", > then "Your Certificates". There is a link where you can download the latest > TQSL configuration file (last updated on 3 March) along with your certificates > from the web site. The configuration file has - among many other things - the > list of satellites acceptable for LOTW, and log formats for those > using Cabrillo- > formatted contest logs instead of ADIF files for LOTW. > > Once you download the updated configuration file to your computer, you should > only have to click on the file to launch TQSL and update your program. After > that, you should be in good shape. > > 73! > > > > > > Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK > http://www.wd9ewk.net/ > > > ------------------------------ > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via amsat-bb(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 6, Issue 229 > ****************************************

1 0

Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements
by Tom Workman 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

I've decided to give Logbook of the World (LOTW) another try. I keep losing my passwords and have to start over. Maybe I'll write them down this time :-) When I tried uploading a couple of my satellite QSOs as a test LOTW says that the MODE field is invalid. I had entered "SAT". I know this has been discussed in recent months here but I couldn't find that discusssion in looking at the archives. Would someone put me on the right track as to what fields are required for a satellite QSO to be considered valid by LOTW? Thanks. Tom - KØTW

6 9

Re: Revisiting LOTW satellite requirements
by Tom Workman 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Thanks to all who provided the info I needed. My biggest problem was not using a PROP_MODE field. Now back to correcting the problem. And saving my private key where I can actually find it next time. Tom - KØTW > I've decided to give Logbook of the World (LOTW) another try. I keep losing > my passwords and have to start over. Maybe I'll write them down this time :-) > > When I tried uploading a couple of my satellite QSOs as a test LOTW says > that the MODE field is invalid. I had entered "SAT". I know this has been > discussed in recent months here but I couldn't find that discusssion in > looking at the archives. Would someone put me on the right track as to what > fields are required for a satellite QSO to be considered valid by LOTW? > > Thanks. > Tom - KØTW

1 0

Re: Balloon across Atlantic 21 April?
by Joe 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Can we please have the location of the launch? I know it has a 2 land call sign, but now days that's meaningless. Plus the date and time. How about in UTC time for both? This announcement says, The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM -- 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. But especially the midnight thing and then EDT CDTGMT, since there is no indication of launch site, 11:00 PM Where? Lets keep everything in Amateur Radio on one time zone please? UTC. aka: GMT. Joe WB9SBD The Original Rolling Ball Clock Idle Tyme Idle-Tyme.com http://www.idle-tyme.com On 4/19/2011 3:22 PM, Bob Bruninga wrote: > KC2TUA announces: Balloon attempt across the Atlantic. 21 April 2011 > > Hams in the USA and worldwide are needed to listen on 7.1023 and 10.1466 MHz > and to send readings of the balloon's progress to PBH15.data(a)gmail.com. More > information about the program, including the latest projected flight path, > can be found at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/ > https://twitter.com/PBH5. > > It also has an APRS GPS tracker on 144.39 with the callsign KC2ZJH and will > launch from Oswego, NY around midnight Thursday. Thanks in advance for your > help! > > The HF downlink exact frequency will vary 10 Hz or so with temperature. > Accurate recording of frequency will be useful. > > 73, > -Tom Triebwasser > PBH Alumnus '09 > KC2TUA > > ----------------------------------------------------------------------- > > The Project Blue Horizon Increment 5 (PBH V) team has finalized a launch > window for the third and final flight of Increment 5; launch of PBH-15 is > tentatively planned for 4/21/11 -- 4/22/11. The team will be rolling out GO/ > NO-GO communications to all parties to provide adequate time for interested > individuals to plan accordingly for observing the launch or tracking and > following the mission progress. > > The PBH-15 mission will be the Increment 5 teams attempt at breaking the > current ARHAB distance (3,361.81 miles) and duration (49 hours, 45 minutes) > records. It will include integration of an altitude control mechanism for > reducing air vehicle weight during flight to sustain float and 30m HF > communications via an Enhanced Morse Decoder provided by Dylan Thorner of > Enhanced Solutions. PBH-15 will be lifted with a 54,000 cubic foot > Zero-pressure envelope and is projected to float for long durations between > 85,000-110,000. > > The current target for executing launch of PBH-15 is between 11:00PM -- > 12:00AM on Thursday (4/21)/Friday (4/22), weather and approval permitting. > > At conclusion of Thursday's Flight Readiness Review (2PM - 3PM), the team > will provide updated GO/ NO-GO information. > > During the PBH-15 mission, the Twitter feed will be updated in 30 minute > increments at: http://twitter.com/PBH5 > > -------------------------------------- > > For those interested in tracking the Mission Payload, the following band > plan and call signs will be used for PBH-15: > > Function > Frequency > Required > HAM Level > > Payload > Call Sign > Primary Voice / Mission Communication > 147.500MHz > Technician > > Mission Payload HF (40m) > N2XE > Secondary Voice / Mission Communication > Owego Repeater (Duplex) > 146.760MHz > Technician > > Mission Payload HF (30m) > N2XE > > > > > Mission Payload APRS > KC2ZJH > APRS > 144.390MHz > Technician > > > > 40m HF (Morse Code) > See attached > Technician > > > > 30m HF (Morse Code) > See attached > General > > > > > Users can input data received from the Mission Payload via the "User Input" > tab at http://www.projectbluehorizon.com/. > > Points received from the PBH-15 payload over HF can also be submitted to: > PBH15.data(a)gmail.com > > Thanks, > > Matthew T. Lewis > > > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > >

3 2

AO-51 down 1150 utc 20 April
by Mark L. Hammond 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Hi All, This morning AO-51 was down on the early AM pass. I reset it, and decreased power out. One orbit later, it is apparently down again (another battery trip). There just isn't much left in the battery. It will this afternoon before one of us (command stations) can turn it back on. It is likely that we'll be going to PL tone activation soon. Please check your radio memories and PL tones; it'll be 67 Hz once we activate it. We'll provide updates here on the BB. 73, Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

1 0

CN77
by Bob- W7LRD 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

hello I am planning on putting CN77 on the satellites several times later this spring and summer. Will anounce on this bb well in advance. 73 Bob W7LRD CN87

1 0

Re: HF Satellite Experiment
by Richard Limebear 20 Apr '11

20 Apr '11

Bob > The idea is a keyed CW oscillator on 7.010 MHz with harmonics on 14.020, > 21.030 and 28.040 MHz. As an HF operator may I suggest you have a base frequency of 7.020 or higher rather than 7010. The lower parts of the bands can get quite congested at times so this would give ground stations a better chance of hearing them. Certainly 7.020 is often occupied. 73 Richard G3RWL

1 0

PLAN-13 porting to visual studio
by Andy Brian 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

Hi, Anyone succefuly ported PLAN-13 tracking programe to Microsost Visual studio? I having problem with header unistd.h and function "strncasecmp(buffer, satellite,strlen(satellite)) " best regards Andy

1 0

ISS Over North America
by Clint Bradford 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

ISS passes over North America make WIRED Magazine ... Look Up: Spectacular Space Station Flybys This Week | Wired Science | Wired.com http://bit.ly/hs0pZu Clint

1 0

XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. Correct SORRY
by David Maciel 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

From: David Maciel Sent: Tuesday, April 19, 2011 7:17 PM Subject: XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19. now I can send the job the next day, I be in some passes just listening, some stationsdid not respect my work or others, many removed rework opportunity to others, call upothers. if someone wants to can send me an email and tell me you want the grid towork, I will always be happy to help. please use the international phonetic code,M will always be "Mike" never change it for "mexico". everything will be easier. 20/april/2011 02:29Z SO-50 EK19 20/april/2011 04:09Z SO-50 EK19 20/april/2011 11:54Z AO-51 EK19 20/april/2011 12:51Z SO-50 EK19 20/april/2011 19:40Z AO-27 EK18 20/april/2011 21:15Z AO-51 EK18 20/april/2011 22:52Z AO-51 EK18 21/april/2011 02:56Z SO-50 EK18 Dave EK18 EK19 Next ===>EK08 EK08

1 0

XE3DX Activity EK18-EK19.
by David Maciel 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

now I can send the job the next day, I be in some passes just listening, some stationsdid not respect my work or others, many removed rework opportunity to others, call upothers. if someone wants to can send me an email and tell me you want the grid towork, I will always be happy to help. please use the international phonetic code,M will always be "Mike" never change it for "mexico". everything will be easier. 20/april/2011 02:29Z SO-50 EK19 18:32 pm 20/april/2011 04:09Z SO-50 EK19 18:32 pm 20/april/2011 11:54Z AO-51 EK19 18:32 pm 20/april/2011 12:51Z SO-50 EK19 18:32 pm 20/april/2011 19:40Z AO-27 EK18 18:32 pm 20/april/2011 21:15Z AO-51 EK18 04:15 pm 20/april/2011 22:52Z AO-51 EK18 17:52 pm 21/april/2011 02:56Z SO-50 EK18 21:56 pm Dave EK18 EK19 Next ===>EK08 EK08

1 0

Re For sale
by Gerry 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

Trak-Box sold Further listing of items to follow. Gerry VE4GTB

1 0

Re: First Contact
by Clint Bradford 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

>> ... A big thanks to K6LCS (Clint) and his Web site for all the tips and inspiration to give satellites a try ... There's a downside to all this ... I am under investigation - AND quarantine ... CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL For Immediate Release: April 19, 2011 Contact: U.S. Centers for Disease Control (301) 555-1212 CDC Media Relations (404) 555-3286 CDC and NIH Update - Southern California Amateur Radio Licensee Found to be Source of Influenza Strain Health care providers across North America have been instrumental in determining the source of a new strain of influenza - "Inflenza-SAT." It has been noted that Clint Bradford of Mira Loma, California, and amateur radio licensee K6LCS, has been promoting the concept that accessing amateur radio satellites does NOT require sophisticated equipment. His Web site further promotes this concept, resulting in the proliferation of amateur radio operators accessing the FM satellites. >From Bradford's work-sat.com Web site: "You do NOT need 100 Watts of transmit power, nor expensive Yagi antennas, to successfully work the FM ham satellites" Bradford pronounces. "Most hams already own the necessary equipment to successfully work the birds ... " Bradford's guidelines outline steps to eliminate common preconceptions regarding accessing the FM satellites. "It is all in this four-page tutorial," Bradford declares on his home page. Visitors to Bradford's Web site who follow his instructions have - usually within a week's time - begin to suffer from Influenza-SAT, the symptoms of which include: -public declarations of unjustifiable glee at making initial radio contacts with satellites -displays of gratitude to complete strangers -the desire to continue such radio contacts for the foreseeable future -the desire to "spread the word" and pass on Bradford's Web site address to complete strangers As of this date, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) have been unable to advise of a cure or antidote to this condition. "The publication of the description of these symptoms is a great contribution to the continued improvement of quality patient care and is illustrative of the power of collaboration across government agencies and with academic institutions," said NIH Director Dr. Hiram R. Percy. /end/

1 0

SATPC, IC910 & Doppler
by w4upd 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

I may missing something obvious, but when tuning the IC-910 on FM satellites I noticed that under normal SQF files for AO-51, as an example, both uplink and downlink do doppler adjustment. In the case of FM or AO-51 in this case, I want the uplink to stay the same and only the downlink to doppler adjust. I also find that if I select the mode of downlink only, when the tracking and doppler starts the mode changes to downlink & uplink and then blanks out so you can no longer change it. I have found a way to prevent this but it means manually setting the uplink frequency. If I edit DOPPLER.SQF to have downlink only and an upplink of 0, it prevents the uplink from adjusting. However, I had to manually set the uplink to the frequency I wanted. This works, but I feel I'm missing something simple. Also, I've gotten use to using the IC-910 for 2-mtr band A and 70cm band B and only band A transmits. Unable to do this in SATPC. However, no big deal as the "Satellite" mode all works well, except the doppler adjustment of the uplink. Anyone with an idea what I'm missing here? This is the first chance to really use SATPC as I have been normally doing manual tracking and the "AFC" on the downlink which works quite well on the IC-910. Regards, Reid, W4UPD AMSAT: 17002

1 0

Maritime Mobile Lessons Learned
by K5OE 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

For hams that want to try working Maritime Mobile, the very first stop should be N5AFV’s very informative how-to guide(s): http://www.qsl.net/n5afv/cruise.html This was my second attempt at this and I can add a few lessons learned to the subject that may help future cruisers. 1. When a satellite has multiple frequencies available, and your radio has all of them pre-programmed, be careful of relying on the alpha identifiers. For example, on my FT-51R, 145.920 and 145.880 are both identified as “AO-51.” I guess I don’t have to explain why this is a lesson learned. 2. Allen mentioned his attempt to stay away from the ship’s antennae. I learned from experience on this trip that the intermod was far worse on the bow than the stern, and non-existent from the stateroom balconies. If you can get the captain to steer the vessel so that you can see the entire pass from your stateroom, it is easy to hear the bird(s) and you don’t have to brave gale-force winds at night. 3. Transcribe your QSOs right after the pass onto a log. I seemed to have gone back to bed one morning and completely forgot to log one pass. I only became aware of this when I got three QSL requests for the same pass! I used an mp3 player and still had it, so the only loss was the embarrassment of declining a QSL and then realizing I was wrong. 4. I only recorded my own voice (not a perfect system, but simple and easy). Still, out of 235 contacts, I still have about a dozen calls I am not sure of in my log (95% accuracy, or almost 2 sigma for you statisticians out there). I actually had a few more garbled in the audio but was able to pick them out of the K8YSE online recordings, but since his QTH is far north of where I was, the recordings did not cover my entire pass (or all of the passes). A better setup, for those inclined to do more work, would be to also record the speaker output from the radio. And, as a general recommendation to stations wishing to work a MM op, please always use phonetics (no intent to incite another riot) as it is sometimes very difficult to hear onboard, with extremely high wind noise, intermittent IM, fading, etc. The official stats by satellite were: AO-51, 11 passes and 148 contacts AO-27, 5 passes and 65 contacts SO-50, 3 passes and 22 contacts ARISSat-1, not heard. Equipment used was an FT-51R with an Arrow from the stateroom balcony and a Pryme AL-800 when on the deck (most of the passes, as the ship was predominantly heading at 135 and 310 degrees and not conducive to "seeing" a whole pass). Ancillary equipment was a portable GPS and an mp3 recorder. Thanks again to Allen, the AO-51 crew, and to all the patient ops who gave me their calls two and three times :-) 73, Jerry, K5OE

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Re: RF Quiet my digital recorder
by Bill W1PA 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

My Olympus DS-2 is pretty bad. In either play or record mode, I get wide processor noise on both 2m and 435 if it gets within a foot or so of the Arrow (in any direction). It sounds like power-line buzz noise. If I use a direct line-in (FT-530 ear to DS-2 Mic in), it's there all the time -- really bad. My goal is to "y" the stereo mic in, one side to the FT-530 audio coming from my headset, and one side to an external mic (so I can hear the difference in play-back between what I say, and what I can hear on the downlink). With the FT-530 in one hand, the Arrow in the other, pen and paper is not an option. I also want to download the recordings (.wma or .mp3) so an analog recorder, although "rf quiet", is not an option. I plan to try shielding the recorder.... encasing it in either metal mesh, or maybe an aluminum fly-lure box, and then wrapping the line on a toroid core. In the mean time, is anyone using and can recommend a portable digital voice recorder with a mic-in jack (preferably stereo) that is "rf quiet"? Bill W1PA

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Re: Field day
by K5OE 19 Apr '11

19 Apr '11

Mark, While I really like the audio on S-band a lot better than U, I think 9600 b packet is a great idea! I know you meant it tongue-in-cheek, but if a real emergency occurred world-wide (you know, like we lost the Internet during the upcoming royal wedding or some other equally cataclysmic event), store-and-forward technology would be a viable and reliable way for hams without HF privileges to communicate world-wide. Reminds me a little of Independence Day :-) 73, Jerry, K5OE --- original message --- Hi Bob, I think it's safe to say that we won't be running S-band. We haven't planned that far ahead, but I expect we'll be in mode V/U simply because of eclipses and the battery. Or we could run 9600 baud packet instead :) 73, Mark N8MH At 11:39 PM 4/18/2011 +0000, Bob- W7LRD wrote: >Field day will be here before we know it.Â Last year we had AO-51 with mode S >activated.Â What if any plans are there for this year?Â With the power >budget as it is what can we plan on? 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle

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LVB Tracker LCD
by Sven Arne Astrup 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Hi! Could someone give a Digikey part number for the LCD module used in the LVB Tracker? 73 de Sven LA6KJ

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multi-sat, chronilogical pass predictions
by Bill W1PA 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Do any of the pass prediction tools (win, dos, or linux) give you a listing of passes for multiple satellites in chronological order? i.e. imagine printing out 3 days of AO-51, AO-27, SO-50, etc and sorting them all together in chronological order. No graphics needed... just AOS and LOS bearings and times and max pass elevation. I have Nova and gpredict, and neither do. Does the original "predict" do this? Bill W1PA

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Re: Field day
by Mark L. Hammond 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Hi Bob, I think it's safe to say that we won't be running S-band. We haven't planned that far ahead, but I expect we'll be in mode V/U simply because of eclipses and the battery. Or we could run 9600 baud packet instead :) 73, Mark N8MH At 11:39 PM 4/18/2011 +0000, Bob- W7LRD wrote: >Field day will be here before we know it.Â Last year we had AO-51 with mode S activated.Â What if any plans are there for this year?Â With the power budget as it is what can we plan on? 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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XE3DX on EK19
by David Maciel 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Hi All, my problem is solved, now I can work satellites again, I am active from now on EK19 at: Hola a todos,mi problema fue solucionado, ahora puedo trabajar satélites nuevamente sin problemas, desde ahora estoy activo desde ek19, prometo regresar a ek18 en unos días mas.este es mi itinerario próximo de pases.. 19/april/2011 01:58Z SO-50 EK19 19/april/2011 03:39Z SO-50 EK19 19/april/2011 10:52Z AO-51 EK19 19/april/2011 14:04Z SO-50 EK19 19/april/2011 15:04Z AO-27 EK19 19/april/2011 21:52Z AO-51 EK19 19/april/2011 23:32Z AO-51 EK19 David XE3DX EK19

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Re: multi-sat, chronilogical pass predictions
by Helmuth Kump 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

I use a spreadsheet method. I use the amsat.org passes predictor, highlight (select) the data from the web page, copy, then paste each bird output into a different tab of an Excel spreadsheet. An Excel macro adds another column that only contains the sat. name. Then I made some more macros to concatenate all that data into another sheet, and sort by date 1st, time 2nd. Not very elegant but it works fine. 73 Doc KT3L

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Field day
by Bob- W7LRD 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Field day will be here before we know it. Last year we had AO-51 with mode S activated. What if any plans are there for this year? With the power budget as it is what can we plan on? 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle

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Tracking ARISSat-1 with SATCP32
by Alan P. Biddle 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

If you are going to be listening for ARISSat-1 on the 12th, and use SATPC32, you will be using the ISS for antenna tracking, but you will need to add a few modes in the DOPPLER.SQF file for the ISS: ISS,145918.5,0,USB,,,0,0,BPSK/CW-2 ISS,145950.0,0,FM,,,0,0,VOICE/SSTV ISS,145938.5,0,USB,,,0,0,CW-1 If you use something other than ISS, such as Zarya, then substitute that so SATPC32 will know what you mean. These will appear along with all the "real" ISS modes. The FM frequencies should be good, and the SSB modes as usual will need a little tweaking. Assuming your rig is calibrated, you should be at least close enough to hear the short transmit periods. 73s and good luck, Alan WA4SCA

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Re: multi-sat, chronilogical pass predictions
by Clint Bradford 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

>> ... a listing of passes for multiple satellites in chronological order? PocketSat for Palm and WinOPC ... as well as PocketSat3 for the iPhone and iPod touch sure do that - I use that function every day. http://tinyurl.com/sat-track Clint, K6LCS

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Is AO-51 ON at 1930 utc?
by Mark L. Hammond 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Did anybody hear it during this recent pass? Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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QSOs on AO7 and Invitation
by Luis Quintas 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

I Tnx Jay (AA4FL), Alvaro (XE2AT) and Doug (W3HH) for QSOs done during this week on AO7 Mode B. All of them with the sat just a few degrees up. Jay recorded our QSO (it was on cw) and also part of the QSO with Alvaro. Jay have also loaded the audio of these (and other fine) QSOs via satellite in the W4DFU Radio Club web page: http://gatorradio.org/satellite.html I am QRV and I would like to invite other stations from North America who would like to attempt a QSO via AO7 mode B either in SSB or CW. My grid locator is FF66TQ. My mail is lu6quintas(a)gmail.com Tnx agn, Best 73 de --luis LU6QI ex-LQ16DX - LR6QI - LU6QI/W9

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AO-51 reported silent
by Mark L. Hammond 18 Apr '11

18 Apr '11

Hi All, We are seeing the reports that AO-51 is down (as of about 1345 utc 18 April 2011). Thank you for the notification. Hopefully it's just another battery trip event. I'll do my best to get it going during the 2100 utc pass today. -- Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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Re: ground plane on
by Greg D. 17 Apr '11

17 Apr '11

Hi Dan, On 17/04/2011, at 15:53, KF1BUZ <kf1buz(a)gmail.com> wrote: > A Copper Jpole, has this been tried? > Just thinking it might make my getting into the birds better. > > Thanks > Dan > KF1BUZ > If I interpret this right (subject + message), you are asking if adding a Ground Plane to a J-pole antenna will improve its performance in a satellite ground station application. I believe the answer is no, though someone would need to do the modeling to understand for sure. A J-pole is an end-fed dipole, with the "J" portion being a 1/4 wave long at the frequency of the antenna. Recalling some RF theory stuff, a 1/4 wave "matching section" has a low impedance on one end, and a high impedance at the other. One end goes to the coax feed line (low impedance), and the other is attached to the end (high impedance) part of the dipole. You will find that the single pipe section of the J-pole antenna is about a 1/2 wave long at the antenna's design frequency, and since it's connected directly to the end of the matching section, it makes for an end-fed dipole. Some designs use a 5/8 wave dipole section for a little extra gain towards the horizon. So a J-pole antenna is actually a pretty effective satellite antenna, similar to a simple ground plane antenna but mechanically more robust. I've used both kinds. My very first satellite contact ion 1993 was using one for the uplink into RS-10, and that contact was followed by many many more. That antenna is still in service nearly 18 years later. (If you hear or use the KO6TH APRS iGate, you're using it!) I've got two SO-239-type Ground Plane antenna carcases in the garage; they didn't last. As a satellite antenna, both Ground Plane and J-pole antennas do have a null directly overhead, but very few satellite passes go directly overhead, and when they do, they spend very little time there. So don't sweat it. A J-pole with a 1/2 wave section on top will also work as a dual band 2M / 70CM antenna, with the upper band on the antenna's 3rd harmonic. Using the antenna that way, I'm told, it has a radiation pattern that is lifted somewhat from the horizon, so it should be a good match for satellite work. But, back to your question... The J-pole antenna is a totally balanced system in itself, and doesn't suffer for not having a ground plane below it. What putting a ground plane some distance below the end of an end-fed dipole will do to the radiation pattern, however, is a modeling task for someone at a higher mental pay-grade than me. My guess is that it will depend very significantly exactly where the ground plane is mounted. You could alter both the radiation pattern and the feed point impedance with that addition, and maybe make things worse. Hope this helps a little, Greg KO6TH

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ground plane on
by KF1BUZ 17 Apr '11

17 Apr '11

A Copper Jpole, has this been tried? Just thinking it might make my getting into the birds better. Thanks Dan KF1BUZ

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Re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 6, Issue 221
by Louis McFadin 17 Apr '11

17 Apr '11

To all those speculating on the reason for ARISSat not coming on, I recommend patience. We will have a telecon with the Russian ham radio specialist and get the actual information from him. As soon as we have real information it will be passed on. The satellite is very robust and is probably still useable without any modifications. If a component has failed, we have another complete satellite already in Moscow. Any module that has failed could easily be replaced. So let's just wait and see what they tell us. Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager On Apr 16, 2011, at 3:00 PM, amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org wrote: > Send AMSAT-BB mailing list submissions to > amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org > > You can reach the person managing the list at > amsat-bb-owner(a)amsat.org > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-BB digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. ARISSat-1 Failure to Transmit (Peter Portanova) > 2. ARISSat-1/KEDR declared success by Roscosmos! (Alan P. Biddle) > 3. Subject: Re: Verticals & Such on SSB Birds (Richard Lawn) > 4. Re: ARISSat-1 - Battery Failure (tosca005(a)umn.edu) > 5. Re: ISS Packet using AGWPE (JoAnne Maenpaa) > 6. Re: Subject: Re: Verticals & Such on SSB Birds (Dave Guimont) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Sat, 16 Apr 2011 08:41:26 -0400 > From: "Peter Portanova" <wb2oqq(a)verizon.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] ARISSat-1 Failure to Transmit > To: <AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <0214AF1853F4487491EA8FC1CEA11C86@Desk> > Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset=Windows-1252; > reply-type=original > > Hello, > > I don't possess any "inside information" on what the cause was of ARISSat-1 > not to be heard, however I have a theory. We know that Packet > transmission's ended and began soon after the posted times for ARISSat to be > powered on/off, this action was done because they agreed that the satellite > "woke up". The power on sequence for ARISSat-1 is visual, meaning that if > their was a battery failure they would not have seen the satellite power up. > If we believe that this occurred a possible reason for not hearing the > satellite was that it was connected to the wrong antenna, and seeing the > coax in this area it is conceivable that this might be the cause. I know we > will learn what actually occurred, at some point, it's our priority not > theirs, perhaps we can have a contest, "pick the cause" and the winner can > win a good night's sleep in a motel of their choice, satellite equipment not > permitted. > > 73's Pete > WB2OQQ > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 2 > Date: Sat, 16 Apr 2011 09:26:22 -0500 > From: "Alan P. Biddle" <APBIDDLE(a)UNITED.NET> > Subject: [amsat-bb] ARISSat-1/KEDR declared success by Roscosmos! > To: "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <7619564B827B4702B5E854FE39695EB2@WA4SCA> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Looks like we have all been wrong about this. Yesterday, just after > midnight Moscow time, I found this on the Roscosmos site: > > > http://www.federalspace.ru/main.php?id=2&nid=11669&lang=en > > Russian Educational Satellite Works 16.04.2011 > > Russia's Kedr minisatellite designed by students from Kursk and carried to > the ISS under UNESCO's program in January has went on air. > Its first broadcast was carried out on April 11-13 to mark the 50 years of > the first manned space flight. > The 30-kg Kedr will transmit 25 greetings in 15 different languages, photos > of the Earth, telemetry and scientific data. > > > > Hats off to the satellite designers at Kursk U. > > More seriously, aside from the "embellishments" concerning Kursk, which in > fact only did their experiment package, it looks as if someone had a timed > release news article which they forgot to cancel. > > > Alan > WA4SCA > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 3 > Date: Sat, 16 Apr 2011 11:39:26 -0400 > From: Richard Lawn <rjlawn(a)gmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Subject: Re: Verticals & Such on SSB Birds > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <BANLkTim2p_3oSdh4vT_Q88Aq5jBTWNcioQ(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > I too am always looking for ideas as I get older and know downsizing is > sooner rather than later forcing me to move and shed my M2 rotatable pair. > I've been slowly working on building double Moxon's for 440 and 2 meters > both using #6 copper wire and trying to measure very carefully. Another list > serve participant suggested I tried these as they have worked well for him > and better than other stationary antennas he has tried. Next up for me when > I have time is to try your Quadrifilars and I have another article or two on > construction suggestions. My one big question is how did you get the #6 wire > to solder? I use a gun and inevitably the joint breaks. What's your secret? > Torch? > > Rick > W2JAZ > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 4 > Date: 16 Apr 2011 10:47:57 -0500 > From: tosca005(a)umn.edu > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: ARISSat-1 - Battery Failure > To: R Oler <orbitjet(a)hotmail.com> > Cc: Amsat BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <Gophermail.2.0.1104161047570.7641(a)vs-a.tc.umn.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset=UTF-8 > > On Apr 15 2011, R Oler wrote: > >> > There are LOTS of reasons that the bird could have failed, in my viewpoint > the BEST one is that the battery has some issues. Operating the vehicle in > a thermal environment that it was not designed for would be a first guess, > followed by some sort of "crib death" issue, and next comes parts connected > wrong. >> > In any event the failure does not bode well for a successful sat > deployment. >> >> See if this makes it on the board. Robert G. Oler WB5MZO >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> > One small consolation is that if the ISS crew can't get it working before > tossing it into space, it could (possibly) be brought back to Earth on a > future return trip to be diagnosed and repaired on the ground. > > But let's hope it is something simple to fix up on the ISS and that someone > on the crew can take a little time to fix it. > > But I also understand that none of those 3 scenarios are guaranteed (easy > to fix, time to fix it, or return it to Earth). > > John P. Toscano, W0JT > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 5 > Date: Sat, 16 Apr 2011 11:50:12 -0500 > From: "JoAnne Maenpaa" <k9jkm(a)comcast.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: ISS Packet using AGWPE > To: "'amsat-bb'" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <001201cbfc56$5ac10fa0$10432ee0$@net> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Hello Peter, > >> connect to ISS using AGWPE with my soundcard. >> can anyone help me with this? > > I found the links to JE9PEL's setup guides posted on the UISS main page to > be helpful in getting my soundcard packet running: > http://users.belgacom.net/hamradio/uisslinks.htm > >> How does one connect to the ISS digipeater? > > 1. One good way to learn is to see what kind of packets others are sending. > You can spy on the ISS 145.825 MHz packet log at http://www.ariss.net/ > > 2. 99% of the packet digipeats via ISS are UI packets (they aren't connected > to any specific node) and pretty much are an AX.25 CQ-with-text-string so to > speak. > > 3. To setup your packet path for the ISS setting the UNPROTO parameter to > 'via ARISS' > (UNPROTO CQ VIA ARISS) is about all that is needed for the average user. The > digipeater at the ISS plugs in its specific callsign RS0ISS-3 or RS0ISS-4 in > response to the ARISS alias. There is a pull-down menu in the UISS program > where you can select ARISS. > > 4. An AX.25 hard-connection to the RS0ISS-11 Packet PBBS (C RS0ISS-11) is > not recommended over highly populated areas. If you establish a connection > to RS0ISS-11 the full AX.25 protocol for packet retries and timeouts takes > effect. Now your hard-connection retries will compete with the dozens of UI > packet transmissions and you'll never get to the PBBS anyways. You'll see > the ISS digi faithfully retrying and retrying per AX.25 protocol as it goes > over the horizon ... it will timeout over someone else's QTH. Most of the > PBBS messages you occasionally see are "Hello There" postings and not worth > the effort compared to the quick keyboard UI packet QSOs that many > successfully complete. > > 5. If you run UI-View along with UISS and AGWPE you can get an APRS map > showing the locations of the stations sending location data via ISS digi. I > have one example of an ISS pass mapped at > http://home.comcast.net/~k9jkm/UI_View_ISS_Pass.jpg > > Hope this helps, > -- > 73 de JoAnne K9JKM > k9jkm(a)amsat.org > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 6 > Date: Sat, 16 Apr 2011 11:53:28 -0700 > From: Dave Guimont <dguimon1(a)san.rr.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Subject: Re: Verticals & Such on SSB Birds > To: Richard Lawn <rjlawn(a)gmail.com> > Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Message-ID: <D2.3E.09483.5A5E9AD4(a)cdptpa-omtalb.mail.rr.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed > > >> I too am always looking for ideas as I get older and know downsizing is >> sooner rather than later forcing me to move and shed my M2 rotatable pair. >> I've been slowly working on building double Moxon's for 440 and 2 meters >> both using #6 copper wire and trying to measure very carefully. Another list >> serve participant suggested I tried these as they have worked well for him >> and better than other stationary antennas he has tried. Next up for me when >> I have time is to try your Quadrifilars and I have another article or two on >> construction suggestions. My one big question is how did you get the #6 wire >> to solder? I use a gun and inevitably the joint breaks. What's your secret? >> Torch? >> > > I use a torch with a large solder tip attached to it, es the torch > heats the tip....If you are very careful not to oxidize the joint, > just the torch will work. > > > > > 73, Dave, WB6LLO > dguimon1(a)san.rr.com > > Disagree: I learn.... > > Pulling for P3E... > > ------------------------------ > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via amsat-bb(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 6, Issue 221 > ****************************************

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Question, & some comments!
by Stuart Balanger 17 Apr '11

17 Apr '11

*Hi all, was wondering what mode both AO-51 & the ISS are in? Also, the Mt. Beacon ARC Hamfeste was a smashing sccess no rain, & abt. 18 people who passed evams, w/ 11 new Techs! Am Hopeing to make the AMSAT weekend Symposium This Yr, in Calif., & will more than likely take Amtrak out! Hope everyone has a wonderful Passover, & Easter. 73,.Stu (WA2BSS) *

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