- AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

Hudson Valley Satcom Group Net Tonight On Echolink N2EYH-L AT 8PM(EDT)OR(2400UTC
by Cotejaune2＠aol.com 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

It isime again for the HVSGN tonight June 24 at 8 PM or 2400 utc on N2EYH-L on Echolink or on the Mt.Beacon Repeater 146.970 pl 100. Please join us and share your knowledge about satellite operations. Hope to hear you there. 73 Gary/WA2AQH

1 0

What is the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card
by Yanko Yankov 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

Greetings All I want to ask about the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card . I did some research online and I was unable to find anything in regards to the rst reports . How do you do that ? Do you report 'O' like when you do EME moon bounce or you report 59 like when you making a regular contacts ? Thank you, Yanko de KC9RDT

6 6

IARU International Amateur Radio Satellite Forum
by Trevor . 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

IARU International Amateur Radio Satellite Forum The IARU International Amateur Radio Satellite Forum will this year be held in conjunction with the AMSAT-UK Colloquium which takes place in Guildford, England on the weekend of July 31 - Aug 1. The forum, chaired by IARU Amateur Satellite Advisor Hans van de Groenendaal ZS6AKV, takes place on the Sunday morning. On the Agenda is a report back on the activities of the IARU Satellite Adviser and his Advisory Panel. There will be a brief presentation covering the ITU notification requirements for satellites operating in the amateur service and the requirement to be able disable transmissions should the signals interfere with other users of the radio spectrum. The forum is open to all delegates at the colloquium. Colloquium Info: http://www.uk.amsat.org/colloquium/ ---- 73 Trevor M5AKA

1 0

Re: SAT VUCC
by John W Lee 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

I have the Cosmos (KOCMOC) Award, It's real nice. 73, John K6YK On Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:03:38 -0700 "Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)" <amsat-bb(a)wd9ewk.net> writes: > Hi Bob! > > > I am not sure if they are even available any more, but the USSR > used to > > have something called the COSMOS award, and the JARL had the FUJI > > award.. also the South Africans had a nice award for 20 QSOs > through the > > LEOs.. no idea where to even begin looking for info on these now > or even > > if they are still awarded. > > Can't speak to the COSMOS award, but the other two you mentioned > are still available. The South African award is now handled by > AMSAT-NA: > > http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/awards/ > > JARL issues the Fuji award, at: > > http://www.jarl.or.jp/English/4_Library/A-4-2_Awards/Award_Main.htm > > I was able to have a JARL card checker take my application and fee > payment for the award at Dayton last year. JARL didn't have any of > those certificates at Dayton, so JARL mailed the certificate to me > a > couple of weeks later. A nice certificate. > > One of these days, I'll get around to writing out my application for > a > satellite VUCC. I've got at least 350 grids confirmed at home, and > have > not used my free time to deal with that application. More time for > radio > and writing out QSL cards. > > 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 > > ____________________________________________________________ Refinance Now 4.0% FIXED! $160,000 Mortgage for $633/mo. Free. No Obligation. Get 4 Quotes! http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4c22bd18b27484a7am02vuc

1 0

Re: What is the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card
by John W Lee 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

Actually it's more like this, on H.F. and other places: You're 5-9, please repeat your call several times slowly! 73 John, K6YK Sat VUCC #10 On Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:19:12 +0200 Martin <tmm(a)trutter.dk> writes: > Hi > On 23-06-2010 20:39, Nigel Gunn G8IFF/W8IFF wrote: > > You fill out whatever you told the guy on the other end of the QSO > when you gave him a signal report as part of the QSO. > > Something like "your 5 and 9 old man. Please repeat your call and > location!" > > > > If you need the guy on the other end to repeat his call and locator, > he > surely wasn't a 59. :) > > Regards > OZ1TMM, Martin > > _______________________________________________ > 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 > > ____________________________________________________________ Refinance Now 4.0% FIXED! $160,000 Mortgage for $633/mo. Free. No Obligation. Get 4 Quotes! http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4c22bd185b8c64a77m02vuc

1 0

AO-27: Deja vu all over again
by Rsoifer＠aol.com 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

Hi, More than 12 years after my January 1998 QST article, I recently acquired a new Yaesu VX-3R mini-HT. While getting ready for Field Day, I thought I would try it out on AO-27. With the same MFJ 1717 dual-band whip that I used back then, the 2-watt VX-3R quickly worked three stations today: K6YK, WC7V and N5AFV. Congratulations to them, and of course to the builders and command stations of AO-27, who've kept it going since 1993. See you all on FD from our club station, WE7GV. 73, Ray W2RS

2 1

Balloon mission from Austrian hams
by William Leijenaar 24 Jun '10

24 Jun '10

Hi AMSATs, Last weekend I was in Austria for holidays, and on the Saterday there was a high altitude balloon experiment done by Austrian hams which included a known transponder to me ;-) My location was near Landeck, some 350km west of the balloon experiment and down in the valley, which made it impossible for me to work the transponder (from my mobile ham station). From the website I understand that the balloon experiment was successfull, but I read some remarks that the transponder unfortunately was not used very much. Most propably because the event was not widely known amoung the hams. What I understand, is that there will be another balloon mission on Saterday (26-June) during the well known Ham Radio event in Friedrichshafen. I will not be at the Ham Radio, but I like to pass on the news to other hams who will be there and have a chance to listen/work the transponder or the balloon APRS. The balloon information can be found at the website of OEVSV: http://www.oevsv.at/opencms/modules/news/20100621_ballon_passepartout_5_nac… 73 de PE1RAH, William Leijenaar www.leijenaarelectronics.nl

6 5

K4T QSL card arrived today!
by Larry Teran 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

It was on the mail box this afternoon, a beautiful photo QSL with an aerial picture of the hexagonal shaped building of Forth Jefferson. A description of the history about the place on the back and details of the QSO, congratulations to the group for this magnificent dxepedition on 100% green energy and their 8,000 + QSO's. Many thanks to: AC2V Mike AI4QY Pete K4MF Gary K9VV Fred KJ4EUT Max KN3ZIG Chris N8MH Mark W4UH Dan WA0USA VIc WD4IXD Pete and to their QSL Manager K5WW Erick 73's Larry KI6YAA

1 0

SAT VUCC
by Bob DeVarney W1ICW 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

Yes, not a lot of these awards awarded. Mine is #64 dated 19 November of 1996. Congratulations! :-) That is a serious amount of effort you have put forth. Good luck with the Sexagesimal Award and above all, HAVE FUN ! I am not sure if they are even available any more, but the USSR used to have something called the COSMOS award, and the JARL had the FUJI award.. also the South Africans had a nice award for 20 QSOs through the LEOs.. no idea where to even begin looking for info on these now or even if they are still awarded. A long time ago, and many, many orbits.... 73 de Bob W1ICW ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Congratulations on the VUCC award. I got mine in 2004 and it is numbered 135. Not alot of folks getting them I guess. I am surprised what with all the grids being passed out on the FM birds now days. 73's << John On Wed, Jun 23, 2010 at 9:42 AM, Ulip ?eljko <Zeljko.Ulip(a)plinacro.hr> wrote: > > Hello SAT friends, > > A little self promotion: > > Few days ago I founded in my post office box the VUCC Satellite Award # 197. Very nice piece of paper. > > The next award project is AMSAT Sexagesimal Award. For SAT DXCC I must wait for the P3E. > > Best regards & 73 > > > > ? ?Zeljko 9A2EY > >

2 1

Re: What is the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card
by Bob- W7LRD 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

Hello I believe this device can help us with proper signal reports. http://www.pocatelloarc.org/k0ip/pic/digitalSmeter.htm I understand more will be available next April. 73 Bob W7LRD ----- Original Message ----- From: "Yanko Yankov" <samy_b1(a)shell4you.net> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 11:20:02 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [amsat-bb] What is the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card Greetings All I want to ask about the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card . I did some research online and I was unable to find anything in regards to the rst reports . How do you do that ? Do you report 'O' like when you do EME moon bounce or you report 59 like when you making a regular contacts ? Thank you, Yanko de KC9RDT _______________________________________________ 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

1 0

Re: What is the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card
by John Becker 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

On 6/23/2010 1:46:19 PM, Dave Webb KB1PVH (kb1pvh(a)gmail.com) wrote: > 59, just like a 'regular' contact. Not sure what "regular" is but if the guy is 2db below ESP he ain't going to get 5 and 9 from me. John, W0JAB

1 0

Re: SAT VUCC
by K8KFJ＠aol.com 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

In a message dated 6/23/2010 11:19:25 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, n4qwf1(a)gmail.com writes: > I got mine in 2004 and it is > numbered 135 Got my Sat VUCC just a little ahead of you John (#125 in March of 2003). Among my cards is a CW QSO with KG4OX at Gitmo via RS-13 (March 1999). Uplink was 21 MHz ... downlink was 29 MHz. It was a Florida Contest Club Expedition with ops W4OX and KX4WW and we all appreciated their effort. Loved the Russian birds. 73, Gary -K8KFJ- West Virginia AMSAT #125

1 0

satpc32
by Ken 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

Having just recieved satpc32 version12.8a via CD, thought it would be nice to print ? manual. I can print the readme file but not thr manual? I am using Vista. I have used IT tracking program for 20+ years and decidded to upgrade. Any thoughts will be appreciated. W7KBM Ken ps hope my age is not showing 82

2 1

Re: SatPC32 stopped working!
by Larry Gerhardstein 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

Erich, FIXED. For whatever reason, Windows 7 hides many of the files and folders in AppData, including the AppData folder. What I did was to search for Kepler, opened that folder, and then entered by hand 'nasa.all'. That seems to have fixed the problem. So why did it get messed up in the first place? We had a power outage the day this happened. Maybe SatPC32 had the folders/files open when the power glitched and left the files in a critical state. I might suggest opening the file(s) and leave a copy in memory, then close the file (if that is even the case). If I think to, I always download a new keps when I begin operation, but I have not thought to restart SatPC32 afterward. Please comment. Thanks much for the help. I've _got_ to get a good UPS for my station computer. ~Larry W7IN 73, Larry W7IN On 6/22/2010 2:34 PM, Erich Eichmann wrote: > Larry, I don't know why you don't see the Application Data folder. You > can > also navigate to the folder "Kepler" from the SatPC32 menu "File", > "Open". > > If nothing helps uninstall SatPC32 and re-install it. > > 55+ 73s, Erich, DK1TB > > ----- Original Message ----- From: "Larry Gerhardstein" > <W7IN(a)montana.com> > To: "Erich Eichmann" <erich.eichmann(a)t-online.de> > Cc: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 9:14 PM > Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] SatPC32 stopped working! > > >> Erich, If I do a file explorer search for kepler, I see the AppData >> folder. However, in SatPC32 I do not see AppData in c:\Users\Owner, >> even if I run SatPC32 as Administrator. So I can not get at nasa.all in >> the _normal_ manner. ~Larry W7IN >> >> On 6/22/2010 12:27 AM, Erich Eichmann wrote: >>> Hello Larry, >>> when you get the error message ("No source file was found ....") click >>> on OK >>> in the message window. A dialog window will open (the Windows "Open" >>> dialog). >>> In the dialog window navigate to the folder that contains your >>> SatPC32 Keps >>> files, normally the sub folder "Kepler". Under XP the path to that >>> folder >>> will usually be C:\Documents and Settings\Username(i.e. your >>> name)\Application Data\SatPC32\Kepler. Select a data file, for example >>> nasa.all, and click on "Open". To store the path and filename open >>> the menu >>> 'Satelliten' and click on the 'OK' - button. >>> >>> 55 + 73s, Erich, DK1TB >>> >>> >>> >>> ----- Original Message ----- From: "Larry Gerhardstein" >>> <W7IN(a)montana.com> >>> To: "AMSAT BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >>> Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 12:09 AM >>> Subject: [amsat-bb] SatPC32 stopped working! >>> >>> >>>> My SatPC32 stopped working. I get an error message "Warnung: No >>>> source >>>> file was found for group Standard. Please select a source file for >>>> this >>>> group after the 'OK'. IMPORTANT: In orcer to store the filename for >>>> later starts open the menu 'Satelliten' and click on the 'OK' - >>>> button. >>>> >>>> The SatPC32 application sort of comes up but there is nothing in its >>>> window. >>>> >>>> What am I supposed to do? SatPC32ISS gives the same problem with the >>>> word 'ISS' substituted for 'Standard'. Should I reinstall? >>>> >>>> Larry W7IN >>>> >>>> >>> >>> >>> -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- >>> >>> >>> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> 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 >>>> >>> >>> >> >> > >

2 1

Re: SatPC32 stopped working!
by Larry Gerhardstein 22 Jun '10

22 Jun '10

Peter et.al., SatPC32 screen was blank. No world map at all. No nothing <|:^] ~Larry W7IN On 6/22/2010 4:20 PM, Peter Scheller wrote: > Larry, > > I did not get back to you because of Erich's post. He said > exactly what I tried to convey to you, just in much more detail. > > Regardless of operating system used, SatPC 32 behaves much the > same. My question however is: What did you see when you brought > up SatPC32? The world map? Please answer that for me. The way you > fixed your problem was not wrong, by any means. You just done it > the hard way. Good to hear that you are back up. Maybe we can have > a chat about SatPC32 on one of the birds. > > Aloha from Hawaii > Peter, NH6VB > > > Date: Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:50:06 -0600 > > From: W7IN(a)montana.com > > To: erich.eichmann(a)t-online.de; amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: SatPC32 stopped working! > > > > Erich, FIXED. For whatever reason, Windows 7 hides many of the files > > and folders in AppData, including the AppData folder. What I did was to > > search for Kepler, opened that folder, and then entered by hand > > 'nasa.all'. That seems to have fixed the problem. So why did it get > > messed up in the first place? We had a power outage the day this > > happened. Maybe SatPC32 had the folders/files open when the power > > glitched and left the files in a critical state. I might suggest > > opening the file(s) and leave a copy in memory, then close the file (if > > that is even the case). If I think to, I always download a new keps > > when I begin operation, but I have not thought to restart SatPC32 > > afterward. Please comment. Thanks much for the help. I've _got_ to get > > a good UPS for my station computer. > > > > ~Larry W7IN > > > > 73, Larry W7IN > > > > On 6/22/2010 2:34 PM, Erich Eichmann wrote: > > > Larry, I don't know why you don't see the Application Data folder. > You > > > can > > > also navigate to the folder "Kepler" from the SatPC32 menu "File", > > > "Open". > > > > > > If nothing helps uninstall SatPC32 and re-install it. > > > > > > 55+ 73s, Erich, DK1TB > > > > > > ----- Original Message ----- From: "Larry Gerhardstein" > > > <W7IN(a)montana.com> > > > To: "Erich Eichmann" <erich.eichmann(a)t-online.de> > > > Cc: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > > > Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 9:14 PM > > > Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] SatPC32 stopped working! > > > > > > > > >> Erich, If I do a file explorer search for kepler, I see the AppData > > >> folder. However, in SatPC32 I do not see AppData in c:\Users\Owner, > > >> even if I run SatPC32 as Administrator. So I can not get at > nasa.all in > > >> the _normal_ manner. ~Larry W7IN > > >> > > >> On 6/22/2010 12:27 AM, Erich Eichmann wrote: > > >>> Hello Larry, > > >>> when you get the error message ("No source file was found ....") > click > > >>> on OK > > >>> in the message window. A dialog window will open (the Windows "Open" > > >>> dialog). > > >>> In the dialog window navigate to the folder that contains your > > >>> SatPC32 Keps > > >>> files, normally the sub folder "Kepler". Under XP the path to that > > >>> folder > > >>> will usually be C:\Documents and Settings\Username(i.e. your > > >>> name)\Application Data\SatPC32\Kepler. Select a data file, for > example > > >>> nasa.all, and click on "Open". To store the path and filename open > > >>> the menu > > >>> 'Satelliten' and click on the 'OK' - button. > > >>> > > >>> 55 + 73s, Erich, DK1TB > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> ----- Original Message ----- From: "Larry Gerhardstein" > > >>> <W7IN(a)montana.com> > > >>> To: "AMSAT BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > > >>> Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 12:09 AM > > >>> Subject: [amsat-bb] SatPC32 stopped working! > > >>> > > >>> > > >>>> My SatPC32 stopped working. I get an error message "Warnung: No > > >>>> source > > >>>> file was found for group Standard. Please select a source file for > > >>>> this > > >>>> group after the 'OK'. IMPORTANT: In orcer to store the filename for > > >>>> later starts open the menu 'Satelliten' and click on the 'OK' - > > >>>> button. > > >>>> > > >>>> The SatPC32 application sort of comes up but there is nothing > in its > > >>>> window. > > >>>> > > >>>> What am I supposed to do? SatPC32ISS gives the same problem > with the > > >>>> word 'ISS' substituted for 'Standard'. Should I reinstall? > > >>>> > > >>>> Larry W7IN > > >>>> > > >>>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> > -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >>>> _______________________________________________ > > >>>> 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 > > >>>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >> > > >> > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > The New Busy is not the old busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your > inbox. Get started. > <http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:…>

1 0

SatPC32 stopped working!
by Larry Gerhardstein 22 Jun '10

22 Jun '10

My SatPC32 stopped working. I get an error message "Warnung: No source file was found for group Standard. Please select a source file for this group after the 'OK'. IMPORTANT: In orcer to store the filename for later starts open the menu 'Satelliten' and click on the 'OK' - button. The SatPC32 application sort of comes up but there is nothing in its window. What am I supposed to do? SatPC32ISS gives the same problem with the word 'ISS' substituted for 'Standard'. Should I reinstall? Larry W7IN

2 2

SO-67 skid times
by John Price 22 Jun '10

22 Jun '10

Can anyone tell me were the schedule for this satellite is published. I don't seem to be able to find it. I listened for it this evening and heard nothing in FM07. Anyone else heard it since the announced reactivation. Any info would be appreciated. I also listened for HO-68 this evening and heard nothing but a solid carrier. It was supposed to be in FM/Pacsat mode according to the website. Maybe I missed something. Does this mean it is in digital mode and running FM modulation or does it mean it is running both FM voice and pacsat digital at the same time. Anyone got a answer? 73's << John -- N4QWF Amateur Radio Operator AO-7,AO-27,FO-29,SO-50,AO-51,VO-52,ISS Email N4QWF(a)AMSAT.ORG Formerly KC4AHW VK3FEZ Amsat Member #27845 DXCC #33,478 VUCC SAT #135 WAS SAT #296 51 on AO-51 #13 LON -79.256 LAT 37.459 Grid FM07il >From the Foothills of the Blueridge *Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming - "WOW, What a ride!"

1 0

HO-68 pass NA 6 June 2010 -- 0100-014 UTC -- Just FM carrier no AFSK
by Bruce Semple 22 Jun '10

22 Jun '10

I had my WISP all primed & ready to go -- TNC was ready -- I saw the S meter peak at S9+40 -- but no AFSK heard by me or my TNC ... Did anybody else hear the BBS? Bruce WA3SWJ

1 0

Re: SO-67 back on air!
by Tony Langdon 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

At 12:04 AM 6/22/2010, Jan-Albert Koekemoer wrote: >Hello > > > >After much delay we are now in a position to re-activate the SA-AMSAT payload >schedules on a regular basis again! Excellent news! :) 73 de VK3JED / VK3IRL http://vkradio.com

1 0

Re: Batteries for FT 817
by G0MRF＠aol.com 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

In a message dated 21/06/2010 17:27:29 GMT Standard Time, tjjapha(a)earthlink.net writes: I use 2 FT817s for portable ops, and have been disappointed in the battery performance. Last year, I bought replacement batteries from Batteries America, the FNB-72xe, rated at 9.6v. at 2000mAh. There's no noticable difference between these new batteries and the originals. The batteries charge to just over 11.0 volts, but quickly drop through 10 volts, as indicated by the voltage reading that appears when the rigs are turned on. Maybe this is just normal behavior for a 9.6 v. battery. Is this what you would expect? Has anyone found a battery with a higher voltage rating and/or one that will maintain a higher voltage for an appreciable period--and fits into the 817? Every bit of power helps! Many tnx and 73, Tony, N2UN LM 183 Hi Tony. Not sure about fitting in the FT817....But there are a lot of people over here participating in "summits on the air" driving / walking / climbing to the top of a peak and making some QSOs. The FT817 is very popular and they all seem to be using 3 series Lithium polymer cells. According to the hype, the lithium polymers weigh nothing hold nearly infinate charge and finally discharge within a few seconds of the natural lifespan of the operators radio. Whatever the reality, they may be worth investigating. Regards David G0MRF

2 1

SO-67 back on air!
by Jan-Albert Koekemoer 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

Hello After much delay we are now in a position to re-activate the SA-AMSAT payload schedules on a regular basis again! During the downtime we conducted several experiments in order to investigate possible alternatives for the "cut-off" problem experienced by many at the end of last year / beginning of this year. The cut-off is caused by SW running on piggyback electronics that continues to gate the received audio onto the transmitter for about 3s after a specific ground transmission has ended, whereafter the received audio is cut off. The SW then waits for the next ground transmission with a valid "transponder" tone embedded, before gating the audio onto the transmitter again. So if a second transmission starts within the 3s "tail" period, it will be cut off when the 3s expires. Listen to this mp3 recording as an example: http://tinyurl.com/38vvg3o Unfortunately the piggyback electronics does not have reprogramming functionality, so we are not able to change the SW. We did however manage to implement a mechanism on the satellite transponder (used by the piggyback) that should be of some assistance when using the payload: the PTT of the transmitter now STAYS ON for the duration of the payload activation (i.e. 15 min), regardless of a valid "transponder" tone received. Note that this does not get rid of the "cut-off" problem, nor of the requirement to embed a valid tone when you want to use the payload - see detailed explanation below. The following example depicts the ideal usage scenario of the payload: 1. As the satellite comes over the horizon, an unmodulated carrier ("quieting") will be received by all on UHF 2. Person A starts to transmit on VHF (with valid "transponding" tone embedded in the transmission) and the transmission is relayed on UHF 3. When Person A releases his/her PTT, the satellite will continue to transmit what it is receiving (usually this will be "noise") for a further ±3s. Nobody should start to transmit during this time! 4. At the end of the ±3s period, everybody will again hear the unmodulated carrier. 5. NB: only when this unmodulated carrier is heard should Person B start to transmit. Listen to this mp3 recording as an example of valid usage: http://tinyurl.com/32rjbxm I suppose this will take some getting use to - at least the system has a built-in "punishment" mechanism for the impatient! ;-) Please refer to previous posts on general voice quality optimization when using the SA-AMSAT payload on SO-67. I will request Gladys Magagula at the Satellite Application Centre to obtain regular schedules from the regional coordinators as soon as possible. We will start off with day passes only, transmit on 2.5W and see how things go. Enjoy! Regards Jan-Albert ________________________________________ Jan-Albert Koekemoer, PrEng Sun Space & Information Systems (Pty) Ltd. Stellenbosch, South Africa www.sunspace.co.za <http://www.sunspace.co.za> +27 21 880 8117 (tel) +27 83 461 6643 (cell) +27 21 880 1703 (fax) E-mail Disclaimer http://www.sunspace.co.za/emaildisclaimer.htm

6 5

Electronics parts in space?
by Andy Brian 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

what happen with electronics parts in space like quartz and electrolytic capacitor in vacuum. I have never heard about how quartz works in space is there any limitations? I know that some plastic outgasing and are not suitable for use in space, but if using COTS technology like hamradio station yaesu vx-series on cubesats, I believe that there are many electronics parts which are crytical for use on the cubesats? thanks for comments, best regards Andy

1 0

Batteries for FT 817
by ANTHONY JAPHA 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

I use 2 FT817s for portable ops, and have been disappointed in the battery performance. Last year, I bought replacement batteries from Batteries America, the FNB-72xe, rated at 9.6v. at 2000mAh. There's no noticable difference between these new batteries and the originals. The batteries charge to just over 11.0 volts, but quickly drop through 10 volts, as indicated by the voltage reading that appears when the rigs are turned on. Maybe this is just normal behavior for a 9.6 v. battery. Is this what you would expect? Has anyone found a battery with a higher voltage rating and/or one that will maintain a higher voltage for an appreciable period--and fits into the 817? Every bit of power helps! Many tnx and 73, Tony, N2UN LM 183

2 1

AO-51 Mode V/S schedule should start 10:45Z 21Jun10
by Andrew Glasbrenner 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

Please submit any reports to -bb or the website at http://oscar.dcarr.org/ . Of particular interest are reports between 10:45 and 11:29 today. We may need a few passes to get the scheduling working right, so please send those reports, and bear with us. 73, Drew KO4MA

1 0

States needed for WAS on satellite
by Daniel "Nick" Kucij 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

Hi Larry, I'm over in Maine on vacation this week, near Acadia National Park. I've got my HT and small yagi with me. I'd be glad to try for a QSO with you. Just send me an email. 73 Nick KB1RVT/P FN54

1 0

States needed for WAS on satellite
by Larry Teran 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

I need the following States to complete the WAS award from ARRL, I will appreciate if they are any stations from these states or information of a station to contact to sked a QSO. thanks for your time. 73"s Larry KI6YAA Connecticut Maine Massachusetts Mississippi North Carolina Rhode Island West Virginia Wisconsin

3 2

AMSAT Assistance from Morocco, Norway
by Clint Bradford 21 Jun '10

21 Jun '10

I had a speaking engagement at the Orange County (CA) Amateur Radio Club scheduled for last night. They know of my involvement with AMSAT so, when they received an inquiry earlier in the week from the University of Southern California ham station regarding equipment setup, they forwarded the inquiry to me. I have no experience with the transceivers mentioned, so I immediately re-post the inquiry here earlier this week. Within 24 hours, USC received assistance from Norway and Morocco. The USC contactperson re-wrote me, thanking me for getting him assistance. I told him that it was AMSAT-Worldwide that was really to be thanked. And in my "signature file," I mentioned that I was speaking in Orange County ... Well, USC's Omair didn't receive my reply until 8:30am Friday morning - the date of my talk. But as we completed the 5:40PM PDT pass of AO-51 (speaking to US contacts as well as Canadian contacts), this gentleman walks up to me and introduces himself. "Hi, Clint. I am Omair Rahman from USC ... " I was floored. Not only did Omair show up for the demo, but stayed for my sat presentation. OF COURSE I introduced him to the 40+ in attendance, and had him explain his station and plans for their upcoming two satellites. It was a special night - THANK YOU to Omair for showing up and presenting your satellite plans. And THANK YOU to the fellow AMSAT members here who IMMEDIATELY sent info to Omair to assist him with his station's setup. Clint Bradford, K6LCS 909-241-7666

2 1

IC706MKIIG and SatPC32
by Patrick Farcon 20 Jun '10

20 Jun '10

I am relatively new to satellite work and want to venture into the linear satellites. I hope that is the correct term for it. I was reading in the AMSAT journal about half duplex operation however I am having a difficult time imagining how that would work. Are there any recommended references I could look up to get more familiar with that and how it works. Would I be able to work the linear satellites with my Icom706MKIIG and SatPC32? I realize it would take practice and finesse as opposed to using a full duplex rig but I would be willing to give it a try. Any suggestions or help would be great. I could be contacted here or off list as well. Thanks and 73, Pat N2VYT

2 1

FW: [ans] ANS-171 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by Dee 20 Jun '10

20 Jun '10

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-171 ANS is a free, weekly, news and information service of AMSAT North America, The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. This is your chance to join in the ranks of AMSAT. There is still an opening or two for someone to step in and assist with the ANS editing process. If you are interested, please drop a line to Gould Smith, WA4SXM(a)amsat.org. There are many other volunteer slots and you can find them in the advertisement in the AMSAT Journal. It takes many helpful hands to keep our group well oiled. (ed.) Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor(a)amsat.org In this edition: * Last Call For Speakers * BOD Nominations Announced * AO-51 Field Day Schedule * Lunar Lander Cubesat Poposed * 1675-1710 MHz Weather Satellite Band Under Study for Re-Allocation * Name That Satellite * Hudson Valley, NY SatCom Net on Thursday * ARISS Status SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.01 Last Call For Speakers AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.01 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.01 Hi All, This is the final call for speakers for the AMSAT-UK Colloquium 2010 which will be held at the Holiday Inn, Guildford, UK (same venue as in 2009) on *Sat 31st Jul and Sun 1st Aug 2010*, with a beginners session on the afternoon of Friday 30th. AMSAT-UK invite speakers, about amateur radio, space and associated activities to this event, details of which, can be found at: http://www.uk.amsat.org/content/view/32/42/ As this is a late call, the submission of a paper is not required but any PowerPoint or similar material can be made available online, afterterwards. Submissions should be sent *ONLY* to G4DPZ, via the following routes: e-mail: david.johnson AT blackpepper.co.uk SnailMail: QTHR from www.QRZ.com Likewise if anyone knows of a good speaker, please send contact and other information to G4DPZ. 73 Dave G4DPZ [ANS thanks Dave, G4DPZ, for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.02 BOD Nominations Announced AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.02 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.02 It is my pleasure to announce that the following have been nominated to serve on the AMSAT Board of Directors for two year terms: Tom Clark, K3IO Lou McFadin, W5DID Tony Monteiro, AA2TX Gould Smith, WA4SXM Candidates will be afforded the opportunity to have statements of their qualifications and positions circulated to the membership. In accordance with the bylaws of the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation, the ballots will be mailed no later than July 15th, and must be returned no later than September 15h to be counted. Since there are four candidates for three seats, the three candidates having the greatest number of votes will be elected to full terms. The forth candidate will serve as an alternate until the next annual election. Alan Biddle WA4SCA AMSAT Corporate Secretary [ANS thanks Alan, WA4SCA for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.03 AO-51 Field Day Schedule AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.03 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.03 AO-51 Operations Team Announces Field Day Schedule It's that time of year again; summer and Field Day! Each year the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) sponsors Field Day as an emergency preparedness exercise. The event takes place during a 24-hour period on the fourth weekend of June. For 2010 the event takes place during a 27-hour period from 1800 UTC on Saturday June 26, 2010 through 2100 UTC on Sunday June 27, 2010. Those who set up prior to 1800 UTC on June 26 can operate only 24 hours. The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT) promotes its own version of Field Day for operation via the amateur satellites, held concurrently with the ARRL event. AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew KO4MA says the AO-51 Command Team and Operations Group has announced the AO-51 configuration for Field Day: June 21 10:40Z - June 24 09:35Z FM Repeater, V/S to allow testing of V/S station equipment prior to Field Day: Uplink: 145.880 Mhz FM Downlink: 2401.200 Mhz FM June 24 09:35Z - June 27 06:40Z FM Repeater, V/U Please observe the 1 QSO per repeater Field Day rule Uplink: 145.920 Mhz FM, PL 67Hz Downlink: 435.300 Mhz FM June 27 06:40 - June 27 22:00Z FM Repeater, V/S Please observe the 1 QSO per repeater Field Day rule Uplink: 145.880 Mhz FM Downlink: 2401.200 Mhz FM AMSAT Field Day rules and scoring instructions are available on-line at: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/awards/amsatfd.php Read the latest AO-51 Command Team and Operations Group News on-line at: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/echo/CTNews.php [ANS thanks the AO-51 Operations Team for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.04 Lunar Lander Cubesat Proposed AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.04 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.04 Lunar Lander CubeSat Proposed In a story first reported in the European EE Times, Vermont Technical College, Norwich University, St. Michael's College, and the University of Vermont are working together to land a CubeSat on the moon. (EE Times http://tinyurl.com/22vuz7q) The team is currently working on initial designs for the spacecraft, with the aim of achieving further NASA funding in June 2011. Primary funding for this effort is being provided by the Vermont Space Grant Consortium under NASA grant. In the current phase of the program The Vermont CubeSat project, led by Professor Carl Brandon of Vermont Technical College aims to launch by 2015. It is developing the first CubeSat that can be launched from a geostationary orbit to successfully land on the moon. The CubeSat electronics are based on a Texas Instruments (TI) MSP430 processor and the software will control navigation, communications, scientific ins- truments, camera and the CubeSat's propulsion system. SPARK, a new high level programming language and toolset designed to support the development of mission critical software will be used for the moonbound cubesat. SPARK was adopted for the CubeSat project be- cause of Vermont Technical College's experience in using SPARK and the related Ada programming language in developing mission critical control systems for a project to create Arctic sea ice monitoring buoys. Both the CubeSat and buoy systems face similar challenges in terms of coping with inhospitable conditions and the impossibility of fixing any soft- ware bugs when deployed. The proposed lunar lander will be a single unit CubeSat (10*10*10 cm) with four mini-thrusters on the bottom to maximize control and manoeu- vrability. Two potential options for propulsion are being examined - a bi-propellant booster or a Xenon powered ion drive booster. The Xenon thruster can also be used for a triple CubeSat that would go to and orbit the moon. [ANS thanks EE Times and the SouthGate ARC News for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.05 1675-1710 MHz Weather Satellite Band Under Study for Re-Allocation AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.05 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.05 1675-1710 MHz Weather Satellite Band Under Study for Re-Allocation The ARRL has picked up on a news item in regards to the National Broadband Plan (NBP) recommending that the FCC should make 500 MHz of spectrum available for broadband use within the next 10 years, including 300 MHz between 225 MHz-3.7 GHz for mobile use in the next five years. One of the first slices of spectrum being eyeballed includes the 1675-1710 MHz band utilized by weather satellites. The FCC's Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) has engaged in discussions with the National Telecommunications and Information Ad- ministration's (NTIA) Office of Spectrum Management to begin examining various frequency bands that may be suitable for mobile broadband use. NTIA has preliminarily identified the 1675-1710 MHz band for such use and is examining the impact on its incumbent federal users of the weather satellite products. The FCC issued a Public Notice (ET Docket No 10-123) on June 4, 2010, seeking information to help better compre- hend the current use of the 1675-1710 MHz band by non-federal entities and better understand its potential utility for broadband. The full story can be found on the ARRL web site: http://tinyurl.com/29zv8a6 [ANS thanks the ARRL Letter for June 17, 2010, Editor: S. Khrystyne Keane, K1SFA for the above information] /EX ----- SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.06 Name That Satellite AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.06 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.06 Name that satellite SA-AMSAT is inviting radio amateurs to propose a name for its CubeSat project which was announced at the recently held Space Symposium. The project name should be a single word in any of South Africa's official languages and reflect the spirit of the project. A good example is the name given to the around-the-world-balloon project which is called "lalela", the Zulu word for "listen". The winning entry will receive a satellite handbook. Entries should be sent by e-mail to saamsat(a)intekom.co.za. SA-AMSAT's web page is at: http://www.amsatsa.org.za/ The closing date is 15 July. [ANS thanks SA-AMSAT, SARL, and SouthGate for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.07 Hudson Valley, NY SatCom Net on Thursday AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.07 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 20, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.07 Hudson Valley SatCom, NY Net on Thursday The next "HV Satcom" group net is Thursday June 24 8PM (EDT) (Or 2400 UTC), with an echolink Node of N2EYH-L, & the repeater used is "146.970 (Pl 100; 600 down), & for more info: www.hvsatcom.org 73,.Stu (WA2BSS) (Director;Mt. Beacon ARC) [ANS thanks Stu, WA2BSS, for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-171.08 ARISS Report AMSAT News Service Bulletin 171.08 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 14, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-171.08 Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) Status Report June 14, 2010 1. Upcoming School Contact Asahi Manabiya, located in Owariasahi, Aichi, Japan, has been scheduled for an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact on Wednesday, June 23 at 12:48 UTC. Asahi Manabiya is a volunteer club with approximately 50 members. It hopes to pique children's interest in natural science including electrical and electronic phenomena through this ARISS activity. 2. Astronaut Caldwell-Dyson Speaks with ISIS Andrea Ponti via ARISS On Monday, June 7, students from ISIS Andrea Ponti in Gallarate, Varese, Italy, linked up with on-orbit astronaut Tracy Caldwell-Dyson, KF5DBF via an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact. An audience of more than 250 students, teachers and visitors, located in several classrooms and connected by multimedia screens, were present for the contact. ARISS mentor Francesco De Paolis, IK0WGF introduced the event and ARISS activities with a presentation via phone line. The event was distributed via webcast and was covered by the local media and newspapers. This contact was the final event of several cross-curricular activities involving different school subjects including Science, History, Geography, Math, Information Technology and English. 3. ARISS News on Amateur Radio Newsline On June 11, the Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1713 included a short story titled, "Radio from Space: Astroham Congratulates WIA on its 100th Anniversary." The article is about Tracy Caldwell-Dyson's ARISS contact during the WIA's anniversary dinner in which she sent greetings and talked about the advancements in communications over the years. A link to the audio is provided. To view the article, see: ftp://ftp.arnewsline.org/quincy/News/news.txt 4. Astronaut Training Status Astronaut Tom Marshburn, KE5HOC is scheduled to receive ARISS basic operations training on July 12. [ANS thanks Carol, KB3LKI, for the above information] /EX In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President's Club. Members of the President's Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive additional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT Office. 73, This week's ANS Editor, Dee Interdonato, NB2F nb2f at amsat dot org

1 0

HO-68 Schedule -20-27 June 2010
by Alan Kung 20 Jun '10

20 Jun '10

UTC: 20 June 2010 ================================ 16:10...Turn On--FM/PACSAT India, Africa, Middle East, Europe,NA 16:55...Turn Off 18:00...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,Europe,Middle East,NA 18:45...Turn Off 22:05...Turn On--FM/PACSAT NA,North Asia,East Asia,Oceania 22:50...Turn Off 21 June 2010 ================================ 00:55...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,NA,North Asia 01:40...Turn Off 01:49...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:04...Turn Off 02:45...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,NA,North Asia 13:30...Turn Off 17:45...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,Europe,NA 18:30...Turn Off 22 June 2010 ================================ 23:35...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,NA,North Asia 00:20...Turn Off 00:40...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,NA,North Asia 01:25...Turn Off 03:20...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia, East Asia, South Asia 03:36...Turn Off 09:45...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,Asia,Europe 10:30...Turn Off 12:25...Turn On--FM/PACSAT NA,Europe,Africa,South America 13:10...Turn Off 17:25...Turn On--FM/PACSAT India,Middle East,Europe,NA 18:10...Turn Off 18:55...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,Europe,NA 19:40...Turn Off 23 June 2010 ================================= 02:58...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 03:14...Turn Off 11:10...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,East Asia,North Asia,Europe 11:55...Turn Off 13:55...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,East Asia,North Asia,Europe 14:40...Turn Off 17:10...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,Europe,NA 17:55...Turn Off 23:00...Turn On--FM/PACSAT NA,North Asia,East Asia,Oceania 23:45...Turn Off 24 June 2010 ================================= 02:43...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:58...Turn Off 06:15...Turn On--FM/PACSAT NA,North Asia,Middle East, Europe,Africa 07:00...Turn Off 09:10...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 09:55...Turn Off 13:35...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Europe,NA,South America 14:20...Turn Off 16:50...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,India,Middle East,Europe,NA 17:35...Turn Off 18:40...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,Europe,NA 19:25...Turn Off 22:40...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 23:25...Turn Off 25 June 2010 ================================ 02:26...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:42...Turn Off 10:40...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 11:25...Turn Off 13:20...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Europe,NA,South America 14:05...Turn Off 16:35...Turn On--FM/PACSAT India,Africa,Europe,NA 17:20...Turn Off 22:25...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,Africa,NA, Europe,North Asia,East Asia 23:10...Turn Off 26 June 2010 ================================ 01:15...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,NA,North Asia 02:00...Turn Off 02:09...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:25...Turn Off 10:25...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 11:10...Turn Off 13:05...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Europe,NA,South America 13:50...Turn Off 16:15...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Africa,Europe,NA 17:00...Turn Off 27 June 2010 ================================ 23:55...Turn On--FM/PACSAT South America,NA,North Asia 00:40...Turn Off 01:57...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:12...Turn Off 05:25...Turn On--FM/PACSAT North Asia,Europe,Africa 06:10...Turn Off 12:45...Turn On--FM/PACSAT Europe,NA,South America 13:30...Turn Off 16:00...Turn On--CW/SSB India,West Asia,Africa,Europe,NA 16:45...Turn Off 17:50...Turn On--CW/SSB India,West Asia,Africa,Europe,NA 18:35...Turn Off 73 Alan Kung, BA1DU HO-68(XW-1) Project Manager www.camsat.cn

2 2

first of a kind sat contact
by D. Craig Fox 20 Jun '10

20 Jun '10

Fellow sat-ops, last night I had the supreme pleasure of completing my first EME contact. (Yes, THAT satellite) It was with JR3REX . We were working JT65B on 144.122. I was in normal mode- ie, no "deep search" mode or signal averaging (for those who run this mode).The reason I am posting this is to remind those having SSB capabilities on VHF/UHF, that even modest equipment will allow such contacts. I was running only a 13 el cushcraft yagi with az/el (although not really needed once the moon is low), and a TE amp putting out about 375w. I used the TE's built in preamp. Ground wave gives a significant signal boost when the moon is low. Also, this satellite requires no sophisticated tracking. Anyway, I invite one and all to give it a try. 73s Craig N6RSX NOTICE: This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient of this communication, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this communication to the intended recipient, please advise the sender by reply email and immediately delete the message and any attachments without copying or disclosing the contents. Thank you.

1 0

DN83/84 on SO-50 ay 1420 UTC
by John Neeley 19 Jun '10

19 Jun '10

I will attempt the 1420 UTC pass this morning on SO-50. Just worked the AO-51 pass with some difficulty with electrical noise in the area but still made contact with 6 stations. I am in grids DN83/84 South of Rapid City, SD. GPS shows this campground right on the line, so 2 grids for one.. Anyone needing these grids, just email me or send a card to home listed on QRZ.com., no SASE required. Trip has been pretty good with good and bad weather. Terrible winds in Wyoming at +60mph.... not fun when pulling a trailer. Weather here this morning is 45 and sunny, and NO WIND... I am "hit and miss" on passes, so bear with me. If you hear me on, then call me... 73 de John W6ZKH

2 2

Kenwood TM-255A Question & comment
by Stuart Balanger 19 Jun '10

19 Jun '10

*Hi All, I have a Kenwood TM-255A All mode 2 Meter rig, & want to aqqire the companion Tm-455A, & know that there is a 6 Pin plug that interfaces w/ the computer, I want to use the "455A for listening to the "Birds", & am using a homemade 2meter "Squalo amtenna, & when i was sick w/ the flu 2 yrs. ago used the Kenwood TM-731a to listen to 1 side of a School comtac, & the "bug" bit me! Also,have loaded & installed "PCsat32 software into my "Os" Windows XP pro, & it loaded in very nicely,w/ no problems! Barring any unforseen curcumstances, hope to be @ the "AMSAT weekend Sympoium in Oct. @ Chicago, * more than likely will take the "Lake shoreLTD." out, & meet some of you! 73,.Stu (WA2BSS) PS Also the next "HV Satcom" net is Thursday June 24 8PM (EDT) (2 Days b4 Field Day Weekend Starts), & more info:www.hvsatcom.org *

1 0

Out of Office
by Martha 18 Jun '10

18 Jun '10

I will be leaving the office around 11:00 am and taking the rest of the day off! -- 73- Martha

4 3

Re: AMSAT Board of Directors Candidates
by G0MRF＠aol.com 18 Jun '10

18 Jun '10

In a message dated 16/06/2010 22:09:24 GMT Daylight Time, vlfiscus(a)mcn.net writes: Why does everything always have to be FM all the time. KB7ADL But doesn't Arissat-1 include a linear transponder ?? David

8 8

satpc ?
by Bob- W7LRD 18 Jun '10

18 Jun '10

Trying to get another computer with satpc for field day. I get" Ungultige Gleitkommaoperation" marching across the screen. wazup? 73 Bob W7LRD

5 4

AMSAT info to the mobile
by Robert Bruninga 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Are you promoting AMSAT activities to area mobiles? Now that there are 3 Kenwood and 4 Yaesu radios with front-panel APRS displays, and TT4, OT2, HAMHUD and other add-on displays to older radios, the Ham community is starting to finally see what APRS was always about - the desimination of local/relevant/real-time ham radio activities and information to other operators. It was not about vehicle tracking! It is an information sharing channel so that everyone can see everytrhing happening on ham radio in the area. This means INFO that is pushed to the front panel of APRS radios and operators: * Locally reecommended Travelers Repeater * Local Echolink or IRLP Freq, tone and codes * Local NETS or Meetings planned or in progress * Location of next HAMFEST (drive right to it) * Azimuth, elevation, freq and doppler of any AMSATS in view * Bulletins and Announcements, Weather alerts. * and many more. So, if you are doing *anything* AMSAT related and you want people within your area to see your activity, then you should be posting an APRS AMSAT object so that everyone will see it. For example, HAMFEST Objects are posted up to 2 weeks in advance and so everytime someone gets in his car, or drives through the area, he will be alerted to this coming hamfest on the front panel of his radio. We should be doing this for AMSAT activities too. Even if you are just doing a demo in a parking lot. Send it out on APRS and everyone in the county will see what-when-where and why. I have prepared a web page to show you how to post these objects: www.aprs.org/hamfest.html But it is like any dead band. If no one is posting these objects, then there is nothing to see. That's why we call it "amateur radio operating", not "sitting" or "listening". If you don't post these objects, who will? This is just part of the larger APRS Information Initiative to push relevant info TO visitors and mobile operators. See www.aprs.org/localinfo.html Bob, WB4APR

1 0

AMSAT Board of Directors Candidates
by Alan P. Biddle 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

It is my pleasure to announce that the following have been nominated to serve on the AMSAT Board of Directors for two year terms: Tom Clark, K3IO Lou McFadin, W5DID Tony Monteiro, AA2TX Gould Smith, WA4SXM Candidates will be afforded the opportunity to have statements of their qualifications and positions circulated to the membership. In accordance with the bylaws of the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation, the ballots will be mailed no later than July 15th, and must be returned no later than September 15h to be counted. Since there are four candidates for three seats, the three candidates having the greatest number of votes will be elected to full terms. The forth candidate will serve as an alternate until the next annual election. Alan Biddle WA4SCA AMSAT Corporate Secretary

10 10

Re: AMSAT Board of Directors Candidates
by Vince Fiscus, KB7ADL 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

At 10:27 PM 6/16/2010 -0400, Anthony Monteiro <aa2tx(a)comcast.net> wrote: >At 07:40 PM 6/16/2010, Dave Guimont wrote: >>I hope we are getting great financial support from the fm'ers. I >>assume the reason for fm is the assumed cost of ssw/cw rigs in > >Dear Dave and Vince and the group, > >You guys have to know that I would love to put up a linear HEO and >resurrect the +20 net! Pull my finger. KB7ADL

1 0

Moonbound CubeSat
by Trevor . 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Article from EETimes: The proposed lunar lander will be a single unit CubeSat with four mini-thrusters on the bottom to maximise control and manoeuvrability. Two potential options for propulsion are being examined – a bi-propellant booster or a Xenon powered ion drive booster. The Xenon thruster can also be used for a triple CubeSat that would go to and orbit the moon. The team is currently working on initial designs for the spacecraft, with the aim of achieving further NASA funding in June 2011. Lunar lander project relies on SPARK programming language http://www.electronics-eetimes.com/en/lunar-lander-project-relies-on-spark-… 73 Trevor M5AKA Daily Amateur Radio Email/RSS News: http://www.southgatearc.org/ Email Your News To: editor at southgatearc.org Or Upload Using Form At: http://www.southgatearc.org/news/your_news_1.htm ----

1 0

Icom IC-7000 and SatPC
by Clint Bradford 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

>From my in box ... I'll send him all replies. I do not "know" the IC-7000 well enough to respond. -Clint Clint, Thanks for all your great help in enabling us to work the sats. I read with great interest the article in the latest AMSAT Journal by Adrian Engele, AA5UK...In it he indicated that he used SatPC to control the doppler receive in his rig which precluded the need for a rig with full duplex capabilities. I had thought I need a full duplex rig to work the birds with linear transponders. I have seveal hundred qso's on the FM birds and want to get on the ssb birds. Also would like to get on the ssb birds for FD as I know the FM birds will be crowded and current predictions indicate only a couple good passes of the fm birds during FD here in Houston. My question is will SatPC (or any other software) enable me to use my IC7000, which is not a full duplex rig, to work the birds with linear transponders??? Thanks again for all your help. Stan Polak K5STZ Houston, TX

4 3

AMSAT-UK Colloquium 2010 - Final call for Speakers
by David Johnson 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Hi All, This is the final call for speakers for the AMSAT-UK Colloquium 2010 which will be held at the Holiday Inn, Guildford, UK (same venue as in 2009) on *Sat 31st Jul and Sun 1st Aug 2010*, with a beginners session on the afternoon of Friday 30th. AMSAT-UK invite speakers, about amateur radio, space and associated activities to this event, details of which, can be found at: http://www.uk.amsat.org/content/view/32/42/ As this is a late call, the submission of a paper is not required but any PowerPoint or similar material can be made available online, afterterwards. Submissions should be sent *ONLY* to G4DPZ, via the following routes: e-mail: david.johnson AT blackpepper.co.uk SnailMail: QTHR from www.QRZ.com Likewise if anyone knows of a good speaker, please send contact and other information to G4DPZ. 73 Dave G4DPZ

1 0

AMSAT-UK Colloquium 2010 - Final call for speakers
by David Johnson 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Hi All, This is the final call for speakers for the AMSAT-UK Colloquium 2010 which will be held at the Holiday Inn, Guildford, UK (same venue as in 2009) on *Sat 31st Jul and Sun 1st Aug 2010*, with a beginners session on the afternoon of Friday 30the. AMSAT-UK invite speakers, about amateur radio, space and associated activities to this event, details of which, can be found at: http://www.uk.amsat.org/content/view/32/42/ As this is a late call, the submission of a paper is not required but any PowerPoint or similar material can be made available online, afterterwards. Submissions should be sent *ONLY* to G4DPZ, via the following routes: e-mail: david.johnson AT blackpepper.co.uk SnailMail: QTHR from www.QRZ.com Likewise if anyone knows of a good speaker, please send contact and other information to G4DPZ. 73 Dave G4DPZ

1 0

For W4UPD only
by David Giles 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Hello Reid, I've tried three times to reply to your emails but they keep bouncing. Thanks for the file, just what I wanted. 73 de David VK5DG

1 0

Re: AMSAT Board of Directors Candidates
by Tom Clark, K3IO 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Vince asked: > Which of these candidates would support adding a Mode A linear transponder > to FOX, or any type of linear transponder for that matter. FOX will > already have a 2m receiver all you'd need to add is a 10m downlink > transmitter. Use a tape measure tape for the antennas. Not very practical ides -- sorry. FOX is a 1U Cubesat, 10cm=4" on a side. Kinda hard to fit 10M dipole (which would be ~16 ft long, fed in the middle). You can't do it with a monopole because the 4" box doesn't have enough size to feed a monopole against. And with a 4" cube (even with deployable panels) we can only expect a total of a few watts (orbit average) of power. The laws of physics and engineering are rather unforgiving! 73, Tom

1 0

TS-711/811 help
by David Giles 17 Jun '10

17 Jun '10

Hello All, I've just acquired a TS-811 but alas it does not have the IF-10A computer interface. I've downloaded the manual and have all the chips, eprom programmer, spare eproms etc. to build my own. What I don't have is the contents of the 2732 extension eprom. If anyone has a hexdump of the eprom or is able to extract the contacts (or knows where I can get a copy) please reply to me off-list. 73 de David VK5DG

2 1

Falcon 9 to launch Iridium sats
by Trevor . 16 Jun '10

16 Jun '10

Looks like SpaceX has a contract to launch lots of Iridium satellites into a 781km orbit. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/science_and_environment/10335315.stm 73 Trevor M5AKA

1 0

Mutek Preamps
by howard dawson 16 Jun '10

16 Jun '10

Hi All. I am looking for any Information on 2 Mutek Preamplifiers I have, One is for 2Mtr operation type GFBA144e and One for 70cms type GLNA 432e. The 2mtr one has a 4pin female connector on the front labeled "CTRL" and 2 "N" type antenna sockets marked "Ant and Tcvr". The 70cms one has a 3pin male socket also labeled "CTRL" and the same "N" type sockets. Any information regarding where I might purchase these connectors and any other Info would be very much appreciated. I have emailed Mutek a number of times over the last 2 months but no response from them to date, their Web site also seems to be a little out dated. Many thanks in advance. Howard. G0VBT Amsat UK

1 0

AO51
by Dale Hershberger 16 Jun '10

16 Jun '10

Hello, I have not been able to make connection thru the repeater on AO51. I was successful yesterday. Doppler did track the down link freq. I could not hear my down link signal. Dale KL7XJ

2 1

Re: AO-51 Down
by Pierre van Deventer 16 Jun '10

16 Jun '10

Drew wrote: "We have been very close to the low battery trip points due to continued attempted use in eclipse in the southern hemisphere." The Southern hemisphere is a fairly large area, please be more specific. The statement you made creates doubt about our operating habits implying that we are irresponsible operators. AO-51 is not in eclipse whilst it in range of Southern Africa. This is based on the information as given by SatPC32. Greetings. 73, Pierre ZS6BB

1 0

AO-51 Down??
by Rick - WA4NVM 16 Jun '10

16 Jun '10

Hi All, I haven't heard the bird the last two orbits. I double checked the sked.... no change. 73 all, Rick WA4NVM

5 6

W1AW/4 TI SC Contacts
by Mark Spencer 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Thanks to all who helped me with the satellite demonstration during the ARRL Teachers Institute in SC (EM84) today on AO27 around 1815Z today. If you would like a card for the contact, send a card to my home address (WA8SME), no SASE required. Mark Mark Spencer, WA8SME Education and Technology Program Coordinator ARRL, the national association for Amateur RadioT mspencer(a)arrl.org www.arrl.org/education-technology-program www.arrl.org/teachers-institute-on-wireless-technology 530-495-9150

1 0

Looking for KE3LB
by Don 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Trying to get in touch With John KE3LB. I think I must have a bad address for him so John if your are reading this contact me WB8ZOM(a)ARRL.net .If anyone knows John ask him to drop me a e-mail. I am trying to QSL a contact and got a return to sender form his listed address on QRZ . Thanks for any help 73 WB8ZOM Don

1 0

Radio Hams Launch Today
by Trevor . 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Shannon Walker KD5DXB, Doug Wheelock KF5BOC and Fyodor Yurchikhin RN3FI launch for the space station today. The launch should be shown on NASA TV at 21:35 UT (17:35 EDT) at http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html 73 Trevor M5AKA

1 0

Re: ICOM 471A Output N Connector replacement
by G. Beat 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Mike - Contact Scott Malcom, KA7MEF Technician and Lead Go'fer at MTS Repair. Scott worked for Icom Service, when this radio was new, and should be able to provide the necessary insight for your work. He also has access to some parts from junked/donor radios of that classic Icom era. Malcom Technical Support (MTS) 5130 Jackson Hwy Toledo, WA 98591-8680 Email: mts(a)toledotel.com Voice Mail: 360 864 8438 eHam.net reviews (126) scoring 4.9 out of 5.0 (excellent rating) http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/1786 greg w9gb ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Tue, 15 Jun 2010 06:16:31 GMT From: "mike casey" <doomsdaymike(a)netzero.com> Subject: [amsat-bb] ICOM 471A Output N Connector replacement To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Message-ID: <20100615.021631.26462.0(a)webmail05.dca.untd.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252 Has anyone replaced the female N connector on the IC 471A, 25 watt tranceiver PA module? It seems as if the heat sink is trapped between the N connector barrel and the PA circuit board. Unless the connector barrel pulls off of the pin, I see no way of removing it, or the circuit board to get at the pin. I don't want to use to much force in pulling off the barrel. Perhaps heating the pin might release the barrel. Any suggestions? Should I send it to Icom and let them worry about it? ____________________________________________________________

1 0

Re: CP antenna from 2 WiFi panels
by Edward R Cole 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Antenna arrived today. Shipping was $9.30 so total of $24.29. All white plastic encapsulated: 4.5x4.5x1.0 inch and has four mounting holes on the flange. I will mount it on a 1/8-inch thick aluminum plate attached to my satellite elevation crossboom using U-bolts. Very nice looking workmanship. 8 dBi gain translates loosely to 6 dBd ( about the free-space gain of a 3-element yagi. 73, Ed - KL7UW At 06:58 AM 6/9/2010, John Belstner wrote: >Good price Ed. Its not worth the time trying to make something when >you can buy something for $15. >Good luck and let me know how it works. > >73, John > >On Jun 8, 2010, at 10:15 PM, Edward R Cole wrote: > > > Thanks, John! > > > > At 02:37 PM 6/7/2010, John Belstner wrote: > >> Hi Domenico, > >> > >> The HG2414P is a linearly polarized patch. > >> http://www.34t.com/PDF/hg2414p.pdf > >> > >> The HG2409PC is a circular polarized patch (LH or RH available). > >> http://www.34t.com/PDF/hg2409pc.pdf > > > > Just ordered one for $14.99+ shipping. I comes with 12-inch coax > with NF connector. Other cables and /or connectors for $36.99 > > > > > >> They are about the same price too. > >> > >> 73, John > >> > > > > > > 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 > > ====================================== > > BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com > > EME: 144-600w, 432-100w, 1296-60w, 3400-fall 2010 > > DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubususa(a)hotmail.com > > ====================================== > > 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 ====================================== BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 144-600w, 432-100w, 1296-60w, 3400-fall 2010 DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubususa(a)hotmail.com ======================================

2 1

ICOM 471A Output N Connector replacement
by mike casey 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Has anyone replaced the female N connector on the IC 471A, 25 watt tranceiver PA module? It seems as if the heat sink is trapped between the N connector barrel and the PA circuit board. Unless the connector barrel pulls off of the pin, I see no way of removing it, or the circuit board to get at the pin. I don't want to use to much force in pulling off the barrel. Perhaps heating the pin might release the barrel. Any suggestions? Should I send it to Icom and let them worry about it? ____________________________________________________________ Artery Clearing Secret Nobel Prize Winning discovery cuts artery plaque by incredible 50%. http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL3241/4c171b0a911a53e57d6st02duc

1 0

Email Inquiry
by Clint Bradford 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

Who would like to make contact with this gentleman? I am not into the "data" aspect of the birds. Email me, and I will provide his contact info. Thanks! -Clint Hello Sir/Madam, I hope this email finds you in the best of health. The reason for this email is to ask if you know anyone in your circle, that is a ham radio person, or is/was interested in tracking satellites. We are a group of students at the University of Southern California, who have put together a couple of Yagi antennae on a Yaesu servo mount, on top of a building and have a Yaesu FT-736R and a TS-2000 radio rigs. Our goal is to capture data from amateur satellites. We are having some problems with the accumulation of data from satellites, and are in a constant rut of affairs, for the last few weeks, and after trying everything we could think of, maybe need to be pointed out an obvious simple error. We can hear the data packets on the 144.39 MHz FM at 1200 bps, but when it comes to satellites our TNCs just keep quiet, even though the power levels on the radios show that some sort of signal is coming down. It might be that we have missed some configuration that needs to be done, and would be very thankful if you could direct us to someone who can give us a few minutes of his time on the phone and help us out. So if you know anyone who even might be able/willing to help kindly email me back. Thanks, Omair A. Rahman, Teaching Assistant, USC Astronautical Engineering.

2 1

AO-27 schedule updated
by George Henry 15 Jun '10

15 Jun '10

A new schedule was uploaded to the satellite on May 30th. All users of the Java schedule lister should update your data files to be sure you have the latest schedule. George, KA3HSW

3 2

Call for Papers & Presentations - 2010 ARRL/TAPR Digital Communications Conference
by Mark Thompson 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

Note: Presentations at the DCC are encouraged & can be made without submitting a technical paper. Call for Papers--2010 ARRL/TAPR Digital Communications Conference Technical papers are solicited for presentation at the 29th Annual ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference to be held September 24-26, 2010 in Portland, Oregon. These papers will also be published in the Conference Proceedings (you do NOT need to attend the conference to have your paper included in the Proceedings). The submission deadline is July 31, 2010. Please send papers to: Maty Weinberg ARRL 225 Main St Newington, CT 06111 or you can make your submission via e-mail to: maty(a)arrl.org Papers will be published exactly as submitted and authors will retain all rights. 73 . . . Steve, WB8IMY sford(a)arrl.org ARRL

1 0

QSL Label Software
by Reid Crowe 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

I'm tying to setup BV7 QSL for satellite contacts. Is there a way to import the satellite name and the RX band or does someone have another program that they recommend? 73 Reid N0RC

1 0

Hayabusa Sample Container Touches Down
by B J 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

http://spaceflightnow.com/news/n1006/13hayabusaentry/ 73s Bernhard VA6BMj @ DO33FL

1 0

W1AW/4 Tuesday in EM84 Teachers Institute
by Mark Spencer 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

Hi All, I will be attempting a satellite demonstration during the teachers institute in Walhalla, SC (EM84) on AO27 Tuesday June 15 at 1441 EDT (hope I have the time right and my batteries charged this time). The backup to deal with potential rain is during the 1550 EDT pass. I will be using W1AW/4. If you would like a QSL for the contact, use my home address WA8SME, no SASE required, and I'll take care of the return card. Thanks for supporting the ARRL teachers institutes. Mark Mark Spencer, WA8SME Education and Technology Program Coordinator ARRL, the national association for Amateur RadioT mspencer(a)arrl.org www.arrl.org/education-technology-program www.arrl.org/teachers-institute-on-wireless-technology 530-495-9150

1 0

AO 51
by Larry Lucas 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

After trying for a couple of weeks finally heard AO 51. Now I am hooked even more. Working on trying to contact now. Using a Yeasu 7 and an Elk antenna. I am going to try for other sats now. hope to talk to you someday. KD8JHW

1 0

AMSAT Forum at Dayton Hamvention Videos Ready to be Viewed On-line
by JoAnne Maenpaa 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

AMSAT has posted five videos filmed at the 2010 Dayton Hamvention. Don't get the ANS e-mails? Check out http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/ans to remedy the situation ... see bulletin below ... SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-164.03 AMSAT Forum at Dayton Hamvention Videos Ready to be Viewed On-line AMSAT News Service Bulletin 164.03 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. June 13, 2010 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-164.03 If you weren't able to attend the Dayton Hamvention this year, you missed five interesting and informative presentations at the AMSAT Forum. The complete presentations are now available on the AMSAT website at http://www.amsat.org. From the menu on the left side of the home page, select "AMSAT Video News". The direct link to the AMSAT Video News Page is: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/information/videoNews.php Here's what you'll find: Barry Baines, WD4ASW, AMSAT President, "AMSAT Status Report" AMSAT President Barry Baines highlights current activities within AMSAT and discusses some of the challenges facing the organization. Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA, AMSAT VP Operations, "AMSAT Satellite Oper- ations and International Satellite Operations". Drew discussed oper- ational AMSAT satellites and described new and future international Satellites. Mike Forsythe, AC2V, "Integrating Satellite Operations into DXpeditions" Mike, K4T Team Leader described the planning and execution of the K4T DXpedition, and how to have satellite operations be a major part of DXpeditions, involving youth and making it all work on green power! Gould Smith, WA4SXM, AMSAT VP User Services, "Getting ARISSat-1 Ready to Fly". Gould is the AMSAT Project Manager for ARISSat-1 and talked about the evolution of SuitSat-2 to ARRISat-1, the current status of the satellite project, and the testing and delivery of two satellites to Russia in July. Roger Westgate, WC2R, "NextGen CubeSat Program Update". Roger delivered the update prepared by Alex Harvilchuck, N3NP, a Systems Engineer with IBM and the NextGen CubeSat Program Manager. A team of engineering students from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Binghamton have been modifying the power systems from ARISSat-1 for use in a 3U CubeSat with a U/V linear trans- ponder, for AMSAT. The files are in Windows Media Video (.wmv) format and will work with Internet Explorer and Windows Media Player on a PC, Safari and QuickTime (with .wmv plug-in) under OS X on an Apple Macintosh, and with a .wmv player under Linux or other operating system. Credits: Video and audio recording: Patrick Stoddard WD9EWK and Douglas Quagliana KA2UPW Moderator: Alan Biddle WA4SCA Video server: Rob Meisse W8REM and Gunther Meisse W8GSM Webmaster: Rick Hambly W2GPS Video editor: Steve Belter N9IP [ANS thanks Steve Belter, N9IP for the above information] /EX -- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm(a)amsat.org Editor, AMSAT News Service Copy Editor, AMSAT Journal

1 0

FS: KLM 22el CP yagi & Arrow antenna
by Kevin Smith 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

Thanks for reading this post. The following have become excess to my needs and are for sale: 1) KLM 22-element CP, switchable polarization - this antenna was recently brought off my tower after more than 10-years of great service. I have pictures of this antenna including several with my MFJ 269Pro connected showing 1.1:1 to 1.2:1 SWR across the 70-cm band from 432 to 445 Mhz that I can send to you upon request. Although the antenna can be broken down somewhat into five shorter lengths I am not at all sure that it can be shipped commercially. I have a price in mind but let's talk. Shipping costs (if possible) will be extra. 2) Arrow II Model 146/437-10WBP with 10W duplexer & cables and nylon antenna bag. Both packages never opened. $120 firm. If interested in either item please contact me via email. Kevin Smith N3HKQ

3 2

Re: VO-52
by Louis House, KD5GM 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

>Message: 2 >Date: Fri, 11 Jun 2010 18:41:37 -0700 >From: Clint Bradford <clintbradford(a)mac.com> >Subject: [amsat-bb] VO-52 - OK to Work in FM? >To: AMSAT BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >Message-ID: <783B57E0-1B8C-4F72-A695->ACD09E6AE27E(a)mac.com> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii >The Bengal ham club posted about five years ago >instructions for working V)-52 in FM mode. Is that still >OK to do? >"HAMSAT or VO-52 is a satellite intended for >SSB/CW operation. However as in VU land very few >of us can afford multimode VHF/UHF radios we are >accessing Hamsat on FM for which it is best to stick to >the centre frequencies (435.250 uplink and 145.900 >downlink). It is also best to simultaneously monitor your >own signals on the downlink using a separate radio. >Hamsat requires around 100 watt ERP for solid 59 >signals. So if you are using 10 watts RF the >recommended antenna gain is around 10 db. However >Hamsat or VO-52 have been accessed on high >elevation passes using 25 watts ERP. If you want to use >omni directional antennas you can build a turnstile or an >eggbeater antenna which has a dome shaped radiation >pattern with circular polarisation. Separate 10 element >UHF and 5 element VHF crossed yagis with >circular .polarisation would give excellent results. Only >keep the transmission line loss (particularly on UHF) >minimum. Use hardline CATV cable if transmission line >is more than! > 100 feet. Otherwise if you use RG-213 keep the >feeder length to around 20 - 30 feet. I have been using a >handheld arrow yagi antenna with RG-58U cable of >around 1 meter length. Doppler compensation is needed >particularly on the UHF uplink where the signal will shift a >round 10 KHz. So for the uplink it is best to start from >435.240 MHz during AOS and end at 435.260 MHz at >LOS and on the downlink start receiving 5 KHz up at >145.905 MHz and end at 145.895 MHz. Currently the >VU transponder is on and it has a beacon (continuous >carrier) on 145.936 MHz though we have not yet r >eceived the beacon from Calcutta / Kolkata." >Clint, K6LCS It is very exciting to work VO-52 in the CW mode. She is a strong bird and hears well. I work her often on only 2 watts CW and a 12 dbi gain vertical yagi on the uplink and 10d bi for the V down link and can hear her down to about 5 degrees on most passes. LOUIS, KD5GM CW, The original digital mode

1 0

TS2000 on dualband antenna (for sat work)
by John Geiger 13 Jun '10

13 Jun '10

Has anyone on the list tried using a Kenwood TS2000 on full duplex satellite operatation using a dualband VHF/UHF antenna and a diplexer? Is it possible or is there too much desensitization thru the diplexer to make full duplex work? 73s John AA5JG

2 1

VO-52 - OK to Work in FM?
by Clint Bradford 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

The Bengal ham club posted about five years ago instructions for working V)-52 in FM mode. Is that still OK to do? "HAMSAT or VO-52 is a satellite intended for SSB/CW operation. However as in VU land very few of us can afford multimode VHF/UHF radios we are accessing Hamsat on FM for which it is best to stick to the centre frequencies (435.250 uplink and 145.900 downlink). It is also best to simultaneously monitor your own signals on the downlink using a separate radio. Hamsat requires around 100 watt ERP for solid 59 signals. So if you are using 10 watts RF the recommended antenna gain is around 10 db. However Hamsat or VO-52 have been accessed on high elevation passes using 25 watts ERP. If you want to use omni directional antennas you can build a turnstile or an eggbeater antenna which has a dome shaped radiation pattern with circular polarisation. Separate 10 element UHF and 5 element VHF crossed yagis with circular polarisation would give excellent results. Only keep the transmission line loss (particularly on UHF) minimum. Use hardline CATV cable if transmission line is more than 100 feet. Otherwise if you use RG-213 keep the feeder length to around 20 - 30 feet. I have been using a handheld arrow yagi antenna with RG-58U cable of around 1 meter length. Doppler compensation is needed particularly on the UHF uplink where the signal will shift around 10 KHz. So for the uplink it is best to start from 435.240 MHz during AOS and end at 435.260 MHz at LOS and on the downlink start receiving 5 KHz up at 145.905 MHz and end at 145.895 MHz. Currently the VU transponder is on and it has a beacon (continuous carrier) on 145.936 MHz though we have not yet received the beacon from Calcutta / Kolkata." Clint, K6LCS

3 2

IKAROS Solar Sail Successfully Deployed
by B J 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

http://www.jaxa.jp/press/2010/06/20100611_ikaros_e.html 73s Bernhard VA6BMJ @ DO33FL

4 4

elevation rotor 4 sale
by Bob- W7LRD 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

I have a "extra" T-45 Alliance rotor. It is the 5 wire version on the U-110. Contact direct. A portion of the proceeds go to AMSAT. 73 Bob W7LRD

1 0

Re: VO-52 - OK to Work in FM?
by andy thomas 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

I don't, and I think that VU says basicaly that it's ok if you haven't anything else - so why foul up the transponder or others by grabbing its power? I can see it MIGHT be acceptable if you were testing a rig. but not to treat as '51, IMHO. But AMSAT-VU will say for sure, it's their bird. 73 de andy G0SFJ

1 0

Re: VO-52 - OK to Work in FM?
by Alex 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

Hi Clint. Check out this page on the Amsat India web site http://www.amsatindia.org/payloads.htm Alex / VK5ALX

1 0

HO-68 Schedule -13-20 June 2010
by Alan Kung 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

UTC: 13 June 2010 ================================ 16:25...Turn On--CW/SSB India, Africa, Middle East, Europe,NA 17:10...Turn Off 18:10...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,Europe,Middle East,NA 18:55...Turn Off 22:15...Turn On--CW/SSB NA,North Asia,East Asia,Oceania 23:00...Turn Off 14 June 2010 ================================ 01:05...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,NA,North Asia 01:50...Turn Off 01:56...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:11...Turn Off 02:50...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,NA,North Asia 13:35...Turn Off 17:55...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,Europe,NA 18:40...Turn Off 15 June 2010 ================================ 23:45...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,NA,North Asia 00:30...Turn Off 00:45...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,NA,North Asia 01:30...Turn Off 01:39...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia, East Asia, South Asia 01:54...Turn Off 09:50...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,Asia,Europe 10:35...Turn Off 12:30...Turn On--CW/SSB NA,Europe,Africa,South America 13:15...Turn Off 17:35...Turn On--CW/SSB India,Middle East,Europe,NA 18:20...Turn Off 19:05...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,Europe,NA 19:50...Turn Off 16 June 2010 ================================= 01:23...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 09:37...Turn Off 09:35...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,East Asia,North Asia,Europe 10:20...Turn Off 15:15...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,East Asia,North Asia,Europe 16:00...Turn Off 17:20...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,Europe,NA 18:05...Turn Off 23:10...Turn On--CW/SSB NA,North Asia,East Asia,Oceania 23:55...Turn Off 17 June 2010 ================================= 01:04...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 09:19...Turn Off 04:35...Turn On--CW/SSB NA,North Asia,Middle East, Europe,Africa 05:20...Turn Off 09:20...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 10:05...Turn Off 13:45...Turn On--CW/SSB Europe,NA,South America 14:30...Turn Off 17:05...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,India,Middle East,Europe,NA 17:50...Turn Off 18:50...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,Europe,NA 19:35...Turn Off 22:55...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 23:40...Turn Off 18 June 2010 ================================ 02:41...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:56...Turn Off 10:50...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 11:35...Turn Off 13:35...Turn On--CW/SSB Europe,NA,South America 14:20...Turn Off 16:45...Turn On--CW/SSB India,Africa,Europe,NA 17:30...Turn Off 22:35...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,Africa,NA, Europe,North Asia,East Asia 23:20...Turn Off 19 June 2010 ================================ 01:25...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,NA,North Asia 01:10...Turn Off 02:19...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:35...Turn Off 10:35...Turn On--CW/SSB Oceania,Asia,Europe,NA 11:20...Turn Off 13:15...Turn On--CW/SSB Europe,NA,South America 14:00...Turn Off 16:30...Turn On--CW/SSB Africa,Europe,NA 17:15...Turn Off 20 June 2010 ================================ 00:05...Turn On--CW/SSB South America,NA,North Asia 00:50...Turn Off 02:03...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,East Asia,South Asia 02:18...Turn Off 05:35...Turn On--CW/SSB North Asia,Europe,Africa 06:20...Turn Off 12:55...Turn On--FM Europe,NA,South America 13:40...Turn Off 73 Alan Kung, BA1DU HO-68(XW-1) Project Manager www.camsat.cn

2 1

SO-67 Back Next week?
by John Meeks 12 Jun '10

12 Jun '10

From Jan-Albert Koekemoer via sumbandila.googlegroups.com : "We've indeed have a long "radio silence" now. Some good news is that we're reprogramming the command transceiver on the satellite used by the SA-AMSAT payload (CTR-VU2) tonight. This will hopefully sidestep the issue we've had with the cut-off at the PTT tail. The idea is to keep the PTT active for the 15 minute duration that the SA-AMSAT payload will be active at a time, i.e. uncouple the PTT functionality from the rest of the SA-AMSAT payload functions. We will then make sure it works as expected (hopefully first half of next week) and if all goes well, aim to have the payload fully operational and in service again by the end of the week." From SARLNEWS: "SUMBANDILASAT SOON BACK IN AMATEUR RADIO MODE SA AMSAT announced that SumbandilaSat will soon be back in the Amateur Radio Mode. Currently Sunspace will re-program CR2 with a fix for the SA AMSAT PTT problem . This is expected to be completed by mid May. Programming of the Amateur Radio Payload will in future be carried out by the CSIR Satellite Application Centre at Hartebeeshoek. SA AMSAT will work with SAC to coordinate operational requests. More details on how to request operation will be announced in the next two weeks and published on www.amsatsa.org.za <http://www.amsatsa.org.za>. We will not be using googlegroups."

2 1

Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters circular polarization?
by Joe v Murray 11 Jun '10

11 Jun '10

My apologies gents The attached was the second reply to Gary (WE9Y) that was not sent to the BB As you can see after reading the attached a few pictures would have been a must to really get into a axis discussion about my original query. I took a chance that Gary might have had some secret way of lining up the axis of those two antennas in his back yard. Dom ( I8CVS) I still have your bench lab alignment pictures from years ago. It has been a long dry spell for us. And as usual Dr. Johnson (K0CQ) can add helpful information which we are all thankful for. My problem as you all now can grasp is outdoors , far field , 23 feet about ground using prime dish problems. Assuming good focus alignment on that dish and since it is AZ/EL mounted constructing the measurement ability on the selfsupporting tower 48 feet distant seems simple at first brush. However the desire to have the measurement capability be no worse than 1dB or the axial ratio results begins to provide tight axis alignment of the bore sight even using a single spinning dipole. I apoligize again for stirring up a problem by not sending the second post to the BB 73's Joe Murray K0VTY ======================== ----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Joe v Murray <k0vty(a)juno.com> To: gary.reed(a)sbcglobal.net Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 20:51:52 -0500 Subject: Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters-errors circular polarization? I have been trying to determine a way to accomplish the line up of the two axis before I begin the construction. Keeping the entire system and measurement off the ground is a requirement. As we know on a CP antenna the minimum axial ratio is the measure that must be delivered or the notion of CP does not mean much. In my case I am using a 54 inch diameter spun aluminum dish mounted at 23 feet off the ground. A mono axial mode helical feed is used with > 22 dB return loss. A second self supporting tower at 48 foot distant is the location for the measurement dipole system However so far I have not convinced myself of a sure fire way to manage the axis alignment. Even when I make the measurement end adjustable I still have not arrived at a good enough way. So when you came up with your suggestion I thought maybe you have devised a method of aligning those axis with in some reasonable method. I do not believe that eye balls will cut the needed accuracy if 1dB of axial ratio is the goal. I should have provided the above in the first place Gary Thanks Gary Joe Murray K0VTY ====================== On Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:59:12 -0700 (PDT) Gary K Reed <gary.reed(a)sbcglobal.net> writes: Well, I would say mount the dipole through a piece of PVC pipe of say 1 inch diameter. Make the pipe 3 feet long. Run the pipe through a PVC "Tee" of appropriate size. Mount that "Tee" on a stand of some sort. I would suggest more PVC for that - no metal of course. Then, site down through the pipe at the other antenna. Far field would be about 25-30 feet at 1296 so you should be able to see that far easily. (Far field depends on the antenna aperture so it varies. Large arrays would entail longer distances.) Don't know if this helps, but it might be a start. Gary WE9Y --- On Thu, 6/10/10, Joe v Murray <k0vty(a)juno.com> wrote: From: Joe v Murray <k0vty(a)juno.com> Subject: Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters-errors circular polarization? To: gary.reed(a)sbcglobal.net, amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Date: Thursday, June 10, 2010, 8:42 PM Hi Gary Any good suggstions on how to keep the axis of the rotating dipole lined up with the axis of the CP antenna in the far field? Thanks Joe Murray K0VTY ==================== On Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:24:55 -0700 (PDT) Gary K Reed <gary.reed(a)sbcglobal.net> writes: > To measure axial ratio, why not rotate a dipole in front of the yagis > (or other antenna) , and measure the signal strength. If the axial > ratio is 1 then there should be NO change in signal strength as the > dipole is rotated. It would necessary to stay in the far field. > > Or have I been working too long today? > > Gary WE9Y > _______________________________________________ > Microwave mailing list > microwave(a)lists.valinet.com > http://www.valinet.com/mailman/listinfo/microwave > > ____________________________________________________________ Penny Stock Jumping 2000% Sign up to the #1 voted penny stock newsletter for free today! http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4c1186ca9383d82045m03vuc

1 0

Fw: Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters-error circularpolarization?
by i8cvs 11 Jun '10

11 Jun '10

Hi Yanco, KC9RDT My message to you bounced back to me for three times. Please give me another email address. 73" de i8CVS Domenico ----- Original Message ----- From: "Yanko Yankov" <samy_b1(a)shell4you.net> To: "i8cvs" <domenico.i8cvs(a)tin.it> Sent: Friday, June 11, 2010 5:51 AM Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters-errors circularpolarization? Can I see your setup . 73 de KC9RDT - original message - Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters-errors circularpolarization? From: "i8cvs" <domenico.i8cvs(a)tin.it> Date: 10/06/2010 9:51 PM Hi Joe K0VTY and Gary WE9Y In a separate email I have sent to both of you few photograph of my lab set-up for circularity measurements using a rotating dipole against a LHCP steady 3.5 turns helix feed for 2400 MHz under test. Also I have added the radiation diagram for a G3RUH type patch feed for 2400 MHz made with the same set-up when the patch is azimutally rotated by +/- 90° and is illuminated by the steady horizontally polarized dipole. If someone is interested to see the above set-up for microwave please let me know off line. 73" de i8CVS Domenico

1 0

Re: [Mw] Fwd: Power splitters-errors circular polarization?
by Joe v Murray 11 Jun '10

11 Jun '10

Hi Gary Any good suggstions on how to keep the axis of the rotating dipole lined up with the axis of the CP antenna in the far field? Thanks Joe Murray K0VTY ==================== On Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:24:55 -0700 (PDT) Gary K Reed <gary.reed(a)sbcglobal.net> writes: > To measure axial ratio, why not rotate a dipole in front of the yagis > (or other antenna) , and measure the signal strength. If the axial > ratio is 1 then there should be NO change in signal strength as the > dipole is rotated. It would necessary to stay in the far field. > > Or have I been working too long today? > > Gary WE9Y > _______________________________________________ > Microwave mailing list > microwave(a)lists.valinet.com > http://www.valinet.com/mailman/listinfo/microwave > > ____________________________________________________________ Health Plans From $50/mo. Compare Low-Cost Health Plans Online. Blue Cross, Aetna and more. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4c1186ca93c8b82046m03vuc

2 1

Hayabusa On Target For Australia Landing
by B J 11 Jun '10

11 Jun '10

http://www.isas.jaxa.jp/e/enterp/missions/hayabusa/index.shtml http://www.spaceflightnow.com/news/n1006/09hayabusa/ This spacecraft has had an amazing story. The designers and mission controllers deserve lot of credit for overcoming all the difficulties it encountered. 73s Bernhard VA6BMJ @ DO33FL

1 0

AO-7 question
by Ron Overdrive 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

One thing I always noticed is that its recommended to not exceed 5 watts when operating on AO-7, but I'm not seeing anything about maximum gain to use. I have an Arrow II handheld yagi and on the 440 side supposedly it has a 10dbd gain which would give me effectively 50 watts output assuming no losses. So my question in a nutshell is, what is the maximum recommended radiated power recommended with this bird? ~73, KC2WQW Ron

2 2

Re: AO-7 Mode Switch
by Bob- W7LRD 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

It's a very old "bucket of bolts", therefore reserves the right to be be a bit tempermental, for whatever reason. 73 Bob W7LRD ----- Original Message ----- From: "John Papay" <john(a)papays.com> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 4:50:54 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [amsat-bb] AO-7 Mode Switch AO-7 has normally switched modes every other day except during periods of eclipse when it stays in Mode B. On June 8th, it was in Mode A as predicted, however, when it was supposed to switch to Mode B between 0200 and 0500 on June 9th, the AO-7 log reported that it was heard in Mode B at 0407z by SP9TTX and then was reported off on the next pass at 0600z. When it came back on at 0800z, it was in Mode A rather than Mode B. Then it switched back to Mode B on the 10th at the normal time. In other words, it has skipped a day in the switching schedule. I didn't see any eclipse event and even if there was, the satellite would normally come back in Mode B rather than Mode A. Is there an explanation? 73, John K8YSE John Papay john(a)papays.com _______________________________________________ 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

1 0

College night on the Sats?
by Michael Wolthuis 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

Can anyone give me more details or where I can find info on College night on the Sats for June? Did I already miss it or is it tonight? I want to activate W8MSU (Michigan State University) for several sat passes. Thanks, Mike kb8zgl

2 1

AO-7 Mode Switch
by John Papay 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

AO-7 has normally switched modes every other day except during periods of eclipse when it stays in Mode B. On June 8th, it was in Mode A as predicted, however, when it was supposed to switch to Mode B between 0200 and 0500 on June 9th, the AO-7 log reported that it was heard in Mode B at 0407z by SP9TTX and then was reported off on the next pass at 0600z. When it came back on at 0800z, it was in Mode A rather than Mode B. Then it switched back to Mode B on the 10th at the normal time. In other words, it has skipped a day in the switching schedule. I didn't see any eclipse event and even if there was, the satellite would normally come back in Mode B rather than Mode A. Is there an explanation? 73, John K8YSE John Papay john(a)papays.com

2 1

WD9EWK @ DM34/DM35 boundary, Saturday (12 June) afternoon/early evening
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

Hi! I will be in north-central Arizona on Saturday, 12 June, and should be able to park along the DM34/DM35 grid boundary for passes in the late afternoon and early evening on 3 satellites: AO-51, FO-29, SO-50. I should be at the grid boundary around 2300 UTC, in advance of an AO-51 pass at 2336-2350 UTC. I plan to stay up there until sunset, around 0230 to 0300 UTC, to also work passes on the other two satellites. It has been a while since I have been on from DM35, although I have worked from another part of DM34 (at the DM34xm/DM44am grid boundary) a couple of times already in 2010. I'm aware that the upcoming weekend is the ARRL VHF Contest weekend, and I may see about doing some terrestrial VHF/UHF operating in between passes. Anyone working WD9EWK on Saturday that wishes to receive a QSL card only needs to e-mail me with the details of our QSOs. If you are in the log, I'll send a card. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

1 0

WD9EWK on the satellites last weekend - report
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

Hi! Last weekend was a busy weekend. Starting with a 3-hour drive from Phoenix to Show Low in eastern Arizona on Friday (4 June) evening, a hamfest in Show Low on Saturday (5 June) followed by operating from a nearby grid boundary, to a longer drive north with a 5-hour drive home on Sunday (6 June) - busy, but fun. Over 858 miles/1381km driven in just over 2 days, operating from 3 locations in 3 different grids. The first stop for the weekend was at the White Mountain Hamfest in Show Low. This hamfest has been going on for the past few years, and this was the first time I have been to it. As far as I could determine, this was the first AMSAT presence at the hamfest. I had an AMSAT table there, and worked several passes throughout the half-day event (2 passes each on AO-7 and SO-50; one pass each on VO-52, SO-50, and AO-27). Late in the morning, a local Boy Scout troop visited, and one Scout took the microphone to talk with a couple of stations on an SO-50 pass. A total of 41 QSOs went in the log from the demonstrations, including 12 QSOs on an AO-7 pass to start the morning at 1400 UTC. Lots of AMSAT merchandise made it into the hands of hams in that area, and - like with any hamfest - lots of questions about operating and specifically how I was working the satellites with portable gear. After the hamfest and lunch, I found a spot on the DM44xj/DM54aj grid boundary north of Show Low to operate from. I spent about 5 hours at this site, not far from a small lake but off the main highways in the area. Lots of passes to work - 3 passes on AO-7, 2 passes on AO-51, and one pass on SO-50. I knew there were a few who were hoping to hear DM54 on the air, and I was happy to make the contacts with anyone stopping by to call me. The last of the 3 AO-7 passes finished up around sunset, leaving enough light to help me quickly break down my gear for the evening. I logged 43 QSOs from this grid boundary, a good effort. At sunrise Sunday (6 June) morning, I left Show Low and headed toward the Navajo Nation reservation in northeastern Arizona. I was looking for grid DM56, and possibly a spot on the DM55/DM56 grid boundary that I could park on, for several hours of operating up there before returning home. I was already in the area for the hamfest in Show Low, and a few operators asked if I would be able to visit DM56 to work some passes. I drove north and worked my way to US-191 north of the I-40 freeway, and unfortunately saw no safe place to park at the DM55/DM56 grid boundary on that road or alongside the road. I decided to go a few miles/km further north to the Navajo town of Chinle, and find someplace to operate there. Chinle is at the western entrance of the Canyon de Chelly National Monument, which I visited during longer gaps between passes. I ended up operating in town, not far from a convenience store and several fast-food restaurants at a highway junction (grid DM56fd). Since the afternoon temperatures reached 100F/38C up here, being near places with air conditioning (besides my truck) were most appreciated. :-) At Chinle, I started working passes with the 1620 UTC SO-50 pass. As that pass finished, VO-52 came up. Not too long after VO-52 went away, the first of two HO-68 passes went by to the east. After these passes, there was more time between most of the passes, which I used to get lunch and go into the Canyon de Chelly monument. In the afternoon, I was able to work a couple of AO-27 passes and an AO-51 pass before my self-imposed deadline of 2300 UTC (1700 local time on the Navajo reservation) so I would not get home at or after midnight. I logged a total of 73 QSOs on 8 passes from DM56 (2 passes each on SO-50, HO-68, and AO-27; 1 pass each on VO-52 and AO-51), working stations across the USA including Alaska and Hawaii plus Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. After the AO-51 pass, the drive back to Phoenix took almost 5.5 hours. This was the reason why I did not want to stay up there to work later passes. I still had to be at my office Monday morning. The drive home was uneventful, using cruise-control for much of the drive. I appreciate all the stations that showed up on the Saturday morning passes during my demonstrations. I had a decent crowd at the start of the morning for that AO-7 pass, to hear all that activity. Of course, being able to put QSOs into logs from the DM44/DM54 boundary and from DM56 was also fun. I have already printed QSL cards for the 3 locations I operated from over the weekend, wrote out cards for those who requested cards and others, and some of those cards will go to the post office tomorrow. If you would like confirmation of a QSO with WD9EWK from the weekend, just e-mail me directly with the QSO details. I'll be happy to send you a card. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

1 0

Re: TS2000 on dualband antenna (for sat work)
by PA3GUO 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

Thanks David ! My vertical did not pick up AO51 at all, so the experiment could not be done here. Using my beams all was fine of course. Funny, I knew this stacked vertical dual band only picks up signals at low elevation (<10 degrees), at many cubesats (70cm) and ISS (2 mtrs). But I never experienced only very noisy signals like this morning from AO51. Nothing wrong with AO51, maybe with my vertical. Anyway - was a good trigger to be on AO51 again, made 1 QSO and listened to many other European stations making contacts. The antenna set-up: http://www.pa3guo.com/ant_jun_2008.jpg 73, Henk, PA3GUO > It works fine. > > Used a TS2000E via a MX2000 tri-plexer to a co-linear both u/v and v/u with > no problems. Worked the States and Canada this way via F0-29. > > Also used a Create CLP5130 log periodic connected in the same way. > > Just keep the TX power as low as is needed to hear your own signal and no > more. > > David > G8OQW > > ******** > > -----Original Message----- > From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On > Behalf Of PA3GUO > Sent: 09 June 2010 20:36 > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: TS2000 on dualband antenna (for sat work) > > Hi John > Let me try tomorrow and report back, I have never tested this. > Henk, PA3GUO > > > Has anyone on the list tried using a Kenwood TS2000 on full duplex satellite > > operatation using a dualband VHF/UHF antenna and a diplexer? Is it possible > or > is there too much desensitization thru the diplexer to make full duplex > work? > > 73s John AA5JG > > > _______________________________________________ > 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 > -- Henk, PA3GUO

1 0

Can someone help me set up my KW D-700 for ISSAPRS and packet
by pauleakin＠comcast.net 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

Traveling north to upper BC and on into Alaska. Can anyone send me information on how to use the ISS for APRS positioning and for packet communications. Also any info on the other other Leo's that I can work with? I think I need the path and callsigns for APRS and for straight packet work. I have tracking software to plan on AOS & LOS. Thanks in advance, KJ4G

1 0

Technical question AO-51
by Robin Theunis 10 Jun '10

10 Jun '10

Hey fellow sat-hams, I have a few technical question about AO-51. 1) In V/S mode What is the average output power? 2) What kind of antenna is used on 2.4GHz and 1.3Ghz? 3) What is the sensitivity of the 1.3Ghz receiver? 4) Some where I reeded that AO-51 has an HF receiver? If it true, for what is the purpose? This is just a couple of things, I'm thinking about . I thank very much for any answer on the questions. 73 Robin Theunis ON8RTH

3 2

Re: TS2000 on dualband antenna (for sat work)
by PA3GUO 09 Jun '10

09 Jun '10

Hi John Let me try tomorrow and report back, I have never tested this. Henk, PA3GUO Has anyone on the list tried using a Kenwood TS2000 on full duplex satellite operatation using a dualband VHF/UHF antenna and a diplexer? Is it possible or is there too much desensitization thru the diplexer to make full duplex work? 73s John AA5JG

3 2

Cross Devices Stuf
by Ollie Eisman 09 Jun '10

09 Jun '10

Has anyone used "Stuf" from Cross Devices to waterproof RF connectors (with or without with coax seal)? It seems like a good idea but I wonder how well it works in real life. http://www.crossdevices.com/ 73, Ollie AJ1O

3 2

F9/Dragon keps
by Andrew Glasbrenner 09 Jun '10

09 Jun '10

For those interested, and that haven't gotten their spacetrack account yet... DRAGON/FALCON 9 R/B 1 36595U 10026A 10159.93658060 +.00296804 +40515-4 +32671-3 0 00193 2 36595 034.4967 011.8853 0020394 257.4860 102.3599 16.08080735000679 73, Drew KO4MA

1 0

Re: Tracking Falcon 9's Dragon Payload In Real Time
by Andrew Glasbrenner 09 Jun '10

09 Jun '10

Look for the youtube video shot from the roof of the VAB. You can hear the countdown in the background, and it is perfect. SpaceX must have had some lag in their audio feed. http://www.youtube.com/user/spacearium#p/a/u/0/Ah2NPfGR4dA 73, Drew KO4MA

1 0

CP antenna from 2 WiFi panels
by Greg D. 09 Jun '10

09 Jun '10

Hi folks, Before I start nailing stuff together, I just want to verify what I'm doing... I want to make a 2.4ghz Right-Hand Circular antenna from two flat panel Wi-Fi antennas. The idea is to mount them at 90 degrees from each other, with one 1/4 wavelength in front of the other. Combine the two feeds with a simple Tee (the feeds are of equal length), and into the pre-amp. Since I'm not transmitting, I'm not too worried about the resulting 25 ohm impedance (or should I be?). If it matters, the panels are from HyperLink Technologies, their model HG2414P, with a claimed 14dBi gain. So, the questions: 1. 1/4 wavelength at 2401 mhz is ((3 x 10**8 / 2401 x 10**6) / 4) meters, or about 1.23 inches. Right? 2. Most of our 2.4 ghz satellite downlinks seem to be either linear or RHCP, so I'm guessing that RHCP is probably the preferred construction. (Yes?) 3. Looking at the Satellite Experimenter's Handbook (figure 7-10), I believe the panel rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise as seen from behind the panels should be the one farther out in front, for RHCP. (Their picture shows clockwise for LHCP.) Is this correct? Thanks, Greg KO6TH _________________________________________________________________ The New Busy think 9 to 5 is a cute idea. Combine multiple calendars with Hotmail. http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multicalendar&ocid=PID2…

8 12

Tracking Falcon 9's Dragon Payload In Real Time
by B J 09 Jun '10

09 Jun '10

http://www.n2yo.com/?s=36595 73s Bernhard VA6BMJ @ DO33FL

5 5

Digital Modes on the satellites during Field Day?
by Adrian Engele 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

I saw in the AMSAT Filed Day rules we get extra points for working digital modes like PSK31, RTTY, etc. Is anybody planning to work any of these modes during this year's FD? Has there been any activity in the past? Just curious to see if it would be worth the effort to give it a try, especially in a demo situation. I will be operating the satellite station for the K9MOT Motorola Amateur Radio Club again this year. We will be a 2A Battery (QRP 5 Watts) operation. Hope to work you in a few weeks. 73, Adrian AA5UK

2 2

Re: RAX - Radio Aurora Explorer
by Ryan Caron 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

One of the RAX presentations during the CubeSat workshop in April stated that they're now targeting a September launch. I'm assuming the delay is due to diffusers being added to all Minotaur IV third stage steering systems to reduce unintended thrust after motor burnout. Minotaur IV is launched out of both Kodiak & Vandenberg; I don't see any reference to Kwaj having any launch capability for the Minotaur family. On 6/8/10 12:00 PM, amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org wrote: > ------------------------------ > > Message: 6 > Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 10:53:19 -0400 > From: "John K Scoggin Jr $W3JKS/AAT3BF$"<aat3bf(a)armymars.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] FW: RAX - Radio Aurora Explorer > To:<amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID:<E72FD383F74A479793B03609F2E94897(a)r3.local> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > > > There was a news item a week or two ago that the Kodiak Launch Complex had > lost its funding from the Missile Defense Agency and that the > Congresscritters were looking for some grease in the bottom of the pork > barrel to keep it alive. > > > > It looks like the MDA launches are going to be coming mostly from Kwajalein > now (which probably makes more sense from the standpoint of fixed support > costs, as the RADARs on Kwaj as still very much needed in any case. > > > > Did RAX lose its ride perhaps? There have been no updates on the RAX > website for a couple of months. > > > > 73, > > john >

1 0

SDR Transceivers
by Joseph Armbruster 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

Does anyone have hands-on experience using an SDR transceiver? If so, I have a few general questions: - what unit did you use? - have you used the unit for sat work? - would you consider your experiences with the unit enjoyable or miserable? - did the SDE unit come with an SDK? - if you were to go back and do it all over, would you have gone with a different unit? Thank You, Joseph Armbruster

1 0

W2UHI SK
by Ronald Long 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

I am forwarding this note which was published on the moon-net list. ron w8gus === It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Frank Lumney, W2UHI. He passed away in the early hours of June 3, 2010. There will not be any wake or any services that I am aware of. He will be interred in the Buffalo, NY area. Frank was a great friend and a true asset to the amateur radio community and in particular EME. Frank would have turned 88 on July 4. Rest in Peace Old Friend! de Joe K1RQG ==== Many old time AMSAT operators (AO-13 for example) will remember Frank. Many years ago, he was also a frequent check-in to the AMSAT-NA 75 meter net. He was a very accomplished amateur and will be missed. You can also still find a number of very interesting web pages using Google and 'w2uhi' or 'w2uhi amsat'. A couple of interesting pages are: http://pages.pathwaynet.com/~fblumn/index.html and http://www.k5so.com/Using_sun_noise.html =====

1 0

UEK-3000
by Doug Dietz 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

I am listing here before I I list on ebay I have a used uek-3000 that was purchased for ao-40 I have since moved and no longer can have antennas. I would like 400.00 plus shipping thanks for letting me post Doug dcdietz(a)chartermi.net

1 0

FW: RAX - Radio Aurora Explorer
by John K Scoggin Jr (W3JKS/AAT3BF) 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

There was a news item a week or two ago that the Kodiak Launch Complex had lost its funding from the Missile Defense Agency and that the Congresscritters were looking for some grease in the bottom of the pork barrel to keep it alive. It looks like the MDA launches are going to be coming mostly from Kwajalein now (which probably makes more sense from the standpoint of fixed support costs, as the RADARs on Kwaj as still very much needed in any case. Did RAX lose its ride perhaps? There have been no updates on the RAX website for a couple of months. 73, john _____________________________________ John K Scoggin, Jr. W3JKS/AAT3BF/AAM3EDE/AAA9SL US Army Military Auxiliary Radio System Delaware Gateway Station AAB3DE Special Consultant - Technology Emergency Operations Officer - Delaware "Old RADEF Officers never die, they simply decay exponentially." Chief Engineer Mobile Communications Unit 37 (AAT3CAD/W3MCU) http://www.armymars.net/ArmyMARS/MCU ARRL Assistant Section Manager - Delaware Email: aat3bf(a)armymars.net Telephone: (302) 451-5000 -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Trevor . Sent: Tuesday, June 08, 2010 9:05 AM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] RAX - Radio Aurora Explorer I believe the Radio Aurora Explorer (RAX) 3U cubesat (437.505MHz and S-band) was originally slated for a May 28 launch from Kodiak, Alaska. Was the launch delayed ? 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

1 0