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SO-67 over Europe 0832
by OZ1MY 29 Nov '09

29 Nov '09

Hi all, Just to tell that it was on as scheduled :-) But - please turn modulation down. Use FMN and or speak soft to the microphone. You can hear it yourself. The signal is very distorted and even fluctuating in signal strength. 73 OZ1MY Ib

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SO-67
by Perry Yantis 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Having an overhead pass for SO-67 now at 0158 gmt and nothing heard. Perry WB8OTH

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ANS-333 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by JoAnne Maenpaa 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-333 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. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor(a)amsat.org In this edition: * AMSAT Settles Clean Room Lawsuits with Defendants * UO-11 Calls Again * BT3WX Special Event Station Celebrates Launch of XW-1 Amateur Satellite * AMSAT Awards * SKN on OSCAR 2010 * How's Satellite DX? * ARISS Meets With Astronaut Hams * SO-67 SumbandilaSat Control Team Invites Coordination Suggestions SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.01 AMSAT Settles Clean Room Lawsuits with Defendants AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.01 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.01 On October 20, 2009, AMSAT President Barry Baines, WD4ASW, Rick Hambly, W2GPS, and Bob Davis, KF4KSS met with AMSAT attorney Bruce Bright and participated in a mediation process to see if an agreement could be reached with MDHawk Corporation, MIST, Hawk Institute for Space Sciences (HISS) and University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) regarding the AMSAT clean room litigation (See previous 'Apogee View' articles in the AMSAT JOURNAL for background). After a full day of negotiations at the Henson Center of UMES, an agreement was reached with the defendants that averts further court litigation proceedings. The agreement calls for the defendants to pay AMSAT $19,000.00 and AMSAT will leave the existing cleanroom in place "as-is, where-is." In addition, AMSAT will remove the portable storage unit ('POD') that currently sits on HISS property by November 20, 2009 with payment by the defendants due by that date. Per the agreement, by November 6 AMSAT removed the POD that was at the HISS facility being used for outside storage and the $19,000.00 payment was received last week from the defendants. Once the check clears, AMSAT attorney Bruce Bright will file the appropriate paperwork to dismiss both the case before the Circuit Court and the case before the District Court that are pending. The outcome of the negotiation leaves AMSAT in the following condition: - We have $19,000.00 (minus legal fees owed to our attorney) to invest in a new clean room at a new location in a manner that best serves AMSAT. - We avoided the cost of dismantling the existing clean room (including electricians to disconnect power and plumbers to remove the fire sup- pression system), placing it in storage (paying storage fees) and then shipping to our new lab location (incurring relocation fees with a moving company) once such a facility is finalized. - We end all interaction with HISS, eliminating the need for volunteers to travel to Pocomoke City, MD to be on scene to oversee/manage the removal process of the existing clean room as well as enlist the local amateurs who assisted us in the construction of the clean room in 2007-2008. - We avoid the cost of future litigation, including the costs of taking depositions, submission of legal briefs, and court costs. The cost of going to court would likely wipe out a significant portion of any cash that we might be able to secure from the legal process and there is no guarantee that court action would result in a desirable outcome. - Settling at this time allows AMSAT to focus on future opportunities and not continue to allocate resources on resolving past actions. AMSAT President Barry Baines noted, "This legal process over the past year has been both frustrating and a 'learning experience'. The 'lessons learned' will be applied to future relationships. I look forward to getting this legal process behind us and moving forward on new opportunities." [ANS thanks AMSAT President Barry Baines, WD4ASW for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.02 UO-11 Calls Again AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.02 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.02 Silent for 18 months, it seems as if 25 year old OSCAR-11 has reactivated itself on 145.826 MHz. After its batteries failed, UO-11 remained operational with good signals when its solar cells were exposed to sufficient sunlight. The UO-11 Control Station at G3CWV came out of retirement last week- end with Clive noting, "I have received two reports from Keith N4ZQ that he has heard UO-11 on 19 November at 13:33 - 13:43, and on 22 November at 13:02 UTC. The frequency is 145.826 MHz. Mode is FM." Clive says, "I've been receiving good signals from the satellite during the morning passes, when it was not in eclipse. However, on November 27 nothing was heard this morning, so the watchdog timer may have caused the bird to switch off. I would be interested in any reports of reception AFTER 09:30 UTC 26 November." Since last week, reception reports have been rolling in from around the world: KB2M reported he has been collecting telemetry from UO-11 for the last week or so. His files are available for anyone decoding the telemetry. KU7Z heard strong signals from UO-11 on November 26 in Utah. VK5DG heard UO-11 buzzing away over the west half of VK on November 26 at 0003 UTC. NH6VB reported from Hawaii his 706MKIIG and Arrow antenna on a photo tripod, copied a weak, barely above noise level, but it was there. ZL2BX says he heard very strong signals from UO-11 during the entire pass on November 22. Up to 60db over S9 almost all pass. (TS-2000, 10 el yagis, preamp at ant). Also same report from VK2AYE. W5IU heard the old familiar "buzz" loud and clear on a Yaesu FT-530 HT and a hand held three element Yagi on a November 23 pass over Fort Worth, TX, this morning. It reached full scale on the FT-530 during a good part of the pass. K9MSG in Indianapolis reported that on November 24 he heard UO-11 on two passes using a ground plane vertical on a tower. Signals on the first pass were S-2 to S-7 signal level and reception was very noisy. The second pass of that day yielded reception at S-1 to S-3 with 1 to 3 second noise bursts. Clive wraps up with, "Very many thanks to everyone who sent reception reports of this satellite or posted them to the amsat-bb board. I've been overwhelmed by the number received! I've replied to most, but my apologies if I've missed anyone." Further details, including an audio clip to help identify the satellite are on Clive's OLD website at: http://www.users.zetnet.co.uk/clivew [ANS thanks Clive, G3CWV for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.03 BT3WX Special Event Station Celebrates Launch of XW-1 Amateur Satellite AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.03 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.03 To celebrate the launch of China's first amateur satellite, XW-1, AMSAT-China will set up a special event station in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province of China using the callsign BT3WX. The station plans to operate on all HF amateur bands from 10 to 160 meters and on VHF/UHF amateur satellite bands, including FM, SSB, CW, RTTY and PACSAT modes. Operations at BT3WX have already commenced and the special event station will remain active until XW-1 is launched. A specific launch date has not been released as of press time, but is expected in mid-December. A team of 200 participants will consist of radio amateurs from all around China, teachers and students, the State Radio Regulation Bureau of China, the China Association for Science Technology, the Chinese Society of Astronautics and the Chinese Radio Sports Association officials, as well as journalists will participate in the operation of BT3WX. Their goal is to inspire enthusiasm for amateur radio satellite communications activities in China among radio amateurs and young peo- ple learning satellite communication technology and space knowledge. THE BT3WX operating team is as follows: Team leader: BA1EO, Fan Operation and Technology support: BD5RV, Michael Chen Press release and QSL Manager: BA1DU, Alan Kung (P.O.Box 8091, Beijing, CHINA 100088) The operators include BA4RB, BA4RN, BA4RS, BA4RX, BA4TA, BA4TB, BD4IBW, BD4REB, BD4RPJ, BD4XX, BH4REQ, BA6AA, BD6BW, BA7CK, BA7JG, BD7PZL. The equipment at the HF Station includes an Icom IC-756PROIII and IC-7000. The HF antennas are: 160/80M Ground Plane 40M 3ele Yagi 20/15M 5ele Yagi 10M 3ele Yagi WARC Ground Plane Power Amplifier: GO-2KW At the Satellite station the gear will include an Icom IC-910H feeding a VHF 7 element cross Yagi and UHF 13 element cross Yagi. BT3WX Communications HF Award: Stations completing two-way communications with BT3WX on 9 different bands and modes can apply for the BT3WX HF communications award. The same band in different modes counts as a different band / mode. BT3WX Communications Satellite Award Stations completing two-way communications with BT3WX through at least two different mode of transponders can apply for the BT3WX satellite communications award. The different modes can be through the same satellite. BT3WX Communications Awards applications mailing address: AMSAT-China, P.O.Box 8091, Beijing, CHINA 100088 E-mail: camsat(a)vip.163.com The XW-1 communications payload includes a beacon and three cross band transponders operating in FM, linear, and digital modes. Here is a Spacecraft Summary: Common Name: XW-1 Alternate Name: CAS-1 Satellite Type: Microsatellite Launch Date: TBD Launch Location: Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center of China Launch Vehicle: CZ-2C(LM-2C) Rocket Apogee: 1200.00 km Perigee: 1200.00 km Inclination: 100.50 deg Period: 109.00 min Dimensions: 680mm*480mm (Envelope dimension), not including antennas Weight: 60.000 Kg Organization: CAMSAT Frequency Information Mode Beacon (200 mw): Downlink 435.7900 MHz CW Mode FM Voice Repeater (1 watt, PL: 67Hz): Uplink: 145.8250 MHz FM Downlink 435.6750 MHz FM Mode Linear Transponder (1 watt, Inverting): Uplink: 145.950 MHz SSB/CW Downlink 435.740 MHz SSB/CW The transponder is 50khz wide and centered on the frequencies given. Mode PacSat BBS (1 watt): Uplink: 145.8250 MHz AFSK 1200 BPS Downlink 435.6750 MHz AFSK 1200 BPS Antennas: 145 Mhz RX Antenna: 2.0dBi max, LHCP 435 Mhz TX Antenna: 3.0dBi max, RHCP The AMSAT Satellite information page will be updated as the latest information is received from AMSAT-China. Monitor this page for the latest news: http://tinyurl.com/ylj9z5j [ANS thanks Alan Kung, BA1DU and Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.04 AMSAT Awards AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.04 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.04 AMSAT Director Contests and Awards, Bruce KK5DO congratulates all who have earned these AMSAT Awards: The following have entered into the Satellite Communicators Club for making their first satellite QSO: Luis Benvenutty, WP4NYY Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY The following have earned the AMSAT Satellite Communications Achievement Award: Rodney Waln, KC0ZHF #506 Neven Mrduljas, 9A5YY #507 Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY #508 The following have earned the AMSAT Sexagesimal Award. Patrick Stoddard, WD9EWK #151 Gail McDaniel, KB0RZD #152 Nick Kucij, KB1RVT #153 The following have earned the AMSAT Century Club award. Michael Klomfass, DH5MK #38 The following have earned the South Africa Communications Achievement Award. Rodney Waln, KC0ZHF #US138 Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY #US139 The following have earned the W4AMI Achievement Award (for 1000 contacts) Gail McDaniel, KB0RZD #57 Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY #58 To see all the awards visit http://www.amsat.org. [ANS thanks Bruce, KK5DO for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.05 SKN on OSCAR 2010 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.05 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.05 All radio amateurs, worldwide, are cordially invited to participate in AMSAT's Straight Key Night on OSCAR 2010. Participating in SKN on OSCAR 2010 is easy. No rules, no scoring and no need to send in a log. Just operate CW through any OSCAR between 0000 and 2400 UTC on 1 January 2010, using a straight hand key. In keeping with the friendly nature of this event, all participants are encouraged to nominate someone they worked for "Best Fist." Your nominee need not have the best fist of those you heard, just of those you worked. Please send your nomination to w2rs(a)amsat.org. A list of those nominated will appear in ANS and The AMSAT Journal. CU SKN de W2RS! [ANS thanks Ray, W2RS for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.06 How's Satellite DX? AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.06 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.06 AO-51 Contact ZL2BX from McMurdo Station Antarctica Bill, K7MT has activated Antarctica as KC4USV on AO-51. He worked Alan, ZL2BX from the McMurdo Station Antarctica on November 27. Bill plans more satellite operation this weekend when he is off for two days. Hopefully more VK's and ZL's will hear "Cheers from McMurdo Station Antarctica KC4USV." Iceland to W7 via AO-7 Bob, W7LRD reported he recently worked Ari, TF3ARI in Iceland on AO-7. The AO-7 footprint from TF will cover most of the U.S.! Contacts via AO-51 between US East Coast stations and Iceland were reported by John, K8YSE [ANS thanks Terry, ZL3QL; Bill, K7MT/KC4USV; Bob, W7LRD for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.07 ARISS Meets With Astronaut Hams AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.07 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.07 ISS Ham Debrief Held with Astronaut Michael Barratt On November 16, Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) team members participated in an ISS Ham debrief session with Expedition 19/20 astronaut Michael Barratt. Barratt provided the team with feedback about the ARISS contacts held during his ISS mission. The feedback will be used to fine-tune ARISS program operations. Astronaut Training Status Two training sessions were held this week with astronauts Tracy Caldwell, KF5DBF and Dan Burbank, KC5ZSX. Both astronauts were given the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) basic operations and school contact course. Caldwell also received her preflight overview as she is scheduled to fly with Expedition 23 in April 2010. Burbank will fly with Expedition 29 in September 2011. [ANS thanks Carol, KB3LKI and the ARISS Status Report for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-333.08 SO-67 SumbandilaSat Control Team Invites Coordination Suggestions AMSAT News Service Bulletin 333.08 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 29, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-333.08 Jan-Albert, ZR1JAK, wrote on behalf of the SO-67 SumbandilaSat team, "Given that the SA-AMSAT payload on SO-67 is shared with the satellite's back-up TT&C transponder, there is unfortunately not a way to keep the payload switched on permanently, or even semi-permanently. For the lifetime of the satellite we will there- fore have to do with active scheduling." In an effort to make this as painless as possible, ZR1AJK requests comments on the possible use of regional coordinators, which worked quite well for SO-35. Such coordinators would then be responsible for setting up schedules in advance for their specific regions, taking into account obviously the pool of possible satellite passes, as well as local events / fairs etc. The SO-67 Command Station would then simply load the schedules on a weekly basis. The initial focus has been on Europe, RSA, South America, North Amer- ica, Canada, Japan and Australia, and New Zealand, ZR1JAK invites suggestions for amateur radio use of the payload over other regions as well. In regards to questions of possible activation at night he explained, "This is entirely possible, but would have to be planned and managed more actively, given the power limitations in eclipse. We have yet to experiment with this and see what the available capacity would be. Interested satellite operators are invited to e-mail responses to the AMSAT bulletin board, or if you prefer, to ZR1JAK's work address: jak "at" sunspace "dot" co "dot" za. [ANS thanks Jan-Albert, ZR1JAK 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. And with that, consider what sound does a space turkey make? Hubble, hubble, hubble, of course. 73, This week's ANS Editor, JoAnne Maenpaa, K9JKM K9JKM at amsat dot org

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SO-67 schedule issue
by Jan-Albert Koekemoer 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Hello We experienced an attitude control anomaly this morning whilst testing a new control algorithm, resulting in the satellite entering a safe mode and thus prohibiting the execution of the scheduled SA-AMSAT activities as advertised. This occurred round about 09:00 UTC. Since 19:20 we are back in normal operating mode again, so the remaining activities for the weekend are expected to proceed as normal. Regards Jan-Albert E-mail Disclaimer http://www.sunspace.co.za/emaildisclaimer.htm

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SO-67 scheduling
by Jan-Albert Koekemoer 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Hello The following schedules for the SA-AMSAT payload on Sumbandila have been suggested by the regional coordinators that have kindly responded to my previous request for assistance. All activations are 15 minutes long All times in UTC Passes that I have omitted are unfortunately used for other mission purposes. EUROPE 28/11 10:27 29/11 08:32 29/11 10:06 NORTH AMERICA 28/11 13:40 28/11 15:14 28/11 18:22 29/11 13:20 29/11 14:54 29/11 16:28 29/11 18:00 VK/NL 27/11 22:17 27/11 23:50 28/11 21:56 28/11 23:29 29/11 21:34 29/11 23:08 30/11 22:48 01/12 22:27 02/12 00:02 02/12 22:08 03/12 21:46 JAPAN 27/11 23:30 28/11 01:03 28/11 23:09 29/11 00:43 RSA 28/11 06:06 28/11 07:47 29/11 05:47 29/11 07:19 Regards Jan-Albert E-mail Disclaimer http://www.sunspace.co.za/emaildisclaimer.htm

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Arrow Efficiency
by Robert Smith 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Aloha All And Happy Holidays! Yesterday, I was able to work the easterly pass (from Honolulu) of AO-51 around 0206Z. The maximum elevation was 1.3 degrees. Using my VX-7R and Arrow antenna I was able to hold the satellite for three minutes and eighteen seconds out of a possible four minutes and fifty seconds of available footprint. I was at the ocean's edge with no obstacles blocking AOS/LOS. During the +three minute period I was able to work or hear the following stations: W6ZKH K6CDW WB6QKO KG6NUB VA7VW I have concluded that most of the above QSOs occurred with AO-51 at 1.2 degs. elevation. Many thanks and much appreciation to the above stations. Should u wish a copy of the pass, I have a .mp3 available (unfortunately my xmits are not heard due to the "simplexity" of the VX-7R. Conclusion: The Arrow works great! 73 de NH7WN robert in Honolulu

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Re: AO-27 and AO-51 Friday PST
by Clint Bradford 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

>> ... W6FOG was on an AO-27 pass yesterday afternoon ... It was a pleasure working you on both '51 and '27 yesterday, Patrick! There were a couple "first-timers" on the air - it was a great pair o' passes! Clint http://www.work-sat.com

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IC910
by Jack Barbera 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Thanks everyone for your input on adding a UX910 1200mhz band to my IC 910. Santa came early.will be using LMR-600 as the run is under 100 ' and I have it. Next will be looking for an antenna.Have a number of sat T.V antennas and looking into possibly using the reflector and looking for a kit. Does this make sense or should I just go for a complete antenna? ThanksJack WA1ZDV

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Re: Space Station sighting
by Clint Bradford 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

>> ... saw the space station for the first time ... quite cool ... >> ... although my g/f didn't share in my enthusiasm ... I am not sure why your goldfish weren't as thrilled as you were. Our koi get excited when I prance about the back yard working the satellites or watching heavenly bodies ... OH - "g/f" means girlfriend, I was just told. Never mind, Tim. Clint Bradford ---------------------------------- Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.clintbradford.com

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XW-1 orbit
by OZ1MY 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Hi all, Just tried to find out how the orbit will look. Very unscientific I just used FENGYUN 3A and modified the Mean Motion to 13.19 orbits per day. Then the height becomes approximately 1200 km. As far as I can find out, FENGYUN 3A was sent up from the same spaceport as XW-1 will be. I used NOVA for Windows. It allows the change without complaint :-) 73 OZ1MY Ib

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SO-67 28Nov2009 1340-1345z
by Perry Yantis 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Why does all think that SO67 is suppose to be on this weekend????? The email you read said it "was a suggested schedule" The SO67 web page has not updated the satellites schedule since last weekend. This suggests to me that SO67 will not be on this weekend. Also the "not hearing it" reports confirm that. Perry WB8OTH

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W6FOG update
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Hi! W6FOG was on an AO-27 pass yesterday afternoon, working from his home grid of CM87 (San Francisco Bay area). He said he took the train back home for the holiday, and will return to his yacht in a couple of days. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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SO-67 28Nov2009 1340-1345z
by John Papay 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

SO-67 was not heard over the eastern USA as scheduled. It could be that there was a problem with my receiver but it was working on the earlier AO-51 pass. Did anyone else hear SO-67 this morning? 73, John K8YSE

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SumbandilaSat
by Daniel F6CDZ 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Hello Nothing heard on pas 10:27 UTC. 73 Dan ON5UE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hi. Yes I confirm. Nothing SO-67 pass this day 28 on 10h27 utc, the exactly time over the France : 10:30 - 10:38 utc And for tomorrow 29, the real time over France is 08:35 - 08:45 and 10:09 - 10:18 all on utc time 73, Daniel F6CDZ JN39BE N/E France Amsat-F member and sat phone qrv

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Space Station sighting
by Tim Goodrich 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

I just saw the space station for the first time ever. It was a beautiful 315(NW) to 135 (SE) degree pass at 01:32UTC and was easily visible as the one of the brightest lights in the sky to the naked eye. This, even in the light polluted sky of Los Angeles. I thought it was quite cool (although my g/f didn't share in my enthusiasm) and am going to have to find a telescope of binoculars for the next one. Tim KI6VBY

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SO-67
by Dwight Fletcher 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

SO-67 Not Heard on 15:14 UTC Pass in FN41. Not Heard 13:40 Pass either? 73, Fletch N1RCN

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SO-67
by N1RCN＠aol.com 28 Nov '09

28 Nov '09

Did not hear SO-67 on the 15:15 UTC pass in FN41 73, Fletch N1RCN

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5400 FS
by Al Zoller 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

SOLD! For Sale: New in unopened box G5400B rotor. I purchased this to replace another 5400 rotor but did not use it. Box is unopened and sorry, no I won't open it to take photos. No returns. Once you open the box it is yours. $495.00 and you pay shipping. Continental USA. Please pay by pay pal. My pay pal address is different but the arrl address will work for initial contact and questions. Thanks for looking. WA7U(a)arrl.net <mailto:[email protected]> Reply directly to WA7U an _*not*_ to N7UB.

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Re: Distance records for LEO's.
by Andras Koroknay 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

http://www.observations.biz/Observations_from_Greece/SV1BSX_Memorial.htm R.I.P. MAK SV1BSX andy/ha2rd

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Wouxun Dual Band Chine in AO-51
by CA3SOC Raul Romero 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhMda5btD6w my Setup is Rx Wouxun Chine Radio Dual Band Great Rx in Tx Motorola GP-300 + 5/8 Telescopic Antenna Tnk look Video Raúl CA3SOC --------------------------------------------------------------------- "Are you still wasting your time with spam?... There is a solution!" Protected by GIANT Company's Spam Inspector The most powerful anti-spam software available. http://mail.spaminspector.com

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OT Question. Sorry!!!!
by Vincenzo Mone 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

Hi folks, Sorry for the OT question. I own an Kenwood TM-741E. Would like to expand the rx/tx frequencies for the 1200 MHz module Otherwise I cannot work the AO-51 Please anybody can explain me how to do it? It will be very grateful if I can have also some picture To see where I have to intervene, otherwise please explain me carefully Any help will be really appreciated. Thanks in advance. 73 de Enzo IK8OZV EasyLog 5 BetaTester EasyLog PDA BetaTester WinBollet BetaTester D.C.I. CheckPoint Regione Campania Skype: ik8ozv8520 *************************************** ***** GSM +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** SMS +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** FAX +39 328 7244294 ***** *** 2nd e-mail: vimone(a)tin.it *** ***************************************

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Re: NASA 2 Line via mail?
by Rich Dailey (Gmail) 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

>I think so, but as I recall we were limited to a total of 10. Not >surprising as the process looked pretty manual. They were photocopies of >output from some cranky old teletype terminal (ASR-33?). Ah yes... I remember that! It did look as if an old teletype was chugging these things off from some dark corner of a GSFC back office. And yes, I remember a limit of ten, although I think I had separate mailings for WX and Amateur satellites, at least until I started updating the amateur sats from the journal back pages. Rich, N8UX

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NASA 2 Line via mail?
by Rich Dailey (Gmail) 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

An open invitation to the list to assist in jogging this not so young man's memory... a bit of nostalgic research I'm doing. Thanks in advance for everyone's help. Back what I used to call "not so many" years ago, maybe 1980-1985, I recall NASA mailing me 2-line elements for specific satellites I had selected. These would come in an official manilla envelope with an extremely official looking NASA label affixed to it. I recall these would arrive in my mailbox every week or so. Later they dwindled to perhaps one per month. At some point, they just stopped mailing them to me. Perhaps I had missed a reminder to update my subscription info. I'm assuming more than likely the free service just became redundant, as BBS systems, and later internet services began providing them online for free. Not to mention the Oscar data provided in the AMSAT Journal. An aside - you can skip this paragraph if you want me to cut to the quick - I was living in an apartment with my then new, now ex, wife. We were the only young couple in the complex. The ladies sitting in the breezeway thought we were gov'mt spies receiving coded instructions. They always kept one eye on us as we unlocked our mail slot, and pulled out one of these covert communiques. One accidentally was placed in another mail slot once. The nice elderly woman who lived below us returned it to me as I came home from work. She said, "I think you'll be needing this." Handed it to me, and hurried back into her apartment. I tucked it under my coat, and went upstairs - I knew there were eyes peering out behind every door. I can't say that I tried to dispell the myth. My apologies, Ms. Maxine, in Apt 303... God rest her soul. Question(s): * Which NASA office did these originate from? * When did this service begin/end? * Could requests be made for any unclassified object in orbit, as long as the designator was known? For your eyes only, (ssshhh...) Rich, N8UX

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Re: UO-11 heard
by Clive Wallis 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

Hi, Very many thanks to everyone who sent reception reports of this satellite or posted them to this bulletin board. I've been overwhelmed by the number received! I've replied to most, but my apologies if I've missed anyone. I've been receiving good signals from the satellite during the morning passes, when it was not in eclipse. However, today ( Nov 27) nothing heard this morning, so the watchdog timer may have caused the bird to switch off. I would be interested in any reports of reception AFTER 09:30 UTC 26 November. I'll write full report at the end of the month, after reviewing the reports, and data collected. BTW due to the failure of my former ISP, following a company take-over, I was forced to change my personnel e-mail address and website earlier this year. My sincere apologies if I haven't replied to any e-mails sent earlier this year. Please resend via the AMSAT reflector. 73 Clive G3CWV

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70cm preamp
by Michael Chen 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

HI, All, I am looking for a good 70cm preamp for satellite operation. Kind of urgent. Recommendations and sale are welcome. Michael Chen, BD5RV/4 Email: michael.bd5rv(a)gmail.com MSN: bd5rv(a)jsdxc.org Skype: michael-bd5rv

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Re: AO-51 Contace ZL2BX from McMurdo Station Antarctica
by Terry Carrell 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

Fantastic - well done. At this, the anniversary time of the fateful AirNZ flight so long ago. I'll send your message around. 73, Terry, ZL3QL. Recipients - please forward to all interested. ----- Original Message ----- From: Erhardt, William (Contractor) To: tcarrell(a)xtra.co.nz Sent: Friday, November 27, 2009 8:50 PM Subject: AO-51 Contace ZL2BX from McMurdo Station Antarctica G'day Terry, This evening at 0816 local time I made my first contact with ZL2BX (Alan) from here in McMurdo Station Antarctica. Ye Ha was I happy to hear ZL land from KC4USV. I will be on this weekend as I am off for two days so if you can alert the VK's and ZL's its time to have some fun !!!!! Cheers from McMurdo Station Antarctica KC4USV ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 9.0.709 / Virus Database: 270.14.83/2528 - Release Date: 11/26/09 22:10:00

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Re: AO-51 Contace ZL2BX from McMurdo Station Antarctica
by Terry Carrell 27 Nov '09

27 Nov '09

Fantastic - well done. At this, the anniversary time of the fateful Cairns flight so long ago. I'll send your message around. 73, Terry, ZL3QL. Recipients - please forward to all interested. ----- Original Message ----- From: Erhardt, William (Contractor) To: tcarrell(a)xtra.co.nz Sent: Friday, November 27, 2009 8:50 PM Subject: AO-51 Contace ZL2BX from McMurdo Station Antarctica G'day Terry, This evening at 0816 local time I made my first contact with ZL2BX (Alan) from here in McMurdo Station Antarctica. Ye Ha was I happy to hear ZL land from KC4USV. I will be on this weekend as I am off for two days so if you can alert the VK's and ZL's its time to have some fun !!!!! Cheers from McMurdo Station Antarctica KC4USV ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 9.0.709 / Virus Database: 270.14.83/2528 - Release Date: 11/26/09 22:10:00

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Re: ISS
by jeffk13057＠yahoo.com 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

106.94 miles. 73 Jeff WB2SYK FN13 ------Original Message------ From: Jeff Yanko Sender: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] ISS Sent: Nov 26, 2009 20:19 Hi all, Just has the opportunity to view the ISS and shuttle, tagging along over Las Vegas, NV. The shuttle was trailing approximately 22 seconds behind the ISS. Now to calculate the distance. ;-) 73, Jeff WB3JFS _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

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ISS
by Jeff Yanko 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Hi all, Just has the opportunity to view the ISS and shuttle, tagging along over Las Vegas, NV. The shuttle was trailing approximately 22 seconds behind the ISS. Now to calculate the distance. ;-) 73, Jeff WB3JFS

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ISS - Shuttle sighting
by David H. Jordan 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Just had great view of Shuttle and ISS during the 23:39 utc pass. Incredible1 Dave, AA4KN Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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re UO-11 heard
by Mark Ku7z 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Heard UO-11 today on my 1732 utc pass. Was nice and strong. Been awhile since it was last heard here. Mark, Ku7z DN41 Ogden, Northern UT (NUT)

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Re: [sarex] A letter to myself...
by Louis McFadin 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Luc, The ARISS VHF/UHF antennas were funded entirely by AMSAT-NA and some volunteers. Would you you like to join the ranks of those who contributed? If so you know how to contact Martha. What are you implying here? Of course you seemed to miss the part about the V and U antennas and the "and volunteers" as opposed to the L& S antennas which were a separate project conducted by the ARISS Europe team. The L & S antennas were especially difficult since they had to withstand the launch environment of the Shuttle payload bay. I think the ARISS Europe team overcame very difficult obstacles including technical and financial. They are to be commended for their work and tenacity. The operative thing here is performance and achievement rather than talk. On Nov 26, 2009, at 5:21 AM, Luc Leblanc wrote: > On 25 Nov 2009 at 23:50, Bob- W7LRD wrote: > > Date sent: Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:50:37 +0000 (UTC) > From: Bob- W7LRD <w7lrd(a)comcast.net> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Iceland!! > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > >> >> >> Hello all AO-7 fans >> >> I just recently worked Ari-TF3ARI. After several emails and a few false starts we connected on old AO-7. > The footprint from TF will cover most of the U.S.! Another good reason to get on old AO-7! >> I'm sure he will eventually get to meet most of the "regulars". >> >> >> >> 73 Bob W7LRD >> Washington State AMSAT area coordinator >> > Hi Bob > > i'm asking myself a couple of questions that i will share with you all. > > We can all deduct from your experience that a higher orbit increased the earth footprint. Adding more and more low orbit sat will not help > any US continental operator to extend their contact zone beyond North America condemning them to continental QSO'S. > > When AMSAT-NA Says "We're Going Back to Space to add to the popular low-earth orbit FM transponder fleet" are they misleading their > membership or are they using the wrong words? as the definition of "popular" is something favoured by an individual or limited group does > not implies it is so popular for the vast majority of another group. > > If this "Going back to space" is only mean "allowing hams to continue to use their existing handheld and portable antenna systems" > regardless of their communication range. It should also be stated clearly. As it was written on the AMSAT-NA web page "This also continues > the accessible entry path for new satellite operators to get started." it should also be clearly stated it will be not only an accessible > entry path but the only one path for them condemning them in an "entry class" forever when they are used to world-wide contacts on HF and > or DSTAR. > > If the attraction pole is only focused on an entry class satellite and on the the replacement of the existing FM satellites fleet who are > starting to show their age. can we say it is a poor man choice? Yes it's fun to chase grids and roving along the roads making them > available but fox hunting can be as rewarded too as geo caching is! What is the next step after the "entry class"? The void? > > Any short term vision can only lead to short term endeavour, it's a way to buy some time making by analogy a bunch of people playing in > their small backyard where there is only one 2 places swing set. It is a disaster recipe in a small backyard full of children developing > more frustration than the playing benefits. Can we extend this analogy to this "Going back to space" IMHO a bad choice of words. > > Again it is only my own questioning triggered by an already existing world-wide class satellite project called P3E. There is no mention of > it in this AMSAT-NA going back to space new deal as if they are in a closed shell or as they are shrinking on themselves. It is a sign of > the time it is so nice in our lazy boy the easy way some will probably says the only one way depending of their state on mind and will. > > BAD WORDS CHOICES... > > Speaking of bad words choices what about the new Ham Antenna Installed on the ISS Columbus Module quote "Lou congratulated the team, "This > is an example of what can be achieved by volunteer hams working closely with a space agency. This antenna project was funded entirely by > AMSAT-NA" > > That's fine but i remember sending some $$ in 2007 as donations where urgently Needed to Get ISS Columbus Module Amateur Radio-Ready. At > the time they called for money quote "The total project cost is 80,000 Euros (approximately $106,500). Amateur Radio on the International > Space Station (ARISS) Vice Chairman Gaston Bertels, ON4WF, says a payment of 9000 Euros (approximately $12,000) is due this month. ARISS- > Europe remains 4000 Euros (approximately $5330) shy of that goal, however, and time is short to have it in place. > > You can read the whole article on: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2007/03/21/100/?nc=1 > > > A bank account was also open: > > "Bank Account Established > > AMSAT-Belgium has set up a bank account to receive donations toward equipping the module with the necessary ham radio antennas. " > > Is the money goes into the bit bucket? How someone representing ARISS can say "This antenna project was funded entirely by AMSAT-NA" An > explanation is in order here by the writer or by some official in the ARISS group? Again it's not a question about misleading the crowds > but a question of basic plain honesty... ARISS is an international funded group if one of their members wants to get all the credit fine > but a minimal amount of respect should not be mandatory to have a leading position at ARISS? > > > I already wrote on the same subject but ARISS or AMSAT-NA remain strangely silent even if i posted the text on AMSAT-EU satellite group a > loud silence remain on this subject. Could be some are sleeping on the switch could be this jolt will awaken them? > > In short WHERE MY MONEY GOES? the amateur satellite community is asking for money in a constant and quite aggressive way some times is it > too much asking to know what they do with theses donations? as someone in US says only AMSAT-NA is paying for the antennas!!! > > > > > "-" > > > Luc Leblanc VE2DWE > Skype VE2DWE > www.qsl.net/ve2dwe > DSTAR urcall VE2DWE > WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE > > > > ---- > Sent via sarex(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/sarex Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager

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re UO-11 heard
by Peter Wilson 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Hello all, UO-11 heard in the UK on the 09:20 pass. I have a recording of the middle one minute of the pass (6 minutes after AOS). It's not brilliant but someone might be able to decode it. Let me know if you want the wav file. Peter G8KEK AMSAT-UK 6897

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Distance records for LEO's.
by john hackett 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Kevin, My personal best on an LEO is Norway to Japan - (FO-20 in 1997). Depending whether you classsify AO-7 as a LEO bird - (with an orbital height of 1400Km) - the current record there is 7500 - 7700Km, by several stations. You may have been only interested in FM satellites, to9 which I have no idea. Hope that helps somewhat. 73 John. <la2qaa(a)amsat.org> EU-Amsat founder/moderator. Homepage: <http://www.observations.biz> ....................................................................................................................... >I was searching through the net to try to find out QSO distance records for >some of the LEO sats such as AO-27, AO-51, SO-50, etc. Anyone know where >that info may be found or does anyone have a personal record of your >>furthest contact? I was looking through my HRD logbook and so far, KL4E on >AO51 in BP51fh (Alaska) to my QTH in EM12hv (Texas) is my personal record at >3016 miles. It just got me thinking. >Kevin >N9EME >EM12hv >Fort Worth, Texas, USA _________________________________________________________________ Keep your friends updated—even when you’re not signed in. http://www.microsoft.com/middleeast/windows/windowslive/see-it-in-action/so…

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Re: New Ham antenna to be installed on the ISS Columbusmodule tomorrow,
by Cor 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

On this photo you see the new 2&70cm ham radio antenna which was funded by AMSAT-NA and made by volunteers. http://iss.ontwikkel.nl/ISSPICS/newhamantennebig.jpg On this photo you see an ISS crew member installing the AIS (Automatic Information System) ship tracking antenna. http://iss.ontwikkel.nl/ISSPICS/isscolumbusbig.jpg Both antenna's areinstalled on the ISS Columbus module. Thanks to Lou McFadin (W5DID), Amsat-NA, ESA and all the people who worked on this project. 73's Cor PD0RKC Ham Radio In Space: http://iss.ontwikkel.nl

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Satellite QSO distance records
by Kevin Groth 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

I was searching through the net to try to find out QSO distance records for some of the LEO sats such as AO-27, AO-51, SO-50, etc. Anyone know where that info may be found or does anyone have a personal record of your furthest contact? I was looking through my HRD logbook and so far, KL4E on AO51 in BP51fh (Alaska) to my QTH in EM12hv (Texas) is my personal record at 3016 miles. It just got me thinking. Kevin N9EME EM12hv Fort Worth, Texas, USA

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Logging programs
by Bob Herrell 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Hi all, Is there a logging program that will log satellite contacts (grid square and satellite) as well as keeping track of the grid squares worked so you know if it is a dupe? I have not been able to find anything that will do it. Thanks 73, Bob AJ5C EM36 __________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 4637 (20091125) __________ The message was checked by ESET Smart Security. http://www.eset.com

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Logging programs
by Bob Herrell 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Thanks to all who answered. I have used several of these programs, Logic 8 is my main logger. I guess I need to learn how to massage them to do what I am looking for. Thanks and see ya on the birds. 73, Bob AJ5C EM36 __________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 4637 (20091125) __________ The message was checked by ESET Smart Security. http://www.eset.com

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re UO-11 heard
by David Giles 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Hello All, Just to confirm Ray Hoad's message, just heard UO-11 buzzing away over the west half of VK at 2009/11/26 0003 UTC. 73 de David VK5DG

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Iceland!!
by Bob- W7LRD 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Hello all AO-7 fans I just recently worked Ari-TF3ARI. After several emails and a few false starts we connected on old AO-7. The footprint from TF will cover most of the U.S.! Another good reason to get on old AO-7! I'm sure he will eventually get to meet most of the "regulars". 73 Bob W7LRD Washington State AMSAT area coordinator

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Report on AO-51 38k4 packet session
by Mark L. Hammond 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Hello All, During the period November 16 - November 19, 2009 AO-51 was configured as follows: 38k4 BBS, L/U Uplink: 1268.700 MHz 9k6 FM Downlink: 435.150 MHz 38k4 FM According to my records, the 38k4 packet mode had not been used in more than 3 years! In order to facilitate the high speed packet testing, the satellite was configured such that TXB (435.300) was OFF and TXA (435.150) was set to between 2.05-2.15 W output. During last 12 hours of the period the baud rate was reduced to 9600. The bird performed nominally during this period. Interested parties can always peruse the whole orbit telemetry data from AO-51 at: ftp://ftp.amsat.org/amsat/telemetry/ao51 Several users reported activity during this mode, and we appreciate your feedback. Additional 38k4 packet testing at lower transmit power levels may occur in the future; the reduced power output should permit simultaneous operations of TXA and TXB so that voice operations can continue during the testing. On behalf of the command team, Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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AO-51 mode change
by Andrew Glasbrenner 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

We just enabled the 1268.700/435.150 repeater for the holiday weekend in the US. Power on the 435.3 transmitter is now 550mw, and 435.15 is 490mw. Enjoy! 73, Drew KO4MA

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[Fwd: First Satellite contact AO-51]
by Gordon JC Pearce 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

J.D. Smith wrote: > Just made my first satellite contact using AO-51, using handheld and arrow Feels *good*, doesn't it? Welcome to the club. You just sent a message into space, and got it back again. Handheld QRP satellite operation is a lot of fun. If only there were more LEO FM birds... (tongue slightly in cheek) Gordon MM0YEQ

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Polarity Switch Question
by David Wing 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Getting really close to having everything installed and working on the roof! May get to work some birds later today if the XYL doesn't corner me with housekeeping chores in preparation for tomorrow. One of the antennas that I'm putting up is an old Cushcraft 30 element 440 with a polarity switch. I have not been able to find any documentation on this antenna and I wonder if there is an easy way to determine if the antenna is set up for RHCP or LHCP. Clearly feeding 12v to the switch will change the polarity but I'm wondering if there is an easy way to determine what the default setting is before the switch is energized. 73, David K6CDW

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Uni_trac 2000 question?
by Michael Wolthuis 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Thanks to many helpful suggestions and support from the AMSat-BB list I was able to get the Uni_Trac 2000 working with Nova DDE and with Yaesu g-5500 and FT-847. Thank-you. I have one problem remaining..... My uni_trac window for some reason is always lagging behind the tracking that Nova is doing. I thought Nova would control the tracking, but it appears it simply passes the satellite object name to Uni_trac and Uni_Trac does its own calculations on the KEPs. I made certain they are using the same nasa KEPs file for both Nova and Uni_Trac. They have the same GPS coordinates entered and I have the same height above sea level in them both (although on in feet and on in meters). Does anyone have any thoughts? It seems that Uni_Trac is lagging or it is calculating the KEP differently. If there is a better listserv I should post this too, please advise. Thanks again to all! 73s Mike kb8zgl

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Re: NASA 2 Line via mail?
by wb7dru＠usfamily.net 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

I loved using the manuel method! I even went so far as to derive the orbit equations myself. But it was exciting when the tracking software for the Timex Z-81. Still have have one in the shack. Dave ------------------------- Sent on my Palm Centro using the Verizon Wireless 3Geee network -----Original Message----- From: "i8cvs" <domenico.i8cvs(a)tin.it> Subj: [amsat-bb] Re: NASA 2 Line via mail? Date: Wed Nov 25, 2009 8:07 am Size: 1K To: "J.D. Smith" <jaydsmit(a)gmail.com>; "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Hi Smith, N4VIL Early in 1972 I was receiving by regular post the 2 Line Orbital Data from Goddard to be used for the meteorological satellites ESSA-8, NIMBUS and TIROS For traching I used as well the azimuthal map of the earth with a foot print transparent overly and a revolving satellite orbital path. Yes...no computers at all in the Ham shack at that time but manual tracking using a map a pencil and a clock was a beginning very useful and exciting. 73" de i8CVS Domenico ----- Original Message ----- From: "J.D. Smith" <jaydsmit(a)gmail.com> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 11:15 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: NASA 2 Line via mail? > Rich, > > I remember receiving the two line elements from Goddard in the mid-eighties. > I was just getting into amateur radio, but was only using the data to > predict visual sightings of the shuttle and satellites. I believe the list I > received was a generic for visable satellites. I used the data to manually > plot an orbital track with grease pencil on a piece of acetate, using it as > an overlay on a map of the earth. I'm sure there's probably more than a few > people here that did the same 'back in the day'. Aren't computers great! > > 73, > > J.D. Smith > N4VIL > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb --- Get FREE High Speed Internet from USFamily.Net! -- http://www.usfamily.net/mkt-freepromo.html ---

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5400 FS
by Al Zoller 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

For Sale: New in unopened box G5400B rotor. I purchased this to replace another 5400 rotor but did not use it. Box is unopened and sorry, no I won't open it to take photos. No returns. Once you open the box it is yours. $495.00 and you pay shipping. Continental USA. Please pay by pay pal. My pay pal address is different but the arrl address will work for initial contact and questions. Thanks for looking. WA7U(a)arrl.net <mailto:[email protected]> Reply directly to WA7U an _*not*_ to N7UB.

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Re: First Satellite contact AO-51
by J.D. Smith 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Thanks to all who responded to my query, especially my good friend Dave, AA4KN and Rick, WA4NVM for providing a recording of the event. And a great big thanks to John K8YSE for coming back to me for my first successful satellite contact! 73, J.D. N4VIL

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Re: First Satellite contact AO-51
by Clint Bradford 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

> ... my first satellite contact ... AO-51 ... handheld ... Arrow ... CONGRATULATIONS! You officially now have the "sat bug" - which our Centers for Disease Control have yet to find a vaccine. ENJOY! Clint, K6LCS http://www.work-sat.com ---------------------------------- Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.clintbradford.com

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Anyone need some Arizona grids?
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Hi! It's been a few weeks since my last road trip away from home, and I have been thinking about possible trips over the next couple of months. I don't have any plans for trips to neighboring states or to Mexico, but could visit some grids in different parts of Arizona - grids that will not see snow in the upcoming wintertime. I know the regulars probably have worked me in most, if not all, of these grids. There are some who may have missed a few of them, plus any newer satellite operators who were not active when I previously visited them. These are the grids I am thinking about making trips to in the near future: DM22, DM23, DM24, DM25, DM31, DM32, DM34, DM35, DM44, DM52, DM53. Other grids like DM45, DM54, and DM55 would only be possibilities if there is no snow or ice on the highways in that part of Arizona. If there is any interest in making contacts with any of these grids, please e-mail me directly. If there's enough interest, I will plan trips to those grids and announce those plans here. Thanks and 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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AMSAT Awards
by Bruce 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

I have been a bit busy and have not updated the awards in some time (like since the end of August). Would you like to take a walk down memory lane? When I took over the AMSAT Awards in 2001, I entered the certificates back to #215 for the Satellite Communication Achievement Award. I found an old list dated 1988 today and have I have filled in all the certificates on my website back to Number 1. Sorry, the dates they were issued were not on the list for all of them. But it appears that the first ones were issued around 1975. I recognized two of the early calls... K2ZRO and W2RS. The following have entered into the Satellite Communicators Club for making their first satellite QSO. Luis Benvenutty, WP4NYY Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY The following have earned the AMSAT Satellite Communications Achievement Award. Rodney Waln, KC0ZHF #506 Neven Mrduljas, 9A5YY #507 Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY #508 The following have earned the AMSAT Sexagesimal Award. Patrick Stoddard, WD9EWK #151 Gail McDaniel, KB0RZD #152 Nick Kucij, KB1RVT #153 The following have earned the AMSAT Century Club award. Michael Klomfass, DH5MK #38 The following have earned the South Africa Communications Achievement Award. Rodney Waln, KC0ZHF #US138 Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY #US139 The following have earned the W4AMI Achievement Award (for 1000 contacts) Gail McDaniel, KB0RZD #57 Zeljko Ulip, 9A2EY #58 To see all the awards visit http://www.amsat.org or http://www.amsatnet.com Bruce Paige, KK5DO AMSAT Director Contests and Awards ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on Echolink - Conference *AMSAT* Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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ZRO Award -- Correction
by Gary "Joe" Mayfield 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

I, KA0YOS, have number 24 from a test on September 26, 1993 signed by Andy MacAllister. 73, Joe kk0sd

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Re: NASA 2 Line via mail?
by J.D. Smith 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Rich, I remember receiving the two line elements from Goddard in the mid-eighties. I was just getting into amateur radio, but was only using the data to predict visual sightings of the shuttle and satellites. I believe the list I received was a generic for visable satellites. I used the data to manually plot an orbital track with grease pencil on a piece of acetate, using it as an overlay on a map of the earth. I'm sure there's probably more than a few people here that did the same 'back in the day'. Aren't computers great! 73, J.D. Smith N4VIL

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ISS
by Andrew Rich 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

Confused. ISS currently has a D700 on an antenna in a module. The addition of the antenna to columbia module implies ? 1. Shift to that module ? 2. Switching ability to new antenna ? 3. Dual ARISS in old node and new node ? Detail is missing Andrew VK4TEC

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Polarphaser PH2/S
by Dave Aitch 25 Nov '09

25 Nov '09

I take it you don't want to item Dominico ? 73, Dave.

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AO-51 pass recording
by n4csitwo＠bellsouth.net 24 Nov '09

24 Nov '09

Does anyone have a recording (preferably in .mp3 format) of the 11/24/09 23:00 utc pass over the U.S. of AO-51? A friend of mine would like to have a record of his first contact with a satellite. Thanks, Dave, AA4KN

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First Satellite contact AO-51
by J.D. Smith 24 Nov '09

24 Nov '09

Just made my first satellite contact using AO-51, using handheld and arrow antenna. However, being that my hands were full, and in the excitement of the moment, wasn't able to write down call and grid of my first contact. Worked K8???, grid ????. If you use the board, please fill in the blanks for me. Pass was 11/24/09 @ 23:07z. Will invest in a digital voice recorder, I promise! Thanks, J.D. N4VIL

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TF3ARI active on VO-52 PLUS N7EDK in DN30
by John Papay 24 Nov '09

24 Nov '09

Ari, TF3ARI, was on VO-52 this morning on the 1428z pass with a good signal. Ari is obviously using computer control with his TS-2000 so when you answer him on his frequency, that's where he is listening. His doppler correction was right on. He reports he is working on a better receive antenna. For now he hears well near the horizon which is perfect for all of us here in the USA. Another surprise this morning came from DN30. N7EDK is visiting his daughter in Eagle Mountain, Utah! The 1330z AO-51 pass was a cool (7 degF) so he was just using the HT and a whip antenna. The pass was nearly overhead for him. He made several contacts. He said he would be on the next pass to the west, this time with his Arrow antenna! At first the grid didn't click with me; it was before my first cup of coffee. Many people do travel around the holidays and more and more are taking their satellite equipment with them. Pay attention and you just might pick up a grid you don't already have! Thanks to Ari and Ed for their efforts! Happy Thanksgiving! 73, John K8YSE

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WAV for Satellites.
by Vincenzo Mone 24 Nov '09

24 Nov '09

Hit o the list, anybody can tell me where can I find the wav files for the satellites to use with the WISP program? Thanks 73 de Enzo IK8OZV EasyLog 5 BetaTester EasyLog PDA BetaTester WinBollet BetaTester D.C.I. CheckPoint Regione Campania Skype: ik8ozv8520 *************************************** ***** GSM +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** SMS +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** FAX +39 328 7244294 ***** *** 2nd e-mail: vimone(a)tin.it *** ***************************************

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TF1JI active on AO-51
by Daniel "Nick" Kucij 24 Nov '09

24 Nov '09

Another Icelandic station Jon, TF1JI was active this morning on the AO-51 pass @1010Z . He was running 50W into a vertical antenna and had an excellent signal from Hvolsvollur, in the southern part of the island. Nick KB1RVT

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New Ham antenna to be installed on the ISS Columbus module tomorrow
by Louis McFadin 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

There hasn't been much said on the various news outlets about the second ISS EVA tomorrow morning at 07:30 AM EST 12:30 UTC. During that EVA the first task is to install two antennas on the Columbus Module. One is for an experiment for the European Space Agency and the other is a dual band 2m/70CM antenna for ARISS (Amateur Radio on ISS) very similar to the antennas already on the Russian service module. If you have any way to watch, I am sure it will be exciting for any ham to watch. This is an example of what can be achieved by volunteer hams working closely with a space agency. This antenna project was funded entirely by AMSAT-NA and volunteers who built the antennas for both the experiment and for ARISS. That's not to take away from the tremendous contribution from ESA for the experiment, the launch and the EVA. I have no idea what that cost but you can be assured it was a lot more than the cost of the antennas. Once the antennas are in place we will be working to bring amateur radio to the Columbus module. I am very proud of all the teamwork and effort that has gone into this project. Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager

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Inasat-1
by Trevor . 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

I see the Malaysian National News Agency recently ran a report saying the Indonesian Amateur Radio microsat would be launch in 2010. http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=453179 The IARU Amateur Satellite Frequency Coordination page quotes the power at 5 watts and a 650 km orbit from an ISRO launch so it should be a strong signal. http://www.amsat.org.uk/iaru/formal.asp 73 Trevor M5AKA Daily Amateur Radio Email/RSS News: http://www.southgatearc.org/ Email your news items to: editor at southgatearc.org ----

3 3

Office Closed
by Martha 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

The AMSAT Office will be closed from Wednesday, November 25th - Friday, November 27th. We will reopen on Monday, November 30th at 10:00 AM ET. Happy Thanksgiving! -- 73- Martha

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EL12 - EL02
by Rafael Valdez G. 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

Hi All, Today, Ben XE2WK will be travelling to EL12 (Tampico, Tamps). Depending on his travelling schedule he might show up on the ascending pass of Oscar-51 at 23:38z from either EL12 or EL02. 73 es gl de Rafael Valdez Jr. XE2RV @ DM41mh 10-10 52716 VUCC Sat #164 http://sat-xe.blogspot.com EX-XE2PWF P Before printing, please think about your responsibility and commitment with the ENVIRONMENT. Antes de Imprimir, piensa entu responsabilidad y compromiso con el MEDIO AMBIENTE _________________________________________________________________

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Re: Future scheduling of SO-67
by Tony Langdon 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

At 11:34 PM 11/23/2009, Jan-Albert Koekemoer wrote: >In an effort to make this as painless as possible, I would like to request >comments on the possible use of regional coordinators, which I believe worked >quite well for SO-35. Such coordinators would then be responsible for >setting up schedules in advance for their specific regions, taking into >account obviously the pool of possible satellite passes, as well as local >events / fairs etc. We would then simply load the schedules on a weekly >basis. I was the VK/ZL coordinator for SO-35, and drew up the schedule for the region for over a year. If I recall correctly, I was the first of several regional coordinators. The arrangement worked well, and I formed a close working relationship with the SO-35 team. The work wasn't particularly difficult, and having local knowledge, I could tweak the passes to suit the needs of the local satellite community. I also helped the SO-35 team test different transponder configurations (some worked better than others), by offering feedback about how well the different configurations worked, using my setup of known performance. Based on my experience, I would recommend and encourage the use of regional coordinators. It's not a particularly difficult job, it takes the load off the satellite operators, and it provides a local point of contact for satellite users to request passes for special events, or to cover areas that were missed out. 73 de VK3JED / VK3IRL http://vkradio.com

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TNC wiring URL
by Bruce 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

This was sent to our local ham club reflector. I thought it would be of interest to a few satellite hams. Although it is a commercial site that sells the ready made cables, the pinouts are all there for those that want to build their own. 73...bruce Comprehensive list TNC to radio list. http://66.49.139.252/radio/TNC_%20Diag.htm

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Re: OSCAR-11 Heard!
by Pughkeithd＠cs.com 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

In a message dated 11/23/2009 8:34:58 AM Central Standard Time, kb2m(a)comcast.net writes: > Subj: [amsat-bb] Re: OSCAR-11 Heard! > Date:11/23/2009 8:34:58 AM Central Standard Time > From:[email protected] > To:[email protected], clive(a)g3cwv.co.uk, amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Received from Internet: > > > > I'm going to try and collect some telemetry here in FM29 next pass, at > 14:50z. I still have my WinPack UO-11 config file, it is loaded up and my > DSP2232 is streaming 1200 baud ASCII, searching for a signal. Just like > old > times! I will report back here, and send the telemetry file(if any) to > Clive... > > 73 Jeff kb2m > > > -----Original Message----- > From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On > Behalf Of Alan Cresswell > Sent: Monday, November 23, 2009 4:30 AM > To: clive(a)g3cwv.co.uk; amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: OSCAR-11 Heard! > > Hi > > Another very strong UO-11 pass here this evening. (0909 to 0922 utc, 60 > deg) The signal became noisy with rapid fading just after UO-11 went into > eclipse at around 0919 but signals continued but gradually became weaker > and > the fades deeper until I lost the signal in the noise about 1 minute > before > LOS. I recorded the pass. > > 73 > Alan > ZL2BX > > -----Original Message----- > From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On > Behalf Of Clive Wallis > Sent: Sunday, 22 November 2009 17:41 > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] OSCAR-11 Heard! > > Hi, > > I have received two reports from Keith N4ZQ (EL88ob) that he has heard > UO-11 on 19 November at 13:33 - 13:43, and on 22 November at 13:02 UTC. > > He has sent me a WAV file of the second pass. Unfortunately, it's a > very low elevation pass, and probably will be difficult to decode, as it > contains a lot of noise. However it's definitely UO-11. > > I'll be interested in receiving any other reports. The frequency is > 145.826 MHz. Mode is FM. Further details are on my OLD website > www.users.zetnet.co.uk/clivew There is an audio clip to help identify > the satellite. > > Please e-mail me via the AMSAT reflector, or post to this bulletin board. > > 73 Clive G3CWV > > Hitchin, North Hertfordshire, UK > > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > _______________________________________________ > 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 > Hi! I'll add my "two cents worth." I heard the old familiar "buzz" loud and clear on a Yaesu FT-530 HT and a hand held three element Yagi on the 1453 UTC pass over Fort Worth, TX, this morning. It was certainly good to hear the old familiar "buzz" and it reached full scale on the FT-530 during a good part of the pass. 73 - Keith, W5IU

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OSCAR-11 Heard!
by Clive Wallis 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

Hi, I have received two reports from Keith N4ZQ (EL88ob) that he has heard UO-11 on 19 November at 13:33 - 13:43, and on 22 November at 13:02 UTC. He has sent me a WAV file of the second pass. Unfortunately, it's a very low elevation pass, and probably will be difficult to decode, as it contains a lot of noise. However it's definitely UO-11. I'll be interested in receiving any other reports. The frequency is 145.826 MHz. Mode is FM. Further details are on my OLD website www.users.zetnet.co.uk/clivew There is an audio clip to help identify the satellite. Please e-mail me via the AMSAT reflector, or post to this bulletin board. 73 Clive G3CWV Hitchin, North Hertfordshire, UK

4 4

Future scheduling of SO-67
by Jan-Albert Koekemoer 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

Hello Given that the SA-AMSAT payload on SO-67 is shared with the satellite back-up TT&C transponder, there is unfortunately not a way to keep the payload switched on permanently, or even semi-permanently. For the lifetime of the satellite we will therefore have to do with active scheduling. In an effort to make this as painless as possible, I would like to request comments on the possible use of regional coordinators, which I believe worked quite well for SO-35. Such coordinators would then be responsible for setting up schedules in advance for their specific regions, taking into account obviously the pool of possible satellite passes, as well as local events / fairs etc. We would then simply load the schedules on a weekly basis. Up 'till now I have mainly focused on Europe, RSA, South America, North America / Canada, Japan and Australia / NZ. I would like to invite suggestions for use of the payload over other regions as well. This adds to the previous point. Regarding possible activation at night: this is entirely possible, but would have to be planned / managed more actively, given the power limitations in eclipse. We have yet to experiment with this and see what the available capacity would be. Please mail responses to this bulletin board, or if you prefer, to my work address: jak "at" sunspace "dot" co "dot" za Best regards Jan-Albert (ZR1JAK) E-mail Disclaimer http://www.sunspace.co.za/emaildisclaimer.htm

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Help with Yaesu g5500
by wolthui3＠msu.edu 23 Nov '09

23 Nov '09

I bought a used Yaesu g5500 and it has a strange problem. The AZ works perfect, but when I push the EL button it seems to work (ie. Move up or down) about 1 out of 4 tries. I can regularly duplicate the issue where I can't get EL to change. If I wait 30mins and come back then it sometimes works right away. The rotor itself was into Yaesu and they said it was 100% perfectly fine. I have tried swapping the AZ/EL cables around and no difference. It has to be a controller issue I think. Any ideas before I box it up and ship it to Yaesu to check? When it works, it works fine and typically for 5-10mins straight, but then suddenly it will not change again. Mike kb8zgl

7 6

Re: ISS Cross-band Repeater
by Clint Bradford 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

Thanks for the input. Sound like I'd be OK to publish ... ---------------------------------------------------------- The cross-band repeater aboard the ISS is, when operational, primarily in U/V mode. Uplink - 437.800 Downlink - 145.800 The site below shows current sat status, and, for the ISS, has links to both the AMSAT ARISS site and the ISS Fan Club site - http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/satellites/status.php --------------------------------------------------------- Clint

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ISS Cross-band Repeater
by Clint Bradford 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

The AMSAT status page for the ISS indicates ... Mode U/V (B) FM Voice Repeater (Worldwide): Operational Uplink: 437.8000 MHz FM Downlink 145.8000 MHz FM Mode V/U (J) FM Voice Repeater (Worldwide): Operational Uplink: 145.8000 MHz FM Downlink 437.8000 MHz FM Are there two independent cross-band repeaters on board? Confusingly yours, Clint Bradford

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SO-67 schedule: 21/22 Nov 2009
by Wayne Estes 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

ZR1JAK wrote: 21 Nov 00:19 Japan 00:36 Australia 03:33 India 06:55 RSA 09:45 Europe 11:35 Brazil 13:07 Brazil 14:30 Canada/USA 16:05 Canada/USA 17:38 Canada/USA 21:11 New Zealand 23:57 Japan 22 Nov 00:14 Australia 06:34 RSA 07:49 Europe 08:10 RSA 11:13 Brazil 12:46 Brazil 14:10 Canada/USA 15:43 Canada/USA 17:17 Canada/USA W9AE replies: I notice that all the passes are scheduled during the local mornings, and none of the passes are scheduled during local evenings. Is that because the satellite is in eclipse in the evening? Wayne Estes W9AE Oakland, Oregon, USA, Cn83ik

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adding UX-910 to radio
by Jack Barbera 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

I've been thinking about adding the 1200 MHz band unit to my 910 radio. My dilemma is foremost that will this band be used on any of the new satellites? The rumor is that the 910 radio may be discontinued. The question I have is whether to quickly obtain the module in the event that this is also discontinued. I would really appreciate any thoughts on what action I should take. I do like ICOM products but find it difficult to get information about this type of situation. Thanks for any input. Jack WA1ZDV

4 4

SO-67_22Nov2009_154455z audio
by John Papay 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

Here is the recording of SO-67 22November2009 at 1545z. This was a 15 degree pass for me. I was trying to work the bird mobile but was not making it through enough for a qso. The signal was very readable on the mobile using a 3/4 wave whip on 435 with a preamp right at the antenna. Transmit antenna was a dual band Larsen on the roof. Radio was a TS2000 running 50 watts. The recording was made at the home station, unattended. http://www.papays.com/SO-67_22Nov2009_154455z.mp3 There was no window on the 1717z pass. Hope someone else recorded that one. 73, John K8YSE

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Re: adding UX-910 to radio
by Bob- W7LRD 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

Hi Jack The 910 I believe is already discontinued or that process will be very forth coming. "Most" likely any "significant" satellites will have 1.2 capability. By significant I believe HEO or MEO. Then there is the opportunity for terrestrial, eme, atv, and general fun and games on 1296. Once on 1.2 a 70W amp from KJ6KO can really add to the fun! If you like to build and play with antennas, a super antenna about four feet long can make it all worth while. I believe there is some significant 1296 activity in New England, your performance will depend on local topography, antenna, etc. Here in Western Washington we bounce 1.2 off mountains and get some interesting propagation. In my opinion the 910 will not loose value, once out of production the demand may even go up. 73 Bob W7LRD Washington State AMSAT area coordinator ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jack Barbera" <barberaalderwood(a)yahoo.com> To: "Amsat Reflector" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Sent: Sunday, November 22, 2009 8:37:20 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [amsat-bb] adding UX-910 to radio I've been thinking about adding the 1200 MHz band unit to my 910 radio. My dilemma is foremost that will this band be used on any of the new satellites? The rumor is that the 910 radio may be discontinued. The question I have is whether to quickly obtain the module in the event that this is also discontinued. I would really appreciate any thoughts on what action I should take. I do like ICOM products but find it difficult to get information about this type of situation. Thanks for any input. Jack WA1ZDV _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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SO-67 22Nov2009 1410z eastern USA
by John Papay 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

Audio is on my webserver: http://www.papays.com/SO-67_22Nov2009_141052z.mp3 Lots of activity as usual. I noted a slightly stronger signal on the downlink on Left Hand Polarization. 73, John K8YSE

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satpc32 rev 12.8a and new real time change - where?
by Mike Ryan 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

Version 12.8a has a new feature that allows satpc32 to update frequencies more often that once per second according to the Whatsnew file. But it doesnt say how to invoke or select this option. Has anyone found this in the menu? What am I missing? Whatsnew says: . In "Real Time" mode SatPC32 updates its calculations once per second. With previous program versions this speed couldn't be changed. Now the speed can be increased by 5- or 10-fold. The change is only temporary, however. Therefore, the program will always start with the 1-second updates. Selecting a new Configuration restarts the program, so the 5- or 10-fold updates must be re-selected after changing between configurations. If there is a better forum for this question, please advize. Mike WB1AAT

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FW: ANS-326 AMSAT Weekly Bulletins
by Dee 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-326 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. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor(a)amsat.org In this edition: * New Ham Antenna Installed * DQ11APOLLO Activation on All Bands * Next Hudson Valley Satcom Net * Satellite Shorts * ARISS Status - 16 November 2009 SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-326.01 New Ham Antenna Installed AMSAT News Service Bulletin 326.01 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 22, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-326.01 New Ham Antenna Installed on the ISS Columbus Module ARISS US Hardware Manager Lou McFadin, W5DID says that all the teamwork and effort to expand the ARISS amateur radio station aboard the ISS were successful this weekend when the new dual band 2m/70CM antenna was installed on the outside of ESA's Columbus module. Lou congratulated the team, "This is an example of what can be achieved by volunteer hams working closely with a space agency. This antenna project was funded entirely by AMSAT-NA and volun- teers who built the antennas for both an ESA experiment and for ARISS. I am very proud of all the teamwork and effort that has gone into this project." The new ARISS antenna is very similar to the antennas already on the Russian service module. Once the antennas are in place the ARISS team will be working to bring amateur radio to the Columbus module. In conclusion Lou noted the tremendous contribution from ESA for the experiment, the launch and the EVA making this expansion of amateur radio aboard the ISS possible. [ANS thanks Lou McFadin, W5DID for the above the information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-326.02 DQ11APOLLO Activation on All Bands AMSAT News Service Bulletin 326.02 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 22, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-326.02 DQ11APOLLO Activation on All Bands DQ11APOLLO is a special-event station of the Deutsche Amateuer-Radio- Club (DARC) celebrating the 40th. anniversary of the first manned landing on the moon by NASA. July 20, 2009 marked the 40th annnivesary of the first manned landing on the moon by the Apollo-11 mission. To celebrate this brilliant tech- nical achievement of NASA, a group of space-flight enthusiast radio amateurs of the Deutsche Amateur-Radio-Club applied for the special- event callsign DQ11APOLLO. It was issued on July 15, 2009 and is valid 365 days. The station will be activated on the mission-dates of the past Apollo flights on all HF, VHF & UHF-bands using SSB, CW, FM and PSK. The call will be activated during several occasions in 2009 and 2010: Apollo 12 November 14-24, 2009 Apollo 17 December 07-19, 2009 Apollo 8 December 21-27, 2009 Apollo 14 January 31-Feb 9, 2010 Apollo 9 March 03-13, 2010 Apollo 13 April 11-17, 2010 Apollo 16 April 16-27, 2010 Apollo 10 May 18-26, 2010. Buereau-cards via DF3JO, c/o Deutscher Amateur-Radio Club-DARC, Germany Direct-cards via DF3JO, Thomas Stinder, Braukkamp 11, 48249 Dülmen, Germany Preference will be given to cards sent direct with return postage and will be answered directly. The alternative is to send cards via Bureau. The QSL cards DQ11APOLLO will be printed in late autumn with the first delivery expected in December 2009. Many details are available at the DQ11APOLLO web page: http://tinyurl.com/ylenq3k [ANS thanks the SouthGate ARC Site and DQ11APOLLO for the above Information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-326.03 Next Hudson Valley Satcom Net AMSAT News Service Bulletin 326.03 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 22, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-326.03 To all, The next "HV Satcom" net is Thursday December 10 at 8PM (EST), (Or 0100UTC), on the 146.97MHz. repeater, with in echolink node of N2EYH-L. For more info (and download pass predictions go to; www.hvsatcom.org/ The reason there was no Satcom net (Thursday of this week) was that the "97" Repeater went down! Also, there won't be a "HV Satcom" net on Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving evening) Thanks,, Stu Ballinger (WA2BSS) [ANS thanks Stuart, WA2BSS, for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-326.04 Satellite Shorts AMSAT News Service Bulletin 326.04 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 22, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-326.04 CUTE=1.7 Satellite Captures Image Mineo Wakita, JE9PEL reported the CO-65 control station received an image below from the CUTE-1.7 satellite camera. Their analysis indi- cates the image was taken on October 28, 2009 and downloaded this week. The image is from the region around 84.6392 degrees north latitude and was 128.3049 degrees longitude near the north pole. The CUTE-1.7 image can be viewed on-line at: http://lss.mes.titech.ac.jp/ssp/cute1.7/blog/1_48_caption.Jpeg ----- Antartica Planned for Activation on HamSats Bill, K7MT, is going to work at the McMurdo base (AN-011) between Nov 15 and Feb 20, 2010. He will sign KC4USV mostly on 20m during Sundays. Listen for him in SSB on 14243 kHz, in CW on 14043 kHz or in PSK-31 on 14070 kHz. He plans to bring his Arrow II antenna and a Kenwood TH-7 which he can use also on amateur radio satellites. QSL via K1IED. His homepage can be found at: http://www.mt.net/~k7mt ----- Indonesia to Launch Rescue Radio HamSat The Bernama dot com on line newspaper reports that the Indonesian Amateur Radio Organization called Orari and the Indonesian National Institute of Aeronautic and Space plan to launch the ham radio bird next year. But so far the president of the Orari has not revealed the satellite's size nor its orbital distance from Earth. According to the website, the new ham radio bird will be used to expand the nations ham radio communication network to remote districts. It went on to note that the satellite will play a major role in linking land, sea and air communication for rescue radio operations. The article also noted that ham radio operators from Orari had become the alternative communication tool. This, during disasters like the tsunami in Aceh and the recent earthquake in Padang. Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1683 ----- Call for Papers 14th Annual Southeastern VHF Society Conference April 23rd and 24th, 2010 Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky. The Southeastern VHF Society is calling for the submission of papers and presentations for the upcoming 14th Annual Southeastern VHF Society Conference to be held at Morehead State University in Morehead, KY on April 23rd and 24th, 2010. Papers and presentations are solicited on both the technical and operational aspects of VHF, UHF and Microwave weak signal amateur radio. The deadline for the submission of papers and presentations is February 5, 2010. All submissions for the proceedings should be in Microsoft Word (.doc). Submissions for presentation at the conference should be in PowerPoint (.ppt) format, and delivered on either a USB memory stick or CDROM or posted for download on a web site of your choice. For further information about the conference please go to http://www.svhfs.org Thank you, Robin Midgett K4IDC 2010 Program Chair, SVHFS [ANS thanks SVHFS for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-326.05 ARISS Status 16 November 2009 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 326.05 From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. November 22, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-326.05 (ARISS) Status Report November 16, 2009 1. Upcoming School Contact Flanders District of Creativity and the Department of Education of the Flemish Government have teamed up for an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact on Tuesday, November 17 at 13:44 UTC via station LU8YY in Argentina. The groups are partnering to organize the very first congress for kids in Belgium. A conference has been set up with keynote speakers and interactive workshops for 1200 twelve year olds. Dirk Frimout and Sijtn Meuris will give a presentation about astronomy. 2. Italian Students Contact De Winne via ARISS On Friday, November 13, Frank De Winne, ON1DWN on the ISS spoke with youth from Scuola Istituto Salesiano "Sacro Cuore" Vomero in Napoli, Italy via an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact. De Winne answered twenty questions put to him by the students. Approximately six hundred children were present for the contact which highlighted a curriculum of English, astronomy and physics. Prior to the contact, the students learned from amateur radio operators about the history of radio transmissions, radio equipment, the structure and the scientific goals of the ISS, as well as real HF radio contacts with amateur radio stations from around the world. After the contact, an ESA Communication Office representative gave a presentation on the ESA education program and ESA Astronaut Paolo Nespoli was present to meet with and talk to the students. There was extensive media coverage including television and newspapers as well as video streaming on the Web. 3. ARISS Contact Between Robert Thirsk and Montreal Schoolchildren An Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact was held between Marie-Rivier School in Montreal, Quebec, Canada and Robert Thirsk, VA3CSA on Friday, November 13 via telebridge station VK4KHZ in Australia. Sixteen questions were asked and answered during the space chat as students learned about the ISS and work and life in space. 4. ARISS International Team Meeting Held An Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) Team meeting was held on Tuesday, November 10. The team provided a status on both the Columbus module antennas and ARISSat-1. See: https://www.rac.ca/ariss/arisstel2009-11-10.htm 5. ARRL Web Article on STS-129 Mission The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) ran a Web story on the STS-129 mission which will carry Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) antennas to the ISS and deploy them during the second spacewalk. See: https://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2009/11/12/11195/?nc=1 6. ARRL Letter Posts Two ARISS News Items The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) posted two ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station) articles in its November 12 issue of the ARRL Letter. The first item covers the STS-129 mission carrying ARISS antennas to the ISS. The second is an article on the ARISS contact with Garfield Elementary School held in conjunction with the WHEELS NASA Exploration Experience traveling exhibit in Boise, Idaho. See: https://www.arrl.org/arrlletter/index.html?issue=2009-11-12 [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

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Get up early=iceland
by Luc Leblanc 22 Nov '09

22 Nov '09

That was the lucky combination this morning who make's me reaching Ari TF3ARI in Reykjavik Iceland. This period of the year make's me remember a tradition a plane that brings Icelandic Christmas shoppers to St-John Newfoundland. Theses Visitors from Iceland have come to St. John's on special flights every year for a decade to buy Christmas gifts and stock up on supplies. "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe DSTAR urcall VE2DWE WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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SO-67 Question
by Dave Marthouse 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

I have a question about the timers on SO-67. Their configuration to drop out after a few seconds unless you transmit immediately after or upon a previous station, was that done purposely or is this a software configuration issue. What would be the purpose of setting the transponder to act this way? I am not stating this to criticize but get the answer to this puzzling question. I must say that signal levels are great with this new bird. I have heard it using my TH-F6A with nothing more than the standard rubber antenna which is a radiating dummy load. Congratulations to Amsat SA on this great addition to our satellite fleet. Dave Marthouse N2AAM dmart(a)pure.net

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FO-29 status (21:28-UTC, 21 Nov. 2009)
by Mineo Wakita 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/fo29tes5.htm JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

1 0

AO-51 BBS Logistics
by Bruce Semple 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

Is the BBS call sign still PECHO-12? I am assuming WISP will work with the AO-51 BBS once I get it configured correctly -- Thanks, Bruce WA3SWJ

2 1

SO-67 Western Pass 11/21 @ 1741
by w6zkh＠comcast.net 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

This mornings pass of SO-67 was the best one sofar, probably because it wasnt overloaded with signals being it was partially out over the Pacific. VA7VW, WC7V, W7JPI, K7CWQ, WD9EWK, N7EDK and a XE2 station were on, and for the mostpart good communications spaced out over the 12 minute pass. Once everyone waited for that 3 second tail audio was very good, with Leo, W7JPI having Hi-Fi studio audio from that 847 with Mic gain turned down. It is hard to wait for the tail, as all of us are use to the other birds. I copied the satellite down to 2 degs over the Pacific. Sorry no recording device of it.... guess we need to make a remote base for John K8YSE out here on the Left Coast, hi... John W6ZKH DM06

3 2

Re: Ari TF3ARI Iceland on AO-51
by Bob- W7LRD 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

Hello John et al. To follow up on this information. In the past I have tried to email several TF hams about satellites. Thanks John for this information. AO-51 is out the footprint for the W. coast. However AO-7 can cover it. Perhaps we can encourage our TF friends to give it a try 73 Bob W7LRD Washington State AMSAT area coordinator ----- Original Message ----- From: "John Papay" <john(a)papays.com> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Saturday, November 21, 2009 9:53:19 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [amsat-bb] Ari TF3ARI Iceland on AO-51 Ari, TF3ARI, has been worked on AO-51! Ari first appeared on AO-51 on 24 October. He almost had a qso with KC9ELU. An email to Ari revealed that he was using a TS2000 and a vertical antenna. After not hearing Ari for two weeks I emailed him for a schedule on 15 November. He was there and we had a good qso. Since then he has installed a UHF preamp. He was on AO-51 at 1030z and 1208z today. VA7VW reported working Ari later. Ari also worked several others this morning. Since North America is always near the horizon for him, his vertical antenna and preamp work well. Not many trees in Iceland! Watch for Ari on early morning weekend passes of AO-51. My guess is that he will be on again Sunday morning 22Nov at 0951z and 1129z. 73, John K8YSE _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Ari TF3ARI Iceland on AO-51
by John Papay 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

Ari, TF3ARI, has been worked on AO-51! Ari first appeared on AO-51 on 24 October. He almost had a qso with KC9ELU. An email to Ari revealed that he was using a TS2000 and a vertical antenna. After not hearing Ari for two weeks I emailed him for a schedule on 15 November. He was there and we had a good qso. Since then he has installed a UHF preamp. He was on AO-51 at 1030z and 1208z today. VA7VW reported working Ari later. Ari also worked several others this morning. Since North America is always near the horizon for him, his vertical antenna and preamp work well. Not many trees in Iceland! Watch for Ari on early morning weekend passes of AO-51. My guess is that he will be on again Sunday morning 22Nov at 0951z and 1129z. 73, John K8YSE

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SO-67 21Nov2009 1604z Audio
by John Papay 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

The audio for the Central USA pass of SO-67 on 21Nov2009 at 1604z is on my webserver: http://www.papays.com/SO-67_21Nov2009_160547z.mp3 Lots of competition on this 8 degree (from this qth) pass . The three second tail timer was doing it's job. Some tried to get their response to a call into that three second window by talking fast. It did work for some. There was also probably some carriers that did not have the proper PL tone and that was having an impact as well. There certainly was no lack of interest in working this bird! The western pass is not visible here so I hope that someone else will record that one. 73, John K8YSE

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SO-67 21Nov09 1430z USA Eastern
by John Papay 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

Audio for the SO-67 eastern USA pass on 21Nov09 is on my webserver: http://www.papays.com/SO-67_21Nov2009_143116z.mp3 Now that it is understood that there is a 3 second tail after each transmission and audio will cut off after that time has expired, ways to get around the problem can be devised. I found that when called by another station, if you start transmitting before that station releases their transmitter, you will be able to answer and not be cut off after 3 seconds. This is because the "tail" never started. However, if this continuous transmission goes on for 30(?) seconds, the next timer will shut down the transmitter. Waiting for the tail to expire, when the bird is over the USA with many stations trying to get in, will not work. There will always be someone who keys up during the 3 second tail. Signals were loud as usual right down to the horizon. The extra transmitter power will enable many new users to get on this bird. Thanks to all of those who had a part in launching this satellite! 73, John K8YSE

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New ariss antenna: question
by andy thomas 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

fascinating watching the installation of the dual band antenna. many thanks to all concereed. it prompts me to ask: 1. what wasthe location of the antenna were they using before? 2. I thought I heard that the new ARISS antenna is on the starboard side - I assume that is relative to the direction of travel - whereas the AIS antenna is on the earth facing side. What will be the effect of the location of the ARISS antenna on those of us at latitudes with values above the ISS orbital inclination (of 51.7)? ie bearing in mind the attitude and direction of the station when at these high latitudes, will the architecture of the ISS shadow the antenna? Or are there so many reflections it doesn't matter? 73 de andy G0SFJ

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ISS nice visible pass over Europe
by OZ1MY 21 Nov '09

21 Nov '09

Hi all, ISS has some very nice visible passes over us during these days. Just looked at the pass with AOS at 1540 UTC here from Copenhagen. No clouds for a change :-) Max. elevation for this pass for me was 36 degrees. Have a nice weekend all. 73 OZ1MY Ib

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Mexican Baloon...
by Rafael Valdez G. 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

Hi all, we recently released a baloon with a cross repeater, camera and cross repeater. here is the interview of team leaders XE1BRX and XE1CQ in the local TV NEWS. http://bit.ly/Sarsem3 it is in spanish but might be interesting for some of you.. 73's Rafael Valdez Jr. XE2RV @ DM41mh 10-10 52716 VUCC Sat #164 http://sat-xe.blogspot.com EX-XE2PWF P Before printing, please think about your responsibility and commitment with the ENVIRONMENT. Antes de Imprimir, piensa entu responsabilidad y compromiso con el MEDIO AMBIENTE _________________________________________________________________

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Tonight's Presentation
by Clint Bradford 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

A couple notes surrounding my AMSAT presentation in Torrance, CA this evening. 1. THANK YOU to whichever AO-51 commander flipped AO-51 to V/U today. It was scheduled to go to V/U at 00:00GMT on the 20th - which was 4:00PM on the 19th my local time. And the pass I wanted to work was just 42 minutes later. And it was ON! 2. Don't know exactly how to explain it, but the pass today at 4:42PM Pacific Standard Time didn't exhibit the "normal" silencing, then faint voices, then stronger voices. It plainly BLASTED into discernible conversations, and we we were able to work it much sooner than "normal." We were not hidden behind foothills. It was a pretty clear shot South to AOS. It really floored me - in a most positive way. It was dramatic. 3. Thanks to KI6VBY Tim for showing up for the pass. He isn't a member of the club I was speaking to. But he follows AMSAT-BB, and has cruised my sat Web site, and wanted to meet me and work the bird together. Glad he got to meet Carl Gardenias, too. Tim's no "newbie amateur" - he has built several portable HF antennas for events, and has a great, analytical mind. He's also served our country in the military, and is working on advanced degrees in college. He had to leave right after the pass today, in order to get some school study time completed. When he has time, he'll be a valuable asset to whichever club he joins. 4. Another thanks to ARRL Orange Section guru Carl Gardenias, who helped me carry my bags to/from the meeting room. "I wanted to see your show in person," Carl advised. He said he only cringed once at my humor during the presentation ... That's it for in-person presentations this year. I still have two Internet shows lined up (EchoLink) in December. And a date in January already made. Thanks for a great year, AMSAT-BB folks! Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.work-sat.com

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SO-67 schedule: 21/22 Nov 2009
by Jan-Albert Koekemoer 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

Hi All Since last week, we have learnt a couple of things re the behaviour of the FM payload, most notibly that the drop-out problem can be avoided as follows: directly after an over, the Tx tail will be "active" for 3 seconds. If, during this time, somebody starts to Tx, that person will be cut off when the tail stops. For the time being, the cut-outs can therefore be avoided by waiting out the 3s tail before transmitting. This is obviously an irritation that we're still working on. Also note that an over has a maximum permitted duration of 30s. After this, the transmission will be terminated. The schedule for this weekend is as follows (all times in UTC; all activations are 15 min long): 20 Nov 23:00 Australia 21 Nov 00:19 Japan 00:36 Australia 03:33 India 06:55 RSA 09:45 Europe 11:35 Brazil 13:07 Brazil 14:30 Canada/USA 16:05 Canada/USA 17:38 Canada/USA 21:11 New Zealand 23:57 Japan 22 Nov 00:14 Australia 06:34 RSA 07:49 Europe 08:10 RSA 11:13 Brazil 12:46 Brazil 14:10 Canada/USA 15:43 Canada/USA 17:17 Canada/USA Regards Jan-Albert ZR1JAK E-mail Disclaimer http://www.sunspace.co.za/emaildisclaimer.htm

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Thanks to everyone for outdoor box suggestions.
by Michael Tondee 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

I want to thank everyone who made suggestions and alerted me to cautions to take into consideration in choosing an outdoor box to house my new preamp. In the end I got to my local Lowes and got the one Drew suggested. It's a very nice quality box and it has loads of room, much more than I actually need right now but I have no idea what else I may decide to mount up there in the future so the extra room is a good thing. I'm slowly but surely plodding along on getting my station going. I was so tired I slept away most of a vacation day today and my XYL insist on dragging me to a church softball game tomorrow even though I have a nagging arm injury and can't swing a bat. She says we can "just watch". To make things worse, rain will move in late tomorrow afternoon. Oh well, Michael, W4HIJ

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JO90, JN99, KO00, JN09 Wanted Grids Question
by Jarek Stopczyk, KB9IIZ 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

I will be traveling in December and January and might have the opportunity to activate: JO90, JN99, KO00, JN09 on FM sats. I'd like to ask European grid hunters some questions that would help me make my decision: Are these grids considered "wanted" by European grid hunters? If so, what would be the ranking, most to least wanted? Is there a need for an activation (what is the last time they have been activated)? I'm also checking if I could activate 50N, 20E covering all four in one QSO or perhaps operate on the line between 2 grids. All inputs are greatly appreciated. 73, Jarek, KB9IIZ

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KB9IIZ/P EN51/52/61/62 (42N 88W) activation on Sunday 11/22
by Jarek Stopczyk, KB9IIZ 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

Good Day to all... Taking advantage of the good weather I'll be activating grids EN51/52/61/62, point 42N 88W, on Sunday, Nov 22nd. Listen for KB9IIZ/P during the below passes for a 4 grids for 1 QSO deal (all times Zulu calculated for my location) AO27 @ 1846Z SO50 @ 1938Z AO27 @ 2026Z SO50 @ 2118Z There is a chance that I'll be able to operate from the same point on Saturday, Nov 21st AO-51 2323Z pass; I'll give it a shot, but don't hold me to it. For details, info, QSL, etc. please check my very simple website: kb9iiz.myanthill.org Given Chicago's weather this might very well be my last activation for the season. 73, Jarek, KB9IIZ

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CM87 to EM84 on 350mW
by Tim - N3TL 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

Hey everyone, At 2204 UTC on 20 November, KG6NUB and I completed another 2-way 50mW contact using our handheld satellite stations - this time on SO-50. KG6NUB was using his Kenwood TH-D7 HT and an Arrow antenna, and I was using my Yaesu VX-7R HT and an Elk antenna. Given SO-50's nominal transmitter power of 250mW, our total power budget for this contact was 350 mW. I don't believe it's possible for us to go lower unless the AO-51 control team configures one of that satellite's V/U transponders below 250 mW out. Speaking of AO-51, KG6NUB and I completed a 2-way 50mW contact on AO-51 at 0009 UTC on 21 November. KO4MA posted to the BB that the satellite is currently at 750mW on the V/U transponder, so our total power budget for that contact was 850mW. We now have completed three contacts from CM87 to EM84 running 50mW from each handheld ground station - one each on AO-27, SO-50 and AO-51 - and on the latter's non-QRP transponder. Based on the satellites' reported transmitter powers during these contacts, our total power budget for the three contacts is 1.8 watts. The SO-50 contact is especially gratifying because of the satellite's nominal quarter-watt out. It's our orbiting QRPp station. My thanks to KG6NUB for joining me on the low end of the power curve - even on busy passes. 73 to all, Tim - N3TL Athens, Ga. - EM84ha

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Icom 9100 release date?
by John Geiger 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

I see that both the Icom 746PRO and the Icom 910H have been discontinued, and I am assuming that the Icom 9100 is the replacement for both of them. Any word yet on when it will be made available? 73s John AA5JG

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Re: Outdoor Box for Preamp
by Clint Bradford 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

A suitably-sized Pelican case would do ... weather/elements-proof. Or call your local city yard or university plant ops person and see if they have any old telephone callboxes in the junk heap. Clint Bradford, K6LCS

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AO-51 Performance
by Clint Bradford 20 Nov '09

20 Nov '09

CB >> ... It was a dramatic improvement/difference in performance [00:42 GMT 11/20/09] ... ANDREW>> .,, The power on the repeater downlink is a bit higher than normal at 760 mw. It shouldn't be a dramatic difference from our recent 500-600mw, but noticeable to a observant operator ... My aging ears cannot take the credit ... it's that darned inefficient, engineered-all-wrong Arrow 146/437-10WBP antenna that I use ... (grin) Clint Bradford http://www.work-sat.com

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