- AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

KB1RVT from FN64 on Monday, 7 Sept. afternoon
by Daniel "Nick" Kucij 05 Sep '09

05 Sep '09

Hi I'm planning a day-trip further downeast along the Maine coast to FN64 on Labor Day afternoon, the 7th of September. I expect to be on the AO-27 pass at 1809 UTC and the AO-51 pass at 2130 UTC. I'll be working with two HTs and my homebrew yagi. I've been operating portable on Mt. Desert Is. in FN54 over the last week. If you need a QSL for QSOs from any of the grids I've worked portable from in Maine, just send me an email with QSO details and I'll check them in my log and send you a card. 73! Nick KB1RVT

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WD9EWK @ DM31 today
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 05 Sep '09

05 Sep '09

Hello from 25 yards/meters north of Mexico! I just worked an SO50 pass @ 1906 UTC from DM31ov. I plan to be on AO27 passes @ 2049 & 2230 UTC, plus AO51 passes @ 0026 & 0206 UTC from here - if the weather is OK. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK "Gringo Pass", Lukeville AZ

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DSTAR on AO-27
by Luc Leblanc 05 Sep '09

05 Sep '09

A quick test on the 1330 pass using DSTAR was successful i was able to hear my downlink with my call sign data Q5 with a clear crisp audio as good as the terrestrial DSTAR audio. But no one else seems to be on at that time. "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe DSTAR urcall VE2DWE WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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FO29 64451
by PY5LF 05 Sep '09

05 Sep '09

Hi dear Mineo Here are the data heard yesterday night , orbit 64451: --------- Data 1 --------- Main Relay ON : DCM ON SRAM OFF : Packet OFF JTA ON : JTD OFF GAS OFF : SAS OFF : UVC ON UVC Level 1 : PCU Mode AUTO PCU Level 3 : Battery Mode FULL Battery Logic FULL : Digitalker Mode OFF : UVC ACT/PAS PAS CPU RUN/RESET RUN : Spin Period 8356,0 [msec] Sun Angle 72,5 [deg] GAS-Z 490,2 [nT] GAS-X 490,2 [nT] Solar Panel Current 9,8 [mA] Battery Current 548,0 [mA] Battery Voltage 10,8 [V] Battery Middle Voltage 5,6 [V] Bus Voltage 12,5 [V] Analog Tx Power 610,4 [mW] Structure Temp. 1 -8,6 [C] Structure Temp. 2 -7,8 [C] Structure Temp. 3 -8,2 [C] Structure Temp. 4 -8,2 [C] Battery Cell Temp. -9,0 [C] --------- Data 2 --------- Main Relay ON : DCM ON SRAM OFF : Packet OFF JTA ON : JTD OFF GAS OFF : SAS OFF : UVC ON UVC Level 1 : PCU Mode AUTO PCU Level 3 : Battery Mode FULL Battery Logic FULL : Digitalker Mode OFF : UVC ACT/PAS PAS CPU RUN/RESET RUN : Spin Period 8356,0 [msec] Sun Angle 72,5 [deg] GAS-Z 490,2 [nT] GAS-X 490,2 [nT] Solar Panel Current 9,8 [mA] Battery Current 548,0 [mA] Battery Voltage 10,8 [V] Battery Middle Voltage 5,6 [V] Bus Voltage 12,5 [V] Analog Tx Power 824,9 [mW] Structure Temp. 1 -8,6 [C] Structure Temp. 2 -7,8 [C] Structure Temp. 3 -8,6 [C] Structure Temp. 4 -8,6 [C] Battery Cell Temp. -9,0 [C] --------- Data 3 --------- Main Relay ON : DCM ON SRAM OFF : Packet OFF JTA ON : JTD OFF GAS OFF : SAS OFF : UVC ON UVC Level 1 : PCU Mode AUTO PCU Level 3 : Battery Mode FULL Battery Logic FULL : Digitalker Mode OFF : UVC ACT/PAS PAS CPU RUN/RESET RUN : Spin Period 8356,0 [msec] Sun Angle 72,5 [deg] GAS-Z 490,2 [nT] GAS-X 490,2 [nT] Solar Panel Current 9,8 [mA] Battery Current 528,4 [mA] Battery Voltage 10,8 [V] Battery Middle Voltage 5,6 [V] Bus Voltage 12,5 [V] Analog Tx Power 499,9 [mW] Structure Temp. 1 -8,6 [C] Structure Temp. 2 -8,2 [C] Structure Temp. 3 -8,6 [C] Structure Temp. 4 -8,6 [C] Battery Cell Temp. -9,0 [C] Then after more some seconds the bird stops again . 73 PY5LF LUCIANO FABRICIO CURITIBA-PR-BRAZIL GG54JM <http://www.qrz.com/db/py5lf> http://www.qrz.com/db/py5lf <http://www.falautomation.com.br/> www.falautomation.com.br

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W6ZQ and NH7WN on AO-51 from Hawaii tonight
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Hi! Thanks again to Ron W6ZQ for another Hawaiian grid on AO-51. Ron drove not too far south of where he is currently staying on Kauai (BL02), to put BL01 on the air on the 0246 UTC AO-51 pass. Robert NH7WN from Honolulu (BL11) was also on the same pass. I had a maximum elevation of 4 degrees for this pass, and was able to work W6ZQ at just under 2 degrees elevation and NH7WN at just over 3 degrees elevation. I think W6ZQ logged some QSOs before I could hear the downlink, then I worked him and heard him work 6 others before I lost the downlink. Robert was also working a few stations during the pass, and I think Ron and Robert worked each other for an inter-island QSO out there. Thanks to both of them for making the effort to work us on the mainland, and to the other operators for an orderly pass that allowed for many QSOs! Ron did not say when he would try to work the US mainland via satellite again on his trip, but said he wants to get on again at some other point this month from Hawaii. If I get any more news from him on his plans, I'll post it on here. Robert comes on from time to time, and hopefully he's getting more of an assortment of calls in his satellite log in Honolulu (and, maybe, some other grids). 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/ (I'm heading to DM31 tomorrow; hope to work a bunch of you then!)

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Re: FO-29 schedule
by Mineo Wakita 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

FO-29 still has some trouble. Therefore it is examination use for a while only over Japan. We do not yet understand when it restore. But there are the reception report from South America and Europe. You may listen to CW with luck over your area. JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: Increasing range from LEO/SpaceX/APRS
by Luc Leblanc 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

On 4 Sep 2009 at 21:17, Dave Webb KB1PVH wrote: Date sent: Fri, 04 Sep 2009 21:17:10 +0000 From: Dave Webb KB1PVH <kb1pvh(a)gmail.com> Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: Increasing range from LEO/SpaceX/APRS To: Luc Leblanc <lucleblanc6(a)videotron.ca> Send reply to: kb1pvh(a)gmail.com > Hey Luc, > > I want to give it a try with D Star on AO-27 this weekend with you. Let me know what passes work for you. > > > > Dave KB1PVH > Hi Dave It is 2253 edt and i just came back from a ham dealer with the Icom DSTAR VHF and controller unit to switch one of our analog club machine to DSTAR system. With the long labor day week end i will rearrange my setup for DSTAR. for sept 5 here is the TEPR time who match a mutual window between us. Time (UTC) Mode ------------------------------------------ Sat Sep 5 17:27:37 2009 Digital Med Sat Sep 5 17:27:57 2009 Analogue Med Sat Sep 5 17:34:57 2009 Digital Med Sat Sep 5 17:35:57 2009 OFF Sat Sep 5 19:08:25 2009 Digital Med Sat Sep 5 19:08:45 2009 Analogue Med Sat Sep 5 19:15:45 2009 Digital Med Sat Sep 5 19:16:45 2009 OFF Nothing for the 6 and i will check for the 7 later. I will be there on both pass. "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe DSTAR urcall VE2DWE WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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AO-7
by Randy 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Does anyone know which mode AO-7 is currently in and is there a Place to go and find that info on a website? Randy - N2CUA

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FT-897D
by Randy 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Fun day .. My FT 897D arrived.. Learning all the menus and features is always a great time ;) I do have a couple of questions about the rig if there is a Couple of you on the list that have a lot of experience With it.. Mostly to do with digital modes and / or just using the Audio out / in for PSK , etc. The other is that I want to switch to WFM at 137.XXX for the weather Satellites and doesn't look like the rig will do that? My yaesu G5500 came as well .. Damaged .. :( So it has to go back .. Even took a day of to have fun soldering and Getting it up on the mast .. Oh well .. Anyways.. Any knowledgeable ( on the FT-897 ) volunteers out there in the crowd ?? Randy - N2CUA PS .. Thanks so very much for all the help the list has provided .. You all are super !!!

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FW: CUTE-I silent
by Danny Casier 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Hello Mike; Rx very clear telemetery from CUTE-1 on whole pass of 19:10z 11 deg pass. 73, Dan ON5UE

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Re: CUTE-I silent
by ON5UE 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Hello Mike; Rx very clear telemetery from CUTE-1 on whole pass of 19:10z 11 deg pass. 73, Dan ON5UE

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FO-29 schedule
by Mineo Wakita 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

4 Sep 22:45UTC 5 Sep 21:50UTC JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: Improving satellite reporting
by William Leijenaar 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Hi AMSATs, The tinny transponder design is finished and tested. I can make copies when there is interrest. My visit to Ham Fair in Tokyo was for me a kind of milestone to finish the design and make it public to the people. (I like to design something well done, before make it available to others, this avoids modifications and extra work later). It is not easy to make the LE005-R2 transponder design without having the right tools. This is also the reason why I cannot sell it like a kit for people to solder at home. The design is made at a profesional level (as development engineer I am dealing with it dayly) and can be made with use of a pick and place machine and reflow soldered for large quantities in a factory when needed. This is only profitable at large quantities. For small quantities its cheaper and faster to do it with my small reflow system. The quality is guarenteed as I can do manual inspection and full testing myself. The next step is doing space environment tests, but that takes some more time and money. In case you have a working thermal vaccuum chamber in your garage, let me know ;o) The LE005-R2 is designed for space environment but not officially tested yet. However, the design is well suited for applications like terresterial transponders. 73, with kind regards, William Leijenaar, PE1RAH --- ----- Original Message ----- From: "Bruce Robertson" <ve9qrp(a)gmail.com> To: "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2009 8:04 AM Subject: [amsat-bb] Improving satellite reporting [snip] > > (Similarly, I hope that William's extraordinary vision in building his > transponder board might, after broad testing and examination, be > validated by it becoming an 'AMSAT' off-the-shelf product. With > William's approval, let's appeal for the bucks to have a team of > people replicate these, test them, and set them up as temporary > terrestrial repeaters around the world. We'd much more easily convince > a cubesat team to include one of these if we could say one was running > uninterrupted in Toronto for a year, or if we could have them do a QSO > through one in a live demo!) > > > 73, Bruce > VE9QRP Hey, if William will make the boards available, I'll start building one tomorrow!!! 73, George, KA3HSW

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Demo from DM13 Thursday Night
by Clint Bradford 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

THANK YOU to the operators in Mexico and the United States for making my demonstration to the Moreno Valley (CA) Amateur Radio Assn. a success last night! They were, indeed, properly impressed! My upcoming "How to Work Ham Sats With Your HT" presentations ... September 11 - EchoLink/IRLP via K0GQ September 17 - Conejo Valley ARC October 5 - WARA (Fullerton) meeting October 17 - Victor Valley ARC’s JOTA Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.k6lcs.com

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First TAPR President & Packet Radio Pioneer, KD2S SK
by Mark Thompson 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

http://www.arrl.org/?artid=9159 Den Connors, KD2S (SK) (Sep 3, 2009) -- The first president of Tucson Amateur Packet Radio (TAPR) Den Connors, KD2S, of Pepperell, Massachusetts, passed away September 3 from lymphoma. He was 58. Connors, an ARRL Life Member, conducted the first amateur packet radio contact with all-American hardware and software, using the Tucson Amateur Packet Radio Terminal Node Controller (TNC) with Lyle Johnson, WA7GXD (now KK7P), at 9:12 PM (PST) on June 25, 1982. The tests were conducted at 146.55MHz, with both stations sending plain-text ASCII messages. "Den was instrumental in the early PACSAT work, and as TAPR's first president, led that organization from a local club he co-founded into an international organization," Johnson said in an e-mail. "His was a very cheerful, positive, can-do influence." ARRL/TAPR DCC (Digital Communications Conference), Chicago, September 25 - 27, 2009 www.tapr.org/dcc TAPR Updates & Announcements on Twitter www.twitter.com/taprdigital

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CUTE-I silent
by Mike Rupprecht 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

17:30 UTC - 45 deg pass - nothing heard from CUTE-I over Europe. Can anyone confirm this, please ? 73, Mike DK3WN

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Re: Why PCSAT is hard to recover
by Robert Bruninga 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

> Is this cross-connect sequence hard coded > in the firmware? No way to replace that > small bit of code directly from earth? We used the KISS principle and since we had no programmers on the team, we put no cotroller or CPU on board. PCSAT is nothing but a pair of TNC's, and pairs of TX and RX's. And a simple 555 timer chip that reboots them if they have not beaconed in over a minute. The STOCK TNC's have all the command, control, telemetry, I/O we needed. All of our satellites to date flew with nothing but a TNC as the "system" with the 555 backup timer as a fail safe reset. Bob > On 9/4/09 9:44 AM, "Robert Bruninga" <bruninga(a)usna.edu> wrote: > > >> Why is pcsat having so much trouble > >> carrying its 5 watts then? Even > >> when the satellite is in full sun? > >> Even on the Z panel? ...what went wrong. > > > > Error in design. Since it was our first satellite, and the > > first time that hamtronics TX and RX were flown in space, we put > > in multiple redundancy. Two identical RX=>TNC=>TX systems. We > > thought the most important thing was the command link. > > > > To make sure we could still access both TNC systems even with a > > TX or RX failure we added a second UHF RX to both systems. In > > additionl we had a relay to CROSS-CONNECT the transmitters. > > > > THen we made the mistake. We assumed that to recover from an > > anomoly, the most important thing was to regain the command > > link. Hence, from cold-boot, the spare UHF receivers would both > > come on AND the transmitters would be cross-connected. This > > assured we could access either TNC even if we had lost one RX or > > one TX. > > > > The mistake was assuming that in such a recovery effort, the > > first thing we would then do is TURN OFF the extra receivers and > > DISCONNNECT the cross conneced transmitters once we had command. > > > > Well... DUH.... If the reason the spacecraft crashed back to > > defaults was because it was low on power, then the last thing > > you want to do is QUADRUPLE the power budget by having the > > recovery-defaults turn on double the number of receivers and > > double the number of transmitters! > > > > So we need FOUR times the average power just to get command and > > that only happens during mid-day passes during maximum eclipse > > periods, and sometimes right at the beginning of full sun > > periods in the southern hemisphere. > > Our first commmand then IN SEQUENCE is > > 1) LOGON > > 2) Send command to separate the transmitters > > 3) Send command to turn off the two spare UHF reciverss > > > > If those are successful, AND PCSAT then has a full orbit in full > > sun, then we can recover. But the loggon password challenge > > from the satellite is the LONGEST packet in the command > > sequence, and if is not successful on the FIRST try, then the > > battery is exhausted and you loose the pass. > > > > Bob, Wb4APR > >> > >> On Sep 3, 2009, at 17:34, "Robert Bruninga" > > <bruninga(a)usna.edu> wrote: > >> > >>>> To get good coverage you need as many > >>>> LEO satellites as possible so they should > >>>> each be as small as possible. > >>>> Intersatellite linking could be done > >>>> via automated ground stations. This > >>>> eliminates the need for high-power > >>>> transmtters and/or high-gain antennas > >>>> on the satellites for interlinkng. > >>> > >>> Yep, that is what we have been trying to do now for 8 years > > with > >>> the APRS satellites on 145.825. We just need several of > > them in > >>> orbit at the same time. We have demonstrated dual-hops > > several > >>> times whenever two or more of the APRS satellites (and > > ARISS) > >>> are operational at the same time. If we could get 6 to 10 > > of > >>> the University cubesats to simply carry the 3.4" square APRS > >>> transponder (Byonics TinyTrck-4), then we would have a > >>> constellation providing nearly continuous connectivity via > > these > >>> satellites from any handheld or mobile APRS radio. With 6, > > you > >>> might have to wait 30 minutes or so to make yoru contacts. > > With > >>> 10 or so, you might have to wit no more than 5 to 10 minutes > > for > >>> connectivity. > >>> > >>> See www.aprs.org/cubesat-comms.html > >>> > >>>> It's better to put that gain and power > >>>> consumption on earth. > >>> > >>> The advantage of the APRS satellite concept and Packet, is > > that > >>> we can use a 5 Watt transmitter on the satellite to be able > > to > >>> hit any mobile or HT using its existing omni antenna because > > the > >>> packet has a low dutycycle. So running 5 watts on a cubesat > > is > >>> easy, because the transmitter dutycycle is only on less than > > say > >>> 5% of the whole-orbit time. (average power 1/4 Watt) > >>> > >>> Whereas ECHO which is on all the time, has to be set at 1/4 > > watt > >>> TX power because it is on all the time. > >>> > >>> Also, EVERY APRS satellite would be on the same frequency > >>> 145.825 with no doppler to track, and since every one of > > them > >>> does the same generic relay, independent of callsign, then > > the > >>> user on the ground just operates... He does not have to do > >>> anything to go from one satellite to another... > >>> > >>> Bob, WB4APR > >>> > >>> _______________________________________________ > >>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of > > the > >>> author. > >>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur > > satellite > >>> program! > >>> Subscription settings: > > http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > >> > > > > _______________________________________________ > > 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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Trolls on the -bb
by Andrew Glasbrenner 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

People often ask me why more of the AMSAT leadership doesn't participate on the AMSAT-BB. I think that over the last few weeks we have seen ample reason why. We've been accused of stupidity, malfeasance, sloth, and called out at every opportunity. I've about had it with the trolling and the bickering and the internet commandos cruising for reactions. They've caused it to cease being fun or even interesting to participate in this email list. I'd like each and every one of you to consider how you'd feel if you gave several hours a day for free to an organization to only get sarcastic, bitter criticism at your efforts in return? Sit back and think where the organization would be today if all the current volunteers decided they'd rather sit behind a keyboard and tear someone else's work down rather than analyze telemetry, plan schedules, maintain webpages, solder circuit boards, mail ballots, test batteries, process renewals, inquire about new opportunities, mentor a beginner or a cubesat project, write an article, schedule an ARISS QSO, etc? Next time you feel that urge to criticize or even hurt AMSAT in public, remember that behind every thing AMSAT does is someone who decided to volunteer rather than do something more selfish with their time, and those folks have feelings and egos and frailties. Push them too hard and you might find they pack their bags and leave. I know AMSAT has had it's issues over it's long history, and we are all disappointed that HEOs seem to be almost out of reach for us now. We are all human and we all make mistakes, especially when it involves rocket engines, building spacecraft on hobby store budgets, and getting all past our benefactor launch agency trials and schedules. We have also learned from our mistakes, and it is time to move ahead. Our officers and our BOD is almost entirely different from just 5 years ago. I think if we can quit flinging mud at each other for a few moments, you'll see that there are some good things just around the corner for AMSAT, and those good things may lead to great things. But we need your support and understanding, not your slings and arrows. What have you done for your AMSAT lately? If a member has a problem with or suggestion for how a volunteer is doing their job, contact them through the website regardless of what your interpretation of "bug" is, or directly via email or even a phone call. Be prepared to back up your complaint with an offer of help. Sometimes it will work, and sometime it won't. But please, for the sake of the organization, keep the sarcasm, the bitter jabs, and the trolling and bickering off the -bb. 73, Drew KO4MA lowly AMSAT servant

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Improving satellite reporting
by Bruce Robertson 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

I offer the following idea in order to speed up the reporting of satellite conditions on amsat.org. The situation is, as I see it, thus: 1. The best source of information is oscar.dcarr.org. It harnesses the many-eyes that the Internet can provide and summarizes their reports in a helpful visualization. Users can gain detailed information, like how FO-29's repair is progressing, or what mode AO-7 is in. In my experience its uptime is excellent. Moreover, if I understand it correctly, it does not require manual operation. Its only fault is that its url is not in amsat.org, and so beginners or those with just a general interest are unlikely to find it. It might be subject to spamming or malicious reporting, but I have seen no evidence of this. 2. The official amsat page of information reports conditions on a roughly week-by-week basis and does not include the detailed information described above. This is because, if I understand its operation correctly, it does require manual work by an authorized individual. This precludes the moment-by-moment reporting that oscar.dcarr.org offers, but it does mean that the trust factor is high. To my mind, an ideal solution is in two steps: A. Make oscar.dcarr.org an amsat.org page. At very least, this entails nothing more than the use of the HTML iframe element. It is true that amsat is thus endorsing an external page, but I think based on past performance, this is highly warranted. On the other end of the spectrum, the entire code and server software that drives oscar.dcarr.org could be moved to amsat.org. In any case, this would require the permission of Mr. Carr and prominent recognition from the organization for his (and Bob's) pioneering application of the Internet to this problem. B. Perhaps more complicated is to make the current official page become automatically updated from the dcarr page, or by means of an operator who is automatically informed from the dcarr page, or some combination of the two. For instance, a sufficient number of 'not heard' reports from dcarr.org pertaining to a given bird would change its status in the official page to be '?' or something like this. There are further possibilities. For instance, dcarr.org could be upgraded with a broad-based trust model. The twenty most enthusiastic reporters could, for instance, be furnished with passwords in a secure mode and their data could be privileged for the purpose of reporting. Besides improving the reporting on satellite conditions, this change would have a further effect. It would communicate to the members that if they create good resources, their work might eventually become highlighted by the AMSAT community, in effect, a 'publication' of AMSAT. 'Volunteering' thus becomes not much more than 'doing cool stuff that the community likes'. (Similarly, I hope that William's extraordinary vision in building his transponder board might, after broad testing and examination, be validated by it becoming an 'AMSAT' off-the-shelf product. With William's approval, let's appeal for the bucks to have a team of people replicate these, test them, and set them up as temporary terrestrial repeaters around the world. We'd much more easily convince a cubesat team to include one of these if we could say one was running uninterrupted in Toronto for a year, or if we could have them do a QSO through one in a live demo!) 73, Bruce VE9QRP

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Re: Improving satellite reporting
by David Carr 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Hello all, I'm glad to hear that the community is enjoying the satellite status page. I am always very happy to visit the page and see it filled with reports. I also agree that the site could benefit from some improvements. As suggested, I think stronger ties with Amsat could be beneficial and improve its accessibility. Lets continue this discussion further and how we can work together to make this resource as useful as possible. In the meantime, please send me small changes (ie: new satellites or URL updates) and I will apply them. 73s, David Carr KD5QGR

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GRID BL11 today at 2327Z (9/3/09)
by Robert Smith 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Aloha All Sorry for the late notice but I will be atop Diamond Head crater today for the 2327Z +/- pass of AO-27. Hopefully W6ZQ will be up and we can do an interisland. Also, much of the west coast will be lit up. Sawson may try 50 mW and who knows what will happen. Hope to hear some friends on the bird. 73 de robert NH7WN BL11 Honolulu, Hawaii

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SK -- Den Connors, KD2S
by Tom Clark, K3IO 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

It is with much sadness that I report the passing of Den Connors, KD2S at 2AM this morning. Den passed on after a year+ fight to conquer lymphoma. This morning, Ralph (KD1SM) reported "Den checked-in to our weekly Club information net on 70cm Monday evening. As usual, he sounded pretty chipper." "Very shortly after that he developed a serious infection and his non-existent immune system could do nothing." Den was TAPR's first president, overseeing the transition from a local Tucson club into the multi-national TAPR. He was a major sponsor of the adoption of AX.25 as the amateur packet standard. Under his lead, TAPR introduced the TNC-1 and then later the TNC-2. Den worked with me to define an amateur store-and-forward packet radio satellite; this morphed into the Microsats (AO16-16, IO-26. AO-27 & MO-30). Den moved to Massachusetts about 25 years ago to work at Wang Computers, and lived in Pepperell, Massachusetts. 73, Den -- you will be missed by all your friends! Tom Clark, K3IO

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PE0SAT
by nachif＠terra.com.br 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

BODY { font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px; } Jan, could you email me, please? My email is nachif at terra.com.br I've tried to contact you several times but my mails never got through. 73, Luciano

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trolls
by don 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Probably an impossible request, but would it be possible to get the posters to the bbs to concentrate on AMATEUR satellite topics? I'm not even slightly interested in school boards or kids or grand kids achievements, or diatribes against NASA etc. I am, however, very keen to learn of new techniques in using the sat's, what is coming up, what is being dreamed of, and of course the general "noise" about our hobby. Finally, before any more wasted space is expended on replies to "rocky jones" or "robert g oler" or whatever ruse it uses to get onto our bbs have a google at " robert oler" and "robert g oler". Then you may all realise that this is not the only forum that (it?) trolls on. Don Zl1THO

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Satellite station stuff for sale!
by Frank Viggiano 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Selling my house and moving . I have the following for sale 2 KLM CP 22cx 2 meter 2 KLM CP 44cx 70 cm One of the driven elements on 22cx is bad... price includes new element material. I never got round to fixing it All 4 antennas $400 plus shipping Yasue G 5400B works needs a good cleaning rotor and control box $300 plus shipping Fiberglass mast for above $50 plus shipping Universal tower Aluminum tower 3 sections $400 pick up Astron rs70m metered 70 amp supply $250 plus shipping Astron RS35 35 amp power supply $75 plus shipping Astron rs20 20 amp power supply $50 pluss shipping Down East Microwave down converter 1296 to 144 $150 Mode s and mode l helix high gain antennas available Dow east Microwave 902-928MHz 40W Linear Amplifier. 20mW input other mode s down converters and signal source avail. also coax and unitrack satellite tracking interface Mail fviggian(a)taconic.net Thanks frank

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Improving satellite reporting
by Peter 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Bruce,VE9QRP I applaud your superb suggestions on satellite reporting, thank you for taking the time to frame your idea, onward and upward! 73, Pete, WB2OQQ AMSAT NY area coordinator

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AMSAT Symposium Breaking News: Low Cost Airfares
by Frank H. Bauer 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

All, The 2009 AMSAT Symposium is rapidly approaching! And we hope you can join us..especially given that there are some low-cost airfares out there for those of us in the US. We have an outstanding venue this year at the Four Points Sheraton at the BWI Airport. Your symposium committee recently did a walkthrough of this facility. The accommodations and meeting rooms are superb. I do a lot of traveling and I must say that the rooms are absolutely beautiful. You will definitely get a substantial bang for your buck (or Euro, etc) at this symposium. And planned 40th Anniversary celebratory events will be truly memorable. And to make things even better, Southwest Airlines has a phenomenal Nationwide (US) fall sale. $59-109 one-way airfares are available to BWI until Sept 3. And remember, with Southwest, there are no baggage fees. So we'd love to see you in "Charm City"-Baltimore Maryland..for the symposium presentations, 40th anniversary celebrations, poster sessions, and BoD meeting. And don't forget to submit a symposium paper to Dan Schultz, N8FGV, ASAP!! Frank Bauer, KA3HDO, and Janet Bauer 2009 Symposium Co-Chairs

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KB9BIT in DM86 and DM87
by Thomas Laskowski 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Hello, I will be spending September 12 - 19 in the far western part of the Oklahoma Panhandle attending the Okie-Tex Star Party near Kenton, OK (http://www.okie-tex.com) and will be activating grid DM86 all week. I plan to be on as many of the daytime-only passes as I can. Since I will also be close to the OK-CO-NM border I will try to activate DM86/DM87 a few times that week. For the DM86 only passes I will be in Oklahoma at N36° 53' 50", W102° 57' 04". The DM86/87 passes will technically put me on the Oklahoma-Colorado state line (~100 yards from the Oklahoma-Colorado-New Mexico common border) and will be from N37° 00' 00", W103° 00' 00" Anyone working me who is interested in a QSL card only needs to e-mail me at kb9bit(a)arrl.net or tmlask(a)att.net with the details of the QSO(s) made with me. If you're in the log, I will send you a card. There will also be a special event station, callsign N0T, from Sep 18-Sep 20, 1800Z-1700Z, on 7.200 14.235 28.440. QSL route: Certificate. Oklahoma City Astronomy Club, PO Box 22804, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1804. For county hunters this is in Cimarron Co., OK. I'm not affiliated with the OKC Astronomy Club or the star party. I'm just passing along the info. 73, Tom Laskowski - KB9BIT tmlask(a)att.net

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Pollux and Castor weekend experiment
by Ivan Galysh 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Hello all, There will be a laser ranging experiment this weekend from Maui. Both satellites have retroreflectors all over. Part of the experiment is to pulse a laser at the satellites at a high rate in an attempt to measure the spin rate. The results will be compared with the student MEMS payloads. There will also be an attempt to do a long wavelenth IR imaging to get thermal signatures. If you can collect data from now through Sunday and send the data to ande(a)juno.nrl.navy.mil, it will be greatly appreciated. Also, if you want, you can send your address and I will mail out a QSL card. I will be getting them printed real soon. Thanks to all who have sent me telemetry. Ivan KD4HBO.

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Hudson Valley Satcom Group Net Tonight At 8 PM ET Echolink N2EYH-L
by Cotejaune2＠aol.com 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Hello everyone. It's time once again for the HVSG Net tonight at 8 PM ET on n2eyh-L and the Mt. Beacon repeater 146.970 PL 100. We hope you can join us for the net. Our third anniversary is coming up very soon. This is a bi weekly net. Tell us about your station and any recent contacts you have made. Hope to hear you there. 73 Gary/WA2AQH

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I: Re: Trolls on the -bb
by Francesco Grappi 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

....Yes Domenico, I8CVS unfortunately you are right......snip....sigh... ...but hope must never die... 73" Frank IW4DVZ > -----Messaggio originale----- > Da: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] Per > conto di i8cvs > Inviato: giovedì 3 settembre 2009 11.52 > A: John B. Stephensen; Luc Leblanc; AMSAT-BB > Oggetto: [amsat-bb] Re: Trolls on the -bb > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "John B. Stephensen" <kd6ozh(a)comcast.net> > To: "Luc Leblanc" <lucleblanc6(a)videotron.ca>; <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2009 10:12 AM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Trolls on the -bb > > > P3E is a HEO with the same engine as P3D and no benefactor funding a > launch. > > Hi John, KD6OZH > > P3E is the only HEO with the possibility to be launched because her > will > carry on several experiments related to the Mars probe P5A under > development in AMSAT-DL > P3E is already made and it is standing in the labs of the University of > Marburg Germany and is waiting for a launch opportunity while P5E is > still > under development. > > > It seems more reasonable to focus on projects that we can pay to > launch > > All joined AMSAT togheter in the world has not the financial capability > to > pay for a HEO launch and this matter has been already discussed several > time on this BB > > > or where someone has already donated the launch. > > Nobody has donated a launch for free or about for free on HEO except > ESA for > OSCAR-10 OSCAR-13 and AO40 upon political strategy conducted mostly by > AMSAT-DL and this is why we must pull for P3E.......I agree completely > with > Luc, VE2DWE > > Actually the rest of HEO's are only on brains, on desk and on papers. > > > 73, > > > > John > > KD6OZH > > 73" de > > i8CVS Domenico > > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: "Luc Leblanc" <lucleblanc6(a)videotron.ca> > > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > > Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 02:42 UTC > > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Trolls on the -bb > > >> I know AMSAT has had it's issues over it's long history, and we > are all > > >> disappointed that HEOs seem to be almost out of reach for us now. > We > are > > >> all > > >> human and we all make mistakes, especially when it involves rocket > > >> engines, > > >> building spacecraft on hobby store budgets, and getting all past > our > > >> benefactor launch agency trials and schedules. > > > > > > If "HEOs seem to be almost out of reach for us now" what we should > do > > > next? no more false illusions about geo sat's and so on just get > back > > > on earth and focused on how to help P3E and our German friend. > > > > _______________________________________________ > > 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

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WD9EWK from DM31, Saturday (5 September) afternoon/evening
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 03 Sep '09

03 Sep '09

Hi! After watching the weather reports for the past few days, it appears that Hurricane Jimena - or its remnants - will make a western turn out to the Pacific instead of continuing on its northern march toward Arizona. With this in mind, and the fact that the upcoming weekend is a holiday weekend here in the US, I'm going to make a road trip to grid DM31 in southern Arizona for Saturday (5 September) afternoon and evening. This is the only grid that covers Arizona that I have yet to operate from via satellite. If I have to go to the office in the morning, I should still be on the AO-51 passes in the late afternoon and early evening passes to the east and west. If I don't have to work, I'll be on for AO-27 passes earlier in the afternoon. If I can leave Phoenix early enough, there are SO-50 passes in the late morning and around midday I could work from there. As I do with my other road trips and hamfest demonstrations from various parts of Arizona, I can get on VO-52 if I am in a good stopping place during those late-morning passes. I will not stick around for the VO-52 passes in the evening, as that area is not a friendly place to be after dark. John K8YSE was out here last fall, putting this grid into the logs of many satellite operators (including my log - thanks!). For those who missed him then, here's another chance to get this rare grid logged. Most of the grid stretches into northern Mexico, with the Arizona portion covering parts of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (where I will operate from, a few miles/km north of the USA/Mexico border) and a wildlife refuge. This does not leave many choices for stopping and operate from down there. I'll stay on the Arizona side of the border fence, and hope to work as many as I can for those passes. As with many of my trips, anyone working WD9EWK from DM31 who is interested in a QSL card only needs to e-mail me with the details of the QSO(s) made with me. If you're in the log, I will send you a card - even if you are in Canada, Mexico, or somewhere else that falls in any of those footprints. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Re: W6ZQ on AO-51 from BL02 tonight, BL01 Friday night
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hi Bob! > got him! Yes, you did! Nice to hear you cross over from L/U to V/U to pick up that contact. I heard Ron work you and me, along with 7 others on that pass. I heard one other station that called but Ron didn't pick up, but that station only made one call in the pass. I'm looking forward to Friday evening, which will be a better pass out on Kauai compared to tonight's pass. Not so good for me (4 degrees max. elevation on that western pass from here in Phoenix), but I'll try it. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Re: W6ZQ on AO-51 from BL02 tonight, BL01 Friday night
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hi Bob! > Patrick-I assume that is mode V/U not the current L/U which I have been > kplaying with. Correct. Ron will only be on the V/U side of AO-51 tonight and Friday night, not on the L/U side. Sorry for not mentioning that originally. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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VO52
by Dale Hershberger 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

I was on VO 52 on the last pass. Excellent downlink signal. This is another satellite that is under utilized. I heard my downlink great. To bad I was the only one on. Dale - KL7XJ

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W6ZQ on AO-51 from BL02 tonight, BL01 Friday night
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hi! Ron W6ZQ phoned me a little while ago, and mentioned he would be on a couple of AO-51 passes that cover the western US over the next couple of days. Later today, Ron plans to be on the AO-51 pass at approximately 0230 UTC from grid BL02 on Kauai. He only has 4 degrees maximum elevation, so he will only have a few minutes during this pass to work with. On Friday evening (early Saturday UTC), he will move south and be in BL01 around 0246 UTC. The Friday evening pass is better for him than tonight's pass, but may not be as good for those of us on the US mainland. Good luck and 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Symposium---hotel reservation tip o' the day
by Mark L. Hammond 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hello All, I called today and made a hotel reservation for the Symposium. Here's a friendly tip/reminder: Let the operator know that you're with the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation--she didn't have AMSAT listed anywhere :) A link to the hotel website with 800 phone number is here: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/symposium/2009/Hotel.php 73, -- Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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Re: Trolls on the -bb / Being positive
by PE0SAT 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

@All Lets think in solutions and not in problems. If you see a problem, then be the first to come with a possible solution. As an example the AMSAT website: Outdated information: Make a wiki, and let fellow amateurs update the information. This could also solve to problem of language, I also experience the fact that amateurs where english is there native language use a sentence structure that is difficult to understand. (I use for example http://translate.google.com/ to try and find out was is being said. But it would be nice that people that write these sentences keep this in mind. I hope that amsat is not just for the native english speaking amateurs.) It can also ensure that this website supports multiple languages, because this can be done by all fellow amateurs world wide. Come on! lets hear those solutions and not the problems. Lets make it a better place and not worse. 73's Jan - PE0SAT -- With regards PE0SAT Internet web-page http://www.ham.vgnet.nl/

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Re: AMSAT Symposium Breaking News: Low Cost Airfares
by Nitin Muttin [VU3TYG] 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hello Frank, Thanks for the information. Any plans to enable live webcast of the symposium. 73's Nitin [VU3TYG] Secretary, AMSAT INDIA --------- Original Message -------- From: Frank H. Bauer <ka3hdo(a)comcast.net> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Subject: [amsat-bb] AMSAT Symposium Breaking News: Low Cost Airfares Date: 09/01/09 07:40 PM" > All, > > The 2009 AMSAT Symposium is rapidly approaching! And we hope you can join > us..especially given that there are some low-cost airfares out there for > those of us in the US. > > We have an outstanding venue this year at the Four Points Sheraton at the > BWI Airport. Your symposium committee recently did a walkthrough of this > facility. The accommodations and meeting rooms are superb. I do a lot of > traveling and I must say that the rooms are absolutely beautiful. You will > definitely get a substantial bang for your buck (or Euro, etc) at this > symposium. And planned 40th Anniversary celebratory events will be truly > memorable. > > And to make things even better, Southwest Airlines has a phenomenal > Nationwide (US) fall sale. $59-109 one-way airfares are available to BWI > until Sept 3. And remember, with Southwest, there are no baggage fees. > > So we'd love to see you in "Charm City"-Baltimore Maryland..for the > symposium presentations, 40th anniversary celebrations, poster sessions, and > BoD meeting. > > And don't forget to submit a symposium paper to Dan Schultz, N8FGV, ASAP!! > > Frank Bauer, KA3HDO, and Janet Bauer > 2009 Symposium Co-Chairs > > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > ________________________________________________

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Re: G5500 Rotor Mounting
by Ron Miles 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hi Randy: Just to pass on an idea for putting together a satellite tracking antenna tower, you can see how I've mounted my G5500 if you check qrz.com for my call. The G5500 az rotor sits on a shelf plate below the top plate that is fitted with a "thrust bearing". This is all assembled to a Rohn 10 foot top section tower bolted to a tilt-over base plate. The boom is 10 foot by 1/4 inch thick. The 2.4GHz dish and 23cm Yagi are mounted inboard from 2m and 440 Yagi's. Also notice the ring installed around the top plate. This is to prevent cables from snagging corners of the tower during 360 degree rotation of the antenna. Other antenna and rotor mounts will vary. Hope that helps. 73, Ron n6paa

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Re: Another G5500 Question
by Lowell White 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Hi Randy, I'm glad to see you doing this. Here are a couple tips: -Yes, a mounting plate allows the rotor to sit inside the tower and torque against the legs of the tower. Usually they're a flat, triangular plate with U-bolts to connect to the tower legs. A cut-out on the bottom allows for cable passage and holes for bolting the rotor to the plate. -A thrust bearing can be used at the top of the tower segment. It attaches both to the mast (coming up through the top from the rotor to the antenna boom / elevation rotor) and to the tower. The bearing frees the rotor from directly supporting the weight of the antennas / boom / elevation rotor while allowing the (azimuth) rotor to turn the asembly with ease. -For a simple assembly of shorter 2M / 432 antennas the thrust bearing is optional but using one can indeed extend the life of the azimuth rotor (it's bearings, in particular, and lesser so, it's motor). -I'll let someone else address the controller interfaces... am learning more about them myself. :-) -If you are using only an azimuth rotor you can, for the most part, get by with your antennas "fixed" at a 15 degree elevation for most uses. 73 Lowell K9LDW ------ Original Message ------ Received: Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:00:36 AM CDT From: "Randy" <RSwart1(a)twcny.rr.com> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Subject: [amsat-bb] Another G5500 Question > Question.. Rotor is on order along with the FT-897D I know I should mount > the rotor in a tower with a thrust plate I think its called. But don't have > one . > I only have a 2 meter and 440mhz yagi to mount ooon it .. > Will that be a problem .. Or is it mostly when its loaded Up to near the > max? or one of those faster wear and tear Things no matter what? Oh .. And > 3rd party controllers to interface to the computer.?? > Are they all so darn expensive? > > Randy - N2CUA > > > _______________________________________________ > 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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Another G5500 Question
by Randy 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Question.. Rotor is on order along with the FT-897D I know I should mount the rotor in a tower with a thrust plate I think its called. But don't have one . I only have a 2 meter and 440mhz yagi to mount ooon it .. Will that be a problem .. Or is it mostly when its loaded Up to near the max? or one of those faster wear and tear Things no matter what? Oh .. And 3rd party controllers to interface to the computer.?? Are they all so darn expensive? Randy - N2CUA

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G5500 Rotor mounting
by Randy 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

Question.. Rotor is on order along with the FT-897D I know I should mount the rotor in a tower with a thrust plate I think its called. But don't have one . I only have a 2 meter and 440mhz yagi to mount ooon it .. Will that be a problem .. Or is it mostly when its loaded Up to near the max? or one of those faster wear and tear Things no matter what? Randy - N2CUA

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Re: Trolls on the -bb
by Mark L. Hammond 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

It would seem that folks that vote in our BOD elections certainly not are silent. Let's see how the current (and future!) elections turn out. Then we'll see what the "silent majority" thinks. Or at least the majority--which will tell us something, won't it? I think the results will help to define the silent majority. Oh wait--then they're not silent. Oh, that's right. The only silent ones are the ones not voting. And if you don't like the current candidates, there is no one to blame but one's self. I will now publicly state my personal thanks to Gould WA4SXM and Drew KO4MA for all that you have done, are doing, and will do for AMSAT and our hobby. Thanks! :) 73, Mark N8MH -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Trolls on the -bb From: Rocky Jones <orbitjet@xxxxxxxxxxx> Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 06:34:09 -0500 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nick...nice thing about a silent majority...it can be defined at will Robert WB5ZO > From: quadpugh(a)bellsouth.net > To: dguimon1(a)san.rr.com; glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com > Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 05:43:43 -0500 > CC: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Trolls on the -bb > > Dave got it right. The silent majority are your fans me included > > So A big at a boy for you Drew and thanks > > nick > > > >People often ask me why more of the AMSAT leadership doesn't participate on > >the AMSAT-BB. I think that over the last few weeks we have seen ample > reason > >why. We've been accused of stupidity, malfeasance, sloth, and called out at > >every opportunity. I've about had it with the trolling and the bickering > and > >the internet commandos cruising for reactions. They've caused it to cease > >being fun or even interesting to participate in this email list. > > > > Please hang in there, Drew...for every one of the idiot whiners, > there are probably several hundred of us that deplore them, but > they'll dry up and blow away, just like a cloud of bad gas!! > > This has had many a repeat performance in the past, and the names > always change.... > > > > > 73, Dave, WB6LLO > dguimon1(a)san.rr.com > > Disagree: I learn.... > > > _______________________________________________ > 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 _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live: Make it easier for your friends to see what you’re up to on Facebook. http://windowslive.com/Campaign/SocialNetworking?ocid=PID23285::T:WLMTAGL:O… _______________________________________________ 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 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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Re: please be positive
by Daniel Schultz 02 Sep '09

02 Sep '09

If you think the web site can be better maintained then step forward and offer to maintain it. If you think the Board could do a better job of running Amsat then put your name up for the next election. If we could capture all of the hot air that has been exhausted here in the past couple of weeks, we could use it to propel a satellite into HEO. Use your energy more productively, find something that needs to be done and start doing it. Dan Schultz N8FGV

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Re: RE - iPod tracking software.
by Dennis Griffin 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

I have used PocketSat+ on Palm devices for years and have been very pleased with it. It has helped me have many visual ISS, occasional Shuttle sightings and listen in on some school contacts. I installed GoSatWatch on my iPhone shortly after it came out and have been pleased with it as well. Since I have $9.95 invested in GoSatWatch and since it is highly unlikely that Jim Berry will be able to offer a crossgrade discount for PocketSat 3, due to the App Store constraints, I'll continue to use PocketSat+ on my Palm TX & GoSatWatch on my 3gs, although I expect PocketSat would run appreciably better on the iPhone than the Palm. If he offers a special price, I would say go for it. 73 de Dennis KD7CAC sent from my iPhone On Sep 1, 2009, at 6:51, Amir Findling K9CHP <sarlabs(a)gmail.com> wrote: iPod/iPhone owners should just go to the app store and search for satellite tracker and you'll find several ranging from free to $9.99. I've been playing around with the free one and it seems to give good data for individual satellites, but the $1.99 version of the same has reviews bad enough for me not to even consider it, although it has more features that I could use. But there are others that seem pretty good and worth their price. * 73 de K9CHP Amir Findling, Member ARRL, ARRL/ W5YI VE, WAC, WAS, DXCC * www.K9CHP.net <http://www.k9chp.net> Blog: http://k9chp.blogspot.com <http://k9chp.blogspot.com/> * Senior K9 Handler * K9 Certification Tester, NYS Federation of SAR Teams * 1st Special Response Group (1SRG) GW1FKY(a)aol.com wrote: Hi all, Please accept my sincere apologies regarding my posting on the Pocketsat3 tracking software for the iPod. I have been contacted to advise that unlike the PDA software there is NOT an unregistered version that can be downloaded. Not having an iPod I had not tried to follow up any down load etc and was therefore unaware of the need to get it via an iTunes store without a trial !!!!! Sorry for my ignorance and error in the posting of the information. Ken Eaton GW1FKY Amsat - UK Amsat NA _______________________________________________ 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

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AMSAT Journal
by Ed Long 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

Hi Gang, Just letting you know that the July/August Journal was uploaded to the printer's ftp site this past weekend. Again a slow trickle of articles slowed down publication. It's a good issue with BoD minutes, some more history of AMSAT (we're 40 you know) and other interesting articles on Field Day and a portable antenna pointing system plus more. Hope you enjoy it and sorry for the delay. I do have a great group helping me now with the Journal and they are working hard to get more articles in so we can keep the Journal on schedule. Look at the upper right of the front cover and you'll see who they are. Thanks for your understanding and patience with all the delays! A personal comment (so please bear with me or skip this if you want): I'll bet you guys and gals didn't know this, but I've been the Journal editor now since late 2003 (6 years) and I have never made a satellite contact on my own equipment. You've never heard my voice on the satellites except once on someone else's equipment at the Dayton Hamvention three years ago (thanks Keith!). I did buy a nice dish and downconverter for S-band right before AO-40 went "tits up" (sorry - a British expression I learned a few years ago on one of my many trips to England). It's too unwieldy to use with AO-51. Imagine my disappointment. I have an Arrow and adequate radios and preamps, but my job as a senior executive for my company keeps me busy and traveling with little time for radio other than the Journal and some low band work occasionally. It frosts me when I ask someone to write something for the Journal (and I've done that a lot) and I'm told "I don't have time". Not much of an excuse guys and gals. The point of this blather is if I, someone who has never made a satellite contact, can volunteer for the organization why can't you do something? Not being self-righteous here, but I think it's a good question. Thinking about all this reminds me of an expression that came from the villain in the movie "The Fifth Element" which was "If you want something done - do it yourself!!". If you don't like something find a way to fix it somehow. I like to think I fixed the Journal with its new look (now a few years old) and I've been trying to get more technical content into it. After all, we're supposed to be rocket scientists. Another example - have you seen what William Leijenaar, PE1RAH, is doing all by himself? It's awesome! Check it out on YouTube. Quit talking and get busy!!!! Force someone to take you on as a volunteer by persisting. Don't just write one e-mail and then give up. Many people are busy like I am and can't always get back to you immediately. Wanna be a Web master? I think we might have an opportunity here because I feel sure Rick is tired of doing it (maybe I'm wrong). And so on ...... there's plenty to do. Wanna be VP of Engineering? That's open too, although I would think the person that fills those shoes would have to have some engineering experience. You get the idea. Wishing you 73 and a somewhat bickering free evening, Ed Long WA4SWJ Editor, The AMSAT Journal Belleview, FL (A volunteer - sorry just had to add that given the recent postings)

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My thoughts as somone pretty new to AMSAT
by racer5039 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

I am pretty new to AMSAT so I can't speak to the what and why of the B.O.D. or the operation of AMSAT. What I will speak of is what I found when I first started looking at the AMSAT site. First thing I found was a lot of the information was very old and out of date. As someone new to the mode I really thought hard if I wanted to send money to an org. or CORP. that wasn't keeping things up to date. With the said. I would also like to offer some thoughts. My JA friends may look at this as I do. If there are parts of the web site that take up too much time or effort to keep up, It is "Mooda", waste. Remove it so that it isn't giving the new onlooker the wrong idea of what to expect. I fully understand that to run something like AMSAT take's a lot of time. But you must also think of the image that old, out of date, data sends to other like me. There are a lot of things on the web site that are no longer of use to the here and now. If I have thrown myself under the bus, so be it. I only speak of what I know. Marv. N0FJP

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1.2 ghz antenna?
by Norman W Osborne 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

Hello to all, After reading some of the postings on the bbs discussing AO-51 1.2 ghz mode, I am wondering what antennas are being used, commercial and homebrew. 73, Norman

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Quite right Laura.
by John Hackett 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

From: la2qaa(a)hotmail.com To: archie.hackett(a)hotmail.com Subject: FW: Quite right Laura. Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 23:05:20 +0200 I agree Laura, Incorrect information is not a 'bug'. For what it's worth, there were 7 replies in yesterday's mailbox commenting on the somewhat crass reply from the b.o.d. member concerned - good job they didn't see the private! one ... and just one, Gentleman commenting on tearing things down (???) - based on an obvious incorrect opinion. I also note that Mr Glasbrenner referred he whom enquired about AO-7's status, to the D.Carr page. Wasn't that rather inopportune after making such a fuss about the Amsat page being updated?. Please note that I *DIDN'T* criticise either an American, nor the Amsat organisation - (as Mr Glasbrenner accused me of doing in - (his words) ... "every time he saw my callsign" ... (in his mail to me direct). For those old enough to remember, there are many instances where I've praised Americans - (operating proceedure) and the Amsat organisation (full of clever, and often very helpful indivuduals). My friends Stateside are too numerous to mention individually but they know who they are. I'd hardly call Bill Tynan's plaque to LA2QAA as proof of concept of my criticising Americans or the Amsat organisation - however, if a current member of the b.o.d. gets his rocks off by a tantrum ... good luck! to him, I've faced slightly more wrath than that. The the 'tearing down' Gentleman ... if you find 6 days of incorrect information on your organisation's website as acceptable, and the reaction shown for pointing it out, fine. Personally, like I mentioned in my original mail, a couple of days I find acceptable, due to various commitments etc - but 6 days is, in my personal opinion rather lax - volunteer or not. That Mr Glasbrenner was a good deal rattier direct, was probably due to him confusing satire with criticism on a previous occasion ... and no, eventual satire has *NEVER* been directed at an individual. That, as they say - is it. I felt I needed to justify myself for anyone 'just wondering' where all that temper came from. I apologise for the bandwidth if you think it's misused. In my opinion, no permanent harm done. Worse things happen at sea!. 73 John. LA2QAA. <archie.hackett(a)hotmail.com> ....................................................................................................................... > From: marsgal42(a)hotmail.com > To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 08:31:29 -0700 > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Staus? ... come back next week! > > > I just put my software testing hat on, went to the offending web page, and noted that while there is a link to report bugs, there is no link to report outdated information. While this *is* an option when you follow the report a bug link, my idea of a bug on a web page is wonky layout on Safari (a common problem, alas...) or a graphic that doesn't load. Outdated information is not a bug. > > Laura Halliday VE7LDH "Que les nuages soient notre > Grid: CN89mg pied a terre..." > ICBM: 49 16.05 N 122 56.92 W - Hospital/Shafte > > _________________________________________________________________ > Nouveau : connexion à Messenger par MSN > http://go.microsoft.com/?linkid=9677413 > _______________________________________________ > 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 What can you do with the new Windows Live? Find out See all the ways you can stay connected to friends and family

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Re: Staus? ... come back next week!
by Armando Mercado 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

> Date: Sun, 30 Aug 2009 21:19:38 +0200 > From: John Hackett <archie.hackett(a)hotmail.com> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Staus? ... come back next week!. > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Message-ID: <COL123-W51C224C616E9AE78F157B191F30(a)phx.gbl> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > The Builder Author Unknown I saw them tearing a building down A team of men in my hometown. With a heave and a ho and a yes yes yell, they swung a beam and a sidewall fell. And I said to the foreman, "Are these men skilled?" "Like the ones you'd use if you had to build?" And he laughed and said, "Oh no, indeed... the most common labor is all I need... for I can destroy in a day or two what takes a builder ten years to do." So I thought to myself as I went on my way... Which one of these roles am I willing to play? Am I one who is tearing down as I carelessly make my way around? Or am I one who builds with care, in order to make the world a little better... because I was there? > > Err ... chaps, > This evening, Sunday the 30th of August, 21:10 GMT. > > The Amsat-NA satellite status page reports FO-29 as being A-OK. > > It's the 6th day of silence now - (the D.Carr page status is correct). > > *NOT* very Impressive Amsat. 1 day, OK, 2 days (marginally) acceptable, > but 6 days? ... doesn't exactly incite to impress the pitential newcomer. > > Yes, I *KNOW* they're volunteers. I understand the workload. The potential > newcomer doesn't - and he may wonder why he can't hear his downlink. > > The newcomer probably doesn't subscribe to the ANS yet, and maybe has > never even heard! of D.Carr & Bob Bruninga. > > 73 John. <la2qaa(a)amsat.org>

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1.2ghz Gear is sold...
by John Henderson N4NAB 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

1.2ghz Gear is sold...

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Re: G5500
by Rodney Waln 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

i just got one last week "new", you get; the rotor the control unit the connectors and some cheep instructions, i used 2 x18 gauge /6wire thermostat wire 25 feet, i got it working how ever, i have have the problem of when i first turn the unit on the AZ pegs or a few minutes and flick the "left" switch and then it read's ok but moves around some and is not very accurete, also the Fox delta ST-1 get stuck on UP and locks up the computer, i think it is the computer? help trouble shooting??? please Rodney kc0zhf

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K5GNA 1.2Ghz Antenna and Signal Source
by John Henderson N4NAB 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

K5GNA 1.2Ghz gear..never used. Cleaning Shack for SK. Have complete 1.2Ghz Reflector Setup as well as 1.2Ghz signal source. All cables and Power sources. First offer takes all. Off line to n4nab(a)arrl.net.

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1268 Helix W7LRD Antenna
by John Papay 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

My 1268 setup is a W7LRD 13 turn helix fed with a 9' 9913 jumper, 45' of 7/8" Heliax and a 3' Superflex jumper to the TS2000X. Ten watts is just about right for this setup. Reducing power to 5 watts makes a very noticeable difference; readable but noisy. One watt works when the bird is overhead but noisy. Bob makes a longer Helix which I would recommend for the extra gain without making the antenna very much bigger. We did use this antenna at field day and made a L/U contact with it. A picture of the antenna at our field day location is on the ARRL Contest Soapbox. Go to arrl.org, Operating Activities, Contests, Soapbox, select ARRL FD 2009, and then search on W8DXA or K8YSE. There is a closeup of the antenna in one of the photos. The antenna uses aluminum, stainless and copper and is well built. It should have a long life. I understand Bob is working on a radome for it which will make things a lot better for those of us who live where we get snow and ice. You can also see the setup on my 30' tower on the qrz.com page. Click on the image to make it bigger. The 2.4 panel antenna is also visible. The doppler is significant at 1268 so doing it with a handheld and a long antenna would be a challenge. It would be a lot easier to operate with a marginal signal if it wasn't for the radar interference which is present on all but the very strongest signals. You can listen to the 435.150 output and get a good idea of what things sound like. If you already have a radio with 1.2Ghz transmit, the antenna, whether you build or buy, won't be much of an additional cost. 73, John K8YSE

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FO29 status?
by John Geiger 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

Is FO29 up and running again in mode J? 73s John AA5JG

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1.2 GHz Loop Yagis
by nachif＠terra.com.br 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

BODY { font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px; } Has anyone used 1.2 GHz loop yagis on AO-51 or any other satellites before? Was it worth? Would you recommend? Any comment? 73, Luciano PT9KK

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Re: RE - iPod tracking software.
by Pughkeithd＠cs.com 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

I am a new iPhone user and wanted a good satellite tracking program for it. Before I could try any of the others, I noticed PocketSat3. Being a long time satisfied user of PocketSat+ in my PDA, I paid my money and took my chances. I have not been disappointed! It is an excellent program and has definitely improved upon an already good package for the Palm and the Microsoft PDAs. 73 - Keith, W5IU

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RE - iPod tracking software.
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

Hi all, Please accept my sincere apologies regarding my posting on the Pocketsat3 tracking software for the iPod. I have been contacted to advise that unlike the PDA software there is NOT an unregistered version that can be downloaded. Not having an iPod I had not tried to follow up any down load etc and was therefore unaware of the need to get it via an iTunes store without a trial !!!!! Sorry for my ignorance and error in the posting of the information. Ken Eaton GW1FKY Amsat - UK Amsat NA

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G5500
by Randy 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

Does the G5500 come with any rotor cable? Or just the connectors and we have to buy cable and install the connectors? Randy - N2CUA

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1.2 GHZ to AO 51 with 1 watt ?
by Mark Spencer 01 Sep '09

01 Sep '09

I recently acquired a 1.2 GHZ handheld that has a max output of one watt. Any thoughts about how well this would work with AO51 ? Would a hand held antenna be feasible ? Just curious. Thnx VE7AF7 __________________________________________________________________ Yahoo! Canada Toolbar: Search from anywhere on the web, and bookmark your favourite sites. Download it now http://ca.toolbar.yahoo.com.

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Re: 1.2 ghz antenna?
by Rodney Waln 31 Aug '09

31 Aug '09

i hate cross posting, so please don't shoot me :-] i have built one of the 1296 as seen on this thread the person the posted it had pictures: http://www.worldwidedx.com/home-brew-mods/35899-homebrew-1-2-ghz-10-element… it is the WA5VJB version, i have also built other versions 145,220 MHZ...ect so if you hear me on AO-51 with a messed up signal it will be the IC-x2a's falt. Rodney kc0zhf

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Office Closed
by Martha 31 Aug '09

31 Aug '09

The AMSAT Office will be closed from Sept 1 - Sept 9th. I am going to the beach!! -- 73- Martha

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10.000 Activities in AO-7
by ps8rf Piraja 31 Aug '09

31 Aug '09

Hello to all, Our friend Josef, K3SZH reached a numbers 10.000 in activities on satellite AO-7. In my calculations to mark the ten thousand orbits was marked with the Daniel, AJ9K. Congratulations Josef. 73 Piraja, PS8RF. _________________________________________________________________ Acesse seu Hotmail de onde quer que esteja através do celular. Clique aqui. http://www.windowslive.com.br/celular/home.asp?utm_source=MSN_Hotmail&utm_m…

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L/U report
by Andrew Glasbrenner 31 Aug '09

31 Aug '09

We had quite the crowd tonight on L/U. I heard and worked K8YSE, KG4ZLB, KC9ELU, K4YYL, WO3T, WB8OTH, KD8CAO, and N8MH. Counting myself that makes nine on one pass, 10 if we count the radar operator. Can we do better before the end of the week? 73, Drew KO4MA

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iPhone / iPod touch Tracking software
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 31 Aug '09

31 Aug '09

Hi all, Further to the recent posting on the BBS about availability of " Tracking Software " for iphones. I thought that I would point out that Jim Berry also now has tracking software for the iPhone / iPod Touch. PocketSat3 is now available ( including a demo version ) from his web site _http://www.bigfattail.com_ (http://www.bigfattail.com) or _www.pocketsat.com_ (http://www.pocketsat.com) Jim's versions for PDA's such as Palm and Pocket PC have been around of course for some time now and prove to be very useful when operating portable. Some of these devices are available so cheap these days but are of course some are much very much slower than an iPod. They still do the job with prediction and tracking and have proved very use for me not only for operating but also for demonstrations on working satellites. Good luck and you will find Jim very helpful, he is also looking its use on other possible Windows mobile devices. Ken Eaton GW1FKY Amsat - UK Amsat NA Oh - I'd appreciate it if you'd point out the existence of PocketSat3 for the iPhone / iPod Touch when you're demoing. A new iPod Touch costs < $200 and blows the doors off of the Palm devices - and PocketSat3 is way cooler than PocketSat+, as well. ( www.pocketsat.com )

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UX-9100
by Fabio Roccatagliata 31 Aug '09

31 Aug '09

Hi everybody, I've noticed how the UX-9100 looks like the UX-910 just with "something more" probably for interfacing the radio with the module. I hope they really changed the module otherwise I would appreciate, since I'm quite sure the module is the same, if Icom would allow us to use the UX-910 module even if I don't think so. 73 Fabio IZ1EGT/F5VKV

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L/U band AO-51
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 30 Aug '09

30 Aug '09

Hello all you L band fans. AO-51 should be on L/U mode shortly after the 2330 pass over Drew's house. 73 Bob W7LRD

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AO-7 mode
by Kevin Smith 30 Aug '09

30 Aug '09

Does anyone know what mode AO-7 has been in lately? Kevin Smith N3HKQ

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Facts.
by John Hackett 30 Aug '09

30 Aug '09

To anyone who may care. I made Joe public - (as one gentleman referred to himself) - aware of some INCORRECT information on the Amsat-NA satellite status page. I *DID NOT* critisise any particular individual - (though one member of the b.o.d. took it upon himself to accuse me of embarrassing HIM and that *ALL* my communications were criticising Americans and Amsat. That is simply not true. I pointed out some INCORRECT information. Those are are the FACTS ... nothing other was implied. If that gets me excommunicated - then so be it - it may well be time to leave the organisation to the new blood. There is a VAST difference in 'constructive criticism' (for the good of all), even if it is satirical and intentionally tongue-in-cheek ... and the intentional tearing down of someone elses efforts - (which I have NEVER done) - at least certainly not intentionally ... (and I would like the benefit of the doubt). Best wishes to those older friends who used to enjoy my contributions. 73 La2qaa. Poison Pen Hackett. (Childish? ... you bet). archie.hackett(a)hotmail.com

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IC-9100: ICOM version of the Kenwood TS2000X ?
by Henk, PA3GUO 30 Aug '09

30 Aug '09

As an extremely pleased owner/heavy user of a Kenwood TS2000X, it is interesting to see that ICOM has (finally) also a kind of similar radio now, the IC-9100: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/5091.html Will be interesting to see if it also has a satellite mode, but based on the number (910 + another 0 added) I assume it will. Let's see how this compares to the many built-in DSP features of the TS-2000X. The TS2000 was (one of) the most feature rich radios when it was launched. ICOM now has had the opportunity (8+ years later) to take advantage of all the SDR developments and ICs that came available in the past years. Henk, PA3GUO http://www.pa3guo.com

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Staus? ... come back next week!.
by John Hackett 30 Aug '09

30 Aug '09

Err ... chaps, This evening, Sunday the 30th of August, 21:10 GMT. The Amsat-NA satellite status page reports FO-29 as being A-OK. It's the 6th day of silence now - (the D.Carr page status is correct). *NOT* very Impressive Amsat. 1 day, OK, 2 days (marginally) acceptable, but 6 days? ... doesn't exactly incite to impress the pitential newcomer. Yes, I *KNOW* they're volunteers. I understand the workload. The potential newcomer doesn't - and he may wonder why he can't hear his downlink. The newcomer probably doesn't subscribe to the ANS yet, and maybe has never even heard! of D.Carr & Bob Bruninga. 73 John. <la2qaa(a)amsat.org>

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WA1FXT
by PY2ZX 30 Aug '09

30 Aug '09

Hello, Please I looking for the e-mail of WA1FXT, Bob Cerreto. The old "adelphia.net" has failed. Thanks in advance for any information. Flavio PY2ZX

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FS: Cushcraft Oscar Twins
by w6zkh＠comcast.net 29 Aug '09

29 Aug '09

For Sale or Trade: Cushcraft Oscar Twins consisting of 2M-16C, 436-30C and Fiberglass cross boom. Both yagi's have polarity switchers and both in good physical conditions except the "U" bolts need to be replaced, as are rusted tight and a few bent elements on 2M yagi which can be straighten easlly. Pickup only but can meet if not too far. $200.00 or trade for dual-band HT that can be used on satellites, like W32a, etc. E-Mail me off BB for more info and I can take pix. John W6ZKH DM06 Central Calif.

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Re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 4, Issue 437
by n5vrp.satx＠gmail.com 29 Aug '09

29 Aug '09

Why are the STS-128 KEPS not current? Where would someone get the latest. The track is not matching JSC in Houston. Dennis Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org Date: Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:00:04 To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Subject: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 4, Issue 437 Send AMSAT-BB mailing list submissions to amsat-bb(a)amsat.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to amsat-bb-request(a)amsat.org You can reach the person managing the list at amsat-bb-owner(a)amsat.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of AMSAT-BB digest..." Today's Topics: 1. SOHLA-1 status 29Aug2009 (Mineo Wakita) 2. Re: STS-128 photos from East Orlando (Bobby Lacey) 3. KB0RZD/KB0RZE EM18/EM19 (Dave Webb KB1PVH) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Sat, 29 Aug 2009 14:35:12 +0900 From: Mineo Wakita <ei7m-wkt(a)asahi-net.or.jp> Subject: [amsat-bb] SOHLA-1 status 29Aug2009 To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Cc: w8iss(a)wideopenwest.com Message-ID: <FFCA286A7A93A9ei7m-wkt(a)asahi-net.or.jp> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii SOHLA-1 transmits now AFSK signal only over Japan too. The received KISS data can analyze using a decoder that developed by DK3WN such as below. SOHLA-1, 04:50-05:02UTC 29Aug2009, Mel 18deg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/29082009_0444_sohla.kss http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90829soh.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/sohlacwe.htm http://www.dk3wn.info/files/sohla.zip JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Sat, 29 Aug 2009 02:08:30 -0400 From: Bobby Lacey <amsat(a)duaneallman.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: STS-128 photos from East Orlando To: n4csitwo(a)bellsouth.net Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Message-ID: <8bb6b4b00908282308j485c1d31jf1b4d91362cc6e46(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Great shot Dave. Here was my vantage of the launch from 200 miles north on Jekyll Island, GA: http://bit.ly/4uBi3N 73 Bobby KF4GTA On Sat, Aug 29, 2009 at 12:49 AM, <n4csitwo(a)bellsouth.net> wrote: > Great Launch tonight! > I have 3 photos taken from my roof top in East Orlando about 40 miles from the pad. Not as clear as in the past, but not bad through some haze. > You can download from my server account if you like. The link is www.mydrive.ch/en. The username is plethra2. The guest password is aa4kn_1. They are found in the STS-128 folder. ?If you have any problems, email me and I'll be sure to fix it. > > Dave, AA4KN > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Sat, 29 Aug 2009 15:23:05 +0000 From: "Dave Webb KB1PVH" <kb1pvh(a)gmail.com> Subject: [amsat-bb] KB0RZD/KB0RZE EM18/EM19 To: "AMSAT BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <1812310948-1251559413-cardhu_decombobulator_blackberry.rim.net-497855522-(a)bxe1224.bisx.prod.on.blackberry> Content-Type: text/plain QSL card just arrived, very nice mix of pictures. Thank you for taking time to activate these two grids! Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Dave KB1PVH Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Sent via amsat-bb(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 4, Issue 437 ****************************************

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KB0RZD/KB0RZE EM18/EM19
by Dave Webb KB1PVH 29 Aug '09

29 Aug '09

QSL card just arrived, very nice mix of pictures. Thank you for taking time to activate these two grids! Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Dave KB1PVH Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

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STS-128 photos from East Orlando
by n4csitwo＠bellsouth.net 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Great Launch tonight! I have 3 photos taken from my roof top in East Orlando about 40 miles from the pad. Not as clear as in the past, but not bad through some haze. You can download from my server account if you like. The link is www.mydrive.ch/en. The username is plethra2. The guest password is aa4kn_1. They are found in the STS-128 folder. If you have any problems, email me and I'll be sure to fix it. Dave, AA4KN

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SOHLA-1 status 29Aug2009
by Mineo Wakita 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

SOHLA-1 transmits now AFSK signal only over Japan too. The received KISS data can analyze using a decoder that developed by DK3WN such as below. SOHLA-1, 04:50-05:02UTC 29Aug2009, Mel 18deg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/29082009_0444_sohla.kss http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90829soh.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/sohlacwe.htm http://www.dk3wn.info/files/sohla.zip JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: BoD Elections
by Dee 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

See my snips... -----Original Message----- From: Timothy J. Salo [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 9:48 PM To: Dee Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] BoD Elections > There are no "secret" happenings - it is all out in the open. Have you actually been to a Board meeting? Have you heard the pitch about how you can't talk about anything that you hear during the meeting? I assume that the chair still gives this pitch at the beginning of the Board meeting. >>>Yes, I have been. I have not heard any statement of secrecy(unless relevant to legal proceedings). If a negotiation is ongoing for a launch and they do not want it to be interfered with until it has been exhausted or come to fruition, I will honor such a request. The full minutes of what is said and discussed is published for all to see. Again, the BOD meeting is open for all to attend that are interested enough to find out actions items being passed around. If you attended a board meeting, did you feel welcome? Or, did you feel merely tolerated. Did the Board reserve a room just large enough for the board members? Did you have to go find your own chair, if you wanted to sit? Did you feel that you could eat any of the food that was left over after the Board ate? >>> I felt welcomed at any that I was present for. Some on the board finally put a face to the name and call. I certainly did not know many officers except for what I read about them in the mailings. I agree that there is limited space since they really don't expect a large turnout at a BOD meeting. (Most is dull, not exciting information but it gives you an idea of procedures and good information to bring back to local groups via presentations) I don't go for the food. AMSAT cannot accommodate a free lunch for onlookers. I once asked for a copy(of an agenda) at a Board meeting. You would think I was asking for the keys to their bank account. >>> They had copies when I attended-probably a result of you asking for one. Do you have confidence that you are even aware of all of the meetings of the board? >>>Their monthly phone conferences are summarized in the AMSAT journal or on the BB or via the ANS. In my view, the Board employs a number of subtle techniques to prevent the membership from knowing about, much less discussing, the activities of the Board. >>>As in any organization, we elect the board to act on to do lists - investigate - perform reality checks and disseminate information about our organization because most of us cannot offer time and energy to do so. Besides having your ideas heard, I don't think that members are permitted to speak at board meetings, unless invited. >>>Ideas from the general membership are presented at the annual meeting. While attending one BOD meeting, I was asked "and what & why are you here?" I promptly told them I was there to "observe and absorb" information for my many presentations to local Radio Clubs asking me to attend meetings - part of my Area Co-coordinator Job in NJ - Personally, I like to hear about any HEO projects, my favorite subject. --Timothy, once again, attend this years Symposium with a renewed interest and what you feel should be changed, attempt change. We are only 40 years old as a group and finding the level you wish AMSAT to be at can directly be in your grasp. Grab a pen (Equivalent to a computer I guess) and volunteer for something that we need to have happen - see the Journal! -tjs 73, Dee, NB2F

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Re: BoD Elections
by rwmcgwier＠gmail.com 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

We don't need legal counsel, we already have a surplus with ITAR and reclaiming our property. I join joanne, I am sick of lawyers and whining malcontents, and want to have fun with this. Bob N4HY LM ------Original Message------ From: JoAnne Maenpaa Sender: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org To: amsat bb Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: BoD Elections Sent: Aug 28, 2009 7:37 PM > now, what are you doing to help the organization? I'm going to enjoy helping AMSAT where ever I can despite voices on the internet telling me how immoral or how illegal it might be. -- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm(a)amsat.org _______________________________________________ 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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Re: BoD Elections
by Barry A. Baines 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Tim: After reading your note, Tim Liley's and Dee's, I'd like to comment on your e-mail. The July/August 2009 issue of the AMSAT Journal does contain the minutes of the 2008 Board Meeting in Atlanta. Our editor, Ed Long is finalizing the issue and it should be to the printer in the very near future. While the minutes provide a summary of the BOD actions taken in October 2008, we've already publicized key actions and steps taken in previous distribution of information. Further, much has happened in the past 10 months, so while the minutes may be interesting to review, please keep in mind that the minutes do not reflect the current status of the organization. There are no other formal 'meeting minutes' or 'committee minutes' to be published. No 'official meetings' where the BOD has taken official votes or made decisions that require documentation have taken place since the 2008 AMSAT Symposium. The BOD (including the Board Alternate) does meet informally each month to be briefed on the status of activities of the corporation. For example, I have kept the Board fully informed of the status of our actions on ITAR. However, minutes are not kept since no votes have been taken. This same information is later provided in ANS bulletins or in my 'Apogee View' column published in the AMSAT Journal. BTW, these teleconferences now include the two individuals running for the Board for the first time since it is clear that the entire slate of five candidates will end up being elected to the Board or serve as the next Board Alternate. By including these individuals in the current BOD teleconference, they will be more fully prepared to assume their new duties in September following announcement of election results. Likewise, there are monthly teleconferences of the senior leadership team, but no minutes are kept because these are tactical meetings. The Engineering Task Force meets regularly but no minutes are formally taken. Keep in mind that this group was appointed by the President, not the Board. Engineering Task Force Chair Bill Ress, N6GHZ has published material in the AMSAT Journal regarding activities of the Task Force. Please keep in mind that AMSAT has widely distributed information on the state of the organization through a variety of means. If you want to review AMSAT's situation and evaluate the actions of various individuals before making a decision on the Board, you might: -Read the candidate's statements -Review the articles in the past year of AMSAT Journal, including Apogee View, articles on SuitSat-2 and ITAR, etc. -Review past ANS bulletins which have provided information on AMSAT activities/accomplishments -Review the videos available on the AMSAT Website of the various AMSAT presentations given at Dayton. These presentations provide complete coverage of the current status of AMSAT as of Dayton, the status of SuitSat-2, ARISS, and operations. Go to: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/information/videoNews.php Lastly, the entire AMSAT leadership, including the current board members and prospective board members, is available to answer member questions or address concerns. The-mail addresses of the current leadership team are listed on the masthead of the AMSAT Journal. The AMSAT website 'officers page' provides a mechanism for sending comments to specific board members and officers. The candidate's statement that I wrote for this year's BOD election includes my AMSAT alias e-mail address. There are no restrictions on individuals contacting our volunteers in leadership positions. Note that two of the five candidates are current BOD members, two of BOD candidates have not previously served on the Board, plus one additional individual is the current Board Alternate. All of these candidates can be contacted by their AMSAT e-mail aliases as well. Regards, Barry Baines, WD4ASW President-AMSAT On Aug 27, 2009, at 4:40 PM, Timothy J. Salo wrote: > Hi, > > I still haven't returned my ballot for the AMSAT Board of > Directors election, in part because I don't feel that I > have really good information on which to make a decision. > I would like to vote for a Board that will be effective and > strengthen the organization. It is particularly important > to select the best possible board because, in my view, AMSAT > is an organization in serious trouble. But, I would prefer > to base my vote on the recent accomplishments, recent > positions during board meetings, and explicit near-term > objectives of the candidates. I would prefer to not simply > use a blunt strategy of voting against all incumbents and for > all challengers. Unfortunately, I don't feel that I really > know much about the activities of the individual board members. > > To remedy this, I suggest that the close of the BoD elections > be postponed until at least thirty days after the following > have been published: > > o A list of all Board meetings held over the last year > o Minutes from all of these Board meetings > o Minutes from all AMSAT committee meetings of the last year > > We can certainly have a discussion about the appropriate > level of transparency for the Board and its committees, and > whether the Board is meeting those objectives. Here is what > the D.C. statutes under which AMSAT is incorporated have to > say on the matter: > > Each corporation shall keep correct and complete books and > records of account and shall keep minutes of the proceedings > of its members, board of directors, and committees having any > of the authority of the board of directors; ... All books and > records of a corporation may be inspected by any member having > voting rights, or his agent or attorney, for any proper purpose > at any reasonable time. > > -tjs

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Fw: Re: BoD Elections
by Gould Smith 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

----- Original Message ----- From: Gould Smith To: Rocky Jones Sent: Friday, August 28, 2009 7:17 PM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: BoD Elections I expected this. The board did vote to spend money at the last board meeting as documented, we haven't had the need to approve anything since then. I have said my piece. I will go do something productive. Gould, WA4SXM ----- Original Message ----- From: Rocky Jones To: gouldsmi(a)bellsouth.net ; Amsat BB Sent: Friday, August 28, 2009 6:50 PM Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Re: BoD Elections Gould thanks for your reply (I guess it was to me since you quoted my post) > This business of nit-picking and taking things out of context is not > productive. Certainly not of my time. my " BS" detector goes up when someone starts like that and then proceeds into a long sort of explanation anyway. It is an attempt to legitimize the question before you answer it. And it is one reason AMSAT NA is in trouble. I made a statement that you felt you needed to answer...but you also needed to take a cheap shot. You folks are "so busy" wow. must be one of those 16 hour people (and yes that is sarcastic) anyrate this caught my eye. > > The Board can vote at any meeting or teleconference with the appropriate > number of members present. The Board strategizes and directs and the > Officers implement. There has not been a need for the Board to vote on > anything. > The Board has guided and directed the Officers to do many things over the > last year. These have all been reported to the membership as tasks > undertaken. did you run this past a lawyer? What you have just admitted to is making substantive decisions by the board and other operations folks at Amsat, which doubtless include spending money...without any recorded vote or any ability to view the individual board member stand or any valid record of it that can be seen by the "members" of the organization. And NO what you claim is reporting to the membership through an infrequent magazine...wont do it. Indeed you just admitted to doing what the person who started this thread was concerned about. I dont know about the District of Columbia, but if AMSAT were a Texas organization (and Amsat is much like the community association I headed in how it is organized) then you have just admitted to a violation of law. I am not a lawyer nor do I play one on TV, but the organization desperately needs one. Robert WB5MZO Life member Amsat NA ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Windows Live: Keep your friends up to date with what you do online. Find out more.

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FO-29 status 29Aug2009 #1
by Mineo Wakita 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

CW from FO-29 are transmitted now only over Japan. Please wait a little more time to come to hear CW all over the world. FO-29, 22:07-22:25UTC 28Aug2009 (07:06-07:25JST 29Aug2009), Mel 54deg HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 57 65 99 9C F0 70 EA EA F1 EF EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 58 65 99 9C F0 88 EA E9 F0 EF EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 57 65 99 9C F0 80 EA E9 F0 EF EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 00 05 25 00 24 01 81 56 65 99 9C F0 86 EA E9 F0 EF EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 00 05 25 00 24 01 01 58 65 99 9C F0 90 EA E8 F0 EF EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5A 65 99 9C F0 71 EA E7 F0 EF EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5C 65 99 9C F0 74 E9 E7 F0 EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5D 65 99 9C F0 90 E9 E7 F0 EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5D 65 99 9C F0 9D E9 E7 F0 EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5C 65 99 9C F0 81 E9 E7 EF EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5E 65 99 9C F0 83 E9 E6 EF EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5E 65 99 9D F0 82 E9 E6 EF EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5F 65 99 9C F0 76 E9 E6 EF EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5E 65 99 9C F0 98 E9 E6 EF EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5D 65 99 9C F0 62 E9 E5 EE EE EB HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 5A 65 99 9C F0 83 E9 E5 EE EE EA HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 57 65 99 9C F0 7F E9 E5 EE EE EA HI HI 22 E2 88 D5 8F 09 05 25 00 24 01 01 56 65 99 9C F0 C3 E9 E5 EE EE EA Another program, fo29cwte.exe Ver3.10 http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90829f29.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90829f30.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90829f31.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90829f32.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/fo29cwte.zip JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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10 GHz and 24 GHz systems?
by Robert Bruninga 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Looking for some educational 10 and 24 GHz modules... We want to use some in our satellite labs to teach students about microwaves. Some nice off the shelf laser comms modules may also be included. We have funds, so want to get something that is readily available and reproduceable, not one-of-a-kind. Thanks Bob, Wb4APR

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GJTRACKER Version 2.0 Now Available
by Lance Collister 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Hello! While I was operating as E51SIX on 6m EME and had no internet, I sure missed the great world maps on the ON4KST chat pages, which show the moonrise "terminator" as it moves across the earth. So, since I wanted to make sure to have that capability next time when I am out on DXpedition without the internet, I added that capability to GJTRACKER. Version 2.0 of GJTRACKER is now available, and includes a fairly detailed world Field Locator map to show what parts of the world can see the moon (or any other celestial object). This feature is accessed by selecting the "Real Time" mode when you run the program. The GJHELP.pdf file has been updated to reflect the new addition to the Real Time window: http://bigskyspaces.com/w7gj/GJTRACKER.zip The map redraws itself every minute. Sorry, but it is not currently a user-sizable map. The screen size setting of 1280x768 pixels on my laptop is just big enough to show the entire world map at once. CU on the moon! GL and VY 73, Lance -- Lance Collister, W7GJ (ex: WN3GPL, WA3GPL, WA1JXN, WA1JXN/C6A, ZF2OC/ZF8, E51SIX) P.O. Box 73 Frenchtown, MT 59834 USA QTH: DN27UB TEL: (406) 626-5728 URL: http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj 2m DXCC #11, 6m DXCC #815

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FO-29
by WILLIAMS MICHAEL 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Signals from FO-29 have been reported over Japan. see: http://oscar.dcarr.org/ Mike (K9QHO) AMSAT 33589

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FS: SSB SP-2000 Superamp for 2m, working but rusty
by Bill Dzurilla 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

I have for sale an SSB Electronics SP-2000 Superamp mast-mounted GaAsFET preamp, 1 1/2 years old. Rated at 200w VOX, 750w PTT. It has Hi-Q helical coils & helical filters and is one of the best preamps for DXing, satellites, meteor scatter, and EME. More info at: http://www.ssbusa.com/gaasfet.html Reviews at: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/4156 (4.8/5) The preamp works OK, but for some unknown reason it is rusty. The preamp is contained in a weatherproof case but water must have gotten in somehow. I cleaned up the circuit board with Q-tips and alcohol. Photos available. The SP-2000 sells new for $310 plus shipping. You can have this one for $150 shipped anywhere USA. Also would offer the SP-2000 plus cash for a 2m preamp system capable of handling 1.5 kw. I recently bought a Lunar Link and discovered the rust issue when I took the preamp down. 73, Bill NZ5N

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I: Re: FO-29 status 28Aug2009
by Francesco Grappi 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Well Done !! Thank you very much to all commander team For their effort !! Long life to FO-29 !! 73" Frank IW4DVZ > -----Messaggio originale----- > Da: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] Per > conto di Gary "Joe" Mayfield > Inviato: venerdì 28 agosto 2009 15.46 > A: 'Mineo Wakita'; roi(a)optonline.net > Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Oggetto: [amsat-bb] Re: FO-29 status 28Aug2009 > > Hurray! --- Three cheers for our Japanese friends! > > -----Original Message----- > From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On > Behalf Of Mineo Wakita > Sent: Friday, August 28, 2009 7:46 AM > To: roi(a)optonline.net > Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] FO-29 status 28Aug2009 > > Command Station succeeded in transmitting a command to FO-29. > > FO-29, 12:00-12:15UTC 28Aug2009, Mel 46deg > HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 5B 65 99 9C F0 5D E8 E9 EA E9 > EA > HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 5A 65 99 9C F0 8D E8 E9 EA E8 > EA > HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 59 65 99 9C F0 8E E8 E9 EA E8 > E9 > HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 52 66 99 9D F0 8B E8 E8 EA E8 > EA > HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 4E 65 99 9C F0 80 E8 E8 EA E8 > E9 > HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 47 65 99 9C EB 71 E8 E8 EA E8 > E9 > HI HI 22 22 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 84 66 78 83 8F E7 E8 E9 E7 > E9 > HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 82 66 78 82 89 E7 E8 E9 E7 > E9 > HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 84 66 78 82 62 E7 E8 E9 E7 > E9 > HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 83 66 77 81 8E E8 E8 E9 E7 > E9 > > fo29cwts.exe Ver2.4 update > > CW can be available from FO-29 only over Japan now. You are simply > copied by Copy & Paste into the upper window of this program. It is > insignificant whether the blank character exists between the CW values. > And you can analyze them max 50 lines. The CW telemetry values are > calculated and are shown graphically in an accustomed method. > The individual decoded data are saved additionally into a text file. > > http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90828f29.jpg > http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/fo29cwts.zip > > JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita > > _______________________________________________ > 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

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FO-29 status 28Aug2009
by Mineo Wakita 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

Command Station succeeded in transmitting a command to FO-29. FO-29, 12:00-12:15UTC 28Aug2009, Mel 46deg HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 5B 65 99 9C F0 5D E8 E9 EA E9 EA HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 5A 65 99 9C F0 8D E8 E9 EA E8 EA HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 59 65 99 9C F0 8E E8 E9 EA E8 E9 HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 52 66 99 9D F0 8B E8 E8 EA E8 EA HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 4E 65 99 9C F0 80 E8 E8 EA E8 E9 HI HI 22 E2 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 47 65 99 9C EB 71 E8 E8 EA E8 E9 HI HI 22 22 88 D1 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 84 66 78 83 8F E7 E8 E9 E7 E9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 82 66 78 82 89 E7 E8 E9 E7 E9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 84 66 78 82 62 E7 E8 E9 E7 E9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 08 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 83 66 77 81 8E E8 E8 E9 E7 E9 fo29cwts.exe Ver2.4 update CW can be available from FO-29 only over Japan now. You are simply copied by Copy & Paste into the upper window of this program. It is insignificant whether the blank character exists between the CW values. And you can analyze them max 50 lines. The CW telemetry values are calculated and are shown graphically in an accustomed method. The individual decoded data are saved additionally into a text file. http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/90828f29.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/fo29cwts.zip JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Low cost Japanese launch vehicle
by Howie DeFelice 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

With all the recent discussion about launch costs, I thought this would be of interest: Details of New Japanese Cost-Cutting Launch Vehicle Leaked August 27, 2009 | Satellite Today | Staff Writer [Satellite TODAY 08-28-09] The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is spending $213 million to develop a small launch vehicle in 2010 to reduce satellite launch costs by two-thirds, according to Nikkei reports, released Aug. 27. JAXA is working with The Japanese Ministry of Science and Technology and IHI Corp. on the project. The new three-stage rocket will be 24 meters in length and 2.5 meters in diameter at its widest section – less than half the size and carrying capacity of JAXA’s H-2A launch vehicle. The rocket will be able to carry payloads as heavy as 1.2 tons and use solid fuel for all three of its stages. JAXA claims that, since it will not have to fill up with liquid fuel, using solid fuel will cut down on the time that the rocket will need to prepare for liftoff once it arrives at the launch site. Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) has a similar business model and mission in the United States. Falcon-1, SpaceX’s smaller launch vehicle, uses liquid fuel and costs between $8 and $10 million per launch. JAXA’s new rocket would bring competition into Asia’s discount launch vehicle market, as China is also looking to provide cheaper launch services through its Long-March vehicle. According to reports, the rocket will cost $32 million to produce and launch – less than a third of H-2A’s price tag. Falcon-1 missions currently cost between $8 and $10 million per launch. The first liftoff is expected to take place as early as fiscal 2012 and will most likely be used to send space research and solar system satellites into orbit. Eventually, the new rocket may carry a landing vehicle for Japan’s Moon exploration project, targeted for 2020, the agencies said in the reports. _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live: Make it easier for your friends to see what you’re up to on Facebook. http://windowslive.com/Campaign/SocialNetworking?ocid=PID23285::T:WLMTAGL:O…

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Update on EM96, EM98 & EM99
by R M Patterson 28 Aug '09

28 Aug '09

As I am about to start my trip it's raining in NE Ohio and the WX forecast for WV & western VA, where these grids are located is not good. I still plan to be "on location" to try work 'em, but I don't relish getting my radio and myself drenched. So, bottom line: The WX makes the activation of EM96, EM98 & EM99 [scheduled per previous msgs] "iffy" today. The forecast for EM94 early tomorrow morning is better. I'll do my best! 73! Rick 'GI

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BoD Elections
by Timothy J. Salo 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Hi, I still haven't returned my ballot for the AMSAT Board of Directors election, in part because I don't feel that I have really good information on which to make a decision. I would like to vote for a Board that will be effective and strengthen the organization. It is particularly important to select the best possible board because, in my view, AMSAT is an organization in serious trouble. But, I would prefer to base my vote on the recent accomplishments, recent positions during board meetings, and explicit near-term objectives of the candidates. I would prefer to not simply use a blunt strategy of voting against all incumbents and for all challengers. Unfortunately, I don't feel that I really know much about the activities of the individual board members. To remedy this, I suggest that the close of the BoD elections be postponed until at least thirty days after the following have been published: o A list of all Board meetings held over the last year o Minutes from all of these Board meetings o Minutes from all AMSAT committee meetings of the last year We can certainly have a discussion about the appropriate level of transparency for the Board and its committees, and whether the Board is meeting those objectives. Here is what the D.C. statutes under which AMSAT is incorporated have to say on the matter: Each corporation shall keep correct and complete books and records of account and shall keep minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors, and committees having any of the authority of the board of directors; ... All books and records of a corporation may be inspected by any member having voting rights, or his agent or attorney, for any proper purpose at any reasonable time. -tjs

3 2

ARISS 25th Anniversary Certificate
by Tim - N3TL 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Hey everyone, Can someone who is or was involved with ARISS during the 25th Anniversary event please contact me off the BB? I was excited to recive my 25th Anniversary Certificate today - until I opened it. It confirms an SWL report, and I submitted proof of a 2-way contact with another amateur over the repeater. The certificate is very nice, but I'd like to inquire about getting a certificate that actually confirms what I claimed (a claim that included the other station's QSL and mine) - a 2-way contact. Thanks in advance for any help. 73, Tim - N3TL

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Water as a rocket fuel
by John Heath 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Thanks to Bob for starting an interesting thread. On boeard electrolysis of water to produce Hydrogen/Oxygen rocket fuel. An most interesting paper on the subject at https://e-reports-ext.llnl.gov/pdf/236614.pdf It does work in space. Could it get us from LEO to MEO? Since Bob is a can do guy I will follow this one with great interest, way to go Bob. 73 John G7HIA

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"best" rotators
by Randy 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Whats everyone using for their az / el rotors and What do you think of them and how trouble free have they been? I still have to get one .. And its lots of dollars so I wanted it to Be dollars well spent .. All I have see is the yaesu ones so far that run with the computer in the drivers seat. Are there other brands that do the same thing ?? Like Wilson , etc .. Thanks .. v/r 73 Randy - N2CUA

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Re: WD9EWK cards arrived today!!!!!!
by Allen Vinegar 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Thanks Patrick, mine arrived today! Quite impressed with your personal postage stamp!!! 73, Al W8KHP

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Activation of EM94 (SC)
by Rick 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Hi guyz. In private e-mails a couple of folks have indicated that they need grid EM94 in South Carolina. I'm going to get a very early start on Saturday, 08/29/09, so as to be in EM94 to try to hit the AO-51 pass @ about 11:19Z. I think it'll work. (Yea, I know that's *really* early, but the next pass I could hit won't be until mid-late afternoon -long after I need to be at my destination.) I plan on being there absent unforeseen circumstances, e.g., rain. Pls QSL as per previous message. 73! Rick 'GI

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Re: FO-29 examination operation
by Mineo Wakita 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

Hi, you wrote: > Is there a place where amateurs can have a look at what the status is of > the planned actions? Sorry, this examination of FO-29 operate only over Japan. I will announce it again if this examination for restoration succeeds. JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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FO-29 examination operation
by Mineo Wakita 27 Aug '09

27 Aug '09

A trouble occurs on FO-29 CW and Transponder now. The control station tries for restoration hard. They say as follows. We plan the next test use until Monday. 28 Aug, 12:03 UTC 28 Aug, 22:10 UTC 29 Aug, 21:15 UTC 30 Aug, 22:05 UTC We may not turn on a transmitter by the influence such as buildings depending on a direction of AOS at the time of the schedule. The amateur station who wants to use the transponder please perform uplink after hearing the CW telemetry of FO-29. FO-29 doubles with a receiver for communication without being equipped with the receiver for exclusive use of the command. When many stations do uplink during command work, please understand it because it takes many time when we turn on the transponder. JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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FO-29 Still Silent
by David Wing 26 Aug '09

26 Aug '09

Anyone have any word on what's up with FO-29 ? Still not heard on the 27-Aug 0404 Northamerican pass

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