- AMSAT-BB - mailman.amsat.org

Standard C628A
by Allen Vinegar 20 Jan '09

20 Jan '09

Can anyone provide me with a manual (or copy of one) for the Standard C628A 70cm/23cm HT? Thank you!! Al W8KHP

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ISS pass tonight
by Rick - WA4NVM 20 Jan '09

20 Jan '09

Good Evening, Anyone know the status of the ISS tonight. Nothing heard during the last orbit here. I haven't found any post on the websites. Thanks and 73, Rick - WA4NVM #1339

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H-IIA F15 launch postponed
by Masahiro Arai 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

The JAXA announced postponement of H-IIA F15 launch due to bad weather. New launch date is scheduled 22nd Jan or later. Check the JAXA web site. http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/index_e.html The launch live show will broadcast via internet. See the following the JAXA web site. http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/live/index_e.html Masa JN1GKZ

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software help
by Nick Pugh 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

Hi The students at the University of Louisiana are flying a balloon with a KISS mode TNC on board. There data stream does not include the CRC error check. Do you know of any soundcard software that can be configured to copy the data so they can look at the raw data on their ground station. Thanks for your help in the past and future Nick k5qxj

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Old AMSAT Satellite Report and ARRL Gateway newsletters online
by Bob DeVarney W1ICW 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

Phil, thanks for the treasures and a great trip down memory lane. I have a couple old copies of the Orbit magazine from 1982, if I scan them can you find a home for them on your hosting I am limited to only 10 megs hosting on my ISP. I find one thing amazing. 2008 we are talking about operation AO-7. 1982 they were talking about operating AO-7. I doubt many commercial satellites can say the same thing regarding lifespans. We owe a lot to the pioneers among us who blazed the trail for us. Now it's up to us follow their lead and continue to make amateur satellite operating a viable and vibrant mode of communication. "We all need to hang together, or we shall surely hang separately". Bob W1ICW

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Launch postponement of H-IIA F15
by Mineo Wakita 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

The launch of GOSAT and a piggyback satellites were postponed at January 22 or later as the unseasonable weather. http://www.jaxa.jp/index_e.html JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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UK/EU ISS passes this evening
by Gordon JC Pearce MM3YEQ 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

Hi there, There are two really good (around 30 degrees) passes over the UK this evening, which for me start at about 21:21 and 22:55, as well as one not-too-bad (15 degrees) one at about 19:45. Even with a fairly QRP setup I should get in at that. Does anyone want to arrange a sked? Last time it was pretty quiet until the ISS was more over Europe, by which time I was struggling to get in. Gordon

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Re: EL16 on VO52
by Bob Cutter 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

Make that VO52, Hamsat. 73, Bob KI0G On Jan 18, 2009, at 5:55 PM, Bob Cutter <ki0g(a)yahoo.com> wrote: I plan to be on the next two days. 73, Bob KI0G _______________________________________________ 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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EL16 on AO52
by Bob Cutter 19 Jan '09

19 Jan '09

I plan to be on the next two days. 73, Bob KI0G

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ISS orbital timing & links
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 18 Jan '09

18 Jan '09

Interesting following the comments regarding ISS orbital reboost... Most folks refer to the ISS as being 'late', when actually they are just listening too early. Here are some useful links that the group might find interesting. Hopefully they will raise as many questions as they answer. The schedule is known ahead of time, it is not a sporadic decision. Fortunately we can follow along via the daily diary entries. Daily reports: http://www.hq.nasa.gov/osf/iss_reports/ (this links to the current entry) (also has a link to previous reports) (also has a calendar for future mission event schedules) I dug around a bit, and found this nice explanation : http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/feedback/expert/answer/mcc/exp7/08_07_10_23_16.… - and this description with a picture : http://science.nasa.gov/ppod/y2003/18apr_reboost.htm Here is a nice graph from http://www.Heavens-Above.com : tracking orbital height. http://www.heavens-above.com/IssHeight.aspx Plenty more links on the ISS home page : http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/main/index.html - live Mission Audio : http://www.nasa.gov/178952main_Mission_Audio_UP.asx - attitude tutorial : http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/station/flash/iss_attitude.html (this is a really cool lesson in the different flight modes) - 2009 calendar : http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/296130main_calendar09-100.pdf (if you can figure out how to print and put it together...) Enjoy /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> <- http://www.linkedin.com/in/alansieg * My 'Day Job' ->

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az/el rotor for sale
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 18 Jan '09

18 Jan '09

Hello all I came across this item on ebay. It might be a bit overkill. It will bring a smile to your face. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160308766147&ru=http%3A%… 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle

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re antenna seperation.
by Angus 18 Jan '09

18 Jan '09

Hi all, perhaps what appears to be a simple question but how far apart do I need to space a 6 ele X yagi for 2mtrs (1 wavelength long) and a pair of 12 ele X for 70cms (horizontally spaced and 3 wavelengths long each). The antennas are all homebrew and I know that as far apart as possible is the best solution BUT this is not possible so just how far should I be looking for as a minimum? I am trying to make sure that the de-sensing of any other radio equipment is kept to a minimum (no fancy rigs here, an old FT817 for 70cms and a FT-480r with a 25 watt linear when needed). regards Gus M0IKB -- I am using the free version of SPAMfighter. We are a community of 5.8 million users fighting spam. SPAMfighter has removed 7796 of my spam emails to date. Get the free SPAMfighter here: http://www.spamfighter.com/len The Professional version does not have this message

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ISS lift off distance !
by nader omer 18 Jan '09

18 Jan '09

Hi All Who could remind me of the physical equation that calculate the lift off distance depending on time different between the old and the new AOS (e.g ISS)? Nader. st2nh www.st2nh.com

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TS-790 & Chasing Satellites
by William Liporace - WC2L 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

Good Afternoon, I think I have my station ready to chase the birds. I have the TS-790, G-5400, PIC Controller and SatPC32 working. I am looking for some help with working the satellites with the TS-790. I do not quite get it. I can setup a time to call some one on a landline. I have had this for a while and have never had it all working. I feel pretty good that I have gotten this far. I would appreciate any help. TNX es 73 Will WC2L

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Re: ISS Timing Latest
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

Where can I find the details involved in the process of adjusting the ISS orbit. 73 Bob W7LRD -------------- Original message -------------- From: "David Barber" <david.barber(a)dbelectronics.co.uk> > To follow up on the comments of others and I hope it helps: > > ISS appears to be running just over 4 minutes late (approx 4m 17s) with > respect to the current Keps. > > Measured here on the 20.55utc UK pass. > > David > G8OQW > > _______________________________________________ > 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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ISS Timing Latest
by David Barber 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

To follow up on the comments of others and I hope it helps: ISS appears to be running just over 4 minutes late (approx 4m 17s) with respect to the current Keps. Measured here on the 20.55utc UK pass. David G8OQW

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23cm35ez
by Perry Yantis 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

I noticed that my instructions for this antenna is older then your is. Please let me know where you found the newer instructions?? Perry WB8OTH py41(a)att.net

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23cm35ez
by Andrew Glasbrenner 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

I think I have a problem. I'm assembling a 23cm35ez that I picked up second hand. I think I may have a direction set from an older version. Mine has a three piece boom, and the instructions show a 2 piece. Also the number and length of the elements do not match. Since these antennas don't always go from long to short elements, the instructions are pretty important. Does anyone have the most recent version they could email me? I can only find the 8-15-94 revision online. 73, Drew KO4MA

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PRISM CW data_format
by Mineo Wakita 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

[English Version] http://www.space.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/gs/en/satinfo.html http://www.space.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/gs/en/application.html [Japanese Version] http://www.space.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/gs/satinfo.html http://www.space.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/gs/application.html JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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ISS Keplerian elements
by Pierre van Deventer 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

Regarding ISS and the accuracy of the predictions. The same was noted yesterday at around 14:00 UTC. AOS was about 2.5 min's late and was able to work via the cross band repeater until it was 5 degrees below the horizon! My Keplerian data and PC clock is up to date, I also suspect that there was an orbit change and the "new" Keplerian data has not been made available yet? 73, Pierre ZS6BB

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ISS Keps
by Sebastian 17 Jan '09

17 Jan '09

Here are the latest good ISS Keps: ISS 1 25544U 98067A 09016.54575237 .00010596 00000-0 82463-4 0 9004 2 25544 51.6401 3.1542 0008078 273.4222 86.6015 15.70373981 22104 I found them here: http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/realdata/sightings/SSapplications/Post/JavaSSOP… 73 de W4AS Sebastian

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Thanks to ARISS team
by andy thomas 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Now that we have passed the Jan 15th end of the ARISS commemorative event I'd like to thank the ARISS team for this exciting and educational experience through the ISS repeater, on data, and with other downlinks. I have found it a very stimulating experience, using the various different modes, and indeed reminding me why I bought my IC-910 in the first place, hi! It's sharpened up my act on a number of things including *properly modulating my 9k6 tx with an external Symek TNC *configuring RX with AGWPE and UISS at 9k6 *my best orbit for an antenna without a rotator, set for MaxEl *Choosing FM-narrow on V uplink *using the telebridge via echolink for school contacts *the late update of the keps after an ISS orbit boost and a host of other fine details. It was also very stimulating to have qsos with other amateurs trying to get through the repeater for the first time. Next I have to move to Mode L ... another techie challenge! One day I'll speak to the crew too, as I have done with Mir, in another generation, it seems. thanks again 73 de andy G0SFJ

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ISS Digital Mode !!
by nader omer 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Hi,All Why not thinking of upgrade the digital packet mode on ISS to more interesting and attractive mode! Like a Pacsat protocol mode! ISS has a more room than 25cm cubic LEO satellite, isn't it? 73's Nader, st2nh www.st2nh.com

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FT-8800 as FM satellite radio?
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Hi! Has anyone used a Yaesu FT-8800 2m/70cm FM mobile radio to work the FM satellites? It appears to have everything an operator would want for those birds - separate VFO knobs, the ability to function as a cross- band repeater, various power levels (for 2m, 5/10/20/50W), and the control head can be permanently connected to the rest of the radio. The power requirements, according to the manual (maximum 8.5A on 2m), would work well with the "jumpstart" battery packs (mine are 12V/20Ah gel-cell packs) I use to power my gear in the field. From a quick reading of the instruction manual PDF, it seems like it could be a good radio for this. I'm looking at an alternative to my IC-2720H mobile radio I typically use for my portable operating, which is in current production and has a control head that was designed to mount on the radio. The TM-D710's control head does not hook up to the radio, and radios like the TM-V71 and DR-635 only have one VFO knob. I'd like to be able to directly control each VFO, without having to change bands in order to do this. The IC-2820H could meet my requirements, but its retail price is too much for me. The FT-8900 could also work for this, but I really don't need another radio for 6m and 10m FM. I would pair this radio with an Elk Antennas 2m/70cm log periodic and a homebrew PVC handle for the antenna, so I don't have to deal with a duplexer/diplexer for a satellite station I can pack into a small bag for travel. Thanks in advance, and 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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Office Closed
by Martha 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

The AMSAT Office will be closed on Monday, January 19th and Tuesday, January 20th. I will be back in the office on Wednesday, 10:00 AM ET. -- 73- Martha

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APRS tracking on 145.825
by Bob Bruninga 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Answered on the AMSAT BB in case others have similar concerns. > ...am still trying to get out with vy > little success, my station is the only > 24/7 station within 200sq miles! > [in Europe]. > > I have set SmartBeaconing (ideal for > conserving band space) and am on ARISS > on 145.825 simplex how can i ensure > that my sigs are picked up and reported > to APRS-IS. First of all, Smart Beaconing is not really a bandspace conservation mechanism, but is more like an exact-track-assurence algorithm. It tries to make sure that your position reports reflect all turns throughout your travels and then a lower rate on straight stretches. Yes, it is better than transmitting every 30 seconds forever (to get a good track) but when one is maneuvering around in the city and mall parking lot, it can be a network hog due to all the turns. It makes no sense via an occasional satellite to be using an algorithm designed for optimum track-history. APRS was never designed or intended to be a TRACKING system, and certainly does not have the bandwidth to give everyone a precise track. On the contrary, APRS is a communication network between amateur radio operators, not a vehicle tracking system. THe purpose of your position beacon on APRS is to let fellow net participants know approximately where you are for the purpose of COMMUNICATIONS. One report every several minutes is fine. Via satellite, only one report per pass is expected, maybe two for reliability, to assure you are indicated as active. Hence, a fixed rate just updating your approximate location periodically is all that is required. For terrestrial APRS netowrk the best algorithm then is PROPORTIONAL PATHING. It maintains a low, but fixed rate, direct, and sends packets via 1 hop only half the time, via 2 hops only 25% of the time thus maintaining good network accountabilty to other users close in, while reducing netowrk load at a distance. Ths algorithm is built into the new D710 APRS radio. For reporting in from the wilderness via satllite (say PCSAT-1), the only path that works when PCSAT-1 is in default mode is VIA W3ADO. The path via WIDE1-1 will not work via PCSAT-1, W3ADO-1 or the ISS. Well, it will work via ISS, but the www.ariss.net web page will not capture it, because the ISS does not do callsing substitution when that path is used. Therefore the APRS-IS system will not recognize it has having been digipeated via the ISS, though it will show up on other FINDU pages. For attended uplink on 145.825 from wilderness areas, for mobiles, a rate of once every 2 minutes is receommended. For mobiles in-motion, actively operating a pass, a rate of 1 minute is acceptible. Good luck Bob, Wb4APR > As wide1-1 is an alias to ariss i see no point in > path alteration, just change of qrg. How does that > sound to you? > -- > -- > Best wishes/Meilleurs sentiments/51/73

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Yaesu G-5400 Questions
by William Liporace - WC2L 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Good Morning I am in need of a couple of the terminal boards that are on the back of a G-5400 rotor. Are they the same on the 5500? Are the parts available?? The only other option is, does any one have a spare they want to part with? TNX Will WC2L

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demo help thanks
by Nick Pugh 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Yesterday I demo ham radio to about 50 middle school kids in Lafayette ,La. The demo went very well thanks to those who help out. What did not go so well is that our Echolink did not allow multi connects so not all of you could get in. Echolink is a good way to demo ham radio in a class room despite the fact is not a pure radio circuit. Thanks again Nick k5qxj

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GO-32 status
by Mineo Wakita 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

GO-32 KISS beacon [2009/01/14 11:02:22z] TechSat-V4.2 ... [2009/01/14 11:02:52z] TechSat-V4.2 ... [2009/01/14 11:03:22z] TechSat-V4.2 ... [2009/01/16 10:10:35z] TechRam1V9.87 ... [2009/01/16 10:11:05z] TechRam1V9.87 ... [2009/01/16 10:11:35z] TechRam1V9.87 ... JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: QSO through ISS
by andy thomas 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Hi Gordon, many thanks for the qso. Your handheld effort was significantly better than mine and I appreciate your qso discussion and signal report. I'll be delighted to exchange cards if you would like to - and of course you can now claim the 25th anniversary ARISS certificate as CONTACT (REPEATER) with the ISS! Not bad at all for 5 watts handheld! The reason I asked you about the audio was this. I was using a doppler corrected system using Ham Radio Deluxe which depends on accurate and up to date kepler elements. This was producing really bad audio on the receive side and after talking to you I realised that the problem was that the ISS had reboosted its orbit - but this had not been refelected in the keplers used, even though I had forced a reconnection to the celestrak server. (Incidentally the AMSAT on line predictor had earlier given the same times for AOS and LOS) So the ISS was "late" in terms of the predicted and my doppler system was not tuning correctly to the downlink, hence my receive audio problem. After talking to you I retuned manually up in receive frequency but alas! too late to make another qso. My friend Colin G1IVG had the same problem and when I reported it on the amsat bulletin board Sebastian W4AS reported the same thing. Because you were manually correcting for doppler, you beat the machine! you were tuning by ear in 5khz steps on the Kenwood and it worked properly. So many thanks for the qso, it allowed us to figure out what was going wrong and to alert stateside via the amsat bulletin board. and the iss fan club site. I hope you don't mind but I'm copying this whole correspondence to the amsat-bb to celebrate the contact and what we learnt from it. 73 de andy G0SFJ --- On Thu, 15/1/09, Gordon JC Pearce MM3YEQ <gordonjcp(a)gjcp.net> wrote: > From: Gordon JC Pearce MM3YEQ <gordonjcp(a)gjcp.net> > Subject: QSO through ISS > To: g0sfj(a)amsat.org > Date: Thursday, 15 January, 2009, 11:58 PM > Hello, > Thank you for the brief QSO through the ISS repeater. > It's the first > time I've ever had much confirmation that I've > actually got into it. I > can hear it quite well even with a rubber-duck antenna on > my handheld - > even my el-cheapo Jingtong JT308 - but so far I haven't > seemed to get > any contacts through it. > > I'm in IO75tv square, Glasgow. The ISS is pretty low > on the horizon > here for most passes, at best around 35 degrees. I'm > running 5W from a > Kenwood TH-F7E handie into a homebrew dual-band cross > dipole, with three > elements on 2m and five on 70cm. For something that took > an hour to > build, it works fairly well ;-) The whole thing is > entirely handheld in > my back garden. It feels like a bit of a cheat to say > "portable" when > I'm literally standing outside my house, but it really > is a portable > setup. > > Your audio was very good through the ISS - better than my > local 70cm > repeater usually is. I think I may need a bigger 2m > antenna, or a bit > more power - I've got a 2m 6-element quad which I might > press into > service. > > Anyway, maybe I'll catch you on another pass > > 73, > > Gordon MM3YEQ

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Orbit boost to ISS?
by andy thomas 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

The V/U repeater is strong but HRD is tracking it late although I have forced an update to celestrak keps. I suggest this means an unexpected orbital boost. andy g0sfj

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Re: [jamsat-news:2601] ANS-004 AMSAT Weekly Bulletins
by Dee 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Mikio_Mouri wrote: > Dear Dee-san > Thank you for your hard work preparing ANS. > > As for UNITEC-1, Yes, we have contacted the project members, > but in actually, not so much involved yet. > We are interested in this project, but I don't think JAMSAT announced > this mission, and how you received our commitment ; ) > They want to rely on amateur-radio networks, so we are trrying to > get more details (Frequency/Antenna/Power/Orbit/DSP...) > > We will let you know when we receive more details. > DB2OS, Peter-san shows interest in it to work with Bochum 20m > dish! > > We appreciate your continuous support. > > Best regards, 73, > JA3GEP. Mikio Mouri, JAMSAT > > > Dee wrote: > >> AMSAT NEWS SERVICE >> ANS-004 >> >> ANS is a free, weekly, news and information service of AMSAT North >> America, The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS reports on the >> activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an >> active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating >> through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. >> >> Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: >> >> ans-editor(a)amsat.org >> >> >> In this edition: >> * SKN Nominations Due >> * UNITEC-1 >> * ESEO Project News >> * ISS Ops >> * ARISS Report >> * Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) Status Report >> December 29, 2008 >> >> >> SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-004.02 >> UNITEC-1 >> >> AMSAT News Service Bulletin 004.02 >> From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. >> January 4, 2009 >> To All RADIO AMATEURS >> BID: $ANS-004.02 >> >> JAMSAT Announces Amateur Satellite to Venus >> >> AMSAT has received news from Japan that JARL/JAMSAT are collaborating >> with the Japanese University Space Engineering Consortium (UNISEC) to >> send an amateur radio payload into a Venus transfer orbit with the pri- >> mary JAXA Planet-C Venus Orbiter mission planned for May, 2010. >> >> UNITEC-1, developed by the teams who have already launched cubesats >> such as University of Tokyo's XI-IV, XI-V, and Tokyo Institute of Tech- >> nology's CUTE-1, CUTE-1.7+APD has the following engineering missions: >> >> 1. Onboard computers developed by several universities will be tested >> in the harsh space environment in the form of a competition; i.e., >> the computer which can survive to the last in the radiation-rich >> deep space environment will win the competition. >> >> 2. Technologies to receive and decode very weak and low bit rate >> signal coming from deep space will be developed and tested. >> >> 3. Technologies to estimate orbit and signal Doppler shift of the >> satellite based on the received RF signal will be developed and >> tested. These technologies are essential for tracking and receiv- >> ing signals from a satellite in deep space. >> >> The UNITEC-1 team invites the support of amateur radio amateurs all >> around the world to participate in the receiving and data capture ex- >> periments in objectives 2 and 3, above. They note that amateur radio >> operators working as individuals or in groups develop stations and >> techniques to relay their received signal reports and data to the >> UNITEC-1 control station. This is also a unique opportunity to pro- >> pose amateur experiments or competitions to the satellite team. >> >> UNITEC-1 will transmit a signal consisting of a CW beacon of about >> 1 bps speed. One experiment requiring the participation of several >> amateur radio earth stations would include the development of infer- >> eometric techniques to combine the received signals from several >> antennae to improve the received S/N ratio from the spacecraft out- >> bound from earth. >> >> The UNITEC-1 website provides the latest mission information (such as >> orbit parameters, data formats and current status). UNITEC-1 will be >> the first university developed interplanetary satellite as well as the >> first amateur interplanetary satellite. The team sincerely hopes that >> UNITEC-1 will provide unique and exciting opportunity for the radio >> amateurs all over the world to enjoy reception of signals from deep >> space. >> >> The UNITEC-1 website can be seen at: >> http://unitec-1.cc.u-tokai.ac.jp/en/news_en >> >> [ANS thanks Graham Shirville, G3VZV for the above information] >> >> /EX >> > > > > Mikio, Our news service is a service to all that are interested in amateur radio satellite activities. We must always be united with an adventurous spirit. As the world shrinks, we all become closer to learn and assist with our goals. 73, Dee, NB2F

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Off TOPIC RANT
by Robert McGwier 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

http://n4hy.blogspot.com/

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AO-51 L/U DX
by Clare Fowler 15 Jan '09

15 Jan '09

At 20:51 utc Jan 15 worked CU2JX in HM77 on AO-51 mode L/U His signal in and out Max elevation for the pass 8 degrees No other signals heard. Clare VE3NPC

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70cm polerphazer for sale
by Robert Turlington 15 Jan '09

15 Jan '09

Hi All I have a 70cm Polerphazer surplus to requirements,it is a strip line unit for matching X yagi's for any polerization you can think of contiuously ie no switching. I am thinking of someware arround 50 GPB ,postage extra if outside the UK if no offers will go onto E Bay shortly.Regards Robert G8ATE _________________________________________________________________ Choose the perfect PC or mobile phone for you http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/130777504/direct/01/

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FO-29 CW full recovery
by Mineo Wakita 15 Jan '09

15 Jan '09

HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 84 81 7F 8A 82 AA A6 A9 AB A9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 83 81 7F 8A 72 AA A7 AA AB A9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 82 80 7F 8A 7F AA A7 AA AB A9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 84 80 7E 89 76 AA A7 AA AB A9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 85 80 7E 89 8B AB A8 AA AB A9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 01 01 83 80 7E 89 88 AB A8 AB AC A9 HI HI 22 22 88 D5 8F 05 05 25 00 24 01 91 01 84 80 7E 89 88 AB A8 AB AC A9 JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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demo
by Nick Pugh 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

Hi All I have had a few respond to my email. Here is what I am up to tomorrow I will being ham radio demo to middle school and will be monitoring w5exi repeater the echolink node number is 370 324 I will be monitoring from about 1500 to 1630. If you come on echolink w5exi let's talk ham radio and satellites to the kids. My name is Nick Pugh and my call is k5qxj Thanks Nick k5qxj

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GO-32 downlink.
by Dave Aitch 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

Has now returned to 435.225. Nothing seen on the WiSP screen. Still only the usual carrier. 73, Dave.

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H-2A 15 launch sequence
by Masahiro Arai 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

JAXA shows H-2A F15 launch sequence on the web site. http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/index_e.html http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/overview/sequence_e.html Separation time is followings. They will be serapate aroud Antarctica. SHOLA-1 T+32:41 (min:sec) KAGAYAKI T+36:51 KKS-1 T+41:01 STARS T+45:11 PRISM T+49:21 JN1GKZ Masa

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Space Weather Effects
by Alan P. Biddle 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

Morning, As you know, what is called "space weather" can have significant impacts on power grids, communications, etc. I came across what is so far an interesting book on the economic consequences. http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12507 Note you can download a full PDF of the book for free. About 14 megs. Somewhat related to our hobby, and an interesting way to spend a cold evening. Alan WA4SCA

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kids emo
by Nick Pugh 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

I have a demo for 12 year old kids Thursday at about 1500 gmt. I would like to demo Echo link with some ham . If you have the time to come up on Echo link and talk about ham radio and satellites please get email me. I have a preference for dx stations but have gotten only one volunteer who is short on time. So if you have a little time and a radio in range of an echolink repeater or a computer please volunteer. Here is your chance to light the spark that might start a kid on a carrier in math and science. nick

1 0

Re: DO-64 Telemetry.
by Wouter Jan Ubbels 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

Hi Dave, yes your telemetry is very much appreciated! The satellite is currently transmitting on 145.870MHz continuously, only when in sunlight of course. I did reply to your e-mail, but it must have gone lost in the byte bucket then I guess! Let me know whether you succeeded in capturing telemetry from the bird. 73, Wouter Jan Ubbels PE4WJ

1 0

Re: Cheap Auto Trackin Rotator Controlle r
by andy thomas 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

Just a quick posting to say thanks, Kim,for this: I have saved the URL and will revisit it in the future when I finally implement full az/el control. looks good!! 73 de andy G0SFJ

3 2

AO-16
by Leroy Stenzel 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Just worked KB2M on AO-16. It was a 15-degree pass for me. ERP was about 20 watts - was able to hear my own signal down to less than one degree. Sincere thanks to Mark (N8MH) and other control ops who are keeping this grand old bird going! Leroy, W5VG AMSAT #2916

1 0

AO51: mode LU: lot of fun !
by Henk, PA3GUO 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Report out on AO51, mode LU (23cm up, 70cm downlink) Uplink: Kenwood TS2000X, 10W, 35 element TONNA Downlink: Kenwood TS2000X, 2x7 elements Cushcraft Need to switch polarization during the pass (LHCP, RHCP, H, L) on the downlink for strongest signal. Lots of QSB on the uplink, signal varying from noise free to not at all able to copy. Used HRD for automatic doppler correction / control. mp3 clip of QSO with IK1SOW, IW4DVZ and EA2BJM (Jan 12) http://www.pa3guo.com/ao51_modeLU_12jan09_ik1sow_iw4dvz_ea2bjm.mp3 Picture of the antennas used: http://www.pa3guo.com/ant_jun_2008.jpg This evening I also had a 50% complete QSO with Ib, OZ1MY. 73, Henk, PA3GUO http://www.pa3guo.com

1 0

Outstanding ops on AO51
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Working from home this week, so I wanted to hit some passes. This morning on the 1230 UTC pass for AO51, it reminded me of a military radio net. Patience, professionalism, no one talking over anyone else. It truly was an excellent example of the best of ham radio. N3TL - Tim WA5KBH - George WA4NVM - Rick KU8L - Curt A couple of others I missed because of a phone call I received during mid-pass. FB, OM's! Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

2 2

DO-64 Telemetry.
by Dave Aitch 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Hi Wouter. I have listened several times for the data as per your last message but I am not receiving any data. Is DO-64 still working OK ? Do you still require telemetry ? 73, Dave. G1OCN AMSAT UK 5766 IO80SM Portland. Dorset. ================ I did send this note direct on the 10th Jan, but guess it got lost in the byte bucket.

2 1

Nov/Dec Journal
by Ed Long 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Everyone, This issue has been uploaded to the printer moments ago. You should have it in your mailbox soon. Thanks to our new associate editors we are getting more articles. We hope to get the Journal back on schedule within a couple of issues. Thanks for your support and patience! 73,Ed Long WA4SWJ Editor, The AMSAT Journal ----

2 1

Unable to hear AO-7
by Mark Lunday, WD4ELG 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Maybe I am doing something wrong on Mode A. Over the summer I had a couple of successes. Since then, nothing. Station works all the other birds with ease. I recall AO7 has no battery so it must be illuminated. So I only try when the bird is in sunlight. I cannot seem to find my signal on the downlink. I am using dipole, vertical, end fed, every possible combination. Last evening, I thought I may have heard my CW note, but I am not sure. I typically can hear K3SZH calling CQ on the downlink, but just barely. AO7 has low power, but I have worked it before. Certainly it is me who is missing something. Mark Lunday WD4ELG wd4elg(a)arrl.net http://wd4elg.net

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demo
by Nick Pugh 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

I ran this request Sunday and got no response so I am asking once more. I have a demo for 12 year old kids Thursday at about 1600 gmt. I would like to demo Echo link with some ham outside of the USA. If you have the time to come up on Echo link and talk about ham radio and satellites please get email me. Thanks Nick k5qxj

2 1

Computer Control IC-1271
by Gary "Joe" Mayfield 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

I'm having a snow day! One of the joys of life in South Dakota! Don't worry it costs me a day of vacation time. I knocked the dust off my ic-1271 and worked myself on AO-51 as she went by. Has anyone played with computer controlling and IC-1271? My radio does not have the IC-EX309 interface unit. I believe that means it will not even accept (CI-V) /TTL level commands in its current state as there is no connection for them. Has anyone gone down this road, and solved computer control of an IC-1271? Thanks and 73, Joe kk0sd

4 3

ISS Crossband Repeater
by Andrew Koenig 12 Jan '09

12 Jan '09

Tonight I had one of the best times I have ever had on the satellites. I'm not too sure you all would enjoy it for the same reasons, but I thought it was amazing. I was starting to receive the bird, and I tried TX'ing into it, but for some reason the tone didn't stay programmed into my FT-60. So with one hand I'm trying not to loose the satellite with my arrow antenna, while with the other hand I am trying to program the radio. Eventually I give up on programming it so it automatically does the split, so I program in 145.99/67hz tone on one channel, and then 437.805-437.790 (in 5khz steps) in the other channels. Once I got it all programmed enough so it will work, the ISS is at the peak, and I was literally recieving it at full strength, where all of the bars in my HT are lit up. At this point in the pass, it seemed like I was doing pretty well between the 5 different tasks, aiming the antenna, polorization, doppler, switching between TX/RX channels, and making contacts. I really enjoyed this part because it worked, despite the severe improvisions I had to make to get it to work. Although I only made three contacts (W5KUB, W5VG, WA4NVM), I would still consider this a very successful pass. -- Andrew Koenig KE5GDB The 15 year old ham

4 4

STS-51F Videos on YouTube
by Trevor 12 Jan '09

12 Jan '09

Historic Shuttle Amateur Radio Videos http://www.southgatearc.org/news/january2009/historic_shuttle_videos.htm BBC interviews UK Cubesat builders http://www.southgatearc.org/news/january2009/bbc_interviews_cubesat_builder… Namibian VHF DXpedition logs 89 EME contacts on first night http://www.southgatearc.org/news/january2009/namibian_dxpedition_first_nigh… 73 Trevor M5AKA ---- Daily Amateur Radio News by email: http://www.feedburner.com/fb/a/emailverifySubmit?feedId=2783644&loc=en_US ----

1 0

Cheap Auto Trackin Rotator Controller
by K. Tsurumi 12 Jan '09

12 Jan '09

I am using home made Auto Tracking Antenna Rotator Controller. Fairly simple and economical. I have described the details on the following URL. http://www011.upp.so-net.ne.jp/tsurumi/Track88Eng/PIC88Trk.html 73 de JA1JRZ, Kim

1 0

Radio Shack bargain bin find
by Andrew Glasbrenner 12 Jan '09

12 Jan '09

I have a few different projects that I tackled today that involved 2.5mm stereo connectors. After finding my junk box didn't have any, I headed down to Radio Shack rather reluctantly...but it's the only game in town on a Sunday afternoon. Of course the one I went to wasn't a "parts" store, and only had mono plugs. So I decided to cruise the yellow clearance tags and lo and behold, SKU # 43-2003 was on clearance for $1.97. This is half the cost of one of the plugs from the same store. This item consists of a nice 6 ft coiled cable, with a right angle gold-plated 2.5mm stereo plug on one end, and a jack of the same size on the other end. BINGO! I bought four of the seven they had, and a few other pieces I knew the junk box was also missing. Once home, three were hacked up and made into the following cables: 1) Male 2.5mm to DB-9 for connection to the AMSAT' D7 loaner rig for programming 2) Female 2.5mm to DB-9 for connection to my Garmin GPS and D7 mobile harness in lieu of the D7. This allows me to feed NMEA GPS data into my laptop and logging software for next weekend's VHF contest while roving. 3) Male 2.5mm to female 3.5mm for connection from the D7 to normal stereo headphones. These headphones are plentiful, and by cross wiring the female end of the cable you get sound in both ears without adapters. I just wanted to share because I know there are many satellite users that have the D7 also. 73, Drew KO4MA

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Handbag Sat :-)
by Chris Bloy 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Hi All, My sat has turned up :- ISS DEB [TOOLBAG] 1 33442U 98067BL 09010.11134351 .00031997 00000-0 20741-3 0 824 2 33442 51.6439 35.1576 0003034 155.3617 204.8152 15.75714425 8091 >From Celestrack... Any idea the keps of the latest launches? Thanks, Chris - M0DQO

2 1

demo help
by Nick Pugh 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Slightly off topic I have a demo for 12 year old kids Thursday at about 1600 gmt. I would like to demo Echo link with some ham outside of the USA. If you have the time to come up on Echo link and talk about ham radio and satellites please get email me. Thanks Nick k5qxj

4 3

UNITEC-1 Freq.
by jkelly 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Does anyone know what the proposed UNITEC-1 frequency(s) will be? Jeff KT2K

2 1

Re: UNITEC-1 Freq.
by Mineo Wakita 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

UNITEC-1 Deveroper: UNISEC (University Space Engineering Consortium) Launch: May 2010 Vehicle: H-IIA Frequency: Undecided http://unitec-1.cc.u-tokai.ac.jp/en/news_en JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

1 0

P3E
by Yokshs 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Happy New Year, I'd like to know the current status of Phase 3E. Seems that the last I read, the bird was nearly complete? The last launch estimate I heard was "Late 2008". Thanks.. 73. Kyle K0KN

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ANS-011 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by JoAnne Maenpaa 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-011 ANS is a free, weekly, news and information service of AMSAT North America, The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor(a)amsat.org In this edition: * Launch Alert for Seven Small Satellites on January 21 * VE3NPC and G3VZV Complete Transatlantic AO-51 Mode V/S Contact * AMSAT-DC Spring Satellite Workshop Seeks Members for Mission Teams * ARISS logo items at CafePress * Satellite Shorts From All Over * ARISS Status Report for the Week of January 5, 2009 SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.01 Launch Alert for Seven Small Satellites on January 21 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.01 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. January 11, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.01 Mineo Wakita, JE9PEL sent a Cubesat launch alert for seven amateur radio satellites planned as secondary payloads when Japan launches its GOSAT IBUKI satellite on January 21, 2009 at 03.54 UTC. GOSAT - Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite is an environmental monitoring satellite which will be launched from Japan's Tanegashima Space Center aboard the H-IIA F15 booster. Information about the primary mission can be found on-line at: http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/overview/ibuki_e.html http://www.jaxa.jp/projects/sat/gosat/index_e.html Information about the launch vehicle can be found on-line at: http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/overview/h2a_e.html The small satellite palyload will consist of: Satellite Downlink Beacon Mode Callsign --------- ----------- ----------- -------- -------------- KAGAYAKI 437.375 437.375 FSK9k6/CW STARS 437.485/465 437.305/275 FM/CW JR5YBN/JR5YBO KKS-1 437.445 437.385 AFSK/CW JQ1YYY PRISM 437.425 437.250 AFSK/GMSK/CW JQ1YCX SOHLA-1 437.505 437.505 AFSK/CW SPRITE Scientific observation satellite SDS-1 Small demonstration satellite (Ed. note - this table and all links can also be found on the main AMSAT web page http://www.amsat.org - see the bottom story.) Masa, JN1GKZ reported that the small satellites are technically not CubeSats since they are larger in size and each platform is a unique design. He provided the following links to provide more information about each satellite. Kagayaki 31x31x35cm, 28kg http://www.sorun.co.jp/kagayaki/top.html (sorry, Japanese only) STARS - Space Tethered Autonomous Robotic Satellite KU (Mother Satellite) 16x16x25cm KAI (Daughter Satellite) 16x16x15cm http://stars1.eng.kagawa-u.ac.jp/english/index.html KKS-1 Kouku-Kousen-Satellite-1 15x15x15cm, 3kg http://www.kouku-k.ac.jp/~kks-1 (sorry, Japanese only) PRISM Pico-satellite for Remote-sensing and Innovative Space Missions 20x20x40cm, 8kg http://www.space.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/prism/main-e.html SOHLA-1 http://www.sohla.com/docs/index.php They will be launched into a sun synchronous orbit to an altitude of 660km with an inclination of 98.1 degrees. The orbital period is estimated to be 98 minutes. [ANS thanks Mineo Wakita, JE9PEL and Masa, JN1GKZ for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.02 VE3NPC and G3VZV Complete Transatlantic AO-51 Mode V/S Contact AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.02 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. January 11, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.02 Clare, VE3NPC and Graham, G3VZV completed a transatlantic contact via AO-51 running an uplink of 145.880 MHz FM and downlink of 2401.200 MHz FM at 10:11 UTC on January 9, 2009. Clare reported the elevation at 5 degrees and a range of 2700 km. The two stations completed a short QSO with clear signals. Clare says his equipment consists of a 52 turn helix with reflector cup into a DEM preamp and downconverter into SatPC32 controlled FT-736 for 13cm receiving on 2401.200 MHz. He used an FT-847 with 2 watts into 2 x 6 el quagis for 2m for his uplink. Complete infor- mation on the 52 turn helix was published in the September/October 2008 AMSAT Journal. At the other end of the contact Graham, G3VZV says he was operating with an IC910 barefoot. The antennas included WIMO circular polarised VHF (10 dBd) and UHF (12 dBd) crossed quad antennas and the famous G3RUH 600mm/2 foot dish and patchfeed with a Kuhne DB6NT preamp at the feed left over from AO40 operating. The antennas are all at about 40 feet. The satellite reached around 3 degrees elevation. Graham says he did all doppler tuning correction by hand. In other AO-51 news, AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew KO4MA provided updates to the AO-51 Operating Mode Schedule to better support a hamfest operation, and a DXpedition to Namibia. January 12 - January 18 FM Repeater, V/U Uplink: 145.920 MHz FM Downlink: 435.300 MHz FM FM Repeater, L/U Uplink: 1268.700 MHz FM Downlink: 435.150 MHz FM January 19 - January 25 FM Repeater, V/U Uplink: 145.920 MHz FM Downlink: 435.300 MHz FM 9k6 BBS, L/U Uplink: 1268.700 MHz 9k6 FM Downlink: 435.150 MHz 9k6 FM January 26 - February 1 FM Repeater, L/S Uplink: 1268.700 MHz FM Downlink: 2401.200 MHz FM SSTV Repeater, V/U Uplink: 145.860 MHz FM SSTV Downlink: 435.150 MHz FM SSTV The full AO-51 schedule and Command Team News can be found on-line at: http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/echo/ControlTeam.php. The AMSAT main web page will also provide a quick status update when the infor- mation changes. Operating mode requests can be sent via e-mail to ao51-modes(a)amsat.org . [ANS thanks Drew, KO4MA, and congratulates Clare, VE3NPC, and Graham, G3VZV for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.03 AMSAT-DC Spring Satellite Workshop Seeks Members for Mission Teams AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.03 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. January 11, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.03 If you find yourself in the Baltimore-Washington DC area this spring you may be interested in learning more and participating in an AMSAT-DC workshop which simulates building, testing, launch- ing, and receiving signals from an Amateur Radio satellite. AMSAT Area Coordinator for the Maryland-DC area, Pat Kilroy, N8PK is proposing such a workshop for the 2009 AMSAT-DC Meeting and Space Seminar. This meeting is historically held in early spring at or near the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. Pat is proposing individuals and groups of Amateur Radio operators form teams who compete at this AMSAT-DC workshop to create and operate a satellite mission. The first groups will build a PICetSat II flight module from a kit of electronic parts on a small printed circuit board. You can see an example of the original PICetSat module at: http://patkilroy.com/simsat/3/ The second groups will set up simple satellite ground stations to operate on 433.920 MHz SSB. These team members need to provide a radio, antenna, and feedline for the 70 cm band. The third groups will be in charge of setting up and loading soft- ware in the computers at the ground stations to decode the telemetry and to analyze it according to a set of instructions. This event will be perfect for beginners and advanced satellite users alike, all ultimately working together to "launch" the flight module, receive the downlink, and decode the telemetry. Instructions will be provided in advance of the event to enhance preparation. Pat notes he needs volunteer help to plan and organize this event. A couple of dedicated individuals are needed immediately to start the plans to lock in the workshop meeting space, advertise the event, to do the footwork needed to process participant applications, and to assure one set of radio and computer stations are on hand and ready at the start of the workshop. To volunteer contact Pat at his e-mail address: n8pk(a)amsat.org as soon as possible. Pat will convene a conference call for all interested participants to finalize the Workshop details with the volunteers. Pat requests that interested amateur radio operators RSVP to him via e-mail n8pk(a)amsat.org and indicate which group you will be most inter- ested in working with. The cost of the Workshop is still "TBD" to cover the materials and meeting space. Those choosing the PICetSat II will keep their completed project. [ANS thanks Pat, N8PK for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.04 ARISS logo items at CafePress AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.04 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. January 11, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.04 Will, KC6ROL says, "The ARISS team is pleased to announce the availability of ARISS logo items through the online store at: http://www.cafepress.com/ariss " The ARISS logo is being made available as a courtesy to the members of the amateur radio community for personal use. Persons wishing to market items with the ARISS logo need to contact the ARISS Secretary Treasurer, Rosalie White, at k1sto(a)arrl.org to receive permission. AMSAT-NA receives 10% from sales through this store. These funds will be used to support the ARISS team activities. Neither ARISS nor AMSAT have any control over items ordered, or returns, through Café Press. [ANS thanks Will, KC6ROL for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.05 Satellite Shorts From All Over AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.05 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. January 11, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.05 + CQ Magazine announced a new e-mail list has been established to notify readers of the availability of each new issue of WorldRadio magazine, which is converting to a free online-only publication. You may sign up for the list at: http://mailman.sunserver.com/mailman/listinfo/WorldRadio-L . Direct links to this signup page will be posted on both the CQ magazine website at http://www.cq-amateur-radio.com and the old WorldRadio website at http://www.wr6wr.com . + SatMagazine, a free web based magazine is available on-line at: http://www.satmagazine.com/cgi-bin/display_edition.cgi . This month's issue is dedicated to Cubesats. AMSAT and Amateur Radio are mentioned. + If you participated in OSCAR SKN, please nominate someone you worked for Best Fist now, while you're thinking of it. Remember, your nominee need not have the best fist you heard, just the best of those you worked. Send your nomination to w2rs(a)amsat.org + The first English issue of the free electronic Amateur Radio magazine Ham-Mag is now available and features an article on working satellites with your HT by K6LCS. The first issue can be downloaded from the maga- zine's website at http://www.ham-mag.com/ and if you subscribe (free) the magazine will be emailed to you each month. + Information about the Southeastern VHF Society Conference April 24-25 in Charlotte, NC can be found at: http://www.w4dex.com/svhfs_2009.htm + An upgrade to the RASCAL software to decode DO-64 telemetry is avail- able at http://www.delfic3.nl/rascal - this page also includes the upgrading instructions if you are moving up from a previous version. [ANS thanks everyone for the above information] /EX SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-011.06 ARISS Status Report for the Week of January 5, 2009 AMSAT News Service Bulletin 011.06 >From AMSAT HQ SILVER SPRING, MD. January 11, 2009 To All RADIO AMATEURS BID: $ANS-011.06 1. School Contacts Axam Jatiya Vidyalaya in Guwahati, India had a successful ARISS contact on Wednesday, January 7 at 08:01 UTC via telebridge station W6SRJ in California. Approximately 1300 students are enrolled at the school. All students are taught in Assamese with English taught as a compulsory second language. Tongfu Road No. 1 Primary School in Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China has been scheduled for an ARISS contact on Saturday, January 17 at 10:23 UTC. The school is over 70 years old with an enrollment of over 1000 students. An amateur radio club was established at the school in 2007 and during the same year a team from this school won the national youngster's amateur radio contest. Elective courses on amateur radio, space technology and ARISS are offered to the students. All grades have participated in essay and cartoon contests to prepare for the contact. Students have written letters to the astronauts and determined the questions to ask. Media coverage is planned with newspapers, tele- vision and the internet. 2. Technopolis Contact Successful On Saturday, January 3, students visiting Technopolis in Mechelen, Belgium experienced an ARISS contact via telebridge station VK4KHZ in Australia. The students asked Mike Fincke, KE5AIT, 16 questions with time left over to exchange Season's Greetings. Approximately 100 students, parents and ham radio operators attended the event. Three television stations and two newspapers reported on the contact. The audio was fed into the EchoLink AMSAT and JK1ZRW servers and received 29 connections from ten different countries including the Ukraine and Romania. More information on the contact may be found on the ARISS-Europe Web site: http://www.ariss-eu.org/2009_01_03.htm 3. ARISS 25th Anniversary Special Event Update To celebrate the 25th anniversary of ham radio in space, an ARISS commemorative event will be held during the month of December through mid January. A special certificate is being developed for those who communicate with the ISS, either 2-way direct (with the ISS crew, the digipeater, or cross band repeater), or 1-way reception of SSTV or voice downlink. For more information and an update on this event, see: http://www.rac.ca/ariss/oindex.htm under "Latest News." [ANS thanks Carol, KB3LKI for the above information] /EX In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President's Club. Members of the President's Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive additional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT Office. With that recall the time two silk worms had a race which ended in a tie. 73, This week's ANS Editor, JoAnne Maenpaa, K9JKM K9JKM at amsat dot org

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Re: Equador on AO-7
by K7WIN - Jeff 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Hi Glenn, I worked HC2FG, in grid FI07 via AO-51in August of 2007. I will have to listen for the HC station. 73, Jeff - K7WIN > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Glenn Miller" <aa5pk(a)hotmail.com> > To: "AMSAT BBS" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Friday, January 09, 2009 7:43 PM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Equador on AO-7 > > > > I heard an HC7? in grid FI07 on AO-7 last evening (Jan 9) around 0318Z. I > missed his call sign, but copied his grid before he was LOS. > Has anyone else heard or worked him? > > 73 de Glenn AA5PK > San Angelo, TX DM91 > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live™ Hotmail®: Chat. Store. Share. Do more with mail. > http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_hm_justgotbetter_explor… > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > >

1 0

General Astrodynamics Library v0.5
by Paul Willmott 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

Version 0.5.0 of the General Astrodynamics Library has been released. It can be downloaded from the project website here: http://homepage.mac.com/pclwillmott/GAL/index.html Updates in this release: ** Additional routines added to Kepler sub-library ** Planetary and Moon rotational elements added ** Reference frame routines for planets other than Earth ** Acceleration due to Solar Radiation Pressure added ** Acceleration due to Atmospheric Drag added ** Sun occulation routine added for satellite eclipses ** Support for Harris-Priester Earth Atmosphere Model ** Mars date and time routines added ** Ellipsoid models for the planets and the Sun added ** Earth satellite rise/set routine added. The Reference Manual will be updated shortly. The General Astrodynamics Library (GAL) is a numerical library for C and C++ programmers. It is free software under the GNU General Public License. The library provides a wide range of astrodynamical routines such as ephemerides, earth orientation, and orbit propagation. There are over 260 functions in total with an extensive test suite. Paul Willmott, VP9MU AMSAT-BDA

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Re: Does working through ISS repeater qualify for 25th Ann Certificate?
by Mike Ryan 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

Right. Amusingly enough all respondents pointed me to the exact article I referenced in the first place. My question is around interpretation of the article. Repeaters are certainly mentioned, but it doesn't say if a contact through the repeater to a terrestrial HAM would count or not. In this case you're not communicating "with" the ISS, but communicating back to earth "through" the ISS. You're not actually QSOing with someone on board which is more coveted. For lack of clarity, I suppose I could just submit the request and see what happens. Mike WB1AAT ----- Original Message ----- From: Dave Webb To: Mike Ryan Sent: Saturday, January 10, 2009 11:24 AM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Does working through ISS repeater qualify for 25th Ann Certificate? Yes it does.Check out...http://www.issfanclub.com/node/8124 Take care, Dave On Sat, Jan 10, 2009 at 11:12 AM, Mike Ryan <mryan301(a)comcast.net> wrote: The following mentions availability of a QSL certificate for contact with ISS for the 25 anniversary. Is a QSO made with another terrestrial HAM via the cross band repeater eligible for this or must the contact be directly with someone on-board? http://www.rac.ca/ariss/oindex.htm Mike WB1AAT _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

2 1

GO-32 downlink.
by Dave Aitch 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

The downlink is ON 435.325. Still no data (WiSP) just the occasional carrier. 73, Dave. IO80SM

1 0

WD9EWK @ hamfest
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

Just worked Patrick WD9EWK via VO-52, with an audience at the hamfest. I had some local noise on the downlink, and hope my uplink was sufficient. His signal was good, and he had several others calling . . . Thanks /;^) -- <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> <- http://www.linkedin.com/in/alansieg * My 'Day Job' ->

1 0

Does working through ISS repeater qualify for 25th Ann Certificate?
by Mike Ryan 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

The following mentions availability of a QSL certificate for contact with ISS for the 25 anniversary. Is a QSO made with another terrestrial HAM via the cross band repeater eligible for this or must the contact be directly with someone on-board? http://www.rac.ca/ariss/oindex.htm Mike WB1AAT

2 1

KKS-1 frequency update
by Mineo Wakita 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

KKS-1 Downlink Beacon Mode Callsign 437.445 437.385 AFSK/CW JQ1YYY JE9PEL/1 Mineo Wakita

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Equador on AO-7
by Glenn Miller 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

I heard an HC7? in grid FI07 on AO-7 last evening (Jan 9) around 0318Z. I missed his call sign, but copied his grid before he was LOS. Has anyone else heard or worked him? 73 de Glenn AA5PK San Angelo, TX DM91 _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live™ Hotmail®: Chat. Store. Share. Do more with mail. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_hm_justgotbetter_explor…

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SatPC32 & Multiple Sats Display
by Sebastian 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

Some time ago, the ability of SatPC32 to display multiple satellites stopped working for me. I uninstalled the program, and reinstalled it, and have the same problem. Pressing on the little M on the upper left doesn't seem to do anything. It will go from M+ to M- but that's all it does. So can someone give me an idea if there is a registry setting or a file that needs fixing? I'm using Windows XP with SP3. 73 de W4AS Sebastian

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AO-7 at 0055Z 1/10
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

next pass of AO7 I will be looking to stretch the footprint a bit toward South America. Downlink of 145.958. If any YV's etc are around I will be there. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle cn87 -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it"

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What frequency do I use?
by WB2LLP 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

As of late Thursday afternoon the ARISS site was showing the 145.99/437.80 pair in two locations. Unfortunately one location was the inverse of the other. Which was correct? If I had packed up my equipment and gone out to work the ISS repeater, and heard nothing because I picked the wrong frequency pair I would come home rather frustrated/irritated. AO-51 is a wonderfully capable machine and the controllers are doing a wonderful job of changing the satellite capabilities which encourages the newcomer to improve his station and the old timer to dust off his AO-40 hardware. Unfortunately, for any number of reasons, the satellite capabilities and frequencies have been changing rather quickly. If a user does not check the AMSAT website, and the AMSAT BBS before trying to hear the satellite he risks hearing nothing and getting frustrated thinking that there is something wrong with his equipment or his understanding of the process. I would like to suggest that the controllers give some serious thought to more stability in the AO-51 configuration. Maybe the configuration periods should be at least 2 weeks so that people have a better chance of knowing the hardware and frequencies of the satellite. Also, the person trying a new configuration has a few consecutive days to get the bugs out of his station. Additionally, make sure the information presented on the AMSAT and ARISS sites is correct. 73 de WB2LLP Gene

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ISS V/U Crossband repeater
by Peter Sils 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Hi All, Last night I was finally able to get everything to work and made my first contact through the ISS V/U crossband repeater. It took a lot of work setting up antenna's in the attic, SatPC32 for the frequencies (TNX to David - KG4ZLB/MØZLB for help with this) and TNX to N5UXT for hearing me and contact (Angelo, QSL is in the mail)! The pass last night (0420 UTC) was orderly (IMHO) and enabled me to make a contact with a modest set-up - small 435 yagi for RX (fixed AZ and EL) and a J-pole for 45 watts TX - all in the attic. My wife did not understand my determination to make a contact thru/with ISS before Jan 15 - hi hi Now on to the sat's! TNX AGN to David and Angelo! I was like a kid at Christmas! Peter KD0AA

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A-51 V/S Trans Atlantic QSO
by Clare Fowler 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Had my 1st transatlantic QSO on AO-51 on mode V/S. with G3VZV at 10:11 UTC. (5:11 am local). Elevation 5 degrees range 2700 km. Short QSO and good signals. Now back to bed. Clare VE3NPC

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Re: A-51 V/S Trans Atlantic QSO
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Hi Guys, "Congratulations" - Nice one and very significant to show what can be achieved. Cheers Ken GW1FKY

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Magazine Article on Cubesats
by John . 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

SatMagazine is a free web based magazine that I get each month. This month's issue is dedicated to Cubesats. They even mention AMSAT and amateur radio in one article. A link to the magazine is attached. http://www.satmagazine.com/cgi-bin/display_edition.cgi Regards John

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Solved Re: Please check my settings for ISS
by Mike Ryan 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Hello all, Thanks much for all the great feedback. Its turned out my keps were off in SATPC32 and I just needed to do a quick update. Funny that the ISS was the only SAT exhibiting the problem. Perhaps its orbit/schedule is more dynamic than the rest? Made 4 contacts yesterday on ISS with relative ease. Awesome big signal coming from there. Loving every second of it. I wish they would keep it going a little longer. Mike WB1AAT

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Re: Please check my settings for ISS
by Wayne Estes 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Mike WB1AAT wrote: I've tried listening to a few passes (as high as 70 degrees) the last 2 days and heard nothing but silence. I must be doing something wrong. Can the group confirm I am doing this right for the current cross band repeater? My Xmit is 145.99 tone 67 hz My RX is 437.8 My radios, antennas, preamps, and such are fine as I can still work SO-50, AO-51, and FO-29. What gives? Wayne W9AE replies: Somebody posted those frequencies a couple days ago, but it seems "backwards" to me. I thought ISS downlinks were ALWAYS on 2m. I keep missing the ISS passes the last couple days, but I've loaded the above frequencies and the reverse into Doppler.SQF on SatPC32, so I can hopefully confirm which is the correct uplink/downlink for the crossband repeater. The last time I worked the crossband repeater the downlink was definitely on 2m, but that was probably using the "standard" crossband repeater pair of 437.8 MHz up and 145.8 MHz down. When you do finally hear the crossband repeater, speak softly or turn the microphone gain way down. The crossband repeater's audio is easily overloaded even when you transmit in FM-narrow mode (3 kHz deviation). Wayne Estes W9AE Oakland, Oregon, USA, CN83ik

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Turn deviation down for ISS repeater
by OZ1MY 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Hi all, During the last two passes over Europe tonight the observation is that many use too high deviation. It makes the audio difficult to read (hear). Try to turn the mike gain down or use FM Narrow on the uplink when using the repeater :-) And another thing - for a QSO to be valid you just need the call and the signal report. No need for locator or personal name. Please no flames. 73 OZ1MY Ib

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hamfest demonstrations on Saturday (10 January)
by Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK) 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

Hi! On Saturday, 10 January 2009, I will have an AMSAT table at the ThunderBird Amateur Radio Club's "Westfest" hamfest in Glendale AZ. Just like in 2008, this will be an indoor hamfest on the campus of the Thunderbird School of Global Management. This campus is on the southeast corner of 59th Avenue and Greenway in Glendale (grid DM33vo). The hamfest starts at 0700 local time (1400 UTC), and is officially scheduled to run until 1200 local time. A map showing the hamfest site is available at: http://www.w7tbc.org/PDF_File/WestFest/Westfest_side_2.pdf More information about the hamfest can be found at: http://www.w7tbc.org/Westfest.html During the hamfest, I will do satellite demonstrations outside the building via AO-51 and VO-52 using my callsign WD9EWK. With Drew's recent announcement about the AO-51 mode change for this weekend (thanks Drew!), I will be able to show off both the 435.300 MHz and 2401.200 MHz downlinks during the 1429 UTC pass. I will try working the later AO-51 pass around 1610 UTC, which will be a shallow pass to the northwest of the hamfest. I plan on trying VO-52 during the 1703 and 1839 UTC passes, with my downlink in the area of 145.915 MHz USB. I will be happy to send you a QSL card if we make a contact during my demonstrations. Just e-mail me directly with the QSO information, and I will drop a card in the mail. 73! Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK http://www.wd9ewk.net/

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ARISS logo items at CafePress
by Will Marchant 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

The ARISS team is pleased to announce the availability of ARISS logo items through the http://www.cafepress.com/ariss online store. The ARISS logo is being made available as a courtesy to the members of the amateur radio community for personal use. Persons wishing to market items with the ARISS logo need to contact the ARISS Secretary Treasurer, Rosalie White, at k1sto(a)arrl.org to receive permission. AMSAT-NA receives 10% from sales through this store. These funds will be used to support the ARISS team activities. Neither ARISS nor AMSAT have any control over items ordered, or returns, through Café Press. 73, Will -- Will Marchant, NAR 13356, Tripoli 10125 L3, AMA 800142, FBIS kc6rol(a)amsat.org http://www.spaceflightsoftware.com/will/

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Scientific Atlanta Series 3860 digital controller ACU
by Pieter Kotze 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

Hello all Anyone have one of these lying around? Or know where to source? Regards Pieter ZS1PK/M0PAK -- This message is subject to the CSIR's copyright terms and conditions, e-mail legal notice, and implemented Open Document Format (ODF) standard. The full disclaimer details can be found at http://www.csir.co.za/disclaimer.html. This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. MailScanner thanks Transtec Computers for their support.

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Please check my settings for ISS
by Mike Ryan 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

I've tried listening to a few passes (as high as 70 degrees) the last 2 days and heard nothing but silence. I must be doing something wrong. Can the group confirm I am doing this right for the current cross band repeater? My Xmit is 145.99 tone 67 hz My RX is 437.8 My radios, antennas, preamps, and such are fine as I can still work SO-50, AO-51, and FO-29. What gives? Mike WB1AAT

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AO-7 full house and DX in mode B
by Andrew Glasbrenner 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

Wow! Two great passes of AO-7 here tonight in mode B. On the first pass I had quick QSOs with YV4DYJ, WP4CNU, YV6BFE, and W7LRD, and heard WA4NVM and N5UXT. Next pass I had a nice longer QSO with K7WIN, and heard N0FJP, AA5PK, and WB9YIG. The old bird is in fine shape. 73, Drew KO4MA

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New CubeSat Launch
by Mineo Wakita 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

Liftoff: 03:54(UTC) on Jan.21, 2009 Vehicle: H-IIA F15 Launch: Tanegashima Space Center in Japan Payloads: GOSAT (Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite) IBUKI Piggyback Payloads: Satellite Downlink Beacon Mode Callsign KAGAYAKI (Solan Co.) 437.375 437.375 FSK9k6/CW STARS (Kagawa Univ.) 437.485/465 437.305/275 FM/CW JR5YBN/JR5YBO KKS-1 (Tokyo MCIT) 437.455 437.385 AFSK/CW JQ1YDG PRISM (Tokyo Univ.) 437.425 437.250 AFSK/GMSK/CW JQ1YCX SOHLA-1 (ASTRO TECH.) 437.505 437.505 AFSK/CW SPRITE (Tohoku Univ.) Scientific observation satellite SDS-1 (JAXA) Small demonstration satellite http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/overview/sub_payload_e.html http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/overview/ibuki_e.html http://www.jaxa.jp/countdown/f15/overview/h2a_e.html http://www.jaxa.jp/projects/sat/gosat/index_e.html JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: Doppler Problem...a second look
by John Marranca, Jr 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Tim, et al: After hitting the SEND button, I had a bit of "Buyer's Remorse" as I am sure we all have done from time to time. While some of the best things in life may be free, the support that SatPC32 provides the AMSAT program with its financial contributions to the ongoing programs is key. 100% of the registration fees go to AMSAT, so that we may continue to use, maintain, and enjoy the satellites. -- _______________________________ John Marranca, Jr PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 BN Systems, Inc Orchard Park, NY (716)972-2006

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Slight AO-51 schedule change
by Andrew Glasbrenner 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

In order to better support a hamfest operation, and a DXpedition to Namibia, we've slightly modified the AO-51 schedule as follows: January 5 - January 8 FM Repeater, V/S Uplink: 145.880 MHz FM Downlink: 2401.200 MHz FM 9k6 BBS, L/U Uplink: 1268.700 MHz 9k6 FM Downlink: 435.150 MHz 9k6 FM January 9 - January 11 FM Repeater, V/US Uplink: 145.880 MHz FM Downlink: 435.300 and 2401.200 MHz FM January 12 - January 18 FM Repeater, V/U Uplink: 145.920 MHz FM Downlink: 435.300 MHz FM FM Repeater, L/U Uplink: 1268.700 MHz FM Downlink: 435.150 MHz FM Sorry for any inconvenience. 73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations

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Re: Doppler Problem
by John Marranca, Jr 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Tim: Try Ham Radio Deluxe. By simply hitting the F2 key, you can tune around the passband at will. Besides...it's also FREE. John KB2HSH -- _______________________________ John Marranca, Jr PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 BN Systems, Inc Orchard Park, NY (716)972-2006

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Please check my settings for ISS
by MAC1 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Hi Mike, Speaking from a personal experience, please check you PC clock time and date, Local time or UTC, observer location, tracking satellite , Keps too. You have all the rest correct. Good luck Dino VE7XDT

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Yaesu FT-847 Earth Station For Sale
by Sebastian 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

I've decided to go up a bit on frequency and bought an Icom IC-910H. I have my Yaesu FT-847 up for sale. The serial number is 2K640043. This one doesn't have the CAT problem which the early ones did with rig control. I have used it exclusively on the ham radio satellites (ask anyone who is active on satellites about how it sounds). The rig is in very good condition, there are no visible scratches or dings on it anywhere. I have the original box, the manual, the very large technical supplement manual, power cord and original invoice dated 12/09/02 from AES. I don't have the original box, however it will be packaged securely and will be double-boxed. I use FedEx for shipping. Price with Yaesu MD-100 base microphone is $1,000. Without microphone - $900. Note that I don't have the original stock hand mike. Pictures available upon request. If you'd like to speak to me, send me your phone number and I'll call you on my dime. USPS money orders ONLY - no PayPal. 73 de W4AS Sebastian

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Re: UNITEC-1 Venus probe
by andy thomas 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Looking at the Japanese section of the website it seems that the beacon will be 15w on 5.8 Ghz (I may be wrong about this because hese are the nly non-Japanese characters). I wonder what the qrm might be from this system on 5.9 GHz? This is an experimental road-tolling system outside Denver Colorado. http://www.kapsch.net/kag/en/17722_ENU_HTMLExtranetCDEn.htm andy G0SFJ

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Re: New CubeSat Launch
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Hello Mineo, I would also like to add my good wishes for the launch of these cube sats. Also thanks for the valuable work associated with their contributions to research . I wonder if any associated software will be available that might prove of interest on general basis. Looking forward toward the addition of these satellites and another good start to the year. Best Regards to all. Ken Eaton GW1FKY

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Re: LOTW &/or eQSL ?
by John W Lee 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Alan, There is no reason you can't upload to both E-QSL and LOTW. I send in my logs monthly to both. E-QSL's really don't count for any of the major awards. LOTW confirmations count for DXCC and WAS. 73, John K6YK On Tue, 30 Dec 2008 22:56:30 -0600 (CST) "Alan Sieg WB5RMG" <wb5rmg(a)somenet.net> writes: > I started using eQSL a year or so back, and have only recently seen > enough > action in my log to warrant uploading new contacts. I've been trying > to > go back thru old logs, and get caught up on returning some QSLs... > > Seems what I'm hearing is that some do eQSL, some LOTW, others only > paper... > Reckon is there any harm in also doing LOTW ? How many do both > ? > I'm sure that there are some that don't do either - no great loss I > guess. > /;^) > -- > <- Licensed in 1976, WB5RMG = Alan Sieg * AMSAT#20554 -> > <- http://www.somenet.net * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> > <- http://www.linkedin.com/in/alansieg * My 'Day Job' -> > > _______________________________________________ > 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 > > ____________________________________________________________ Free information - Learn about Hardwood Floors. Click now! http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/PnY6rw2eFAMyHTHPsePZzlZDxnTfb4p…

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ISS Repeater
by Rick - WA4NVM 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Good morning AMSAT, Nothing heard on the 1258 utc pass of the ISS this morning. Did I miss a posting, maybe space walk or something? Thanks for any info. 73, Rick - WA4NVM # 1339

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doppler tuning problem
by Tim Goodrich 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Hi all, Now that I finally have SatPC32 working with my 817, I'm having a new issue with Doppler tuning on the SSB birds. I tune around the passband until I can hear a station clearly. When there's a break, I transmit my call. The other station will hear me, but by the time the reply comes, I can no longer hear them clearly. It's almost as if the automatic Doppler tuning either can't keep up with or goes too fast to stay locked onto the correct frequency. I know its not the other station's frequency adjustment because this happens when there's a QSL already happening and they seem to be Doppler shifting at the same rate. Any suggestions? Thank you, Tim KC2DDS/AG

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2m all-mode CAT controllable rig
by Michael J. Wolthuis 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Does anyone know of a fairly reasonably priced CAT controllable (read doppler) 2m rig? Ham radio deluxe or other? Also, maybe I am misunderstanding how it would work, thus the post to AMSAT-bb. I want to auto correct the doppler on a rig connected to my CalAMP 130016 which puts 2401.016 at 123.000mhz. Can I find an all-mode radio that will work with CAT control? The rotor is already controlled by Nova and a Unitrac unit. Mike kb8zgl

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Running Nova on VISTA question
by Allen Fugelseth 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Hello All, I have NOVA, ver 2.1v and I want to run it on MS VISTA. Is NOVA, ver 2.1v compatable with MS VISTA? I upgraded my old installaton to 2.2b. 73, Allen WB6RWU

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Re: Still not getting into the ISS...
by G0MRF＠aol.com 06 Jan '09

06 Jan '09

Hi Roger. In the recent past the squelch appears to have been set fairly high. As witnessed by the repeated signals being essentially noise free. It is now much easier to track the correct uplink on 2m as the doppler shift is small compared to the 12.5kHz or so (a guess) bandwidth of the ISS receivers IF filter. Unfortunately, I believe the D800 is unable to operate with the squelch open due to overheating problems. Not that anyone is complaining, this ARISS operation is great! But the D800 is not a purpose built satellite repeater. Given a choice, a SO50 type approach would give easier access for operators while saving power / heating and RF pollution. A CTCSS detector that initiated a timer, or perhaps a system that simply allowed the repeater to stay open for 10 or 15 seconds after loss of the tone would allow people to 'net' onto the correct uplink frequency, or hear when their signal had a fade or collision with another station. I suppose the ARISS equipment will be upgraded at some point in the future and maybe some dedicated hardware with simple to operate controls for the crew (and remote commanding from the ground) will overcome these minor problems with an otherwise very successful system. Still, 5 Watts downlink is quite amazing and unlike any conventional satellite we have. Where's my 2m amp...... Regards David G0MRF In a message dated 06/01/2009 10:07:23 GMT Standard Time, rogerkola(a)aol.com writes: An interesting thought...could they have the squelch engaged while also requiring tone? I personally haven't been able to get in on 80 degree passes over New England with 25 watts and an omni at 5:30 AM local time. Reception is just fine, but there are a lot of "empty" spaces in between contacts that could be collisions I guess... Roger WA1KAT

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AO-51 V/S
by Andrew Glasbrenner 06 Jan '09

06 Jan '09

Heard this evening so far on V/S: VE3NPC KB1RNI N3MVF AJ8P KC9ELU AK5V I made an interesting recording of the S band transmitter last pass with WinRad and my SDR-IQ. The signal peaks about 45 db above the noise! This is with a 3 ft dish with a patch feed, preamp at the feed, and keps.it downconverter to a hamtronics converter to the -IQ. I'll make the recording available to anyone who'd like it, and the software to play it is available for free at http://www.winrad.org/ . The catch is it is about 530Mb. Maybe someone has a website they would put it on? Otherwise if you want it, send me a SASE and blank CD or DVD and I'll make a copy for you. 73, Drew KO4MA

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Still not getting into the ISS...
by MAC1 06 Jan '09

06 Jan '09

Hi Gordon, I had a chance to talk to Mike from the ISS on Saturday for 7-8 minutes. I was the only station at the time (3 AM..) During the pass I tried to adjust to minimum power and my pre-amp on and off. My feeling is that 5 W is not enough to keep the ISS squelch open. The pre-amp made a difference on low elevation. I used 25W, 120 FT LMR 400 coax, 4 element Yagi on 48ft tower, automatic AZ/ EL and automatic doppler with SatPC32. Dino VE7XDT

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