John,

Take a look at the Pryme AL-800 antenna. It has been used successfully on satellites, though preferably in a quiet location such as a ship. I have a BNC version which I used very briefly years ago on some early morning passes. Amazon and eBay have versions with an SMA connector. Of course, the usual caveats about clones apply.

73,

Alan

WA4SCA

From: JOHN GEIGER via AMSAT-BB <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2024 13:26
To: amsat-bb <[email protected]>
Subject: [AMSAT-BB] HT Whip recommendations

I am trying to set up an ultra-portable FM satellite station-something that can be used pedestrian mobile, and something that will fit into a school size backpack for airline travel.  Have the HT already-a 10 watt TIDRADIO HT and have made a couple of satellite QSOs using its stock rubber duck.  

I bought a Nagoya 771R telescoping version of their 771 antenna (which everyone raves about) but it doesn't hear the Mode J satellites well.  The stock rubber duck hears them better.  The antenna is supposed to be a 5/8 wave on 70cm, maybe that is the problem.

Any recommendation on HT antennas people have been using on the satellites with success?  It needs to be a whip type antenna-not a yagi that breaks down for transportation.  I realize this is a very limited setup, but it is better than being QRT in some circumstances.

73 John AF5CC

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