I’m also a newcomer to the birds, but very excited about it. Likewise, I responded to the survey, but wanted to comment further regarding geostationary and HEO satellites.
In the camp of “Both, please.” The HEO birds would once again offer the possibility of DXCC and make WAS more realistic—it also offers more operating challenges.
But a geostationary amateur satellite would have many interesting benefits:
Provide an easier introduction to satellite operation, and attract new operators. Excellent tool for emergency communications during a natural disaster. Opportunity to experiment with microwave operations. The ability to enjoy satellite operation any time of the day/night. The band is always open.
I’m grateful for anyone who incorporates amateur radio into their satellites, but feel that birds should include either linear, digital, or FM transponders whenever possible. Designers are asking a lot of hams when they solicit our monitoring their telemetry signals, and using amateur spectrum for their purposes without much tangible benefit to us. My opinion only.
It’s wonderful that they asked us. Dialogue is the key to most human accomplishment.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member