"The new AMSAT CubeSat's initial capability is planned to add to the popular low-earth orbit FM transponder fleet allowing hams to continue to use their existing handheld and portable antenna systems. This also continues the accessible entry path for new satellite operators to get started. The existing FM satellites are starting to show their age."
It was widely admitted that AO-51 was a mistake years ago as a transponder type satellite should have been chosen instead of a single channel satellite.
IMHO There ia already enough capabilities with the existing fleet SO-50 AO-51 AO-27 ISS cross band repeater for an entry class satellite plus many cubes in the making as arisat-1. What we lack is a HEO or some AO-07 like satellite with transponder who will make transcontinental QSO'S possible. Theses one channel satellite are a waste of money compare to a transponder type as many simultaneous QSO'S can be achieved at the same time.
But theses issues where widely discussed in the past and i'm guessing the AMSAT symposium attendance widely clapped at this announcement!!!
What AMSAT-NA will be in the next years " HANDHELD CLUB" as written " to continue to use their existing handheld and portable antenna systems."
Wrong direction again 180 degrees of the logical course again!
P.S. It is obvious this variation on the same subject proposal will have plenty of time to evolved or to be put in real service only to be replaced by other new proposals. it is the dog running after his tails syndrome who prevail again. Bottom line is another deceptive unrealistic proposal IMHO.
Feel free to agree or disagree but the shrinking AMSAT-NA membership is probably what's is triggering theses proposals a king of safety buoy for the BOD to avoid drowning the whole crew and her ship. "-"
Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe DSTAR urcall VE2DWE WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE