Aw C'mon guys, You don't really expect the b.o.d. to pay any attention to the opinions of those whom actually "operate" on amateur satellites - not to speak of the paying public with their "donations".
Be smart, tell 'em what you *don't* want - then maybe you'll get what you *do* want. (tongue in cheek).
Remember ... they know better than than you! what you want - as I've oft times been told - (by b.o.d. members)
(... and yes, I'm fully aware of the following "sound" reasons for some of the decisions).
1) We have to adhere to the "constructors and planners" wishes otherwise the org: will die. 2) This is Amsat-NA, we can't oblige 3rd world country wishes - (even if we DO accept their donations). 3) Cutting edge technology - (read: fewer and fewer participants/the affluent only). 4) Launch criteria has changed - (money, money, money).
I just wonder if the simple mode-A that actually worked v high tech that doesn't - (for whatever reason) - has sunk in yet ... apparently not.
In my opinion, RS-10 and FO-20 were the most popular and widely used amateur radio satellites (worldwide) - neither of which, incidentally, had anything to do with Amsat.
... and before you turn on the flame throwers, yes, I AM doing my bit for the amateur radio satellite fraternity ... and I AM entitled to an opinion - (though I am NOT asking you to agree with it) - it does appear however that there is a continuing conflict of interests between the "planners" and the "users".
73 John. la2qaa@amsat.org