I appreciate the answer Alan. I wasn't hearing anything about it and that does get discouraging. It would indeed be tragic for it never to see space after all the work that was put into it. As I said, I do support the AMSAT NA board in what they are now trying to do. I think we should take any opportunity to get usable satellites in orbit, be it LEO or wherever. I also think it shouldn't matter whether they are FM or linear transponders, we should support all efforts.. Even though I'd like to see more linear transponders, it's tough to stomach the cynical and sarcastic attitude of some here towards the FM sats. 73, Michael, W4HIJ
Alan P. Biddle wrote:
Michael,
AMSAT-DL, with the occasional support of other AMSAT organizations, is still working on getting it launched. I expect that it will find a ride, probably unexpectedly, as is often the case. It would be a tragedy to someday find the launch article in a museum somewhere. However, it is clear that launches beyond LEO are going to be few and far between for amateur satellites. Hence the shift in emphasis you have noted.
Alan WA4SCA
-----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces@amsat.org [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@amsat.org] On Behalf Of Michael Tondee Sent: 09 November, 2009 18:30 To: Amsat BB Subject: [amsat-bb] So is P3E essentially dead at this point?
I'm following with interest the post on FM versus linear transponders. Right now I'm in the middle of putting together and FM LEO station that can later be made SSB/CW capable with the addition of a new rig which I think I may be able to once again afford sometime after the first of the year. I've read all about the new direction Amsat NA is taking and I applaud it as I think that's what's best. I still wonder about Amsat DL and P3E though. I don't hear much of anything anymore. Last I heard, the figure Arianne space gave for launch was deemed beyond reach and Amsat DL was going to try and get their government to help. Just wondering what the status is. Is there still a chance we will see it in orbit or is it just a poor dead bird mothballed in storage somewhere now? 73, Michael, W4HIJ _______________________________________________