Damon,
Last November, on the 8th, you posted an "energetic" message in which you said in part: "OK this really gets me. Go to space weather.com A dummy obama can get a free ride into space and tons of cube sats can get into space, but Amsat has to wait another year and half...." That was based on not reading the article carefully, which it in fact described a doll flown on a balloon. In my reply, I also explained the process of how satellite launches are done these days. That is available in the archives.
There are here again a few misunderstandings. Actually, they are 4 inch cube satellites, to perhaps nitpick. We already have a ride from NASA, this year, with more in the works. Fox-1 will have some differences, but provide the same type of capabilities as AO-51's most popular modes. See any number of ANS, AMSAT Journal, and other sources for this information.
The question is not how much money AMSAT has; every organization that can't print its own money needs a reserve to buffer cash flow. AMSAT is in the process of developing multiple satellites, and thanks to the efforts of many, it is running about even on covering expenses. Due to ITAR and other issues, that has not always been the case in the past few years.
As to why be a member, see above. Most understand that it takes time, effort, and sometimes even a bit of luck in the space business. Especially when you are working on the proverbial shoestring. If you find our efforts unacceptable, then by all means put your own efforts, talents, and money with people who are doing it the way you wish. Criticism, preferably constructive and knowledgeable, is always welcome. Being insulting is rude, unproductive, and a violation of the Acceptable Use Policy.
Finally, things are slow, but I see a fair number of posts about grids, states, etc. In this year, we will see Fox-1, FUNcube from AMSAT-UK, and possibly other sources of contacts. QSOs and BB discussions rise and fall with the number of functioning satellites.
It would be unfortunate for you to leave based on a further series of misunderstandings. If you do decide to leave, the very best to you, and many happy QSOs!
73s,
Alan WA4SCA
-----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of [email protected] Sent: Sunday, February 10, 2013 3:39 PM To: AMSAT Subject: [amsat-bb] DELETE DELETE and DELETE AGAIN
Does Amsat have anything to offer us besides an email BB ? Now I guess there will be 2 weeks of RE: emails to this honest question that we all know the answer to.(nothing but excuses) Amsat needs more money, send more money. How much money does Amsat have? All these rocket scientist out there and not one of them can bum a little 6 inch square satellite a ride into space. Please don't dazel me with anymore of your electronic genius, I don't care, I would like to see it in space in the form of a bird that we can talk through. One that just doesn't beep beep beep . I would be good to see this BBS used for making contacts in grids ,states and friends. Why would anyone want to be a member of Amsat or renew membership? See u Damon _______________________________________________ Sent via [email protected]. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb