you can make only one contact per fm satellite per mode (this depends on the satellite). if a satellite has a voice fm repeater operation on 2m/70cm as well as one on 70cm/2.4g then you could make one contact on each. otherwise, just one if only one repeater. if an ssb/cw bird, you can make as many as your little heart is content with.
the problem is that on field day, everyone out there is trying to make their ONE ARRL bonus point contact. this clogs up the birds. the high power stations operating from home try to give everyone a contact. is this acceptable, is it not? it is your decision as to the proper way a satellite is to be used on field day.
AMSAT and adopted by the ARRL will allow only one satellite contact per FM satellite per mode to try and give everyone a chance to get their bonus points. but in real life, the FM satellites are very difficult to get that one contact unless you do it right at the beginning or end of your pass when there is less confusion on the bird. this has been a continuous problem since i started participating in field days in 1993.
don't forget, the discussions that happen here on the bb are only read by such a small group of operators that the ones you are addressing are not even hearing your comments and suggestions. even an article in the arrl magazine will not reach all the operators on the satellites as many are not even members of the league.
i am not trying to be critical of anyone that has commented in on the problem, just stating the facts and we have the same discussion every year.
73...bruce
________________________________ From: Carl Rimmer W8KRF w8krf@w8krf.net To: amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Mon, June 27, 2011 10:51:43 AM Subject: [amsat-bb] Satellite Contacts During Field Day
I have a comment regarding FD satellite contacts. If I remember correctly, it has been established that a station only make one (1) satellite contact during the FD period so everyone can have a chance. Making a contact or contacts on each of the available satellites during each of their passes is improper and not according to my understanding of the rules.