I came across this program on the BBC, rebroadcast late Sunday night in Washington DC on WAMU FM:
Digital Planet, October 20, 2009 http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p004l2hz
This organization, NetHope (http://www.nethope.org), has developed a small $3000 portable satellite terminal for quick deployment to disaster areas, providing voice and internet service through a commercial geosynchronous satellite. They are called "Network Relief Kits". Amsat can pretty well forget about attracting funding for a geosynchronous amateur satellite supporting emergency communications when the capability already exists.
It would seem that the only remaining justification for amateur radio in today's world is for the education and self training aspects. I don't know if "self training" as defined in part 97 carries any weight in today's world. There was a time when most engineers started out as hams in their early youth, but today only formal school based education carries any weight with employers and funding agencies. What this will mean for Amsat's ability to launch any future satellites that are larger than a Cubesat and in a higher orbit remains to be seen. Where does Amsat fit in with NetHope and the other non governmental organisations of the world?
Dan Schultz N8FGV
----------------------------------
From the BBC web site:
NETWORK RELIEF KITS Network Relief Kits have been designed to provide immediate internet access in remote areas. It is a small portable kit that fits into a back-pack, and has provided a vital aid to workers who set out to help people after disasters. The engineer and journalist, Mike Outmesguine, explains how to build an internet relief kit.
BILL BRINDLEY ON NetHope Bill Brindley, the CEO of NetHope, joins Digital Planet to discuss how his organisation developed the Network Relief Kit. Mr Brindley explains the importance of collaboration between non governmental organisations and other big business to further develop tools that will help in the restoration of connectivity to areas that have suffered natural disasters.