Aloha All
In general, Hawaii is a very quiet place. Most passes of AO-51 fly by with no usage. Accordingly, signal strength and quality are usually quite discernable (assuming no anomalous QRM) when QSOs do occur.
The initial reorientation of AO-51 was very apparent here. In general, the bird appeared to have less signal strength and more fades. It was, SO-50 like.
Since reorientation, it is my impression that the signal strength has improved significantly but there remain some fades; especially at lower elevations.
In discussions with KG6NUB and others, the feeling is that the bird is still in some kind of "recovery mode." To me, "51" now seems like its old "self." Fades are becoming less prevalent.
Finally, my knowledge regarding orientation, reliability and stability of OSCAR satellites is extremely limited. The concept of "recovery" may not even be applicable.
Perhaps the AO-51 team can shed some light on the results of the overall experiment.
73 and Aloha to all.
Respectfully, robert NH7WN, Honolulu