Hello Dave KJ9I,

"Everyone: Solution/recommendation: HEO ASAP (yes I am aware of GOLF) to make DX possible and bring in a new 'market' (revenue) and interest level to AMSAT."

It may come as a surprise to many that there are no objections anywhere within AMSAT leadership about pursuing HEO opportunities as soon as possible (ASAP.)

The emphasis on "possible" is where things get tricky. The current board members, with whom I have shared the pleasure of serving AMSAT, support and encourage technologies and launch opportunities to push us beyond LEO.

It takes resources across many disciplines to make things happen: engineering volunteers, project leadership, money, and economical launch opportunities, to name a few. There are many great ideas (HEO, MEO, Digital, 3U & 6U Cubesats) but ultimately decisions must be made to deliver AMSAT missions. Sometimes it involves risk. The long and short term track record of AMSAT is good, especially when you consider the periodic, multi-million dollar failures of the commercial world.

One more comment on the word "market:" Amateur radio satellites are not pay-to-play for obvious legal reasons. Like most amateur radio infrastructure, such as repeaters, costs are mostly borne by a generous few -- not the multitude of users. Ask anyone who operates an amateur radio resource, even websites like QRZ.com, and they will tell you that the masses do not contribute. I do not believe popularity of a satellite directly affects revenue. It has yet to be proven. Historically AMSAT has seen small increases in membership after missions but this does not come close to funding projects.

Bottom line - it is purely a myth that AMSAT doesn't pursue or endeavor to provide amateur transponders with greater coverage and DX opportunities. When and how we get there requires a combination of dedicated volunteers and generous benefactors.

73, Clayton W5PFG