XW-3 is a 6U satellite in a 770 km orbit, with an Earth imaging camera onboard. How does that compare to US ham satellites?

1. NASA has never come close to offering a 6U launch through the ELANA program. Space X has let it be known that they will gladly sell us a launch at the market price, but no one rides for free.

2. Orbital Debris requirements are making it harder and harder for US satellite builders to get licenses for higher orbits. The regulations seem designed to keep us confined to low orbits where it can be assured that we will not interfere with Starlink and the other internet constellations.

3. Cameras on US Earth orbiting satellites must be licensed by NOAA to ensure that we are not running a spy satellite on the side. Apparently China has no such requirement.

"New Space" is a euphemism which means that anyone without a lot of financial backing is no longer welcome to play in the orbital sandbox. It is a variation on "leave space to the professionals, kid".

Say what you will about "Chinese electronics" but it seems that Chinese hams are having an easier time than their American counterparts in getting satellites into space. And I doubt if it would even be possible to build an American satellite without some Chinese electronics onboard.

Dan Schultz, N8FGV

------ Original Message ------ Subject: [AMSAT-BB] Re: XW-3 issues and tips for success?

We're grateful the Chinese and Russians are putting up satellites for us to

"play" with. Anyone have Elon's ear?

73 Bob W7LRD

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On 01/01/2022 1:55 PM Michael Walker <va3mw@portcredit.net> wrote:

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So many people said the correct things.  Kudos to you for supporting

XW-3!!

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Space is not the exact science we would like it to be.  

Mike va3mw