I too attended the Hackerspace workshop and was surprised to see the attendees. NASA, Universities, Hams, Students, enthusiasts, and a private satellite company (don't remember which one). Better get on board the Cubesat train or get left behind. Bob's mantra is "better to have something ready to fly that works than wait for the perfect satellite on the perfect mission." I was proud when Bob touted the value of the Ham community and how their resources/guidance can be utilized and when he recognized the value of simple can be better.

I teach High School students that are interested in Ham radio and space communications and collaborate with University folks in Kentucky. They want to work with the Ham community and want to learn, but aren't interested in chasing grid squares. They want to find out things such as if their antenna deployment system works in space, if their communication system works, etc, etc. Most are intimidated and driven away by the voice exchanges on the birds, some are interested, but most are tinkerers like ourselves. I would encourage AMSAT members to work with the Universities and K-12 students as they are good folks with good intentions. Make a good impression though because they don't need us to fly their birds, but certainly could use help and guidance. Just keep in mind many are students and are still learning as such, so be patient with them. :-) It may take you some time to gain their trust, but once you do, you may be surprised at how much they will work with you and how you will be revered by them.

Charlie KI4RDT