David, My use of the word Molniya was ambiguous.

I should !!! have emphisised *LEO* elliptical. Let me explain ...

The word Molinya in Russian means (literally) 'lightning' but in a space context it is accepted to mean ELLIPTICAL ... as per their TV satellite orbits which are in English dialogue would be classified as *HIGHLY* elliptical.

The planned space station is envisaged in a 70 degree LEO orbit.

I apologise for my misleading remarks.

73 John. la2qaa@amsat.org

From: G0MRF@aol.com Date: Sun, 5 Jul 2009 11:32:56 -0400 Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] An alternative ... or ... competition !!!. To: la2qaa@amsat.org

In a message dated 05/07/2009 15:17:02 GMT Standard Time, archie.hackett@hotmail.com writes:

The new Russian station is *NOT* intended to be a laboratory like the ISS but

more of an in-orbit contruction platform for future Mars-like and outer space missions.

The station will comprise a maintainable 'ball' section with several docking ports with attachable modules.

I propose that amateur radio satellite operators get together and form a group to suggest/try to influence/impliment an ARISS type of project for this space station.

A Strela type frame could be attached to the underside of the 'ball' and since the station is planned for a Molinya type orbit the coverage would be suitable for DX.

Hi John.

Just wondering.... Is a Molinya orbit highly elliptical ?? If so, then it cant really go above 1000km high or the crew will get zapped by the protons in the lower van Allen belt.

Thanks

David