All,
As you probably know, AO-85 has had issues recently with the batteries dropping precariously low during eclipse. We think it's likely the batteries suffered degradation due to heat during previous periods of no eclipses. This has made it difficult to keep the satellite available for use without endangering the batteries. Today the nominally 3.6v pack was down to 2.8v at the end of the eclipse. That is dangerously low.
In an effort to extend the useable life of the satellite, this evening we turned both the IHU and the transmitter off. This ceases all transmissions, including the beacons every two minutes in both sunlit and eclipsed parts of the orbit. We will periodically turn the satellite back on for an orbit or two, in order to gather telemetry. If all goes as planned, we will turn the repeater back on during the next period of no eclipses beginning around January 24th. In the meantime, it is important to leave AO-85 tracked in your FoxTelem setups, in order for us to gather telemetry and keep tabs on the situation. If you do happen to hear a Veronica beacon, or either the normal repeater or the COR/no telemetry repeater, please let the list know, or send me an email or message directly.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we try to make the most of the situation. Please consider supporting the AMSAT GOLF project with your membership, and one-time or recurring donations at https://www.amsat.org/product-category/amsat-membership/ or https://www.amsat.org/donate/
73, Drew KO4MA
AMSAT VP Operations
I’ve really enjoyed this quirky bird over the years. My fingers are crossed that she will recover from her illness.
Jeff WE4B
On Dec 19, 2018, at 7:12 PM, Andrew Glasbrenner glasbrenner@mindspring.com wrote:
All,
As you probably know, AO-85 has had issues recently with the batteries dropping precariously low during eclipse. We think it's likely the batteries suffered degradation due to heat during previous periods of no eclipses. This has made it difficult to keep the satellite available for use without endangering the batteries. Today the nominally 3.6v pack was down to 2.8v at the end of the eclipse. That is dangerously low.
In an effort to extend the useable life of the satellite, this evening we turned both the IHU and the transmitter off. This ceases all transmissions, including the beacons every two minutes in both sunlit and eclipsed parts of the orbit. We will periodically turn the satellite back on for an orbit or two, in order to gather telemetry. If all goes as planned, we will turn the repeater back on during the next period of no eclipses beginning around January 24th. In the meantime, it is important to leave AO-85 tracked in your FoxTelem setups, in order for us to gather telemetry and keep tabs on the situation. If you do happen to hear a Veronica beacon, or either the normal repeater or the COR/no telemetry repeater, please let the list know, or send me an email or message directly.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we try to make the most of the situation. Please consider supporting the AMSAT GOLF project with your membership, and one-time or recurring donations at https://www.amsat.org/product-category/amsat-membership/ or https://www.amsat.org/donate/
73, Drew KO4MA
AMSAT VP Operations
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participants (2)
-
Andrew Glasbrenner -
Jeff Johns