ANS September 2023

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ANS-267 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by Mitch Ahrenstorff (AD0HJ) 24 Sep '23

24 Sep '23

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-267 In this edition: * 2023 AMSAT Symposium Keynote Speakers Announced * 41st Annual AMSAT Space Symposium Call for Papers * Russian Soyuz MS-24 Launches Crew to International Space Station * Imperial College Develops Miniature Rocket Thruster for CubeSats * GOES-U Successfully Completes Environmental Testing for 2024 Launch * Sentinel-1 Satellite Reveals Shifts from Morocco Earthquake * Satellite Top 100 Rovers September 2023 Rankings * Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for September 21, 2023 * ARISS News * Upcoming Satellite Operations * Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events * Satellite Shorts From All Over The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. The news feed on http://www.amsat.org publishes news of Amateur Radio in Space as soon as our volunteers can post it. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor [at] amsat.org You can sign up for free e-mail delivery of the AMSAT News Service Bulletins via the ANS List; to join this list see: https://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/ ANS-267 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins To: All RADIO AMATEURS From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation 712 H Street NE, Suite 1653 Washington, DC 20002 DATE 2023 September 24 2023 AMSAT Symposium Keynote Speakers Announced Bob Twiggs, KE6QMD, considered to be the “father” of the CubeSat form factor, will be a keynote speaker at the 41st Annual AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting banquet. Bob is a retired professor of Astronautics and Space Science at Morehead State University. He is responsible, along with Jordi Puig-Suari of California Polytechnic State University, for co-inventing the CubeSat reference design for miniaturized satellites which became an industry standard for design and deployment of the satellites. Twiggs earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Idaho in 1961 and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in microwave devices from Stanford University in 1964. From 1985 to 1994, Twiggs was the director of the Weber State University Center for Aerospace Technology. He served as a consulting professor in the Stanford University Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics from 1994 to 2008. At Stanford, he established the Space Systems Development Laboratory. Bob Twiggs became a professor at Morehead State University in 2009 in an effort to push the PocketQube standard leveraging the university's large aperture (21m) space tracking system, and to help develop a space economy in the state of Kentucky. In 2019, Twiggs designed and proposed another smaller, simpler satellite form factor called ThinSat which could enable high school students to design and build satellites. Joining Bob in the presentation will be Nick Pugh, K5QXJ. A native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Nick is credited with establishing the first microwave loop in the Gulf of Mexico just two years after his graduation from University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette). His pioneering leadership with telecommunications technology in and around the Gulf of Mexico over the years has spurred regional economic development. Nick is also a longtime community volunteer. He directed University of Louisiana Lafayette’s successful effort to become the first college team in Louisiana to build and launch satellites. He also advised the David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy’s high school student team, which placed a biological experiment on the International Space Station. Nick is also a member of the Acadiana Area Radio Association and the Lafayette Computer Club, and a founding member of Acadiana Open Channel. Nick has served as chair of Habitat for Humanity Lafayette. He was a member of Leadership Lafayette Class XXVII and is a 1998 graduate of Harvard’s Owner/President Management program. He is also the founder of the Pugh Family Foundation, a philanthropic venture focused on helping to create a world-class public education system in the Acadiana region. [ANS thanks AMSAT and Wikipedia for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- 41st Annual AMSAT Space Symposium Call for Papers Papers are now being accepted for the 41st annual AMSAT Space Symposium to be held on the weekend of October 20-21, 2023 at the Sheraton DFW Airport in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. Proposals for Symposium papers and presentations are invited on any topic of interest to the amateur satellite community. We request a tentative title of your presentation as soon as possible, with final copy submitted by October 12 for inclusion in the symposium proceedings. Abstracts and papers should be sent to Dan Schultz, N8FGV at n8fgv at amsat.org. [ANS thanks Dan Schultz, N8FGV, AMSAT Symposium Proceedings Editor, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Russian Soyuz MS-24 Launches Crew to International Space Station Russian spacecraft Soyuz MS-24, carrying two Russian cosmonauts and a U.S. astronaut, successfully blasted off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Friday, September 15th, with live TV footage capturing the launch. This mission marked the 85th launch of the Soyuz 2.1a in 2023 and the 6th launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in the same year, contributing to the 149th orbital launch attempt of 2023. The Soyuz MS-24 mission, also known as Expedition 70/71, had initially been scheduled for March 16, 2023. However, due to technical issues with the docked Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft, the crewed mission was reassigned to Soyuz MS-24. The spacecraft, designated Soyuz MS-24, carried American astronaut Loral O'Hara along with Russian cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub. The mission launched under the auspices of the Russian space agency, ROSCOSMOS, utilizing the Soyuz 2.1a launch vehicle. The lift-off took place from Launch Complex 31/6 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The spacecraft's destination was the International Space Station (ISS), situated in a low Earth orbit approximately 400 kilometers above Earth's surface at a 51.66° inclination. The crew of Soyuz MS-24, upon reaching the ISS, would join the existing station crew members, which included NASA astronauts Frank Rubio and Jasmin Moghbeli, KI5WSL, Russian cosmonauts Dmitry Petelin, Konstantin Borisov, Sergei Prokopyev, as well as Denmark's Andreas Mogensen, KG5GCZ, and Japan's Satoshi Furukawa, KE5DAW. The Soyuz MS-24 crew was composed of Commander Oleg Kononenko, Flight Engineer 1 Nikolai Chub from ROSCOSMOS, and Flight Engineer 2 Loral O'Hara from NASA. Commander Oleg Kononenko, RN3DX, had previously completed four spaceflights and accumulated 916 days in space, exceeding the previous record of 878 days held by Gennady Padalka. Nikolai Chub, on the other hand, was embarking on his first journey to space as Flight Engineer 1, having been selected as a Roscosmos cosmonaut in 2012. Loral O'Hara, KI5TOM, Flight Engineer 2, was an astronaut candidate with NASA's 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class, making Soyuz MS-24 her maiden spaceflight. Soyuz, introduced in 1966, has long served as the multi-use medium-lift launch vehicle for the Soviet/Russian space program. Its versatile capabilities encompass launching civilian and military satellites, cargo, and crewed missions to the ISS. The Soyuz-2 rocket stands approximately 46.3 meters tall, with a diameter of 2.95 meters, and a total lift-off mass of about 312,000 kilograms. Its payload capacity to low-Earth orbit ranges from 6,600 to 7,400 kilograms. The Soyuz MS spacecraft, in this case, Soyuz MS-24, is the latest iteration of Russia's renowned three-person spacecraft. Although its external appearance has remained relatively consistent since its first flight in the 1960s, internal systems and capabilities have been modernized over time. The spacecraft consists of three sections: the orbital module, the descent module, and the service module. The orbital module is where the crew primarily resides while in orbit and docks with the ISS. The descent module is the section that returns to Earth intact, carrying the crew during launch and reentry. The service module houses the main engine for orbital maneuvers, thrusters for docking, and life support systems. The Soyuz MS-24 mission docked with the ISS approximately three hours and 15 minutes after liftoff, adding to the station's international crew and enabling further scientific research in the unique environment of space. [ANS thanks Mariia Kiseleva, writing for Everyday Astronaut for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Reserve Your Symposium Hotel Room Now! Symposium Guaranteed Room Rates End Tuesday, September 26th Make Your Reservations While our Special Group Rate is in Effect! More Info At: https://tinyurl.com/AMSAT +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Imperial College Develops Miniature Rocket Thruster for CubeSats Researchers at Imperial College have designed a miniature rocket thruster so small that it can only be fabricated using techniques originally intended for creating silicon microchips. Named the "Iridium Catalysed Electrolysis CubeSat Thruster" or ICE-Cube Thruster, this innovation holds the promise of revolutionizing the propulsion systems for small satellites, particularly CubeSats, by offering a compact, efficient, and eco-friendly solution. Satellites weighing under 10 kilograms, constituting approximately 90% of today's satellite launches, present a unique set of challenges when it comes to developing components for them. Among the most critical challenges is designing rocket thrusters tailored to the limitations of CubeSats. These thrusters must not only be diminutive in size but also uncomplicated, unpressurized, low-power, and devoid of toxic materials. Funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), the ICE-Cube Thruster meets these stringent criteria, with its primary attribute being its diminutive size. The entire thruster chip, comparable in length to a human fingernail, features a combustion chamber and nozzle measuring a mere 1 millimeter. It demands a mere 20 watts of electric current to operate. A test campaign achieved 1.25 millinewtons of thrust at a specific impulse of 185 seconds. To provide a sense of scale, this thrust output is roughly half a billion times less powerful than the engines used on the Space Shuttle. However, the true innovation of the ICE-Cube Thruster lies in its propellant choice, ordinary water. Water, known for its non-explosive and non-flammable properties, is utilized as the propellant of choice. An onboard electric current induces electrolysis within the thruster, breaking down the water into hydrogen and oxygen. These gases are then fed into the combustion chamber, where they ignite, producing the necessary thrust to maneuver the CubeSat. This utilization of water as propellant not only aligns with sustainability goals but also reduces overall payload requirements. The absence of the need for pressurization in storing the propellant streamlines storage and handling systems, making them lighter and more straightforward. However, the challenge lay in fabricating the combustion chamber and nozzle for the thruster, a task that required adopting a technique akin to microelectronics. The researchers utilized Micro-Electrical Mechanical Systems (MEMS) techniques, typically used for machining silicon wafers for processors to sub-micrometer tolerances. The successful testing of the ICE-Cube Thruster was conducted through an ESA General Support Technology Programme De-Risk activity, validating its feasibility in a controlled laboratory environment. The data acquired during this testing phase will serve as a vital guide in the development of a flight-representative "Engineering Model" of the propulsion system, including the electrolyser. This development is slated to be led by URA Thrusters in collaboration with Imperial College. [ANS thanks the European Space Agency for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- GOES-U Successfully Completes Environmental Testing for 2024 Launch NOAA's upcoming satellite, GOES-U, the final addition to the GOES-R Series of advanced geostationary satellites, has completed a rigorous battery of tests to ensure its readiness for the challenges of launch and its mission in space. The year-long testing process concluded with GOES-U proving its resilience to the harsh conditions of space, situated 22,236 miles above Earth. The testing regimen, which commenced in November 2022, involved subjecting GOES-U to extreme temperatures ranging from a scorching 188 degrees Fahrenheit (87 degrees Celsius) to a bone-chilling minus 67 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 55 degrees Celsius). This thermal vacuum testing aimed to simulate the harsh temperature fluctuations during both launch and its mission in the space environment. Following this, in February 2023, the satellite underwent vibration testing to ensure its structural integrity during the stresses of launch. It then faced the intense sounds of 138.4 decibels during acoustic testing, replicating the noise levels experienced during launch. March 2023 witnessed the successful completion of shock testing, confirming GOES-U's ability to withstand the separation from the launch vehicle and the deployment of its solar panels. Subsequently, in August 2023, electromagnetic interference and compatibility (EMI/EMC) testing ensured that the satellite's operations would remain unaffected by various forms of electromagnetic radiation. Notably, GOES-U's large five-panel solar array, initially folded during launch, was verified to deploy correctly upon reaching geostationary orbit. These solar panels will serve as the primary source of power, converting sunlight into electricity to operate the satellite's instruments, computers, data processors, sensors, and telecommunications equipment. The exhaustive testing program was conducted at Lockheed Martin's facility in Littleton, Colorado, where GOES-U was built. Simultaneously, as the satellite was being prepared for the rigors of launch and space, the GOES-U mission operations team engaged in critical rehearsals to test launch procedures and communication systems between the satellite and ground facilities. These rehearsals encompassed a wide range of scenarios, including normal operations and contingency procedures in case of unexpected events. The team also conducted tests for compatibility with the Compact Coronagraph-1 (CCOR-1) instrument, which will monitor the sun's corona as part of NOAA's Space Weather Follow-On mission. GOES-U remains on schedule for its planned April 2024 launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, utilizing a Falcon Heavy launch vehicle. Following its successful journey to geostationary orbit, it will be renamed GOES-19 and undergo a series of on-orbit instrument and systems checkouts, followed by the validation of its data products. The GOES-R Series is hailed as the Western Hemisphere's most advanced weather and environmental monitoring system. Comprising four satellites, the program includes GOES-R (GOES-16), GOES-S (GOES-17), GOES-T (GOES-18), and GOES-U. These satellites play a pivotal role in providing crucial data for weather forecasts, environmental hazard detection, and monitoring solar activity and space weather. The GOES-R Series is set to operate into the 2030s. In parallel, NOAA and NASA are collaboratively working on the Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) mission, ushering in the next generation of geostationary satellites to address future environmental challenges for U.S. weather, ocean, and climate operations. This collaborative effort between NOAA and NASA continues to advance environmental monitoring and scientific research from space. [ANS thanks NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Hungary Lil' Buckaroo? Make Your Reservation for the Symposium Banquet Today! It's a Belt Bustin' Texas Style Barbecue with Smoked BBQ Sliced Brisket and Roasted BBQ Chicken BBQ Baked Beans, Southern Style Potato Salad, Roasted Corn Salad Greens, Corn Bread, Pecan Pie and all the fixin's! More Info At: https://tinyurl.com/AMSAT2023 +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Sentinel-1 Satellite Reveals Shifts from Morocco Earthquake In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco on September 8th, satellite data is proving to be a vital asset for emergency response teams. The International Charter 'Space and Major Disasters,' which offers rapid support during major crises, quickly deployed Earth observation assets to assist rescue efforts. Additionally, radar measurements from Europe's Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite mission are being utilized to assess ground shifts caused by the earthquake. This information not only aids in planning reconstruction efforts but also advances scientific research. The powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit the Atlas Mountains, about 75 kilometers from Marrakesh, Morocco in an area rarely affected by such seismic events. Tragically, the earthquake resulted in significant loss of life, building collapses, and infrastructure damage. The impact was felt as far as the country's northern coast. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, along with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, invoked the International Charter Space & Major Disasters. This initiative allows for the swift provision of satellite imagery to define the extent of the disaster, enhancing rescue operations. Satellites play a crucial role in rapid damage assessment and disaster management. Recognizing this, the European Space Agency (ESA) and France's CNES space agency established the International Charter Space and Major Disasters in 1999 to foster international collaboration in disaster response. In alignment with this collaboration, the Copernicus Emergency Mapping Service was activated to share satellite data in response to the Moroccan earthquake. High-resolution images from France's Pléiades satellites were used to create detailed damage maps, aiding rescue teams in their operations. These maps assist in identifying safe routes and bridges, ensuring the safety of responders. Philippe Bally, ESA representative of the International Charter, emphasized the urgency of delivering satellite data promptly to support relief efforts. While the response to Morocco's disaster continues, scientists are using measurements from the Copernicus Sentinel-1 mission to assess ground changes using a technique called 'interferometry.' This helps to understand the earthquake's impact and potential future hazards. The Copernicus Sentinel-1 mission's radar capabilities allow scientists to observe and analyze the precise effects of earthquakes on the land surface. This information is crucial for post-disaster restoration efforts. As Morocco works toward recovery, international space agencies and initiatives like the International Charter, alongside satellite missions such as Sentinel-1, are playing a crucial role in easing the burden on emergency responders and advancing our understanding of seismic events. These efforts contribute significantly to global disaster mitigation. [ANS thanks the European Space Agency for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Top 100 Rovers September 2023 Rankings The September 2023 rankings for the Top 100 Rovers (Mixed LEO/MEO/GEO) in satellite operations, as determined by @GridMasterMap on Twitter, has been released. The ranking is determined by the number of grids and DXCC entities activated, taking into account only those grids where a minimum number of QSOs logged on the gridmaster.fr website have been validated by a third party. Grid numbers do not directly reflect the exact number of activations. Satellite operators are encouraged to upload their LoTW satellite contacts to https://gridmaster.fr in order to provide more accurate data. Updated: 2023-09-08 1 ND9M 26 KE4AL 51 OE3SEU 76 DF2ET 2 NJ7H 27 LU5ILA 52 KE9AJ 77 N0TEL 3 N5UC 28 VE3HLS 53 VE1CWJ 78 KB2YSI 4 JA9KRO 29 KI7UNJ 54 JL3RNZ 79 KJ7NDY 5 DL6AP 30 KB5FHK 55 KM4LAO 80 CU2ZG 6 HA3FOK 31 LA9XGA 56 N4UFO 81 VE6WK 7 N9IP 32 N7AGF 57 VA7LM 82 VK5DG 8 WY7AA 33 XE3DX 58 N8RO 83 VE7PTN 9 WI7P 34 N6DNM 59 SM3NRY 84 AF5CC 10 N6UA 35 F4BKV 60 FG8OJ 85 YU0W 11 AD0DX 36 DL2GRC 61 PT2AP 86 W1AW 12 W5PFG 37 KE0PBR 62 AA8CH 87 PT9ST 13 DP0POL 38 K7TAB 63 AM1SAT 88 DK9JC 14 K5ZM 39 KE0WPA 64 F5VMJ 89 VO2AC 15 AD0HJ 40 W7WGC 65 KI7QEK 90 W8LR 16 AK8CW 41 JO2ASQ 66 VE1VOX 91 DL4EA 17 WD9EWK 42 EA4NF 67 M1DDD 92 KG4AKV 18 ON4AUC 43 AC0RA 68 VA3VGR 93 LW2DAF 19 KX9X 44 PR8KW 69 LU4JVE 94 HB9GWJ 20 KG5CCI 45 AA5PK 70 KI7UXT 95 KC7JPC 21 N5BO 46 JK2XXK 71 N4DCW 96 XE1ET 22 DJ8MS 47 EB1AO 72 PT9BM 97 AB5SS 23 ND0C 48 F4DXV 73 WA9JBQ 98 A41ZZ 24 K8BL 49 SP5XSD 74 VE3GOP 99 K4DCA 25 UT1FG 50 AD7DB 75 K0FFY 100 WN9Q [ANS thanks @GridMasterMap for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Want to fly the colors on your own grid expedition? Get your AMSAT car flag and other neat stuff from our Zazzle store! 25% of the purchase price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for September 21, 2023 Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. Elements in the TLE bulletin files are updated daily. TLE bulletin files are updated to add or remove satellites as necessary Thursday evenings around 2300 UTC, or more frequently if new high interest satellites are launched. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/ This week there are no additions or deletions to the AMSAT TLE distribution. [ANS thanks AMSAT Orbital Elements page for the above information] -------------------------------------------------------------------- ARISS NEWS Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide. + Upcoming Contacts Colegio Educación del Talento, Yerba Buena, Tucumán, Argentina, direct via LU5KHF The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS The scheduled crewmember is Andreas Mogensen KG5GCZ or Jasmin Moghbeli KI5WSL The ARISS mentor is VE6JBJ Contact is for: Mon 2023-09-25 15:08:45 UTC Amur State University, Blagoveshchensk, Russia, direct via TBD The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be RSØISS The scheduled crewmember is Oleg Kononenko The ARISS mentor is RV3DR Contact is for: Thu 2023-09-28 08:45 UTC ARISS planned radio outage next week. In support of the Soyuz undocking planned for Wed. 9/27 the Voice Repeater & Digipeater will be off for the event. Current Schedule: Radios off: Tue. Sep. 26 about 12:20 UTC | 8:20 AM ET Radios on: Thu. Sep. 28 about 07:45 UTC | 3:45 AM ET The crossband repeater continues to be active (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never know. The packet system is also active (145.825 MHz up & down). As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol. Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html [ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information] -------------------------------------------------------------------- Upcoming Satellite Operations K5Z will be active on IO-117 from DL88 on September 25-27. See the updated pass schedule at https://www.qrz.com/db/KI0KB/P. Doug, VA7LM will be active on IO-117 for the final time this year from CO44 on 24th September at 0102z. A growing number of satellite rovers are currently engaged in sharing their grid square activations on https://hams.at. By visiting the website, you gain easy access to comprehensive information about the operators responsible for activating specific grid squares. Additionally, you have the ability to assess the match score between yourself and a particular rover for a given pass, while also being able to identify the upcoming satellite passes that are accessible from your location. [ANS thanks Ian Parsons, K5ZM, AMSAT rover page manager, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events. + ARRL Minnesota State Convention October 14, 2023 Hennepin Technical College 9000 Brooklyn Blvd. Brooklyn Park, Minnesota http://mnconvention.org + 2023 AMSAT-UK Colloquium & RSGB Convention October 14-15, 2023 Kents Hill Park Conference Centre Milton Keynes MK7 6BZ, United Kingdom + 41st AMSAT Space Symposium & Annual General Meeting October 20-21, 2023 Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel 4440 W John Carpenter Fwy, Irving, TX 75063 [ANS thanks AMSAT for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Shorts From All Over + Virgin Galactic successfully completed its third commercial suborbital spaceflight, known as "Galactic 03," on September 8, carrying three private astronauts. The VSS Unity spaceplane, attached to the VMS Eve mothership, took off from Spaceport America in New Mexico and reached an altitude of 88.6 kilometers before landing back at the spaceport. Unlike previous flights, the company kept the identities of the private astronauts secret until after the landing, revealing them as Ken Baxter, Timothy Nash, and Adrian Reynard. Virgin Galactic did not provide a webcast of the mission but updated the public via social media. The company plans to continue its monthly cadence of missions with "Galactic 04" in early October. [ANS thanks The Orbital Index for the above information.] + The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has announced an end of critical phases for two of its recently launched space missions. The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) has concluded its critical operation phase, demonstrating the normal functionality of its equipment through telemetry data. SLIM will now transition to an Earth orbit phase, where it will further test its onboard systems before embarking on its lunar journey. Simultaneously, the X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) also completed its critical phase, with normal operations in power generation, communication, and attitude control. XRISM is now entering a commissioning period to verify its onboard equipment's functions. These missions, launched on September 6, 2023, mark Japan's ambitious foray into lunar exploration with SLIM and its deep space investigations with XRISM, advancing our understanding of both the Moon and the universe. [ANS thanks the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency for the above information.] + ESTCube-2 is set to launch aboard Vega C flight VV23 in the coming weeks, marking Europe's final launch of 2023. This 3U CubeSat is a joint project between the Estonian Student Satellite Foundation and UT Tartu Observatory. It will test Coulomb drag propulsion, specifically E-sails, by using a positively charged wire to deflect solar wind protons and generate thrust. Additionally, it will experiment with a plasma brake to accelerate satellite deorbiting. ESTCube-2 will also conduct tests in low Earth orbit (LEO) on an electron emitter to prepare for future deep space missions. The mission includes Earth observation (EO) payloads and materials testing for LEO's atomic oxygen environment. The team is planning a lunar mission for actual E-sailing. The Vega C launch will carry a Thai EO satellite, a Taiwanese weather satellite, and various smallsats for diverse missions such as water monitoring, tech demonstrations, IoT, and more. [ANS thanks SpaceNews for the above information.] + NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission is gearing up for a historic moment on September 24, 2023, when it will return valuable samples from asteroid Bennu to Earth, with the landing scheduled for 10 a.m. EDT (1400Z) in Utah. Launched in 2016, the mission faced unexpected challenges as Bennu's surface differed from predictions, requiring reprogramming for a successful sample collection in 2020. Inside the descent capsule is a trove of precious asteroid material. As the spacecraft enters Earth's atmosphere at high speed, it will deploy parachutes to ensure a controlled landing. This event marks the culmination of OSIRIS-REx's 7-year mission, promising crucial insights into the solar system's history and composition. [ANS thanks Space.com for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/ In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to: * Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization). * Primary and secondary school students are eligible for membership at one-half the standard yearly rate. * Post-secondary school students enrolled in at least half-time status shall be eligible for the student rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. * Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms. Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information. 73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! This week's ANS Editor, Mitch Ahrenstorff, ADØHJ ad0hj [at] amsat.org

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ANS-260 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins
by Paul Stoetzer 17 Sep '23

17 Sep '23

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-260 In this edition: * Results of the 2023 AMSAT Board of Directors Election * July/August 2023 Issue of The AMSAT Journal Now Available * 2023 AMSAT Symposium Call for Papers * Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for September 15, 2023 * ARISS News * Upcoming Satellite Operations * Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events * Satellite Shorts From All Over The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. The news feed on http://www.amsat.org publishes news of Amateur Radio in Space as soon as our volunteers can post it. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor [at] amsat.org You can sign up for free e-mail delivery of the AMSAT News Service Bulletins via the ANS List; to join this list see: https://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/ ANS-260 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins To: All RADIO AMATEURS From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation 712 H Street NE, Suite 1653 Washington, DC 20002 DATE 2023 September 17 Results of the 2023 AMSAT Board of Directors Election The 2023 AMSAT Board of Directors Election period ended on September 15, 2023. As a result of the election, Barry Baines, WD4ASW, Jerry Buxton, N0JY, Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA, and Zach Metzinger, N0ZGO, have been duly elected to a two-year term on the Board of Directors. Frank Karnauskas, N1UW, will serve as an alternate director for a term of one year. The results of the voting with 388 ballots cast are as follows: Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA - 348 Barry Baines, WD4ASW - 347 Jerry Buxton, N0JY - 331 Zach Metzinger, N0ZGO - 295 Frank Karnauskas, N1UW - 131 The membership of the AMSAT Board of Directors for 2023-2024 is: Barry Baines, WD4ASW Jerry Buxton, N0JY Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA Mark Hammond, N8MH Zach Metzinger, N0ZGO Bruce Paige, KK5DO Paul Stoetzer, N8HM Frank Karnauskas, N1UW (Alternate) Thank you all for participating in this year's election process. [ANS thanks Jeff Davis, KE9V, AMSAT Secretary, for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Join us for the 41st Annual AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting October 20-21, 2023 – Dallas, TX More Information at: https://tinyurl.com/41st-AMSAT-Symposium +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ July/August 2023 Issue of The AMSAT Journal Now Available The July/August 2023 issue of The AMSAT Journal is now available to members on AMSAT’s Member Portal. Download your copy at https://launch.amsat.org/The_AMSAT_Journal The AMSAT Journal is a bi-monthly digital magazine for amateur radio in space enthusiasts, published by the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT). Each issue is your source for hardware and software projects, technical tips, STEM initiatives, operational activities, and news from around the world. Inside the Current Issue: * Apogee View – Robert Bankston, KE4AL * Educational Relations Update - Alan Johnston, KU2Y * AMSAT Field Day Results - Bruce Paige, KK5DO * A Summer Redesigning a CubeSat - Olivia Belian * IO-117 Antenna Testing Update - Dave Fisher, KG0D * Ground Stations for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites: Advancements in Low-Cost Electronics and Open-Source Software - Omar Álvarez-Cárdenas, XE1AO; Margarita G. Mayoral-Baldivia, XE1BMG; Gilles Arfeuille, VE7VOL [ANS thanks AMSAT for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ The 2023 AMSAT President's Club coins are here now! To commemorate the 40th anniversary of its launch on June 16, 1983, this year's coin features an image of AMSAT-OSCAR 10. Join the AMSAT President's Club today and help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! https://www.amsat.org/join-the-amsat-presidents-club/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ 2023 AMSAT Symposium Call for Papers Papers are now being accepted for the 41st annual AMSAT Space Symposium to be held on the weekend of October 20-21, 2023 at the Sheraton DFW Airport in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas Proposals for Symposium papers and presentations are invited on any topic of interest to the amateur satellite community. We request a tentative title of your presentation as soon as possible, with final copy submitted by October 12 for inclusion in the symposium proceedings. Abstracts and papers should be sent to Dan Schultz, N8FGV at n8fgv at amsat.org [ANS thanks Dan Schultz, N8FGV, AMSAT Symposium Proceedings Editor, for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Need new satellite antennas? Purchase an M2 LEO-Pack from the AMSAT Store. When you purchase through AMSAT, a portion of the proceeds goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space. https://amsat.org/product-category/hardware/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for September 15, 2023 Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. TLE bulletin files are updated Thursday evenings around 2300 UTC, or more frequently if new high interest satellites are launched. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/ This week there are no additions or deletions to the weekly AMSAT TLE distribution. [ANS thanks Joe Fitzgerald, KM1P, AMSAT Orbital Elements Manager, for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Want to fly the colors on your own grid expedition? Get your AMSAT car flag and other neat stuff from our Zazzle store! 25% of the purchase price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ ARISS News Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide. Quick list of scheduled contacts and events: Escuela Preparatoria La Salle, Torreon Coah, Mexico, telebridge via IK1SLD The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The scheduled crewmember is Jasmin Moghbeli KI5WSL The ARISS mentor is VE3TBD Contact is go for: Fri 2023-09-22 16:19:45 UTC 80 deg Watch for Livestream starting about 15 minutes before AOS at www.ariotti.com (***) Amur State University, Blagoveshchensk, Russia, direct via TBD The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be RSØISS The downlink frequency is presently scheduled to be 145.800 MHz The scheduled crewmember is Oleg Kononenko The ARISS mentor is RV3DR Contact is go for Thu 2023-09-28 08:45 UTC Comments on making general contacts I have been seeing a lot of traffic on Facebook and I suspect on other social media sites with people asking why they are not hearing the crew make general contacts. First off the crew is very busy on the ISS and they simply may not have the time to just pick up the microphone and talk. Also, one needs to be aware of their normal daily schedule. I have listed below the constraints that we at ARISS have to follow in order to schedule the school contacts. Hopefully this will help you better schedule your opportunities. Typical daily schedule Wakeup to Workday start= 1.5 hours Workday start to Workday end=12 hours Workday end to Sleep= 2 hours Sleep to wakeup= 8.5 hours The crew's usual waking period is 0730 - 1930 UTC. The most common times to find a crew member making casual periods are about one hour after waking and before sleeping, when they have personal time. They're usually free most of the weekend, as well. SSTV events are not that often. So please check out https://www.ariss.org/ for the latest information or watch for the ARISS announcements. And don’t forget that the packet system is active. As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol. ARISS Radio Status Columbus Module radios: IORS (Kenwood D710GA) – STATUS - Configured. Default mode is for cross band repeater (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). * Powering off for Soyuz undocking on Sep. 27. OFF Sep. 26 about 12:20 UTC. ON Sep. 28 about 07:45 UTC. * Powering off for USOS EVA on Oct 12. OFF TBD . ON TBD. * Powering off for USOS EVA in Oct (TBD). OFF TBD . ON TBD. * Powering off for Russian EVA on Oct 25. OFF TBD . ON TBD. * Capable of supporting USOS scheduled voice contacts, packet and voice repeater ops. Service Module radios: IORS (Kenwood D710GA) – STATUS - Configured. Default mode is fo packet operations (145.825 MHz up & down) * Powering off for Soyuz undocking on Sep. 27. OFF Sep. 26 about 12:20 UTC. ON Sep. 28 about 07:45 UTC. * Powering off for USOS EVA on Oct 12. OFF TBD . ON TBD. * Powering off for USOS EVA in Oct (TBD). OFF TBD . ON TBD. * Powering off for Russian EVA on Oct 25. OFF TBD . ON TBD. * Capable of supporting ROS scheduled voice contacts, packet, SSTV and voice repeater ops. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html [ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information] -------------------------------------------------------------------- Upcoming Satellite Operations KI0KB/P will be active on IO-117 (‘GreenCube’) from DM86 in Oklahoma for two passes: 16th September at 0617z & 1034z ****** Doug, VA7LM will be active on IO-117 for the final time this year from CO44 on 24th September at 0102z ****** The K5Z crew (is it a crew, or just one op?) will be active on IO-117 from DL88 on 25th September at 1517z. I’m sure this is just one of several passes on his/her/their list, but it’s all I know about ATM. [ANS thanks Ian Parsons, K5ZM, AMSAT rover page manager, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events. + 41st AMSAT Space Symposium & Annual General Meeting October 20-21, 2023 Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel 4440 W John Carpenter Fwy, Irving, TX 75063 + ARRL Minnesota State Convention Saturday, October 14 Hennepin Technical College 9000 Brooklyn Blvd. Brooklyn Park, Minnesota http://mnconvention.org AMSAT Ambassador Clint Bradford, K6LCS, says, "Think a 75-minute presentation on "working the easy satellites" would be appropriate for your club or event? Let me know by emailing me at k6lcsclint (at) gmail (dot) com or calling me at 909-999-SATS (7287)!" Clint has NEVER given the exact same show twice: EACH of the 150+ presentations so far has been customized/tailored to their audiences. [ANS thanks Clint Bradford, K6LCS, and AMSAT for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Shorts From All Over + The space industry has a labor problem that could keep it from reaching its full potential. Space companies are hiring en force. Also, the existing workforce is aging. One study found that only 17% of NASA's workers are under age 35. Competition is ramping up at a time when the number of people graduating with engineering degrees is dropping in the U.S. Welders, machinists and other technical jobs that don't necessarily require advanced degrees are also in demand for companies building rockets and spacecraft. (ANS thanks Axios Space for the above information) + The FAA said on Friday, Sept. 8 that SpaceX needs to complete 63 corrective actions identified after the Starship launch mishap in April. Multiple Raptor engines on the rocket's Super Heavy booster failed, and the vehicle lost its steering. An autonomous self-destruct system issued a command to blow up the rocket, but it took longer than expected for Starship to break apart. The rocket finally disintegrated in a ball of flame, but the launch impacted the surrounding area, scattering debris over a wide area. (ANS thanks ARS Technica for the above information) + Astronaut Frank Rubio, forced to spend an extra six months aboard the International Space Station because of trouble with his Russian ride home, set a new U.S. single-flight endurance record on Monday, Sept. 11. Launched last September 21, Rubio and cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitri Petelin originally planned to come home in March. But their Soyuz capsule suffered a massive coolant leak in December, presumably due to a micrometeoroid impact. The three now plan to return to Earth aboard a replacement Soyuz ferry ship on September 27 to close out a marathon 371-day stay in space — the first flight longer than a full year by an American astronaut. (ANS thanks CBS News for the above information) + The Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment, or MOXIE, on NASA's Perseverance rover has successfully completed a project to produce oxygen from the Martian atmosphere. MOXIE produced 12 grams of oxygen an hour at 98% purity or better, which is twice as much as NASA’s goals for the instrument. On August 7, MOXIE operated for the 16th and final time, having completed all its requirements. The thin Martian atmosphere is 96% carbon dioxide. MOXIE works by separating the oxygen molecules and emits carbon monoxide as a waste product. Bigger and better versions of something such as MOXIE in the future could supply life support systems with breathable air and convert and store oxygen needed for rocket fuel used to launch on a return trip to Earth. (ANS thanks CNN Science newsletter for the above information) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/ In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to: * Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization). * Primary and secondary school students are eligible for membership at one-half the standard yearly rate. * Post-secondary school students enrolled in at least half time status shall be eligible for the student rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. * Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms. Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information. 73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! This week's ANS Editor, Paul Stoetzer, N8HM n8hm [at] amsat.org

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ANS-253 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins for September 10, 2023
by Frank Karnauskas (N1UW) 10 Sep '23

10 Sep '23

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-253 In this edition: * 2023 AMSAT Board of Directors Election Voting Ends Friday * World Radio Conference 2023 Will Impact Amateur Satellite Service * ARISS USA Team Names Director of Education * Updated AMSAT Tri-Fold Brochure Now Available * Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for September 8, 2023 * ARISS News * Upcoming Satellite Operations * Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events * Satellite Shorts From All Over The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. The news feed on http://www.amsat.org publishes news of Amateur Radio in Space as soon as our volunteers can post it. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor [at] amsat[dot]org. You can sign up for free e-mail delivery of the AMSAT News Service Bulletins via the ANS List; to join this list see: https://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/ ANS-253 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins To: All RADIO AMATEURS From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation 712 H Street NE, Suite 1653 Washington, DC 20002 DATE 2023 SEP 10 2023 AMSAT Board of Directors Election Voting Ends Friday There is less than a week remaining to participate in the 2023 AMSAT Board of Directors Election. The voting process will conclude on September 15, 2023. To access candidate statements and the online Election Ballot, you can visit AMSAT’s membership portal at https://launch.amsat.org/2023-BoD-Election. In this year’s election, four seats on the Board of Directors are open for consideration. Once the voting period concludes on September 15th, four of the candidates will take their places on the Board, along with an alternate member. The following individuals have been officially nominated: Barry Baines, WD4ASW Jerry Buxton, N0JY Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA Zach Metzinger, N0ZGO Frank Karnauskas, N1UW Upon clicking the poll link, you will be directed to your ballot or poll question. After selecting your preferred choices, simply click the Submit button to cast your vote. Unlike typical online polls, the results of previous votes up until your vote will not be visible. Each AMSAT member is entitled to one vote only. If you attempt to access the poll link again after casting your vote, you will receive a message confirming your vote has been submitted. The outcomes of the Board of Directors Election, including the total number of ballots cast, the vote count for each candidate, and the names of the newly elected Board of Directors members, will be publicly announced a few days following the conclusion of the election. [ANS thanks Jeff Davis, KE9V, AMSAT Secretary, for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Join us for the 41st Annual AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting October 20-21, 2023 – Dallas, TX More Information at: https://tinyurl.com/41st-AMSAT-Symposium +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ World Radio Conference 2023 Will Impact Amateur Satellite Service The World Radio Conference in 2023, WRC-23, will take place on November 20 - December 15 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Some decisions made during the conference will affect Amateur Radio and the Amateur Satellites service. Representing Amateur Radio at the conference is the IARU, the International Amateur Radio Union, The two most pressing issues affecting the Amateur Satellite Service are: Additional measures to protect the radionavigation-satellite (space-to-Earth) in the 1240 - 1300 MHz band from amateur interference. As in most microwave allocations, the Amateur Service is secondary and must avoid interfering with primary services operating in the band, even if they are introduced later. An ITU Radiocommunication sector Recommendation that contains guidance for administrations is in the final stage of development. If an agreement is reached prior to WRC-232, it should complete work on the item. Identification of the 10 - 10.5 GHz band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) in ITU Region 2, including a primary allocation to the mobile service. The IARU opposes the introduction of IMT in the band and has some allies among administrators within and outside of Region 2. [ANS thanks QST for the above information.] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ The 2023 AMSAT President's Club coins are here now! To commemorate the 40th anniversary of its launch on June 16, 1983, this year's coin features an image of AMSAT-OSCAR 10. Join the AMSAT President's Club today and help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! https://www.amsat.org/join-the-amsat-presidents-club/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ ARISS USA Team Names Director of Education Tanya C. Anderson has been selected as Director of Education for Amateur Radio on the International Space Station, Inc. (ARISS-USA). Tanya has been a classroom educator for 18 years, the last 16 years teaching middle school science at St. Joan of Arc in Lisle, Illinois. Her science curricula cover earth and space science, life science, and physical science. Her career focus has been curriculum development in various fields of science. In addition to her responsibilities as a middle school educator, Tanya has shown her passion as a results-oriented leader in a myriad of science, technology engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) initiatives such as NASA HEAT 2022 where she helped develop and test science curriculum for teaching heliophysics and system science. She also has served as a team leader in NASA's Teaching from Space Microgravity Education Program, working with students to create an experiment that was tested on NASA's microgravity aircraft. Tanya is also a NASA Airborne Astronomy Ambassador and a Space Foundation International Teacher Liaison. She received the 2015 Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Educator of the Year. When informed of her selection, Tanya exclaimed, "I am excited to be a part of the ARISS organization and cannot wait to see what the future holds for amateur radio as commercial space stations are built and lunar exploration evolves. I look forward to sharing my passion for STEAM and space education with other educators while we work together to inspire, engage, and educate the next generation." Tanya currently holds a Technician Class amateur radio license, with the callsign KD9BQZ, and has attended the ARRL Teacher Institute on Wireless Technology Workshop. In 2014, Ms. Anderson organized and held a successful ARISS contact involving the entire student body at St. Joan of Arc School. For the ARISS contact, she developed an extensive curriculum preparing students for their ham radio connection with Astronaut Alexander Gerst. Her first-ever ham radio contact was with Astronaut Gerst on the ISS. Tanya's passion for education and ham radio continued outside the classroom as a troop leader for 6 years with the Boy Scouts of America. Tanya used her educational and amateur radio abilities to immerse the scouts in STEAM as well as help facilitate scout participation in Jamboree on the Air and radio merit badge classes. ARISS-USA Executive Director, Frank Bauer remarked on Tanya's selection, "Competition for this position was extensive and selection was challenging, given the number of truly outstanding candidates. We are thrilled to welcome Tanya to our ARISS leadership team. Her leadership experience, passion and educational prowess will serve ARISS well, guiding our education volunteers and supporting the implementation of the ARISS 2.0 vision--to develop more comprehensive educational outcomes for youth and life-long learners." [ANS thanks ARISS for the above information.] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Need new satellite antennas? Purchase M2 LEO-Packs from the AMSAT Store. When you purchase through AMSAT, a portion of the proceeds goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space. https://amsat.org/product-category/hardware/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Updated AMSAT Tri-Fold Brochure Now Available Originally created by JoAnne Maenmpaa, K9JKM, the AMSAT tri-fold brochure has always been a favorite handout for use at hamfests and club presentations. Over the past few years, many things have changed at AMSAT and with the satellites we operate. Unfortunately, we did not update the brochure to keep up with the times. But, now with the pandemic largely behind us, in-person hamfests and club meetings are in full swing and the need for an update to the brochure was apparent. Happily, the brochure has been updated and available for viewing and downloading. You will find on the AMSAT website under "Get Involved/AMSAT Ambassador Program" from the top menu. You will find the link to the file in the "What resources are provided to AMSAT Ambassadors?" section of that page. Looking for more information to share? The electronic brochure "This is AMSAT" is also available for download at https://tinyurl.com/This-is-AMSAT. "This is AMSAT is 18 pages jam-packed with information about our youth and education programs, engineering activities and member services. It's only 1 Mb big so its easy to share with your friends by email, and its mostly jargon-free so everyone can understand what they're reading! [ANS thanks AMSAT for the above information.] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Want to fly the colors on your own grid expedition? Get your AMSAT car flag and other neat stuff from our Zazzle store! 25% of the purchase price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for September 8, 2023 Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. Elements in the TLE bulletin files are updated daily. TLE bulletin files are updated to add or remove satellites as necessary Thursday evenings around 2300 UTC, or more frequently if new high interest satellites are launched. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/ The following satellite has decayed from orbit and has been removed from this week's AMSAT-NA TLE distribution: AAUSAT 4 NORAD Cat ID 41460 Decayed from orbit 06 September 2023 [ANS thanks Joe Fitzgerald, KM1P, AMSAT Orbital Elements Manager for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- ARISS NEWS Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide. + ESPRIT: Private Higher School of Engineering and Technology, Little Ariana, Tunisia, telebridge via K6DUE. The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS. The scheduled crewmember is Andreas Mogensen, KG5GCZ. The ARISS mentor is ON6TI. Contact is go for Tuesday, September 12, 2023-09-12 at 09:01 UTC. The crossband repeater continues to be active (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never know. The packet system is also active (145.825 MHz up & down). As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol. Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html [ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information.] -------------------------------------------------------------------- Upcoming Satellite Operations No operations reported. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events. + 2023 AMSAT SA Space Symposium (online only) Saturday, 23 September 2023 Registration at https://bit.ly/45SynOJ + 2023 AMSAT-UK Colloquium & RSGB Convention October 14-15, 2023 Kents Hill Park Conference Centre Milton Keynes MK7 6BZ, United Kingdom + ARRL Minnesota State Convention Saturday, October 14 Hennepin Technical College 9000 Brooklyn Blvd. Brooklyn Park, Minnesota http://mnconvention.org + 41st AMSAT Space Symposium & Annual General Meeting October 20-21, 2023 Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel 4440 W John Carpenter Fwy, Irving, TX 75063 More information at: https://launch.amsat.org/event-5363188 AMSAT Ambassador Clint Bradford, K6LCS, says, “Think a 75-minute presentation on “working the easy satellites” would be appropriate for your club or event? Let me know by emailing me at k6lcsclint (at) gmail (dot) com or calling me at 909-999-SATS (7287)!” Clint has NEVER given the exact same show twice: EACH of the 150+ presentations so far has been customized/tailored to their audiences. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Shorts From All Over + S5Lab, the owner of the Greencube IO-117 satellite have posted a user survey. More information and link to the survey are on Twitter: https://twitter.com/S5Lab/status/1699039391467901219 [ANS thanks the S5LAB Greencube Team for the above information.] + Ironic: Clearspace-1, an ESA mission developed by a Swiss startup firm, is planned to demonstrate a system for deorbiting space junk. Its target is VESPA, a payload adapter left over from a 2013 Vega launch. But before Clearspace-1 could launch and reach its target, VESPA was hit by... you guessed it -- a piece of space junk. Clearspace-1 will still attempt to reach and deorbit the largest remaining chunk of VESPA. But perhaps a better plan than after-the-fact debris removal is to equip satellites and rocket stages with technology to deorbit themselves after mission completion? [ANS thanks The Orbital Index for the above information.] + A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A on Sept. 3, marking an historic 62nd orbital launch this calendar year. The mission broke the company's own orbital launch record that it set in 2022 when it launched 61 orbital missions for the full year. [ANS thanks Spaceflight Now for the above information.] + After two weather delays in previous weeks, Japan launched its Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) mission and the X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) satellite on September 6 at 7:42:11 PM EDT (23:42:11 UTC). SLIM will test precision landing on the Moon and deploy a lunar rover and lunar hopper. XRISM will look into deep space to study the formation of the universe and search for dark matter. [ANS thanks the Parabolic Arc for the above information.] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/ In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to: * Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization). * Primary and secondary school students are eligible for membership at one-half the standard yearly rate. * Post-secondary school students enrolled in at least half time status shall be eligible for the student rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. * Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms. Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information. 73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! This week's ANS Editor, Frank Karnauskas, N1UW n1uw [at] amsat [dot] org

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ANS-246 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins for Sept.3
by Mark Johns, K0JM 03 Sep '23

03 Sep '23

AMSAT NEWS SERVICE ANS-246 In this edition: * Astronaut Hams Complete ISS Crew Transition * AMSAT SA Space Symposium to be Held Online * All South African Grids Roved on Satellite * VUCC Satellite Standings -- September 2023 * Japan Scrubs Launch of X-Ray Telescope and Moon Lander * India's Lunar Lander Sparks Interest in the Moon * ARISS News * Upcoming Satellite Operations * Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events * Satellite Shorts From All Over The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites. The news feed on http://www.amsat.org publishes news of Amateur Radio in Space as soon as our volunteers can post it. Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor [at] amsat.org You can sign up for free e-mail delivery of the AMSAT News Service Bulletins via the ANS List; to join this list see: https://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/ ANS-246 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins To: All RADIO AMATEURS From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation 712 H Street NE, Suite 1653 Washington, DC 20002 DATE 2023 Sep 03 Astronaut Hams Complete ISS Crew Transition The eleven orbital residents aboard the International Space Station (ISS) spent this week gearing up for a crew split as the four newest members continue to settle into their daily routines in weightlessness and four other Expedition 69 crew members prepare for their ride home to Earth. Two crews are in the process of swapping places as NASA astronauts Woody Hoburg, KB3HTZ, and Stephen Bowen, KI5BKB, along with UAE (United Arab Emirates) Flight Engineer Sultan Alneyadi, KI5VTV, and Roscosmos Flight Engineer Andrey Fedyaev, spent most of their time handing over responsibilities, including training new crew members on station procedures and the use of station exercise equipment. Sunday, August 27 saw the arrival of NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, KI5WSL, Danish ESA astronaut Andreas Mogensen, KG5GCZ, JAXA astronaut Satoshi Furukawa, KE5DAW, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov to the station as the SpaceX Dragon Endurance Spacecraft docked to the Harmony module. The international quartet is quickly adjusting to orbital tasks and spent some of Thursday on the firsts of many science and maintenance activities they’ll perform in microgravity during their six-month stay. The four Crew-6 members -- Hoburg, Bowen, Alneyadi and Fedyaev -- are nearing the end of their six-month research mission and spent the afternoon prepping and packing SpaceX’s Dragon Endeavour spacecraft for departure no earlier than Sept. 2. This will bring the space station’s population down to seven before further crew swaps take place in September. [As always, amateur radio operations on the ISS are suspended during docking and undocking maneuvers, as well as during spacewalks (EVAs). Amateurs on earth should expect interruptions of the ARISS FM repeater and ARISS digipeater this weekend.] Astronaught Frank Rubio, and cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dimitri Petelin will soon reach a year in space after arriving to the station on Sept. 21, 2022, and are gearing up for their trek home in late September. The three long-time station residents continued to help with crew handover activities on Thursday and completed some station maintenance tasks of their own. [ANS thanks NASA for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ The 2023 AMSAT President's Club coins are here now! To commemorate the 40th anniversary of its launch on June 16, 1983, this year's coin features an image of AMSAT-OSCAR 10. Join the AMSAT President's Club today and help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! https://www.amsat.org/join-the-amsat-presidents-club/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ AMSAT SA Space Symposium to be Held Online AMSAT South Africa has announced that the 2023 AMSAT SA Space Symposium will be held on Saturday, 23 September 2023. It will be a virtual event opening participation to people anywhere in the world. The event will be hosted on the Bluejeans platform from 09:00 – 15:00 SAST (07:00 - 13:00 UTC). Those registered will receive an email with logon details. The aim of the AMSAT SA Space symposium is to take amateur radio into space, encourage more amateur satellite operation, development, and research. Registration is required and will be free but a donation to the AMSAT SA managed SARL Next Generation Beacon fund would be appreciated. Registration opened 24 August at bit.ly/45SynOJ Call for papers Proposals for papers are invited. Send a summary of the proposed paper in MS word to admin(a)amsatsa.org.za. The closing date for paper proposals is 4 September 2023. The final programme will be published on on 6 September 2023. [ANS thanks AMSAT SA for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- All South African Grids Roved on Satellite Tom Ambrose, ZS1TA, has done one of those difficult roves that took several years to complete. He has worked All South African Grids which has never been done before on any band or mode let alone satellite. Although there is no award, he has roved from 83 different ZS grids. Tom roved from the mountains to the sea and coast to coast. He used various antennas in including small Yagi's and dual band verticals. The satellites PRIMARILY used were AO-91 and AO-92, with occasional contacts on SO-50, using FM to encourage new satellite operators. FO-29 and AO-07 also featured in the mix. There are not that many satellite operators in ZS however, when he started operating many old and new hams got on to make a contact and follow him on his trips. Now comes the more difficult part. In order to receive VUCC/r, Tom has to go to another country to do some roves. Tom is looking at going through Namibia for that. Congratulations to Tom for this feat and looking forward to processing his VUCC/r which will be a first for a ZS station. [ANS thanks Bruce Paige, KK5DO, AMSAT Board Member and Director Contests and Awards, for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Need new satellite antennas? Purchase Arrows, Alaskan Arrows, and M2 LEO-Packs from the AMSAT Store. When you purchase through AMSAT, a portion of the proceeds goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space. https://amsat.org/product-category/hardware/ +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ VUCC Satellite Standings -- September 2023 VUCC Satellite Award/Endorsement Change Summary for August 01, 2023 to September 01, 2023. ------------------------------------------------------------ Aug. Sept. K8DP 1500 1555 WC7V 1383 1400 N8RO 1323 1342 KF7R 1000 1027 DL2GRC 842 1004 N0JE 975 1000 DF2ET 862 950 K9UO 875 926 KE8RJU 825 905 AA8CH 855 876 YO2CMI 502 820 EA2AA 778 800 W8LR 751 783 W2GDJ 465 705 KG0D 600 700 OZ9AAR 600 700 FG8OJ 635 639 VU2LBW 513 603 KJ7DZ 500 600 JN2QCV 428 507 JH8FIH 214 505 N5EKO 349 500 JG6CDH 401 468 IK7FMQ 426 453 KO9A 321 423 N8URE (FM19) 389 409 EA3TA 350 400 F6GLJ 312 400 IK3ITB 300 400 N3CAL 270 352 JA1GZK 300 350 JH0BBE 321 322 JS1LQI 259 318 N9ZTS 231 302 K3HPA 275 300 W7YED 254 300 HC2FG 239 276 N6PAZ 247 262 KC9ELU 251 254 OE7BJT 200 250 ZS4TX New 241 XE1YDK 100 217 JE1LFX New 216 ZS2BK 186 213 ON4CCN New 208 XE2YWH/1 New 207 JA6SZV 110 205 DL1BM 100 202 JI5USJ 152 200 PU5DDC 181 200 N8URE (EL95) 163 179 AD2DD 150 175 KP4MV 100 175 NK0S 164 167 KH6WI 102 155 ZS1TA New 152 JA9OJM 100 128 N8URE (EN61) 102 121 XE1BMG New 120 N7GR New 113 N2UO New 108 JF3MKC New 103 KE1IU New 102 DJ7NT New 100 HB9HZC New 100 ------------------------------------------------------------ Congratulations to the new VUCC holders. ON4CCN is first VUCC Satellite holder from Belgium ZS1TA is first VUCC Satellite holder from JF95 DJ7NT is first VUCC Satellite holder from JO30 JF3MKC is first VUCC Satellite holder from PM74 ZS4TX is first VUCC Satellite holder from KG30 [ANS thanks Jon Goering, N7AZ, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Japan Scrubs Launch of X-Ray Telescope and Moon Lander JAXA, the Japanese space agency, is attempting to launch two very different space missions from one rocket: a new X-ray telescope that will look at some of the hottest spots in our universe, and a small experimental robotic moon lander. But the missions have had difficulty getting off the ground. The telescope is called X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission, or XRISM for short (pronounced like the word “chrism”). The lunar mission is called Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, or SLIM. XRISM and SLIM were expected to launch from an H-IIA rocket from Japan’s Tanegashima Space Center on Monday, August 28 at 00:26 UTC. But less than 30 minutes before the scheduled launch, JAXA announced that the launch had been canceled for the day “due to inclement weather.” While JAXA had moments before said the weather appeared “calm,” winds at higher altitudes above the launch site were too severe for a safe launch according to a social media post by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which built and operates the rocket that is being used for the flight. Poor weather had also led to an earlier postponement of the flight on Saturday. The Japanese space agency has not yet announced when the next launch attempt would occur. But it has a reserved launch period through Sept. 15. XRISM is a telescope about the size of a bus. JAXA is collaborating with NASA on the mission, with additional participation from the European Space Agency. XRISM will study cosmic X-rays, which unlike other wavelengths of light can only be detected from above Earth’s atmosphere, which shields us from the harmful radiation. SLIM is a compact robotic moon lander that weighs more than 1,500 pounds at launch. The lander’s mission is not primarily scientific. Rather, it is to demonstrate a pinpoint navigation system, aiming to set down within about the length of a football field of a targeted landing site. Developing better landing technology would enable future spacecraft to land closer to rugged terrain that is of scientific interest. The space telescope will be placed in an orbit approximately 350 miles above Earth. Once there, researchers will spend the next few months turning the instruments on and running tests of their performance. Science operations will begin in January, and initial results from this data are expected in about a year. SLIM is headed toward the Shioli crater on the moon’s near side. The spacecraft will be taking a long, roundabout journey of at least four months that requires less propellant. SLIM will take several months to reach lunar orbit, then spend a month circling the moon before attempting to set down on the surface. [ANS thanks The New York Times for the above information] +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Want to fly the colors on your own grid expedition? Get your AMSAT car flag and other neat stuff from our Zazzle store! 25% of the purchase price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for Sept. 1 Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. Elements in the TLE bulletin files are updated daily. TLE bulletin files are updated to add or remove satellites as necessary Thursday evenings around 2300 UTC, or more frequently if new high interest satellites are launched. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/ This week there are no additions or deletions to the AMSAT TLE distribution. [ANS thanks Joe Fitzgerald, KM1P, AMSAT Orbital Elements page manager, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- India's Lunar Lander Sparks Interest in the Moon Chandrayaan-3’s lander and rover are safely on the Moon and their scientific work has begun. On August 23, the Vikram lander completed a successful autonomous descent and landing to touch down near the Moon’s south pole, only about 350 meters away from its target. On August 26, the Pragyan successfully rolled onto the lunar surface and navigated its first small crater. With this success, India became the fourth nation (after the U.S., Soviet Russia, and China) to soft-land on the Moon. Not only is this mission a success for India, but is humanity’s closest landing to the lunar south pole -- an area of great interest to science, as there is speculation that water ice may be found in this area of the moon. Landing a bit after sunrise on a lunar day, the Vikram lander with its four science payloads, and its onboard six-wheeled Pragyan rover with an additional two 2 payloads, have 14 Earth days to do some serious science together. All payloads have now been switched on, including ChaSTE onboard the lander, which measures the change in temperature with depth -- from ~50° C at the surface to -10° C over a depth of 8 cm in an initial test. India's successful landing took place just days after Luna 25, Russia’s first post-Soviet lunar lander, suffered an anomaly during an orbit-lowering maneuver and crashed into the Moon. That leaves scientist eager for data from the Chandrayaan-3 mission. [ANS thanks The Orbital Index for the above information] -------------------------------------------------------------------- ARISS NEWS Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide. COMPLETED CONTACTS Augusta Preparatory Day School, Augusta, GA, direct via K4RGK The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS The scheduled crewmember is Steve Bowen KI5BKB The ARISS mentor is AA4KN Contact was successful: Thu 2023-08-31 13:51:28 UTC 64 degrees maximum elevation Congratulations to the Augusta Preparatory Day School students, Steve, K4RGK, and mentor AA4KN! UPCOMING CONTACTS Egemen Yildiz Secondary School, İzmir, Turkey, telebridge via K6DUE The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS The scheduled crewmember is Jasmin Moghbeli KI5WSL The ARISS mentor is IZ2GOJ Contact is go for: Wed 2023-09-06 10:35:27 UTC 73 degrees maximum elevation The crossband repeater continues to be active (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never know. The packet system is also active (145.825 MHz up & down). As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol. Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time. The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html [ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information] -------------------------------------------------------------------- Upcoming Satellite Operations No rovers have reported any upcoming operations. To include your satellite roving plans in the AMSAT News Service Weekly bulletins, send them to Ian, K5ZM at k5zm (at) comcast (dot) net at least a couple of weeks in advance. Upcoming satellite operations are updated weekly on the AMSAT Upcoming Satellite Operations page but may expire before the next AMSAT News Service bulletin is released. You can watch for the latest roving information to become available at https://www.amsat.org/satellite-info/upcoming-satellite-operations. A growing number of satellite rovers are currently engaged in sharing their grid square activations on https://hams.at. By visiting the website, you gain easy access to comprehensive information about the operators responsible for activating specific grid squares. Additionally, you have the ability to assess the match score between yourself and a particular rover for a given pass, while also being able to identify the upcoming satellite passes that are accessible from your location. [ANS thanks Ian Parsons, K5ZM, AMSAT rover page manager, for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events. + AMSAT-DL Festive Conference & Symposium (50 Years) September 15-17, 2023 Bochum Observatory Blankensteiner Str. 200A, 44797 Bochum, Germany + 2023 AMSAT SA Space Symposium (online only) Saturday, 23 September 2023 Registration at https://bit.ly/45SynOJ + 2023 AMSAT-UK Colloquium & RSGB Convention October 14-15, 2023 Kents Hill Park Conference Centre Milton Keynes MK7 6BZ, United Kingdom + ARRL Minnesota State Convention Saturday, October 14 Hennepin Technical College 9000 Brooklyn Blvd. Brooklyn Park, Minnesota http://mnconvention.org + 41st AMSAT Space Symposium & Annual General Meeting October 20-21, 2023 Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel 4440 W John Carpenter Fwy, Irving, TX 75063 AMSAT Ambassador Clint Bradford, K6LCS, says, "Think a 75-minute presentation on "working the easy satellites" would be appropriate for your club or event? Let me know by emailing me at k6lcsclint (at) gmail (dot) com or calling me at 909-999-SATS (7287)!" Clint has NEVER given the exact same show twice: EACH of the 150+ presentations so far has been customized/tailored to their audiences. [ANS thanks Clint Bradford, K6LCS, and AMSAT for the above information] --------------------------------------------------------------------- Satellite Shorts From All Over + Congratulations to Jérôme Lecuyer, F4DXV in JN04JR35PD, and Bill Attwood, VE6WK in DO20WV58DO, on setting the new FO-29 distance record on August 26, eclipsing the prior record set by KE9AJ and EB1AO by 46 km! See https://www.amsat.org/satellite-distance-records/ for the complete list of current satellite distance records. (ANS thanks Paul Stoetzer, N8HM, AMSAT Executive VP and Records Manager, for the above information) + Since satellite operators all have VHF and UHF equipment and antennas of some sort, you might try aiming at the horizon for a while on the weekend of September 9-11, and seeing what contacts can be made without a bird overhead. The ARRL Septmeber VHF Contest begins at 1800z on Saturday and ends at 0259z on Monday (actually, Sunday night in North America). There is even a category for FM only. For details, see https://www.arrl.org/september-vhf?_zs=s8mxl&_zl=lcFg2 (ANS thanks ARRL for the above information) + Curbing methane release is crucial to slowing climate change and requires detecting methane leaks via space and air-based sensors, and holding emitters accountable. This week, Orbital Sidekick utilized its hyperspectral satellite constellation GHOSt to detect methane plumes from oil well pads. And, data from JPL’s EMIT sensor on the ISS spotted 22 methane plumes released during an extreme heat wave in Texas. There are more methane sleuthing satellites on the horizon: GHGSat is adding 4 more satellites to their constellation that monitor facility leaks with ~25m spatial resolution today, and MethaneSat, set to launch in early 2024, is planning to observe state-sized areas to identify specific sources of methane from anywhere in the world, and will also freely release the data, where it can be post-processed by AI. (ANS thank The Orbital Index for the above information) + Virgin Galactic's announced on August 28 that it is targeting Friday, Sept. 8 for the launch of Galactic 03, its third commercial spaceflight and eighth space mission overall. Galactic 03 will take three paying customers to and from suborbital space from Spaceport America in New Mexico. Virgin Galactic hasn't identified those passengers yet, but we know they've been ticket-holders for a long time. They'll fly with Colin Bennett, one of Virgin Galactic's astronaut instructors. (ANS thanks Space.com for the above information) + NASA officials sounded an alarm Tuesday, August 29, about the agency's Deep Space Network, a collection of antennas in California, Spain, and Australia used to maintain contact with missions scattered across the Solar System. Everything from NASA's Artemis missions to the Moon to the Voyager probes in interstellar space rely on the Deep Space Network (DSN) to receive commands and transmit data back to Earth. There are currently around 40 missions that rely on the DSN's antennas to stay in communication with controllers and scientists back on Earth. Another 40-plus missions will join the roster over the next decade or so, and many of the 40 missions currently using time on the network will likely still be operating over that time. “We have reached a really critical point on the DSN’s aging infrastructure," said Sandra Cauffman, deputy director of NASA's astrophysics division. (ANS thanks ARS Technica for the above informaton) --------------------------------------------------------------------- Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/ In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to: * Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization). * Primary and secondary school students are eligible for membership at one-half the standard yearly rate. * Post-secondary school students enrolled in at least half time status shall be eligible for the student rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status. * Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms. Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information. 73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space! This week's ANS Editor, Mark Johns, KØJM k0jm [at] amsat.org

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ANS September 2023