Re: [amsat-bb] Now HERE is a stupid question...

["John Santillo" <u1004467@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Also try looking at the bottom of a Topographical map of your area.
You'll find the correction at the bottom of the map.

73

John
N2HMM


----- Original Message -----
From: Malcolm M. Preston <np2l@worldnet.att.net>
To: Timothy S. Zibrat <timmy_z@nauticom.net>; AMSAT BBS <amsat-bb@AMSAT.Org>
Sent: Sunday, December 26, 1999 7:30 AM
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Now HERE is a stupid question...


 > Hi Timothy,
 >
 > You need to use true north as the tracking program doesn't know your local
 > variation.  If you are close to the ocean, a nautical chart will give you
 > both the variation and the annual change since it was published.  I assume
 > there are similar land map data.  Or a quick call to your local airport or
 > FAA facility should get you the answer.  Here in the Virgin Islands the
 > variation is about 13 deg. west.  Anyway if you get it within a few
degrees,
 > you'll be fine as even the most directional antenna has 15 degree beam
 > width.  The tracking programs usually bring you within 3-5 degrees to
 > minimize searching back and forth.
 >
 > I prefer the NOVA tracking programs - Very flexible and both easy and fun
to
 > use with good documentation.  But most any of them work fine - just be
sure
 > they interface with what ever tracker unit you use.
 >
 > 73's & good luck!
 >
 > Hope to meet you on the birds.
 >
 > Mal, NP2L>>
 >
 >
 > ----
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 >


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