Re: [amsat-bb] Need some tips on keeping a sat log

["A.J. Farmer (AJ3U)" <farmer.aj@xxxxxxxxx>]

On 4/25/06, Michael  A. Tondee <mat_62@netcommander.com> wrote:
> wondering how to notate it. For instance, would one log the uplink or the
> downlink frequency or both? Is the time of the beginning/end  of the pass
> sufficent or would I log the time of each individual contact. I know there are
> probably no set rules but I'm wondering how some of the more experienced
> operators out there do it.

Hi Michael,

Actually there are "rules" out there for doing this if you ever decide
you want to upload your logs to something like ARRL's Logbook of the
World.  I didn't know about these requirements and had to totally
rearrange my logs so that I could upload them.  Since you are starting
out fresh, you might as well follow those guidelines now to save
yourself the trouble in the future if you decide to use LoTW.

There are two required fields in order for you to upload a satellite
contact to LoTW and they must follow a specific format:
1. Propagation Mode: this should be set to "SAT" for satellite contacts
2. Satellite Name: Current list of supported satellites by LoTW is listed here:
https://p1k.arrl.org/lotw/faq#sats
Make sure you use the name exactly as they specify, for example, use
AO-51, not AO51

As far as logging the frequency or band, you always specify your
transmit frequency or band.  You can optionally log the receive
frequency or band in a separate field.  I call mine "receive band". 
It is not required, but I like to log it for my own reference since
some satellites have multiple downlinks.

I use ACLog and it was relatively easy to set up these custom fields
to support logging satellite contacts.

I hope that helps get you started!

--
A.J. Farmer, AJ3U
http://www.aj3u.com
----
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