Month: July 2019

ARISS Next Generation Radio System Completes Critical Flight Certification Tests

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The Interoperable Radio System (IORS), ARISS’ next generation radio system successfully completed a battery of stressful tests required as part of the final certification of the hardware for launch to and operation on the International Space Station.

IORS test bench

During the week of July 8, the IORS, consisting of the JVC Kenwood D-710GA Radio and the AMSAT developed Multi-Voltage Power Supply, successfully completed a series of Electro-magnetic Interference (EMI)/Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) tests to ensure that the ARISS hardware will not interfere with the ISS systems or other payloads. Testing continued into the following week, where the IORS successfully passed power quality and acoustics testing. These tests verified that the ARISS IORS will not introduce harmful signals back into the ISS power system and is quiet enough to meet ISS acoustic requirements. ARISS Hardware Team members Lou McFadin, W5DID and Kerry Banke, N6IZW were at the NASA Johnson Space Centersupporting this two week battery of tests in concert with the NASA test and certification team.

IORS testing at Johnson Space Center (L to R) Lou McFadin and Kerry Banke

Kerry Banke states, “Since the IORS is being qualified to operate on 120VDC, 28VDC and Russian 28VDC as well as transmitting on VHF or UHF, a lot of test combinations were required to cover all cases. Each input voltage type was also tested at low,medium and high line voltage. Moreover, additional permutations were required to test the IORS under no load, medium load and full load at each voltage level. So it should not be surprising why the tests took two weeks to complete.”

Successful completion of these tests represents a key milestone in preparing the IORS for launch. ARISS can now begin final assembly of the flight safety certification in preparation for launch. ARISS is working towards launch ready status by the end of the year.

About ARISS:

Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) is a cooperative venture of international amateur radio societies and the space agencies that support the International Space Station (ISS).  In the United States, sponsors are the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT), the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), the ISS National Lab and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The primary goal of ARISS is to promote exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) topics by organizing scheduled contacts via amateur radio between crew members aboard the ISS and students in classrooms or public forms. Before and during these radio contacts, students, educators, parents, and communities learn about space, space technologies, and amateur radio. For more information, see www.ariss.org.

Media Contact:

Dave Jordan, AA4KN
ARISS PR
[email protected]

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CAS-7B Designated BIT Progress-OSCAR 102 (BO-102)

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On July 25, 2019, the CAS-7B (BP-1B) microsatellite was launched on a Hyperbola-1 launch vehicle from the Jiuquan Space Center, China. CAS-7B (BP-1B) was developed by the Chinese Amateur Satellite Group (CAMSAT), and in cooperation with the Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT). CAMSAT completed the project planning, design, build, and testing, and manages the on-orbit operation of the satellite. BIT provided the satellite environmental testing, launch support, and financial support. Many students from BIT were involved with the project, learning about satellite technology and amateur radio. The satellite carries a CW telemetry beacon and FM repeater that has been active since launch.

At the request of CAMSAT and the BIT team, AMSAT hereby designates CAS-7B (BP-1B) as BIT Progress-OSCAR 102 (BO-102). We congratulate the owners and operators of BO-102, thank them for their contribution to the amateur satellite community, and wish them continued success on this and future projects.

73,

Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA

AMSAT VP Operations / OSCAR Number Administrator

ANS-209 AMSAT News Service Bulletins for July 28

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AMSAT NEWS SERVICE
ANS-209

The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT North America, 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 https://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://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/ans

In this edition:

  • CAS-7B Launched and Operational
  • Upcoming ARISS SSTV Events
  • AMSAT-Chile developing CESAR-1 FM / digital satellite
  • FO-99 Transponder Activated over North America, Other Activations Scheduled
  • LO-94 Lunar Impact Expected on July 31st
  • Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for July 26, 2019
  • How to Support AMSAT
  • Upcoming Satellite Operations
  • Satellite Shorts from All Over

The 50th Anniversary AMSAT Space Symposium will be held
October 18-20 in Arlington, VA. For details, see:
https://www.amsat.org/amsat-symposium/

CAS-7B Launched and Operational

On July 25, 2019, CAMSAT’s CAS-7B satellite was successfully launched on the first orbital launch of iSpace’s Hyperbola-1 rocket.

CAS-7B is in a very low earth orbit with an apogee of 296 km and a perigee of 278 km. The inclination is 42.7 degrees. At this altitude, decay is expected by August 11th.

CAS-7B carries a 100 mW CW telemetry beacon at 435.715 MHz and an FM transponder with an uplink of 145.900 MHz (16 kHz bandwidth, no tone required) and a downlink of 435.690 MHz (100 mW).

Many QSOs around the world have been reported via the FM transponder. Reports indicate the transponder requires a considerable amount of EIRP to access and that the satellite is spinning fast causing rapid fading of signals.

More information about CAS-7B can be found at: https://www.amsat.org/camsat-cas-7b-is-ready-for-june-launch/

[ANS thanks CAMSAT and JA0CAW for the above information.]

Upcoming ARISS SSTV Events

ARISS Russia plans to activate the MAI-75 SSTV experiment on July 29 with images starting at 13:15 UTC ending at 21:25 UTC, then again starting July 30 at 13:50 UTC ending 19:30 UTC. Downlink frequency is 145.800 MHz FM using the PD-120 SSTV mode.

ARISS plans to commemorate Owen Garriott’s outstanding accomplishments with ham radio in space during an ISS SSTV event starting 09:40 UTC on August 1 and ending 18:15 UTC on Aug 4. Downlink freq will be 145.800 MHz FM using the PD-120 SSTV mode.

However, there is a possible switch out in images for SSTV event scheduled for August 1-4. This may result in planning an additional SSTV event for the end of August that would feature the Owen Garriott commemorative images at that time. We expect an update on this after July 26th

[ANS thanks ARISS for the above information.]

AMSAT-Chile developing CESAR-1 FM / digital satellites

AMSAT-CE is designing and building five satellites, to be used by radio amateurs around the world, which will allow a series of scientific experiments in the field of digital communications, as well as gravimetric and orbitgraphic studies.

Of these five satellites, one will be the engineering prototype, three will be flight units, and the remaining one will be used to check or replicate on the ground the operation of the units that are in space.

AMSAT-CE has also promoted the installation of three earth stations, in Iquique, Temuco and Pto. Montt.

Technical characteristics

  • CESAR-1 is of microsat technology (cube shape, 23 cm per edge).
  • The satellite reception frequencies will be in the 145 MHz band (5 channels) and 1,575 MHz (GPS).
  • The satellite transmission frequencies will be in the 436 MHz band (2 channels).
  • The modulation will be FSK (AX.25 9.6 kbps) or narrowband FM.
  • The magnetic stabilization will be by permanent magnets.
  • It will have a magnetic brake (the rotation due to the photonic spin will be stopped by seven bars of hydrogen steel, which will cut lines of force from the earth’s magnetic field).
  • The estimated useful life is 10 years.
  • The mass will be approximately 12 kg
  • The period will be 100 minutes (that’s about 14 revolutions a day).
  • The satellite platform consists of 5 modules made of space aluminum AL6061-T6.
  • The electrical energy will be stored in a Saft NiCd battery, made up of 8 batteries of 7 Ah each.
  • The solar cells will be Spectrolab, triple junction (GalnP2-GaAs-Ge), or the like.

Contributions of the CESAR-1 Project to the Country

AMSAT-CE satellites will be added to the projects already undertaken by the Chilean Air Force (FASAT) and the University of Chile (SUCHAI), but they have as their main characteristic that they are the first ones that are being designed and built entirely in the country, which constitutes a huge challenge, and a scientific and technological contribution.

Among the benefits that the country and the amateur radio can obtain from AMSAT-CE satellites are:

  1. Education (interest young people in space radiocommunications)
  2. Support in emergency situations
  3. Scientific experimentation (in the frame for experiments)
  4. Boosting a national aerospace industry
  5. Experimentation with the Internet
  6. National Amateur Radio Unit, and
  7. International recognition for the country.

Experiments

The CESAR-1 satellite will have five main (E) experiments:

E1 A digital transponder between two earth stations, to be used in real time, during the period in which both are being illuminated by the satellite (radio-packets in AX.25 at 9,600 kbps).

E2 A digital transponder between two earth stations, to be used in deferred time, as an electronic message box (Store & forward with radio-packets in AX.25 at 9.6 kbps).

E3 An analog repeater that will allow two earth stations that are being illuminated by the satellite to be linked, to broadcast audio (voice) in real time, in FM mode.

E4 Communication between two terrestrial repeaters, with link to the satellite, which will allow long distance, but temporary, calls to low-power portable stations (voice, FM, 147 MHz access), and

E5 An on-board GPS receiver, which will collect information for gravimetric and orbitgraphic research.

The orbit of CESAR-1 will be low, polar and heliosynchronous (about 800 km high). In any case, given the time elapsed, it is possible that both the experiments and the electronic part considered for them must be modernized.

Cost of the Project and its Financing

The cost of the project, in money, amounts to about USD 700,000 (necessary for the construction of five satellites, launch of one, implementation of two command and control stations, and three terrestrial repeaters). Of that amount, around USD 300,000 have already been contributed by external sponsors, and by members of the AMSAT-CE Foundation. However, we have not yet been able to obtain the financing of the remaining USD 400,000.

Additionally, and conservatively, we estimate that the project requires some 36,000 man-hours of managers and specialists. Much of those 36,000 hours have already been or are being voluntarily contributed by the AMSAT-CE partners.

Essentially, the monetary resources that are still missing are needed to finance the solar cells of CESAR-1, hire professional services to finish the construction of what is pending, and cover the costs of the tests and the first launch.

Project status

Although it is a radio amateur project, it does not cease to correspond to a professional and complex project. But the more than 20 years we have been working – without reaching the goal – have exhausted some of our partners, and this has generated a shortage of volunteers. It has not been easy to finish the first satellite – which should have flown in the late 1990s – because in Chile there is still not enough awareness about the possibilities offered by space activity to the country. Despite this, the construction of CESAR-1 is quite advanced (more than 70%):

  • 5 mechanical satellite structures are built.
  • 8 UHF transmitters are finished, and aligned in their working frequencies.
  • The sources of power are finished.
  • The receivers have an advance of 90%.
  • The GPS experiment has an advance of 70%.
  • In the OBC with its EDAC and RAM disk, the software needs to be refined.
  • The international coordination of frequencies in the ITU was concluded, but today it would have to be reactivated, for the time elapsed.
  • There are, yes, the photovoltaic cells, the assembly in Chile and the final tests (which will probably be done in Brazil).
  • It is also necessary to reactivate the obtaining of the pitcher.

Website: https://www.amsat-ce.org/proyecto-cesar

[ANS thanks AMSAT-CE for the above information.]

New 2019 AMSAT Apparel Now Available on the Web
Didn’t make it to Hamvention but you want the latest in AMSAT haberdashery?
The new 2019 tee-shirts, polo shirts and hats are now available in the AMSAT online store.
Browse the styles and sizes online and put your order in today at
https://www.amsat.org/product-category/amsat-apparel/

FO-99 Transponder Activated over North America, Other Activations  Scheduled

On July 25, 2019, the V/u linear transponder on FO-99 (NEXUS) was activated over North America for the first time. Stations heard include W5CBF, KB4PML, N4QX, AA5PK, KX9X, N8HM, K0FFY, and N2ACQ.

FO-99 is active on a schedule. The power budget does not permit full-time transponder operations. Schedule updates can be found on Twitter at https://twitter.com/GsNihonuniv

Upcoming North American FO-99 operations:

LocationOperationDateAOSLOS
Victoria, Canada TransponderAugust 1704:28:33 UTC04:40:01 UTC
Denver, US SSTVAugust 2403:30:20 UTC 03:41:50 UTC
Topeka, US TransponderAugust 3102:34:47 UTC 02:45:45 UTC

Operations are performed from about 5 minutes before the listed AOS to 5 minutes after LOS.

Transponder frequencies are 145.900 MHz – 145.930 MHz up and 435.880 MHz – 435.910 MHz down, inverting. The SSTV / digitalker downlink is 437.075 MHz.

The Nihon University Ground Station asks that stations completing QSOs via FO-99 upload their audio to Twitter or the NEXUS website. http://sat.aero.cst.nihon-u.ac.jp/nexus/E0_Top.html

[ANS thanks the Nihon University Ground Station and Paul Stoetzer, N8HM, for the above information.]

2019 marks AMSAT’s 50th Anniversary of Keeping Amateur Radio in Space.
To help celebrate, we are sponsoring the AMSAT 50th Anniversary Awards Program.
Full details are available at https://www.amsat.org/amsat-50th-anniversary-awards-program/

LO-94 Lunar Impact Expected on July 31st

Here is the LO-94 (DSLWP-B) UHF plan for the following days:

  • 29 Jul 00:15 to 02:15
  • 29 Jul 04:30 to 06:30
  • 29 Jul 20:00 to 22:00
  • 30 Jul 05:30 to 07:30
  • 30 Jul 16:20 to 18:20
  • 31 Jul 06:30 to 08:30
  • 31 Jul 13:24 to 15.24
  • 1 Aug 05:30 to 07:30

All time in UTC. GMSK on both freq & JT4G on 435.4. JT4G repeater message on 436.4 TBD. Lunar impact expected to be at about 31 Jul 14:20. Later windows for backup.

SSDV album: http://lilacsat.hit.edu.cn/dashboard/pages_en/pics-b.html 

Online JT4G telemetry forwarder: http://lilacsat.hit.edu.cn/dashboard/pages_en/jt4g_forwarder.html

JT4G telemetry display: http://lilacsat.hit.edu.cn/dashboard/pages_en/jt4g.html

GMSK telemetry: http://lilacsat.hit.edu.cn/dashboard/pages_en/telemetry-b.html

[ANS thanks Wei Mingchaun, BG2BHC, Harbin Institute of Technology, for the above information]

Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for July 25, 2019

The following Amateur Radio satellites have decayed from orbit and have been removed from this week’s TLE distribution.

  • NJUST-1   – NORAD CAT ID 42722 – Decayed 07/20/2019 (per Space-Track)
  • AOXIANG-1 – NORAD CAT ID 42735 – Decayed 06/26/2019 (per Space-Track)

The following Amateur Radio satellite has been added to this week’s TLE distribution.

  • CAS-7B – TEMPORARY CAT ID 99999 (This CAT ID will be changed to a permanent ID later.) The initial TLE supplied by Alan Kung, BA1DU on July 25, 2019 on AMSAT-BB.

[ANS thanks Ray Hoad, WA5QGD, AMSAT Orbital Elements Manager for the above information.]

Purchase AMSAT gear on our Zazzle storefront. 25% of the purchase
price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space
https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear

How to Support AMSAT

AMSAT relies on the support of our members and the amateur radio community to Keep Amateur Radio in Space. How can you help?

  1. Join AMSAT 
    Both you and AMSAT will benefit when you join. You get the AMSAT Journal bimonthly and support from AMSAT Ambassadors. Member dues and donations provide AMSAT’s primary support. Join today at https://www.amsat.org/product-category/amsat-membership/
  2. Become a Life Member 
    Becoming a Life Member has never been easier. Now you can become a Life Member with 12 monthly payments of $74 through our online store. See https://www.amsat.org/product/lifetime-membership/ for details.
  3. Donate to AMSAT 
    Make a one time or recurring donation to AMSAT today. Even as little as one dollar a month can make a difference! Donate today at https://www.amsat.org/donate/
  4. Purchase AMSAT gear on our Zazzle storefront.
    AMSAT receives 25% of the price of each sale on AMSAT logo merchandise from our Zazzle storefront located at  https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear
  5. Support AMSAT when you make purchases from Amazon!
    So far, AMSAT has received $3,913.29 from AmazonSmile. Search for “Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation” https://smile.amazon.com/ref=smi_ext_twt_dshb_smi
  6. Volunteer for AMSAT 
    AMSAT relies on volunteers for nearly all of our activities. If you have an idea for how to help, please let us know, Details on
    volunteering can be found at https://www.amsat.org/volunteer-for-amsat/

[ANS thanks the AMSAT office for the above information.]

AMSAT and ARISS are currently supporting a FundRazr campaign to raise
$150,000 for critical radio infrastructure upgrades on ISS. The upgrades are
necessary to enable students to continue to talk to astronauts in space via
Amateur Radio. We have reached a great milestone with $33,250 raised or about
17% towards our goal. This would not have been possible without your
outstanding generosity!!
For more information and to DONATE TODAY visit:
https://fundrazr.com/arissnextgen?ref=ab_e7Htwa_ab_47IcJ9

Upcoming Satellite Operations

  • J6 St Lucia, (FK94) July 21 – August 3, 2019 
    Frank, K3TRM, will be operating as J6/K3TRM from Gros Islet, St. Lucia (FK94mb) between July 21 – August 3, 2019. Activity will be on 40-6M using SSB, CW, and Digital (RTTY & FT8) and satellite. More info available on Frank’s QRZ page: https://www.qrz.com/db/J6/K3TRM and Twitter feed: https://twitter.com/k3trm
  • CY9 St. Paul Island (FN97) – July 31 to August 8, 2019 
    CY9C will be on St. Paul Island July 31st through August 8th. This is an all bands/mode dxpedition, with EME and Sats as well.  More info available at http://cy9c.com/index.html.
  • West Yellowstone (DN44) August 2-3, 2019 
    Dennis, N7EGY, will be attending a family reunion August 2-3, and should be able to sneak away for a few FM passes.  Keep an eye on Dennis’ Twitter feed for further updates:  https://twitter.com/n7egy1
  • AZ NV UT (DN25-DN28, DM37-DM38, DM46-DM47)  August 3-10, 2019 
    Ian, K5ZM, will be wandering through the Southwest August 3rd – 10th, mostly operating as W3ZM/7:
    Aug 03: NV DM25/DM26 line
    Aug 04: AZ DM36
    Aug 06: NV and UT DM27/DM28/DM37/DM38
    Aug 07: AZ DM46 + UT DM47 Aug 10: NV DM25/DM26 line
    Aug 05 & 08: non ham stuff = K5ZM
    Aug 09: TBD!
    Watch for updates on Ian’s Twitter feed:  https://twitter.com/k5zm_
  • Florida Keys (EL95) August 4-11, 2019
    Philippe, EA4NF will be operating from EL95 (Key Largo and Brickell Key) as KC3NSG, from August 4 to 11, 2019.  FM and Linears.  QSL via LoTW.  Keep an eye on Philippe’s Twitter feed for further updates: https://twitter.com/EA4NF_SAT
  • Washington Invasion (CN96/96 & DN06/07/17/17) – August 9-10, 2019 
    Casey, KI7UNJ, will be heading North to invade the State of Washington, August 9th and 10th. Keep an eye on Casey’s Twitter feed for specific pass announcements: https://twitter.com/KI7UNJ
  • FP – St Pierre et Miquelon (GN16) – August 10-18, 2019 
    A DXpedition is planned to St Pierre et Miquelon, August 10th through the 18th. The team will operate as T05M will from Ile aux Marins on 6-160m, but there is a possibility of some FM Satellites. Keep an eye on their website for updates: http://fp2019.net/
  • Santa Rosa Island, CA (CM93) – August 12-14, 2019 
    Ron, AD0DX, is heading back to Santa Rosa Island, August 12th -14th. When not distracted by the feathered-birds, Ron will be on FM and linear satellites as W6R.  Keep an eye on Ron’s Twitter feed for updates at the dates get closer.  https://twitter.com/ad0dx
  • Goose Bay, Labrador (FO93) August 12-14, 2019 
    Chris, VE3FU, will be visiting family / friends and maintenance of his HF remote station in FO93, but he should be on the FM sats as VO2AC. Chris will try to post here before each pass, so keep an eye on his Twitter feed: https://twitter.com/ChrisVE3FU
  • 6Y – Jamaica (FK18) August 12-19, 2019 
    Philippe, EA4NF will be operating from JAMAICA (IOTA NA-097 – Grid FK18) in Satellite with the special call 6Y4NF from August 12 to 19, QRV Satellite in FM and SSB. QSL via LoTW.  Keep an eye on Philippe’s Twitter feed for further updates: https://twitter.com/EA4NF_SAT.

Remember to check out W3ZM On the Road for additional upcoming activations! https://www.amsat.org/events/was-w3zm/

[ANS thanks Robert Bankston, KE4AL, for the above information.]

AMSAT, along with our ARISS partners, is developing an amateur radio package,
including two-way communication capability, to be carried on-board Gateway in lunar orbit.
Support AMSAT’s projects today at https://www.amsat.org/donate/

Satellite Shorts from All Over

In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President’s Club. Members of the President’s Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive additional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT office.

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 six post-secondary years in this status. Contact Martha at the AMSAT office for additional student membership information.

73 and Remember to help keep amateur radio in space,

This week’s ANS Editor,
Paul Stoetzer, N8HM
n8hm at amsat dot org

ANS-202 AMSAT News Service Bulletins for July 21

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AMSAT NEWS SERVICE
ANS-202

The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT North America, 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 https://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://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/ans

In this edition:

  • AMSAT is proud to announce the relaunch of its AMSAT Ambassador Program
  • Watch for ISS, SSTV Activity
  • Nihon University Announces FO-99 US Operation Plan
  • FO-29 update from JARL
  • 2019 Mid-Year Fundraising Letter
  • 2019 37th AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting
  • Upcoming Satellite Operations
  • ARISS News
  • Shorts From All Over

AMSAT is proud to announce the relaunch of its AMSAT Ambassador Program

The AMSAT Ambassador Program is an opportunity for AMSAT members to share what they’ve learned about amateur radio in space with others, and, in the process, help inspire the next generation of AMSAT’ers.

AMSAT Ambassador Program Goals:

  •  Educate other amateur radio operators and the general public on  amateur radio in space related subjects.
  •  Represent AMSAT by sharing enthusiasm for Amateur Radio in Space with others, whether at in-person events, practical demonstrations,    online, or in written communications, and share AMSAT’s mission and vision.
  •  Connect volunteers with potential members both in-person and online in a manner encouraging their affiliation by membership with AMSAT.
  •  Offer personal mentoring and coaching to new enthusiasts either in-person or via online means such as email, chat, and social media.
  •  Connect members and potential enthusiasts with proper resources at AMSAT when they seek more knowledge, volunteer to serve, or have    concerns with the organization.

Become an AMSAT Ambassador and do your part towards making this happen by informing people about the value of amateur radio in space and encouraging their support and involvement. Please visit the AMSAT Ambassador Program webpage for more information: https://www.amsat.org/ambassador/

73,

Robert Bankston, KE4AL Vice-President, User Services, Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT, Director, AMSAT Ambassadors

Watch for ISS, SSTV Activity

ARISS SSTV activity is planned for various times during the week of July 29 through Aug 4. As more specific dates and times are determined, they will be made available at the ARISS website (www.ariss.org) and at the official ARISS facebook page at Amateur Radio On The International Space Station (ARISS).

[ANS thanks Dave, AA4KN for the above information]

New 2019 AMSAT Apparel Now Available on the Web
Didn’t make it to Hamvention but you want the latest in AMSAT haberdashery?
The new 2019 tee-shirts, polo shirts and hats are now available in the AMSAT online store.
Browse the styles and sizes online and put your order in today at
https://www.amsat.org/product-category/amsat-apparel/

 Nihon University Announces FO-99 US Operation Plan

PlaceOperationDateAOSLOSMax. Elevation
Washington, DCTransponderJuly 27 02:28:4302:39:5335.08
Topeka, KSTransponderAug 10 03:46:43 03:57:57 31.35
Denver, COSSTVAug 2403:30:20 03:41:50 50.01
All times UTC

Operation will be performed from 5 minutes before AOS to 5 minutes after LOS. Total operation time is about 20 min. The operation may be cancelled if uplink is not received.

[ANS thanks Nihon University for the above information.]

2019 marks AMSAT’s 50th Anniversary of Keeping Amateur Radio in Space.
To help celebrate, we are sponsoring the AMSAT 50th Anniversary Awards Program.
Full details are available at https://www.amsat.org/amsat-50th-anniversary-awards-program/

FO-29 update from JARL

“Analog transmitters of Fuji No. 3 (FO-29) have been suspended since July 9, 2019. Currently, we are doing situation grasp and information gathering, but we will inform you as soon as the situation is understood.

If you have telemetry data after July 8th (UTC), please send it to the following address. [Transmission destination of telemetry data] oper (at) jarl.org

Thank you for your cooperation in collecting information on “Fuji No. 3″ of many users.

JARL Secretariat Member Section Fuji 3 Telemetry Section”

Source: https://www.hamlife.jp/2019/07/17/fo29-jas2-silent/

[ANS thanks hamlife.jp for the above information]

2019 Mid-Year Fundraising Letter

The following funraising letter from AMSAT President Joe Spier, K6WAO, was recently mailed to all AMSAT members. Please consider a one-time or recurring donation today.

Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT)
10605 Concord St, #304
Kensington, MD 20895-2526 USA

July 10, 2019 AMSAT Member,

I am writing to provide an update to the membership on AMSAT’s activities and invite everyone to our 50th Anniversary AMSAT Space Symposium and General Meeting, to be held October 18-20, 2019. For more details, go to https://www.amsat.org/amsat-symposium/. I hope to see you there!

It takes considerable volunteer effort and real dollars to keep Amateur Radio in Space™.  AMSAT needs some important assistance in the areas of User Services and Engineering. If you would like to volunteer, please contact me at [email protected]. You may also assist AMSAT by making a tax-deductible contribution. AMSAT has several fundraising needs. The daily operation of AMSAT is accomplished by donations to the General Fund. This fund is also used to fill other department needs. The other main department needs are the fund for GOLF (Greater Orbit, Larger Footprint) 3U CubeSats design/construction and ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station).

AMSAT has had success in the launch of AO-92 (Fox-1D) in January of 2018 and the launch of AO-95 (Fox-1Cliff) in December of 2018. AO-95 achieved orbit and the beacon functions properly, unfortunately the satellite’s receiver is not operational. AMSAT Engineering and Operations are trying to determine the cause of the issue. AMSAT partnered with Spaceflight Inc. by contracting and paying for these launches. Fundraising for Fox series satellites have not yet recouped this expenditure, so donations are still being accepted. AMSAT is expecting the launch of RadFxSat-2 (Fox-1E), our partnership with Vanderbilt University, by no earlier than the end of summer. RadFxSat-2 will launch on the ELaNa XX mission, on Virgin Orbit’s LauncherOne, and carry an AMSAT V/u linear transponder and radiation experiments for Vanderbilt University. AMSAT is also partnering with several universities to fly this linear transponder on their CubeSats. The first of these will fly on HuskySat-1, from the Husky Satellite Lab at the University of Washington, later this year.

AMSAT has been selected for two CubeSat Launch Initiative (CSLI) opportunities for GOLF-TEE and GOLF-1. GOLF’s 3U spaceframe is being designed with versatility to add mission specific radios, power supplies, and experiments. A series of GOLF CubeSats will provide better coverage and a greater footprint will allow more coverage by fewer satellites. GOLF also allows AMSAT to continue and expand partnerships with universities, NASA and others. GOLF will also provide for additional experimental payloads such as GPS, satellite interlinking, and others.  Your donations help AMSAT keep GOLF-TEE and GOLF-1 on schedule.

The first GOLF CubeSat, GOLF-TEE, will jump start the GOLF program with a launch to LEO as early as 2020. GOLF-TEE will use Attitude Determination and Control (ADAC) and an experimental 5 GHz /10 GHz software defined radio transponder.

AMSAT will benefit by gaining knowledge as well as hardware for future missions. GOLF-TEE also provides an opportunity to fly projects that have been developed by AMSAT’s Advanced Satellite Communications and Exploration of New Technology (ASCENT) “skunk works” program. GOLF-TEE will carry a Fox-1E design V/u linear transponder and new RadFx (Radiation Effects) experiment like that in AO-85 for Vanderbilt University, but testing FinFET technology.

GOLF-1 will aim for higher LEO orbit as the first official “Greater Orbit, Larger Footprint” AMSAT CubeSat. Launch is targeted for 2020-2021.

You may make a one time or recurring donation to AMSAT at https://www.amsat.org/donate/.

As of this writing, the ARISS FundRazr has raised $33,250 of the $150,000 for critical amateur radio infrastructure upgrades on ISS to enable students to talk to astronauts in space via amateur radio. ARISS is in critical need of this infrastructure update. Through your donations ARISS seeks the following upgrades:

  • Next Generation radio system will support easier radio mode   transition, to enable new, exciting capabilities for hams, students   and the general public including:
  • New amateur radio communication and experimentation capabilities,  including an enhanced voice repeater and updated digital packet   radio (APRS) capabilities
  • Slow Scan TV (picture up and downlinks) in both the US and Russian segments of ISS
  • New multi-voltage power supply (MVPS) will support present and future radio capabilities and allow wireless experiments to be conducted

ARISS is building 10 Next Generation Radio Systems to support our development, on-orbit operations, training and long-term maintenance. This includes units on-orbit (2 units–1 unit each in US and Russian segment), flight spares (2 units), training (3 units), testing (1 unit) and ground-based maintenance & troubleshooting (2 units). ARISS has kicked off a FundRazr campaign for this initiative. The project is scheduled for delivery by the end of this year.

AMSAT is also working with our ARISS partners to develop an amateur radio package, including two-way communication capability, to be carried on-board Gateway in lunar orbit. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting project.

You may make a one time or recurring donation to ARISS by clicking the ARISS Donations button at https://www.amsat.org/donate or directly to the FundRazr at https://fundrazr.com/arissnextgen.

Help Keep Amateur Radio in Space™
Thanks! Joe Spier, K6WAO
President, AMSAT

[ANS thanks Joe K6WAO for the above information]

2019 37th AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting

Please join us for the 2019 AMSAT 50th Anniversary Symposium, to be held in the Washington, DC Metro Area on October 18, 19, and 20, 2019.

The Symposium venue will be the Hilton Arlington, located in the heart of the Ballston neighborhood of Arlington, VA. The Hilton Arlington is located at 950 North Stafford Street, Arlington, Virginia, 22203, USA TEL: +1-703-528-6000 and the reservation code is AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation). Connected to the Ballston Metro Station, the hotel offers easy and effortless access to Washington DC’s top tourist destinations like the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums and historic monuments. The hotel is six miles from Reagan National Airport and the National Mall. There are plenty of restaurants nearby.

The Symposium will feature OSCAR Park – a display of satellites from throughout the history of amateur radio in space – paper presentations, and a banquet with speakers celebrating AMSAT’s long history, and other events. The AMSAT Board of Directors Meeting will be held on October 16th and 17th at the same hotel. Two guided tours are available. On Sunday, October 20th a bus tour to the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum is available for $30 (max 35 people) and on Monday, October 21st, AMSAT President Joe Spier will lead a day tour to the National Mall via the Metro.

So please plan on attending the 50th Anniversary Symposium – you will be glad you did and keep checking the AMSAT website for further updates and information. https://www.amsat.org/amsat-symposium/

[ANS thanks AMSAT-NA for the above information]

Upcoming Satellite Operations – As of July 19, 2019

  • Remember to check out W3ZM On the Road for additional upcoming activations! https://www.amsat.org/events/was-w3zm/
  • Wyoming and Montana (DN62, DN63, DN64, DN65, DN54)  July 20-27, 2019 
    RJ, WY7AA, will be roving in DN62 and DN63 for the 16:00-20:00 UTC. FM passes, Sat. July 20th. On Sun. July 21st, he will work one pass only from DN65, SO-50 at 16:58 UTC.  For the remainder of the week, RJ will be camping in DN64, working holiday style FM and linears, with one side trip during the week for a few FM passes from DN54.  RJ will try to get word to Twitter when he plans to do so, but expects to be without Twitter for the trip, and likely out of cell phone range, as well. #unplugged
  • St Lucia, (FK94) July 21 – August 3, 2019 
    Frank, K3TRM, will be operating as J6/K3TRM from Gros Islet, St. Lucia (FK94mb) between July 21 – August 3, 2019. Activity will be on 40-6M using SSB, CW, and Digital (RTTY & FT8) and satellite. More info available on Frank’s QRZ page: https://www.qrz.com/db/J6/K3TRM and Twitter feed: https://twitter.com/k3trm
  • CY9 St. Paul Island (FN97) – July 31 to August 8, 2019 
    CY9C will be on St. Paul Island July 31st through August 8th.  This is an all bands/mode dxpedition, with EME and Sats as well.  More info available at http://cy9c.com/index.html.
  • Florida Keys (EL95) August 4-11, 2019 
    Philippe, EA4NF will be operating from EL95 (Key Largo and Brickell Key) as KC3NSG, from August 4 to 11, 2019.  FM and Linears.  QSL via LoTW.  Keep an eye on Philippe’s Twitter feed for further updates: https://twitter.com/EA4NF_SAT
  • Washington Invasion (CN96/96 & DN06/07/17/17) – August 9-10, 2019 
    Casey, KI7UNJ, will be heading North to invade the State of Washington, August 9th and 10th. Keep an eye on Casey’s Twitter feed for specific pass announcements: https://twitter.com/KI7UNJ
  • St Pierre et Miquelon (GN16) – August 10-18, 2019
    A DXpedition is planned to St Pierre et Miquelon, August 10th through the 18th. The team will operate as T05M will from Ile aux Marins on 6-160m, but there is a possibility of some FM Satellites. Keep an eye on their website for updates: http://fp2019.net/
  • Santa Rosa Island, CA (CM93) – August 12-14, 2019 
    Ron, AD0DX, is heading back to Santa Rosa Island, August 12th -14th. When not distracted by the feathered-birds, Ron will be on FM and linear satellites as W6R.  Keep an eye on Ron’s Twitter feed for updates at the dates get closer.  https://twitter.com/ad0dx
  • 6Y Jamaica (FK18) AUGUST 12-19, 2019 
    Philippe, EA4NF will be operating from JAMAICA (IOTA NA-097 – Grid FK18) in Satellite with the special call 6Y4NF from August 12 to 19, QRV Satellite in FM and SSB. QSL via LoTW.  Keep an eye on Philippe’s Twitter feed for further updates: https://twitter.com/EA4NF_SAT.

Please submit any additions or corrections to ke4al (at) amsat.org

[ANS thanks Robert KE4AL for the above information]

AMSAT and ARISS are currently supporting a FundRazr campaign to raise
$150,000 for critical radio infrastructure upgrades on ISS. The upgrades are
necessary to enable students to continue to talk to astronauts in space via
Amateur Radio. We have reached a great milestone with $33,250 raised or about
17% towards our goal. This would not have been possible without your
outstanding generosity!!
For more information and to DONATE TODAY visit:
https://fundrazr.com/arissnextgen?ref=ab_e7Htwa_ab_47IcJ9

ARISS News

  • 2019-07-16 19:35 UTC between Cosmonaut Aleksey Ovchinin using ISS callsign RSØISS and About Gagarin From Space. Performing amateur radio communication session with the 8th International Aerospace School. U.N. Sultanova rep. Bashkortostan Aerospace School of. U.N. Sultanova summer camp, Kalinovka, Davlekanovsky, Russia Contact was direct via  RZ9WWB. ARISS Mentor was Sergey RV3DR
  • Upcoming ARISS Contact Schedule 24th World Scout Jamboree, Summit Bechtel Scout Reserve, West Virginia, telebridge via ON4ISS The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS The scheduled astronaut is Drew Morgan KI5AAA Contact is go for: Sat 2019-07-27 18:27:56 UTC

[ANS thanks ARISS, Charlie AJ9N and David AA4KN for the above  information]

AMSAT, along with our ARISS partners, is developing an amateur radio package,
including two-way communication capability, to be carried on-board Gateway in lunar orbit.
Support AMSAT’s projects today at https://www.amsat.org/donate/

Shorts From All Over

  • CAS-7B Launch July 25, 2019 Planned to launch CAS-7B at 05:00:00UTC on July 25, 2019, the launch vehicle Hyperbola-1 will run for 862.0206 seconds and then CAS-7B satellite will be deployed at 05:14:22.0206
    CAS-7B(BP-1B)
    1 99999U          19206.21831019 -.00000000  00000-0  00000-0 0 00001
    2 99999 042.7339 008.2068 0013606 285.8754 218.2911 15.94575754000011
    [ANS thanks Alan, BA1DU for the above information]
  • Tweet from AMSAT-UK AMSAT-UK (@AmsatUK) tweeted at 2:28 PM on Fri, Jul 19, 2019: #Peru: Holders of the 100 watt Novice (Class C) #AmateurRadio license have been granted access to 144-146 MHz (previously just 146-148) and the entire 70cm band. They are now permitted to use the Satellites. https://t.co/lHMwcq0two#hamradio #hamr (https://twitter.com/AmsatUK/status/1152314187344990210?s=03)
    [ANS thanks @Amsat-UK for the above information]

In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership in the President’s Club. Members of the President’s Club, as sustaining donors to AMSAT Project Funds, will be eligible to receive additional benefits. Application forms are available from the AMSAT office.

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 six post-secondary years in this status. Contact Martha at the AMSAT office for additional student membership information.

73 and Remember to help keep amateur radio in space,
This week’s ANS Editor, EMike McCardel, AA8EM
aa8em at amsat dot org