Call for Amatuer Radio operators look for solar sail

[mswhin63]

Found this article from a couple of days ago, any Amateur radio operators out there - http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/NASA_Seeks_Amateur_Radio_Operators_ Aid_to_Listen_for_NanoSailD_999.htm l

I am still trying to plan what gear I am getting.:P

[mswhin63]

BTW - Fantastic website for satelittle tracking, very eas to use - http://www.n2yo.com/

[Barrykgerdes]

Yes I am a Ham VK2ZAH and I have the equipment. But I have not the time to use it. I still keep my licence up but I haven't used the gear in 18 months. Although it is connected and all it requires is to turn on the switch and set the frequency.

Barry

[mswhin63]

Ultimately I was to concentrate on Radio Astronomy as I plan to go back to Uni, Unfortunately First round application failed. Damn. hopefully second round will produce some results.

This is only to complete Year 12 to get my SARS. What a bugger. The website actually has tracking information on the Solar Sail too

[M_Lewis]

I have a 2metre handheld set and HF base set sitting here not being used. I don't know why I keep my VK4KEU active when I never use it....

Maybe I should look at some radio astronomy?

[zeb00]

I know the batterys have run out on the nonosail now but out of curisoty what sort of setup would be needed for this

"and what licences are required to operate this equipment."
answered that one myself
http://vkfaq.ampr.org/lictypes.php

Nick

[mswhin63]

Licensing is only required for transmitting, anyone can receive transmission without a licence. Most HAM radio operators have sensitive equipment to pick up the signal easily.

Nanosail was expect to fall from the sky and burn up this month or next month but now expected to continue for another 6 months to 1 year.

[AdrianF]

I have a licence VK4KL but not active have 2m handheld and I think 5or 6 RT85's converted to 2m. All setup but haven't turned on in 18 months. Might have to turn on to make sure all is ok

Adrian

[smitty]

I wonder how many budding astronomers are also Amateur Radio license holders?

Sean
VK1FMSY

[mswhin63]

Receiving only, don't need a licence

[smitty]

It was more a general question.

Sean

[koputai]

I've spotted Nanosail-D each of the past three nights visually. It's been very bright, between Mag 1.5 and Mag 1.8 so easy to spot. One thing though, the Heavens-Above site is predicting it four minutes early, so you have to wait until after you think you've missed it, and there it will be!

Cheers,
Jason.

[Saturn%5]

Nice website thanks for the link, slowly getting back into Astronomy and Ham Radio after a move from VK4 to VK7 :cold:

[apaulo]

Sounds like an interesting thing to do. The 70cm frequency is an excellent frequency for satellite communication and receiving of signals.
There are plenty of other active satellites one can listen to within the 70cm band (432mhz) and the 2 meter band (144mhz). Again you don't need an amateur radio license, just a good receiver and a vertical antenna.
ISS and STS135 (space shuttle) frequencies follow this link. http://www.issfanclub.com/frequencies

Best Regards Paul vk3da.