July 21, 2005
Introduction to Amateur Satellites
Meeting accommodated a live satellite demonstration!
Emily Clarke, W0EEC, presented “An Introduction to Amateur Satellites,” which was a humorous and fact filled look at why Amateur Satellites are an important technology. The presentation to acquainted new hams (and old hams who are new to the idea of amateur satellites) with the concepts of why we build amateur satellites, what satellites are operational, what kind of equipment one needs and the techniques to use them. The presentation is designed to help clubs develop a group interest so that they may grow into amateur satellites together. Emily is the AMSAT area coordinator in the Bay Area, and is on the board of Project OSCAR. Emily also contributed information regarding Field Day satellite operations for SF Bay Area (click here).
Emily brought her field satellite equipment and after two attempts we reach one of the amateur satellites. During the 10 minute communication window, she and AARC attendees talked with another amateur radio operator located in Portland, OR.
To see Emily’s presentation, her PDF can be see at her webpage, http://www.emilyshouse.com/W0EEC/index.php
Live 2D java tracking map for amateur satellites at http://science.nasa.gov/realtime/jtrack/Amateur.html