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ANS-182 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

✇AMSAT
By: Mitch Ahrenstorff
30 June 2024 at 00:00

In this edition:

* Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha “Noise of Summer” Mission Rescheduled
* Curium One Satellite Set to Test SatNOGS-COMMS Transceiver
* SpaceX Falcon Heavy Successfully Launches GOES-U Satellite
* GridMasterMap Satellite Top 100 Rovers July 2024 Rankings
* Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for June 28, 2024
* ARISS News
* Upcoming Satellite Operations
* AMSAT Ambassador Activities
* Satellite Shorts From All Over

The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, 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://www.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.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://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/

ANS-182 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

To: All RADIO AMATEURS
From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation
712 H Street NE, Suite 1653
Washington, DC 20002

DATE 2024 Jun 30

Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha “Noise of Summer” Mission Rescheduled

Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha rocket, originally scheduled for launch on June 27th, has been rescheduled to 9:03 pm PDT on July 1st for its #FLTA005 mission titled “Noise of Summer.” This launch will occur from Space Launch Complex-2 at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, carrying NASA payloads and involving a dedicated launch team. For updates closer to the launch window, visit Firefly Aerospace’s official website at https://fireflyspace.com/news/.

A highlight of this launch is the ELaNa 43 mission, featuring the deployment of multiple CubeSats, including the University of Maine’s MESAT1. This satellite, equipped with a Linear Transponder Module (LTM) from AMSAT, will help conduct experiments designed by Maine schools, contributing to educational and research objectives supported by NASA.

MESAT1 being loaded into the satellite dispenser on the Firefly Aerospace rocket. [Credit: University of Maine]
The “Noise of Summer” mission will deploy a total of eight CubeSats using Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha rocket. Alongside MESAT1, these CubeSats include CatSat from the University of Arizona, KUbeSat-1 from the University of Kansas, R5-S4 and R5-S2-2.0 from NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Serenity from Teachers in Space, SOC-i from the University of Washington, and TechEdSat-11 (TES-11) from NASA’s Ames Research Center. The livestreamed launch, in collaboration with NASASpaceflight, will provide viewers with insights into the intricate operations involved.

MESAT1, beyond its primary mission objectives, will study local temperatures and phytoplankton concentrations using onboard sensors and imaging equipment. It also features a linear transponder for amateur radio use, with telemetry accessible through AMSAT’s FoxTelem program, allowing enthusiasts to decode and analyze satellite data. Users can download the latest version of FoxTelem from the AMSAT website (https://www.amsat.org/foxtelem-software-for-windows-mac-linux/) to decode and forward telemetry results to AMSAT’s central server for further analysis by engineers and students.

Educational experiments aboard MESAT1, such as ALBEDO, IMAGER, and HAB, developed by Maine schools, aim to study light reflection, coastal water turbidity, and early detection of harmful algal blooms, respectively. These projects highlight the collaborative effort between educational institutions and space agencies to promote scientific learning and environmental awareness.

FoxTelem Version 1.12z3 has been updated for receiving MESAT1 telemetry. [Credit: AMSAT]
Managed under NASA’s CubeSat Launch Initiative and supported by the Maine Space Grant Consortium, MESAT1 represents a significant milestone as Maine’s first small satellite. It will enter a Sun-synchronous orbit, facilitating long-term data collection for climate and environmental studies.

AMSAT’s involvement in the mission underscores its role in advancing amateur radio satellite technology and promoting international cooperation in space science. Through initiatives like FoxTelem, AMSAT enables public engagement with satellite telemetry, thereby enhancing participation in space exploration and scientific discovery.

[ANS thanks Firefly Aerospace, University of Maine, and AMSAT for the above information]

Curium One Satellite Set to Test SatNOGS-COMMS Transceiver

The upcoming launch of the Ariane 6 rocket will carry the Curium One satellite, a 12-unit CubeSat developed collaboratively by Planetary Transportation Systems and the Libre Space Foundation. A primary focus of this mission is the in-orbit testing of the SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver, an open-source radio designed to enhance satellite communication capabilities. This mission aims to validate the performance of the SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver, a dual-band, software-configurable radio transceiver specifically created for Telemetry and Telecommand (TMTC).

The SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver is notable for its dual-band operation in the UHF and SHF bands. It can accommodate a turnstile antenna, which facilitates both transmitting and receiving radio signals. The transceiver’s software-configurable nature allows for in-flight adjustments to carrier and intermediate frequencies, bitrate, modulation options, and channel-filter bandwidth, making it highly versatile for various experimental and educational setups. This flexibility is expected to be a significant asset in the mission’s success.

The SatNOGS-COMMS board will be verified onboard Curium One CubeSat [Credit: Libre Space]
Curium One’s mission represents the first in-orbit demonstration of the SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver. This testing is crucial for verifying the transceiver’s performance in space and will provide valuable data for future missions. The success of this test will also validate the design and functionality of the SatNOGS-COMMS board, which is fully compatible with the extensive SatNOGS Network comprising over 200 ground stations worldwide. IARU Amateur Satellite Frequency Coordination is still pending for Curium One after a Libre Space Foundation application was submitted on June 23rd.

One of the standout features of the SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver is its open-source nature. By making the hardware and software publicly available, the Libre Space Foundation aims to foster a collaborative environment where amateur radio operators, students, and space enthusiasts can contribute to and benefit from the technology. This approach not only democratizes access to advanced space communication technology but also accelerates innovation and learning within the community. This mission could set a precedent for future open-source space technologies. The GitLab repository for the SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver can be found at https://gitlab.com/librespacefoundation/satnogs-comms.

Curium One CubeSat will fly on the first Ariane 6 rocket launch. [Credit: Planetary Transportation Systems]
The verification of SatNOGS-COMMS onboard Curium One will supply critical information for the Libre Space Foundation’s upcoming PHASMA mission and other future projects. For Planetary Transportation Systems, this mission marks the first in-orbit validation of their satellite design, which is a significant milestone for the company’s future endeavors in space technology development. This mission represents a crucial step in their strategic roadmap.

Curium One’s mission highlights the potential of open-source satellite technology. By promoting amateur radio and providing educational opportunities in space technology, this mission aims to make space more accessible and affordable for everyone. The data and insights from testing the SatNOGS-COMMS transceiver will support more inclusive and innovative uses of space, setting a new standard for collaborative space missions. This mission shows the impact of collaboration and open-source innovation in advancing space exploration and technology.

[ANS thanks the European Space Agency Libre Space Foundation for the above information]

The 2024 AMSAT President’s Club coins are here now!
Help Support GOLF and Fox Plus

Join the AMSAT President’s Club today and help
Keep Amateur Radio in Space!
https://www.amsat.org/join-the-amsat-presidents-club/

SpaceX Falcon Heavy Successfully Launches GOES-U Satellite

On June 25, a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket successfully lifted off from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A at 5:26 p.m. Eastern, carrying the GOES-U weather satellite, the final spacecraft in a series of geostationary weather satellites. This launch featured several notable firsts, overcoming previous weather forecasts that had predicted only a 30% chance of favorable conditions.

The GOES-U satellite, successfully deployed from the Falcon Heavy’s second stage four and a half hours after liftoff, after the stage completed a sequence of three burns to place the satellite into a geostationary transfer orbit. Built by Lockheed Martin for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), GOES-U will be renamed GOES-19 upon reaching geostationary orbit. After on-orbit commissioning, it will be positioned at 75 degrees east in geostationary orbit, taking over from GOES-16 as the operational GOES-East satellite.

GOES-U carries a suite of earth and space science instruments similar to its predecessors but includes the new Compact Coronagraph (CCOR) instrument for solar observation. CCOR will monitor the solar corona for flares and coronal mass ejections, a crucial function for understanding space weather. This role was previously filled by the nearly 30-year-old Solar and Heliospheric Observatory spacecraft.

GOES-U lifts off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A on June 25th, 2024. [Credit: SpaceX]
The GOES-R series, which began with a launch in 2016, has significantly improved weather forecasting. Ken Graham, director of the National Weather Service, stated at a pre-launch briefing, “The GOES-R series of satellites, it’s been a gamechanger for us.” The satellites have enabled new and improved forecasts, warnings, and services that help save lives and protect property.

Among the enhancements in the GOES-R series is a lightning mapper. Pam Sullivan, director of the GOES-R program at NOAA, highlighted its impact, saying it allows meteorologists to better understand storm severity and issue more accurate warnings. “The main thing I hear from forecasters is that they have more confidence in a forecast,” she noted.

NOAA is already planning the next generation of geostationary weather satellites, called GeoXO, set to begin launching in 2032. Contracts have been awarded to Lockheed Martin for satellite construction and BAE Systems for sounder and ocean color instruments. Steve Volz, assistant administrator of NOAA’s Satellite and Information Service, described GOES-U as “the bridge that connects today’s geostationary satellite technology with the technology of tomorrow.”

NOAA’s GOES-U satellite undergoing testing by Lockheed Martin in Littleton, Colorado. [Credit: Lockheed Martin]
The launch was marked by the synchronized landings of the two Falcon Heavy side boosters at Landing Zones 1 and 2 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This mission was also the first time NOAA launched a GOES weather satellite on a SpaceX rocket. The three previous GOES-R satellites launched on Atlas 5 rockets from United Launch Alliance (ULA), but SpaceX was awarded the $152.5 million contract for the GOES-U launch in September 2021 after ULA withdrew due to a lack of available Atlas rockets.

The Falcon Heavy’s additional performance is a key advantage. Julianna Scheiman, director of NASA science missions at SpaceX, explained that the rocket’s capability allows for a significant delta V reduction, meaning the spacecraft requires less energy to reach its final orbit. This efficiency translates into fuel savings and extended operational life for GOES-U, which has a design specification of 15 years. “With the added capability Falcon Heavy is giving us, we expect to be at 20-plus years of fuel life,” said NOAA’s Sullivan.

The GOES-U launch marked the 10th overall for the Falcon Heavy and the second contracted by NASA, following the Psyche asteroid mission in October 2023. Another Falcon Heavy is set to launch NASA’s Europa Clipper mission this October, continuing SpaceX’s role in advancing space exploration and weather monitoring capabilities.

[ANS thanks Jeff Foust, SpaceNews, for the above information]

GridMasterMap Satellite Top 100 Rovers July 2024 Rankings

The July 2024 rankings for the Top 100 Rovers (Mixed LEO/MEO/GEO) in satellite operations, as determined by @GridMasterMap on Twitter, has been released. The ranking is determined by the number of grids and DXCC entities activated, taking into account only those grids where a minimum number of QSOs logged on the gridmaster.fr website have been validated by a third party. Grid numbers do not directly reflect the exact number of activations. Satellite operators are encouraged to upload their LoTW satellite contacts to https://gridmaster.fr in order to provide more accurate data.

Updated: 2024-06-28

1 ND9M 26 LU5ILA 51 EA4NF 76 FG8OJ
2 NJ7H 27 N5BO 52 AA5PK 77 DF2ET
3 JA9KRO 28 K8BL 53 JL3RNZ 78 HB9GWJ
4 N5UC 29 DL2GRC 54 SP5XSD 79 PT9BM
5 UT1FG 30 KE4AL 55 AD7DB 80 KI7UXT
6 OE3SEU 31 VE3HLS 56 F4DXV 81 KJ7NDY
7 DL6AP 32 KB5FHK 57 KE9AJ 82 YU0W
8 WI7P 33 KI7UNJ 58 KI7QEK 83 WA9JBQ
9 DP0POL 34 LA9XGA 59 PA3GAN 84 N4DCW
10 N6UA 35 F4BKV 60 XE1ET 85 KB2YSI
11 HA3FOK 36 JO2ASQ 61 N8RO 86 N0TEL
12 K5ZM 37 N7AGF 62 KM4LAO 87 VE3GOP
13 N9IP 38 XE3DX 63 VE1CWJ 88 JM1CAX
14 WY7AA 39 K7TAB 64 SM3NRY 89 CU2ZG
15 W5PFG 40 KE0PBR 65 N4UFO 90 K0FFY
16 AK8CW 41 KI0KB 66 VA3VGR 91 KG4AKV
17 AD0DX 42 KE0WPA 67 W1AW 92 N6UTC
18 F5VMJ 43 PR8KW 68 VA7LM 93 AF5CC
19 WD9EWK 44 VK5DG 69 PT2AP 94 VE6WK
20 AD0HJ 45 N6DNM 70 M1DDD 95 W8MTB
21 DJ8MS 46 EB1AO 71 DL4EA 96 VE7PTN
22 ON4AUC 47 AC0RA 72 LU4JVE 97 K6VHF
23 KX9X 48 JK2XXK 73 W8LR 98 DK9JC
24 ND0C 49 W7WGC 74 AA8CH 99 PT9ST
25 KG5CCI 50 N4AKV 75 VE1VOX 100 VO2AC

[ANS thanks @GridMasterMap for the above information]

Need new satellite antennas?
Purchase an M2 LEO-Pack from the AMSAT Store!When you purchase through AMSAT, a portion of the proceeds goes towards
Keeping Amateur Radio in Space.
https://amsat.org/product-category/hardware/

Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for June 28, 2024

Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. TLE bulletin files are updated daily in the first hour of the UTC day. New bulletin files will be posted immediately after reliable elements become available for new amateur satellites. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/.

This week there are no additions or deletions to the AMSAT TLE distribution.

[ANS thanks AMSAT Orbital Elements page for the above information]

ARISS NEWS

Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide.

+ Recently Completed Contacts

Complejo Educativo Nuestra Señora de Fátima N° 1139 and N° 8119, Pérez, Argentina, Telebridge via VK6MJ
The ISS callsign was NA1SS
The scheduled crewmember was Jeanette Epps KF5QNU
The ARISS mentor was VE6JBJ
Contact was successful Thu 2024-06-27 13:38:07 UTC

+ Upcoming Contacts

Moroccan School of Engineering Sciences, Casablanca, Morocco, telebridge via VK6MJ
The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS
The scheduled crewmember is Jeanette Epps KF5QNU
The ARISS mentor is IN3GHZ
Contact is go for: Mon 2024-07-01 12:02:01 UTC

St. Luke’s College, Buenos Aires, Argentina, direct via LU4AA
The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS
The scheduled crewmember is Mike Barratt KD5MIJ
The ARISS mentor is VE6JBJ
Contact is go for: Wed 2024-07-03 14:42:53 UTC
Watch for Livestreaming via their Instagram accounts: The school: @stlukes.college / Radio Club Argentino: @rca_sociedad_nacional

The crossband repeater continues to be active (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never know.

The packet system is also active (145.825 MHz up & down).

As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol.

Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time.

The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html

The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html

[ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information]

Upcoming Satellite Operations

From Randy, ND0C: From 24 June thru 7 July, we will be on another family camping vacation, which means another satellite roving expedition! This time, thru WI to MI and back thru IL and IA. No super rare grids but several that may be needed by many. The grids and passes will depend on where/when we happen to be while on the road or camping. This will be all LEO sats: FM & SSB. As always, I will try for EU passes on RS-44 when possible. Looking forward to pushing past the 100 grids-roved milestone.

From Mike, N8MR: I will be in EN57, with roves to EN67 from Friday, June 28 thru Saturday, July 6. Using an Icom 9700, Arrow and Alaskan antennas. Listening for Europe on linear eastern passes. I can rove to EN56, only if needed. Posting passes to hams.at a day in advance. All QSOs to LoTW as N8MR.

VP5/AA5UK will be QRV from FL31 from 23rd June through 5th July. This operation will be holiday style but will cover HF/LEO/MEO. Head over to his VP5/AA5UK QRZ page for all the info you can shake a stick at.

A growing number of satellite rovers are currently engaged in sharing their grid square activations on https://hams.at. By visiting the website, you gain easy access to comprehensive information about the operators responsible for activating specific grid squares. Additionally, you have the ability to assess the match score between yourself and a particular rover for a given pass, while also being able to identify the upcoming satellite passes that are accessible from your location.

[ANS thanks Ian Parsons, K5ZM, AMSAT rover page manager, for the above information]

AMSAT Ambassador Activities

AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events.

“Moon Day” at the Frontiers of Flight Museum – July 20th, 2024
Dallas Love Field Airport
8008 Herb Kelleher Way
Dallas, TX 75235
https://flightmuseum.com/events/

AMSAT and Amateur Radio satellites will be presented to the general public as part of this annual space themed STEAM event. Volunteers to help at the table space and to do contact demos are welcome. Contact tschuessler [at] amsat.org for more information.

Huntsville Hamfest – August 17th and 18th, 2024
Von Braun Center South Hall
700 Monroe Street SW
Huntsville, AL 35801
https://hamfest.org/

AMSAT Booth and Forum / N8DEU and W4FCL

Northeast HamXpostion – August 22nd thru 25th, 2024
Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel & Trade Center
181 Boston Post Road West
Marlborough, MA 01752
https://hamxposition.org/

Greater Louisville Hamfest – September 7th, 2024
Paroquet Springs Conference Centre
395 Paroquet Springs Drive
Shepherdsville, KY 40165
https://louisvillehamfest.wixsite.com/louisvillehamfest

AMSAT Forum and Information Table / W4FCL

North Star Radio Convention – October 5th, 2024
Hennepin Technical College (North Campus)
9000 Brooklyn Boulevard
Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
https://conv2023.tcfmc.org/

AMSAT Forum and Information Table / KØJM and ADØHJ

Central Kentucky Hamfest – October 5th, 2024
Highlands Baptist Church
2032 Parallel Road
Lexington, KY 40502
https://www.facebook.com/w9khz/

AMSAT and Educational Satellites Forum and Information Table / AI4SR and W4FCL

2024 AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting – October 25th thru 27th, 2024
Doubletree by Hilton Tampa Rocky Point Waterfront
3050 N Rocky Point Drive West
Tampa, FL 33607
https://www.amsat.org/

[ANS thanks the AMSAT Events page for the above information]

Want to fly the colors on your own grid expedition?
Get an AMSAT car flag and other neat stuff from our Zazzle store!
25% of the purchase price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space

Keeping Amateur Radio in Space
https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear

Satellite Shorts From All Over

+ The Ariane 6 rocket recently completed its final ‘wet dress rehearsal’ at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, marking a crucial milestone before its maiden launch. This rehearsal involved loading 180 tons of supercooled propellant into the rocket, cooling its components to cryogenic temperatures, and rolling back the mobile gantry. ESA’s Guy Pilchen highlighted that this rehearsal allowed teams to refine launch operations using the actual flight hardware and software. Following fueling, the rocket underwent final preparations for its upcoming launch, expected to confirm its date after data analysis. With payloads ranging from Earth observation to scientific experiments, Ariane 6 aims to secure Europe’s independent access to space and advance space exploration. (ANS thanks the European Space Agency for the above information)

+ China’s Chang’e 6 probe has returned to Earth on June 25, 2024, with the first-ever samples from the far side of the moon, landing in Inner Mongolia on Tuesday. The successful mission marks a global milestone, with the samples expected to include 2.5 million-year-old volcanic rock that could shed light on the geological differences between the moon’s near and far sides. The probe landed in the moon’s South Pole-Aitken Basin, providing samples from various geological layers. This mission is part of China’s growing space rivalry with the U.S. and other nations, aiming to establish China as a technological power. The journey began on May 3 and lasted 53 days, involving drilling into the core and collecting surface rocks. China plans to share the samples with international scientists, hoping to answer fundamental questions about lunar geology and the solar system’s early days. (ANS thanks Huizhong Wu, Associated Press, for the above information)

+ NASA called off a planned spacewalk on June 24 due to a malfunction in astronaut Tracy Dyson’s spacesuit. Dyson and her crewmate Mike Barratt were preparing to exit the International Space Station to conduct maintenance when a water leak was detected in Dyson’s suit cooling unit. This unit is crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature during spacewalks. The leak occurred just after the suits were switched to battery power, prompting NASA to abort the mission. Although Dyson reported feeling a bit warm and expressed concerns about potential water damage to electrical connectors, both astronauts were safe throughout the incident. This cancellation follows a similar recent setback on June 13, involving a spacesuit issue, and it raises questions about the potential impact on the return schedule of Boeing’s Starliner capsule. (ANS thanks Jackie Wattles, CNN, for the above information)

+ NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, who flew Boeing’s Starliner capsule to the International Space Station (ISS), have had their return to Earth delayed multiple times due to issues with the spacecraft. Originally planned to stay for about a week, their mission has been extended indefinitely as NASA and Boeing investigate a slow helium leak and malfunctioning thrusters discovered after reaching orbit. The latest delay was announced last week, with no new return date set yet. Despite these issues, the astronauts are assisting with tasks and conducting tests on the ISS, where they are accommodated with sufficient supplies. NASA is taking a cautious approach, allowing data to drive decisions about managing the leaks and thruster performance. This mission aims to certify the Starliner for future routine flights, similar to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon service for NASA. (ANS thanks Denise Chow, NBC News, for the above information)

Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/

In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to:

* Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization).
* 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 6 post-secondary years in this status.
* Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms.

Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information.

73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space!

This week’s ANS Editor, Mitch Ahrenstorff, ADØHJ
ad0hj [at] amsat.org

ANS-154 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

✇AMSAT
By: Mitch Ahrenstorff
2 June 2024 at 00:00

In this edition:

* Last Remaining CubeSatSim Kits Available in AMSAT Store
* Setting Up Your Own Satellite Ground Station with SatNOGS
* SpaceX Aims for Successful Reentry in Fourth Starship Test Flight
* GridMasterMap Satellite Top 100 Rovers June 2024 Rankings
* Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for May 31, 2024
* ARISS News
* Upcoming Satellite Operations
* Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events
* Satellite Shorts From All Over

The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, 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://www.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.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://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/

ANS-154 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

To: All RADIO AMATEURS
From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation
712 H Street NE, Suite 1653
Washington, DC 20002

DATE 2024 Jun 02

Last Remaining CubeSatSim Kits Available in AMSAT Store

The final batch of CubeSatSim Kits are now available for purchase have completely sold out in the AMSAT Store. As of Saturday, June 1 at 1600 UTC, these kits are on sale were on sale for $400, including shipping to U.S. addresses. Offering a hands-on experience, the CubeSatSim Kit requires minimal soldering and assembly, making it accessible for both educational and public demonstration purposes. Watch for announcements of future availability of the CubeSatSim Kits from AMSAT.

Editor’s Note: The last available CubeSatSim Kit was purchased around 1815 UTC on Saturday June 1st. Article was left in this week’s ANS to share updated information on the CubeSatSim project.

The CubeSatSim Kit includes:

  • Fully assembled and tested PCBs (STEM Payload, Solar, and Battery Boards)
  • Raspberry Pi Zero WH with a Pi Camera and fully programmed micro-SD card, along with a fully programmed Raspberry Pi Pico WH
  • AMSAT logo Remove Before Flight tag switch
  • 3D printed frame, nylon screws, and nuts, with a mini screwdriver included for assembly
  • Metal standoffs, stacking headers, and JST jumpers for stacking the PCBs and Pi Zero WH
  • 10 solar panels with JST connectors and mounting tape, requiring minimal soldering
  • BME280 sensor (pressure, temperature, altitude, humidity) and MPU6050 IMU/gyro with male pin headers for easy socket connection
  • Two 6″ SMA coax cables and two SMA antennas

The kit also comes with an instruction sheet, parts inventory, and links to online instructions. Assembly time is estimated to be under two hours, with a soldering iron, solder, scissors, and the provided mini screwdriver required.

Limited quantities of the CubeSatSim Kit are now available from the AMSAT Store. [Credit: Alan Johnston, KU2Y]
The latest Beta v1.3 CubeSatSim features improvements over v1.2, such as an FM transceiver, Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller, and RF command and control. It can also be modified to function as a 500mW high altitude balloon payload.

For those interested in creating their own CubeSatSim, Beta v1.3 blank PCB sets are available at the AMSAT Store for $35. These require additional components, which can be purchased for approximately $300 using the provided Bill of Materials.

For detailed updates, visit: https://www.amsat.org/amsat-cubesatsim-beta-release-v1-3/

Additional resources include:

For more information or to borrow a loaner CubeSat Simulator, contact Alan Johnston, AMSAT VP Educational Relations, at ku2y [at] arrl.net.

How to Order
Kits will be sold exclusively on the AMSAT Store website.
Only U.S. shipping addresses are eligible; orders with non-U.S. addresses will be refunded and closed.

About CubeSatSim
CubeSatSim is a low-cost satellite emulator powered by solar panels and batteries. It transmits UHF radio telemetry and can be expanded with additional sensors and modules, making it ideal for educational and public demonstrations.

Get Involved
During the beta period, purchasers are encouraged to test the new hardware and software and provide feedback on the instructions and documentation. Past purchasers of the CubeSatSim v1 PCB board sets are eligible for a free upgrade to the v1.3 set of PCB boards by contacting ku2y [at] arrl.net.

[ANS thanks Alan Johnston, KU2Y, AMSAT Vice President Educational Relations for the above information]

Setting Up Your Own Satellite Ground Station with SatNOGS

Robert Theiss, W5ITR, had the pleasure of interviewing Dan White, ADØCQ, from the Libre Space Foundation at the 2024 Dayton Hamvention about their innovative SatNOGS project. This initiative enables anyone to set up a satellite ground station, collect valuable data, and contribute to global satellite operations. You can watch the interview here on the Digital Rancher YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edNfD_YXZps

Dan explained that SatNOGS provides detailed blueprints and documentation for building a satellite ground station from scratch. The foundation offers the necessary software, identifies accessible hardware, and maintains the infrastructure that allows citizen scientists to engage in satellite-related sciences. Their vision of making outer space open and accessible through open-source technology is truly inspiring.

Setting up a basic SatNOGS station is surprisingly straightforward. All you need is a Raspberry Pi and an RTL-SDR dongle. Dan explained the process: the Libre Space Foundation provides a ready-to-use image for the Raspberry Pi, which includes the operating system and necessary configurations. You just create an account, register your station, and schedule a test observation.

Robert Theiss, W5ITR, interviews Dan White, ADØCQ, with Libre Space at the 2024 Dayton Hamvention. [Credit: Robert Theiss, W5ITR]
For those looking to enhance their setup, SatNOGS offers extensive documentation on building antennas and integrating additional components like low noise amplifiers and band pass filters. Although they plan to offer kits in the future, you can currently follow the detailed instructions and suggested links available on the SatNOGS Wiki: https://wiki.satnogs.org.

One of the most fascinating aspects of SatNOGS is its network of interconnected ground stations. Once your station is set up, it can schedule satellite passes and collect data, even while you’re asleep. This data is shared across the network, allowing other users to access it, and vice versa. This system ensures continuous monitoring and data collection, maximizing the utility of each station.

The SatNOGS community is highly active and supportive. The forums on the Libre Space Foundation’s website are a great resource for troubleshooting, sharing experiences, and staying updated on new satellite launches and developments.

Dan White, ADØCQ explains the makeup of their SatNOGS Demonstration Ground Station. [Credit: Robert Theiss, W5ITR]
For those interested in taking their ground station to the next level, SatNOGS supports more advanced setups with full azimuth and elevation rotators and larger antennas. These setups, while more costly, significantly increase data collection capabilities and overall performance. The Raspberry Pi used in the basic setup can interface with these advanced systems, allowing for automated tracking and data collection.

Dan shared insights into practical aspects such as bandwidth requirements and equipment wear and tear. While the data collected by a SatNOGS station can be bandwidth-intensive, there are settings to optimize for lower bandwidth situations by disabling audio uploads. Additionally, proper setup and maintenance of antennas and rotators can ensure long-term operation without significant issues.

The Libre Space Foundation and its SatNOGS project provide a unique opportunity for anyone interested in satellite and space communications to get involved. Their open-source approach and comprehensive support make it accessible even for beginners. Setting up your own satellite ground station is a rewarding experience, contributing to global space exploration and satellite communication. Check out the resources at https://satnogs.org and get involved!

[ANS thanks Robert Theiss, W5ITR, for the above information]

The 2024 AMSAT President’s Club coins are here now!
Help Support GOLF and Fox Plus

Join the AMSAT President’s Club today and help
Keep Amateur Radio in Space!
https://www.amsat.org/join-the-amsat-presidents-club/

SpaceX Aims for Successful Reentry in Fourth Starship Test Flight

SpaceX is targeting June 6th for the fourth test flight of its Starship megarocket, aiming to demonstrate the rocket’s ability to survive reentry, according to founder and CEO Elon Musk. This objective marks a crucial step in proving the reusability of the world’s most powerful rocket, following three prior test flights that showcased its capacity to reach space.

On May 20th, SpaceX carried out a crucial test by loading over 10 million pounds of super-cold methane and liquid oxygen propellants into the Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage. This practice countdown, which concluded before engine ignition, was one of the last major tests before the rocket’s flight. Following the test, the launch team drained the propellants, and ground crews removed the Starship upper stage to perform additional work on its heat shield.

The next steps include installing the rocket’s self-destruct mechanism, to be used if the vehicle deviates off course, and securing a commercial launch license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA is reviewing the results of SpaceX’s previous Starship test flight in March, which was classified as a mishap after the vehicle lost control and disintegrated during reentry.

SpaceX has requested the FAA approve the upcoming launch before the mishap investigation concludes, arguing that the previous flight did not pose a public safety risk. An FAA spokesperson indicated that this could expedite the licensing process if no public safety issues are identified.

SpaceX’s fourth full-scale Starship rocket underwent a successful fueling test on May 20th. [Credit: SpaceX]
Meanwhile, SpaceX is preparing hardware for multiple rockets scheduled to fly later this year and building additional launch sites in Texas and Florida to support an increased launch frequency. However, significant design challenges remain before Starship becomes fully operational.

Unlike the March test flight, which included several experiments such as payload bay door operations and liquid oxygen transfer, the upcoming mission will concentrate on controlling the reentry of both the Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage. Both components broke apart during descent in the last flight.

SpaceX aims for the Super Heavy booster, named Booster 11, to achieve a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, while the Starship upper stage, known as Ship 29, will attempt to survive the extreme reentry conditions. The rocket is equipped with about 18,000 hexagonal heat-absorbing ceramic tiles to protect its stainless-steel structure during reentry, where temperatures can reach approximately 2,600°F (1,430°C).

Musk has indicated that, assuming a successful splashdown, SpaceX could attempt landing a Super Heavy booster back at the Texas launch pad as early as the fifth test flight later this year. However, due to harsher reentry conditions from orbital velocity, landing the Starship upper stage might take longer.

Plasma buildup shown around Starship during Integrated Flight Test 3 on March 14, 2024. [Credit: SpaceX]
NASA, which selected Starship to ferry astronauts to and from the Moon for its Artemis program, is closely monitoring these developments. A critical milestone for NASA is the in-orbit engine restart, necessary for guiding Starship towards controlled reentry and future lunar missions. While this capability will not be tested on the next flight, achieving reliable engine performance remains a primary focus.

“For us, primarily, it’s the successful light of those Raptor engines and achieving main stage with all of them on Booster 11,” said Lisa Watson-Morgan, manager of NASA’s Human Landing System. The next flight aims to ensure consistent engine performance, crucial for SpaceX and NASA’s lunar ambitions.

Reigniting Raptor engines in space is essential for future missions, but SpaceX is taking a step-by-step approach. “If we can’t light all 33 engines on the booster, and if we can’t light all six engines on the ship, then we’re going to have trouble getting to where we need to go,” Watson-Morgan said. “So it’s basically a building-block approach.”

As SpaceX prepares for its fourth Starship test flight, the focus on surviving reentry represents a critical hurdle in its mission to develop a fully reusable rocket system capable of reaching, and returning from, space.

[ANS thanks Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, for the above information]

GridMasterMap Satellite Top 100 Rovers June 2024 Rankings

The June 2024 rankings for the Top 100 Rovers (Mixed LEO/MEO/GEO) in satellite operations, as determined by @GridMasterMap on Twitter, has been released. The ranking is determined by the number of grids and DXCC entities activated, taking into account only those grids where a minimum number of QSOs logged on the gridmaster.fr website have been validated by a third party. Grid numbers do not directly reflect the exact number of activations. Satellite operators are encouraged to upload their LoTW satellite contacts to https://gridmaster.fr in order to provide more accurate data.

Updated: 2024-06-01

1 ND9M 26 LU5ILA 51 W7WGC 76 FG8OJ
2 NJ7H 27 N5BO 52 EA4NF 77 HB9GWJ
3 JA9KRO 28 K8BL 53 AA5PK 78 PT9BM
4 N5UC 29 KE4AL 54 JL3RNZ 79 DF2ET
5 UT1FG 30 DL2GRC 55 SP5XSD 80 KI7UXT
6 OE3SEU 31 VE3HLS 56 AD7DB 81 KJ7NDY
7 DL6AP 32 KB5FHK 57 F4DXV 82 YU0W
8 WI7P 33 KI7UNJ 58 KE9AJ 83 WA9JBQ
9 DP0POL 34 LA9XGA 59 KI7QEK 84 N4DCW
10 N6UA 35 F4BKV 60 XE1ET 85 KB2YSI
11 K5ZM 36 JO2ASQ 61 N8RO 86 N0TEL
12 HA3FOK 37 N7AGF 62 KM4LAO 87 N6UTC
13 N9IP 38 XE3DX 63 VE1CWJ 88 VE3GOP
14 WY7AA 39 PA3GAN 64 SM3NRY 89 JM1CAX
15 W5PFG 40 K7TAB 65 N4UFO 90 K0FFY
16 AD0DX 41 KE0PBR 66 VA3VGR 91 CU2ZG
17 AK8CW 42 KI0KB 67 W1AW 92 KG4AKV
18 F5VMJ 43 PR8KW 68 VA7LM 93 VE7PTN
19 WD9EWK 44 KE0WPA 69 PT2AP 94 AF5CC
20 AD0HJ 45 VK5DG 70 DL4EA 95 VE6WK
21 DJ8MS 46 N6DNM 71 M1DDD 96 W8MTB
22 ON4AUC 47 EB1AO 72 W8LR 97 K6VHF
23 KX9X 48 AC0RA 73 LU4JVE 98 DK9JC
24 ND0C 49 JK2XXK 74 AA8CH 99 PT9ST
25 KG5CCI 50 N4AKV 75 VE1VOX 100 VO2AC

[ANS thanks @GridMasterMap for the above information]

Need new satellite antennas?
Purchase an M2 LEO-Pack from the AMSAT Store!When you purchase through AMSAT, a portion of the proceeds goes towards
Keeping Amateur Radio in Space.
https://amsat.org/product-category/hardware/

Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for May 31, 2024

Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. TLE bulletin files are updated daily in the first hour of the UTC day. New bulletin files will be posted immediately after reliable elements become available for new amateur satellites. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/.

The following satellites have been removed from this week’s AMSAT-NA TLE distribution:
+ SO-114 NORAD Cat ID 51081 Decayed from orbit on or about 25 May 2024
+ SO-115 NORAD Cat ID 51080 Decayed from orbit on or about 26 May 2024
+ HODOYOSHI-1 NORAD Cat ID 40299 No Amateur Satellite Service payload

[ANS thanks AMSAT Orbital Elements page for the above information]

ARISS NEWS

Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide.

+ Recently Completed Contacts

Children’s Technopark “Quantorium”, Obninsk, Russia, direct via TBD
The ISS callsign was RSØISS
The scheduled crewmember was Aleksandr Grebyonkin RZ3DSE
The ARISS mentor was RV3DR
Contact was successful Mon 2024-05-27 14:10 UTC

Aznakaevsky district of the Tatarstan Republic, Russia, direct via TBD
The ISS callsign was RSØISS
The scheduled crewmember was Aleksandr Grebyonkin RZ3DSE
The ARISS mentor is RV3DR
Contact was successful 2024-05-31 Fri 12:30 UTC

+ Upcoming Contacts

“Creativity Development Center” in Pugachev, Russia, direct via TBD
The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be RSØISS
The scheduled crewmember is Aleksandr Grebyonkin RZ3DSE
The ARISS mentor is RV3DR
Contact is go for 2024-06-03 10:00:00 UTC

Belmont Elementary School, Woodbridge, VA, direct via KM4TAY
The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS
The scheduled crewmember is Jeanette Epps KF5QNU
The ARISS mentor is AA4KN
Contact is go for: Mon 2024-06-03 16:03:00 UTC

Agrupamento de Escolas Dr. Serafim Leite, São João da Madeira, Portugal, direct via CS2ASL
The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be OR4ISS
The scheduled crewmember is Matthew Dominick KCØTOR
The ARISS mentor is IKØUSO
Contact is go for: Thu 2024-06-06 10:33:44 UTC

Expect ISS radio outage for Progress 88 docking from May 31 1720 UTC until June 2 1415 UTC. The crossband repeater continues to be active (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never know.

The packet system is also active (145.825 MHz up & down).

As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol.

Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time.

The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html

The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html

[ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information]

Upcoming Satellite Operations

G0ABI will activate grid square IN79 from the historic Lizard Wireless Station at Bass Point via GreenCube (IO-117) satellite on June 6th. Lizard Wireless Station is the site where Guglielmo Marconi conducted his pioneering wireless experiments in 1900. Marconi proved radio communication over the horizon by receiving a transmission from the Isle of Wight in 1901 and later received the first SOS call in 1910. His work at “The Lizard” led to the first transatlantic radio signal, paving the way for global wireless communication. Celebrate Marconi’s legacy by making contact with G0ABI from this iconic location. For more details about the Lizard Wireless Station, visit https://shorturl.at/DMZ68.

A growing number of satellite rovers are currently engaged in sharing their grid square activations on https://hams.at. By visiting the website, you gain easy access to comprehensive information about the operators responsible for activating specific grid squares. Additionally, you have the ability to assess the match score between yourself and a particular rover for a given pass, while also being able to identify the upcoming satellite passes that are accessible from your location.

[ANS thanks Ian Parsons, K5ZM, AMSAT Rover Page Manager, for the above information]

Hamfests, Conventions, Maker Faires, and Other Events

AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events.

“Moon Day” at the Frontiers of Flight Museum
AMSAT and Amateur Radio satellites will be presented to the general public as part of this annual space themed STEAM event.  Volunteers to help at the table space and to do contact demos are welcome.  Contact tschuessler [at] amsat.org for more information.

July 20th, 2024
Dallas Love Field Airport
8008 Herb Kelleher Way
Dallas, TX 75235
https://flightmuseum.com/events/

38th Annual Small Satellite Conference
August 3-8, 2024
Logan, UT, USA
https://smallsat.org

Northeast HamXpostion
August 22-25, 2024
Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel & Trade Center
181 Boston Post Road W
Marlborough, MA 01752

2024 AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting
October 25-27, 2024
Doubletree by Hilton Tampa Rocky Point Waterfront
3050 North Rocky Point Drive West
Tampa, FL 33607

[ANS thanks the AMSAT Events page for the above information]

Want to fly the colors on your own grid expedition?
Get an AMSAT car flag and other neat stuff from our Zazzle store!
25% of the purchase price of each product goes towards Keeping Amateur Radio in Space

Keeping Amateur Radio in Space
https://www.zazzle.com/amsat_gear

Satellite Shorts From All Over

+ China’s Chang’e 6 probe is set to land on the far side of the moon this weekend, aiming to return lunar samples to Earth. Launched on May 3, the robotic mission entered lunar orbit five days later and is targeting a touchdown on Saturday night, June 1st, for those in North America. The mission will study its landing area in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, collecting samples over three days before the ascent module returns to lunar orbit. These samples will be transferred to a return-to-Earth module, with a scheduled Earth landing on June 25. Once returned, the samples will be examined in Beijing and made available to the scientific community for research. This mission builds on the success of Chang’e 5, which returned 61 ounces of lunar material in 2020, and aims to provide insights into the moon’s magmatic processes and mantle properties. (ANS thanks Leonard David, Space.com, for the above information)

+ Blue Origin resumed crewed spaceflights on May 19 after a nearly two-year hiatus following a rocket mishap in 2022, which left Virgin Galactic as the sole operator in the suborbital tourism market. Among the six passengers was Ed Dwight, a former Air Force pilot who had been poised to become NASA’s first Black astronaut in the 1960s. Dwight, at 90 years old, became the oldest person to go to space, expressing the profound impact of the experience. Despite one of the capsule’s parachutes failing to fully inflate, the mission was deemed a success, and all passengers returned safely. This flight marks the seventh human mission for Blue Origin, highlighting its ambitions for future space endeavors. The company has now flown 37 people aboard its New Shepard vehicle, named after the first American in space, Alan Shepard. (ANS thanks Issam Ahmed, Phys.org, for the above information)

+ Rocket Lab successfully launched a small Earth-observation satellite for NASA on May 25, marking the company’s 48th liftoff. The Electron rocket lifted off from New Zealand at 3:41 a.m. EDT, carrying the first of two CubeSats for NASA’s PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment) mission. This satellite, deployed into orbit 53 minutes post-launch, will measure heat loss from Earth’s polar regions, a critical factor in understanding climate change. A second PREFIRE satellite will launch within three weeks, with both CubeSats set to operate in 326-mile-high circular orbits. The PREFIRE mission aims to enhance climate models by systematically measuring thermal infrared radiation over the Arctic and Antarctica. Notably, Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket, while designed for reusability, executed this mission without a recovery component. (ANS thanks Mike Wall, Space.com, for the above information)

+Voyager 1 has resumed transmitting science data from two of its four operational instruments after a computer issue arose in November 2023. The mission team is working on recalibrating the remaining two instruments, with plans to complete this in the coming weeks. This progress follows a five-month troubleshooting effort, during which the spacecraft began sending back usable engineering data. On May 17, commands were successfully sent to the 46-year-old spacecraft, located over 15 billion miles from Earth, enabling it to resume sending science data. The plasma wave subsystem and magnetometer are now operational, while efforts continue on the cosmic ray subsystem and low energy charged particle instrument. Launched in 1977, Voyager 1 and its twin, Voyager 2, are NASA’s longest-operating spacecraft and the first to explore beyond the heliosphere, having flown by Jupiter, Saturn, and, in Voyager 2’s case, Uranus and Neptune. (ANS thanks NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory for the above information)

Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/

In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to:

* Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization).
* 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 6 post-secondary years in this status.
* Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms.

Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information.

73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space!

This week’s ANS Editor, Mitch Ahrenstorff, ADØHJ
ad0hj [at] amsat.org

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