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Info about hamradio operations in space



Ham Radio Info/SAREX Info

2..Ham Radio Frequencies (Shuttle Audio)
3..SAREX (Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment)
4..Ham Radio/SAREX Fact Sheet and Classroom Activities
5..SAREX (STS-47)
6..Hints for Calling the Shuttle

HAM RADIO FREQUENCIES

Note to amateur radio operators: If Shuttle transmissions are being
rebroadcast in your area, give us the frequencies in a note when you log off
NASA Spacelink. We'll add your note to this document.

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SHUTTLE VOICE AVAILABLE ON 147.375 IN LAKELAND FLA

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 18-JUL-92 11:57:41

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
Mobile, Alabama:

AM ENJOYING AUDIO ON WA3NAN....THANKS

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 05-JUL-92 17:25:02

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
WITH REGARD TO RETRANSMISSTIONS OF SHUTTLE AUDIO, IT'S BEING SENT OUT
IN THE CENTRAL NJ AREA ON 443.40 WITH AN OUTPUT PL OF 141.3.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 05-JUL-92 13:49:51

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT MAY BE HEARD IN PITTSBURGH, PA AREA ON 145.470 MHZ. WA3PBD
REPEATER. DE 1992-1993 ARRL DIRECTORY.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 25-JUN-92 10:53:18

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE COLUMBIA'S VOICE COMMUNICATIONS CAN BE HEARD
AT 146.640 MHZ IN THE HOUSTON AREA.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 27-JUN-92 11:24:57

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SHUTTLE AUDIO CAN BE HEARD IN THE ORLANDO, FL AREA ON THE K4BV
REPEATER ON 147.15 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 08-MAY-92 23:08:26

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
FOR YOUR INTEREST, SHUTTLE COMMUNICATIONS CAN BE HEARD IN THE TAMPA
BAY AREA, FLORIDA ON 2 METERS. THE FREQUENCIES ARE 146.76 MHZ AND
ALSO ON 147.38 MHZ. HAPPY LISTENING, BILL ATHEY AA4WE.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 12-APR-92 15:48:12

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE SPACE SHUTTLE REBROADCASTS CAN BE HEARD NICELY ON 7.185 ON 40 METERS HERE
IN THE PONTIAC AND DETROIT AREAS. ERNIE GRUENBERG--W8KLL

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 31-MAR-92 12:57:54

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
I AM LISTENING TO SHUTTLE AUDIO ON W4DFU AT 146.900MHZ IN GAINESVILLE, FL

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 30-MAR-92 23:40:32

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
I NOTICED PEOPLE SENDING MESSAGES TELLING WHAT FREQUENCIES THE SHUTTLE CAN BE
HEARD ON HAM RADIOS AND SUCH. I DIDN'T FIND ANY FOR HUNTSVILLE, ALA, BUT I KNOW
IT TO BE REBRAODCAST ON 147.095MHZ.
============END OF MESSAGE=========== 30-MAR-92 01:08:34

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
A CLEAR RE-BROADCAST OF GROUND TO SHUTTLE ACTIVITY CAN BE HEARD ON 448.425MHZ
IN THE METROPOLITAN AND LONG ISLAND AREAS OF NEW YORK. ENJOY LISTENNING .
============END OF MESSAGE=========== 30-MAR-92 00:50:52

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
FROM WB5JJJ RUSSELLVILLE, AR
POPE COUNTY ATV REPEATER ON 439.25 IS TRANSMITTING STS-45 VIDEO NIGHTLY.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 25-MAR-92 09:47:14

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE KAAS CITY ATV GROUP TRANSMITS ALL SHUTTLE MISSIONS LI FROM
NASA SELECIN THE KANSAS CITY AREA ON IT'S VIDEO-AUDIO REPEATER
FREQUENCY OF 426.25 MHZ. THIS IS RECEIVABLE ON ANY CABLE READY TV
OR VCON CABLE CHANNEL 5CONTACT THE CLUB ON THE 145.43 MHZ
REPEATER FOR ADDITIONAL INFO. INFO SUPPLIED BY KR.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 25-MAR-92 10:31:05

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT AUDIO CAN BE HEARD IN SAN DIEGO, CA DURING STS MISSIONS ON
AA4CD/R 449.450 MHZ WITH VIDEO ON WA6VLF/R 1277.25 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 23-MAR-92 14:52:13

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT VIDEO AND AUDIO IS AVAILABLE ON THE K9LPW/R ATV REPEATER
IN INDIANAPOLIS. INDIANA. THE VIDEO FREQ. IS 426.25. CHECK WITH
THE LOCALS ON 144.34 FOR MORE INFO. KD9QB, NOBLESVILLE, IN

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 15-MAR-92 20:01:41

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THIS IS DEAN FROM ILLINIOS, SHUTTLE CAN BE HEARD ON 145.350 MHZ

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 12-FEB-92 23:41:34

========NASA/SPACELINK MESSAGE======= 12-FEB-92 23:44:20
From: TANDY Attached to @CON3 9600 Baud

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THIS IS DEAN FROM ROLLING MEADOWS ILLINOIS
THE SHUTTLE CAN BE HEARD ON 145.350 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 12-FEB-92 23:45:26

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SHUTTLE MISSIONS ARE RETRANSMITTED IN TULSA, OK AREA ON ATV 421.25 AND
2 METER FREQUENCIES: EITHER 144.34 OR 146.94.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 06-FEB-92 16:20:37

----------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
FOR YOUR INFORMATION, WE ARE LISTENING TO THE REBROADCAST OF SHUTTLE COMMS
ON THE K4BV REPEATER ON 147.15 MHZ, HERE IN THE DAYTONA BEACH, FL AREA.

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
IN REGARD TO THE FREQUENCIES THAT REPLAY THE NASA SELECT AUDIO, ADD 442.000
TO YOUR LIST FOR THE ST. LOUIS, MO. AREA. THANKS FOR ALL THE GREAT WORK.. SCO
SCOTT CLIFTON, WB0WIL.. ALTON, IL..

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 25-JAN-92 21:38:49



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
IN RE NASA SPACE SHUTTLE AUDIO RE-TX
IN NORTH-EASTERN SOUTH DAKOTA, SPACE SHUTTLE AUDIO CAN BE HEARD ON 145.550MHZ
ORIGIONATING FROM ATY. LISTEN FOR LAUNCH UPDATES AND INFO 24 HOURS BEFORE
LAUNCH, UNTIL LAUNCH OR DELAY, EVERY TEN MINUTES.
-73-, N0OFB WATERTOWN, SD

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 14-JAN-92 22:35:24

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE ARIZONA AMATEURS ON TV CLUB REBROADCASTS SHUTTLE FLIGHTS ON THEIR ATV
REPEATER AT 421.25. THE REPEATER IS LOCATED IN PHOENIX, AZ. THE ATV REPEATER
CAN BE SEEN ON A ATV DOWNCONVERTER OR CHANNEL 57 ON A CABLE READY TV WITH
A OUTSIDE ANTENNA HOOKED UP. BEST RECEPTION IS IN NORTH PHOENIX, WHERE THE
REPEATER IS LOCATED ON SHAW BUTTE MOUNTAIN (19 AVE AND GREENWAY).

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 09-DEC-91 20:27:42

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SHUTTLE REBROADCASTS IN THE ATLANTA, GA AREA ARE SPONSORED BY THE BIG SHANTY
REPEATER GROUP ON VHF 146.655 OR 147.345 AUDIO ONLY AND 427.250 VIDEO
(CHANNEL 58 ON CATV READY TV'S)
TRANMITTERS LOCATED ON SWEAT MOUNTAIN IN N.E. COBB COUNTY (MARIETTA).

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 04-DEC-91 08:51:39

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
I'D LIKE TO APPEND THIS TO YOUR FILE: "6 2 18 2.TXT"
HERE IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA, I HEARD SHUTTLE AUDIO ON THE FOLLOWING
REPEATERS: 145.32, 145.46, 445.4, 445.425, 446.575, 447.025, 447.4,
447.475, 448.375, 448.5, AND 447.0.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 04-DEC-91 01:02:44

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
IN REGARDS TO AMATUER RADIO REBROADCAST OF SHUTTLE TRANSMISSIONS:
WA#NAN OUT OF THE GODDARD SPACEFLIGHT CENTER BRODCASTS ON THE FOLLOWING
FREQUENCIES: 3.860 MHZ, 7.185 MHZ, 14.295 MHZ, AND 21.395 MHZ

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 24-NOV-91 13:23:22

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SHUTTLE AUDIO CAN BE HEARD IN THE VENTURA/OXNARD CALIF AREA ON THE N6QOL
REPEATER. FREQ IS 146.655 MHZ...73 DALE N6QOL

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 19-NOV-91 17:33:06

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
DALLAS/FORT WORTH HAS A NEW WAY TO MONITOR CHATTER FREE NASA SELECT STS MISSI
ON AUDIO. 146.6000 MHZ IS THE NEW CHANNEL.
PAUL/KB5BFJ

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 13-SEP-91 18:09:55

Response(s) to the note above:

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AMATEUR RADIO CLUB (W2SZ) REBROADCASTS
SHUTTLE COMMUNICATIONS ON 146.820 MHZ. THIS CAN BE HEARD IN THE ALBANY, NY
AREA.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 06-SEP-91 11:19:16


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SPACE SHUTTLE RETRANSMISSION ON AMATEUR RADIO ARE CARRIED IN WAUSAU, WI (NORT
H CENTRAL WISCONSIN) ON 146.82 AND 147.06 (AUDIO); VIDEO IS RETRANSMITTED FRO
M NASA SELECT ON 421.25 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 05-SEP-91 23:12:31

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT CAN BE MONITERED IN THE HUNTSVILLE, AL AREA ON FREQUNCY 173.025.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 03-AUG-91 01:48:14


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
ADD TO THE HAM RE-BROADCAST LIST....
THE KB5JR REPEATER RE-BROADCASTS NASA SELECT TO THE SILICON VALLEY AND
MONTEREY BAY AREA ON 443.300 MHZ. THE REPEATER IS LOCATED ON
MT. LOMA PRIETA AT 3700+ FT. THE SOURCE OF THE RE-BROADCAST IS
NASA-Ames Research Center and is sponsered by the Ames Amateur
Radio Club (K6MF, 145.585 MHz). The KB5JR re-broadcast includes
a VOX circuit to defeat the constant carrier present on K6MF.



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
RE: REBROADCASTS OF AIR TO GROUND AUDIO.
WA3NAN AT THE GODDARD SPACE FLIGHT CENTER RETRANSMITS AIR-TO-GROUND AUDIO ON
147.450 MHZ

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 10-JUN-91 21:57:49


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA HAS ONE MORE REPEATER THAT HAS BEEN ACTIVE
WITH NASA AUDIO. THIS REPEATER MAY BE FOUND ON 444.775 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 29-APR-91 17:30:05



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
A LITTLE LATE, BUT SHUTTLE TRANSMISSIONS ARE REBROADCAST IN THE SACRAMENTO
AREA ON 147.195 MHZ. CHATTER USUALLY GOES AWAY WHEN THE TRANSMISSIONS
START.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 10-APR-91 19:43:09

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
HI! I HEARD STS-37
TRANSMISSIONS IN DOWNERS
GROVE, ILLINOIS ON
145.350 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 11-APR-91 21:52:55

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
DALLAS/FORT WORTH, TEXAS AREA AMATEUR RADIO REBROADCASTS OF SHUTTLE AUDIO
448.750 MHZ IN ARLINGTON (WB5EPI/TX VHF FM SOCIETY @ UT ARLINGTON CAMPUS)
145.310 MHZ REPEATER (K5OJI TEXAS INSTRUMENTS ARC) IN NE DALLAS
PAUL KB5BFJ

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 18-JUL-90 18:35:38

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
AMATEUR REPEATER IN FORSYTH, GA AVAILABLE FOR ANY AMATEUR SATELITE ORBITING
SATELLITE OPERATOR. INPUT FREQUENCY 147.315 OUTPUT FREQUENCY 147.915.
HERSCHEL C. HOPPER, PO BOX 426, FORSYTH, GA. 31029

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 07-JUN-90 14:53:53



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT AUDIO MAY BE HEARD IN THE HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA AREA ON THE
147.70/147.10 REPEATER , COURTESY OF THE NORTH ALABAMA DX CLUB.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 29-MAY-90 14:11:48


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SHUTTLE AUDIO FORMERLY HEARD IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA ON 448.825MHZ
IS NOW TRANSMITTED ON 448.500 FROM MT WILSON. THIS IS A CLEAN
FEED THAT DOES NOT HAVE ANY ADDED CHATTER
DE WA6CDR

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 26-MAY-90 20:16:03

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------


ON 145.110 MHZ IN THIS AREA THE KETTERING MEDICAL CENTER REPEATER BROADCASTS
THE SHUTTLE FREQ. BACK THROUGH A REPEATER SO ALL CAN HEAR. AREA COVERED IS
FROM NORTHERN KENTUCKY TO NORTH OF COLUMBUS OH. SOMEWHERE OVER 175 MILES OF
INTERSTATE 75.


============END OF MESSAGE=========== 17-MAY-90 23:00:00


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
AS AN ADDITION TO YOUR HAM RADIO FREQUENCIES INFORMATION YOU MIGHT INCLUDE TH
E FACT THAT PEOPLE IN THE GREATER SAN FRANSISCO BAY ARE AND SACRAMENTO CAN VI
EW THEMISSION VIA THE W6NKF AMATEUR TELEVISION REPEATER ON MT.DIABLO WHICH OP
ERATES ON 427.250 MHZ WITH THE ANTENNA POLARIZATION BEING VERTICAL.THOSE WITH
CABLE READY TV'S VCR'S OR CABLE CO MPANY BOXES CAN TUNE THIS EQUIPMENT TO CH
ANNEL 58 IN THE CATV FORMAT AND BY HOOKING UP AN OUTSIDE TV ANTENNA SHOULD
BE ABLE TO RECEIVE THE TELECAST.THIS MAKES THE SERVICE AVAILABLE TO THE
GENERAL PUBLIC INCLUDING SCHOOLS,COLLEGES ETC.

============END OF MESSAGE===========


========NASA/SPACELINK MESSAGE======= 11-MAR-89 18:29:30
From: RYAN Logged on port: @CON3

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
SHUTTLE AUDIO IS RETRANSMITTED IN THE MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
ON 145.150 MHZ DURING ALL SHUTTLE FLIGHTS. ADDITIONALLY, DURING SOME
FLIGHTS, THE AUDIO IS ALSO RETRANSMITTED BY THE 3M ARC REPEATER (WB0BQG/R)
ON 147.12 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE===========


========NASA/SPACELINK MESSAGE======= 17-MAR-89 08:39:57
From: DAVERANSOM Logged on port: @CON3

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA, SHUTTLE AIR-TO-GROUND MAY SOMETIMES BE HEARD
ON VHF AT 145.46 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 17-MAR-89 08:40:54


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE WB4LA REPEATER LOCATED IN DAYTON, OH ON THE FREQUENCY OF 145.11
REBROADCASTS NASA SHUTTLE COVERAGE FROM NASA SELECT.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 04-MAY-89 19:00:02

HERE IN THE PHOENIX AREA WE ARE RECEIVING SHUTTLE COMMUNICATIONS ON
449.000 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 06-MAY-89 01:15:27

HELLO WAYNE HARRELL WD4LYV WITH THE COASTAL PLAINS AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
WE HAVE SHUTTLE AUDIO ON THE WD4EVD REPEATER IN SOUTH GEORGIA
REPEATER IS LOCATED AT ASHBURN GA. NEAR I-75
147.285 IS THE FREQ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 05-MAY-89 18:58:12


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
DURING STS MISSIONS, NASA SELECT AUDIO IS AVAILABLE ON AMATEUR RADIO REPEATER
WD6BNO/R TRANSMITTING ON 52.22 MHZ WITH COVERAGE IN THE CENTRAL SAN JOAQUIN
VALLEY, CALIFORNIA. COVERAGE INCLUDES BAKERSFIELD TO STOCKTON. ENJOY!!

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 06-MAY-89 00:42:19



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
JOHNSON SPACE CENTER SUPPLIES
A NASA SELECT AUDIO ON 146.64 MHZ 2M FM (W5RRR REPEATER).

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 10-OCT-89 18:07:44



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
FROM WB4CXD- SHUTTLE AUDIO CAN BE HEARD IN BIRMINGHAM, AL ON
145.38 (DIRECT) AND VIA N4AHN REPEATER ON 145.15 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 10-OCT-89 22:23:49

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
MESSAGE FOR HAM RADIO SECTION:
..
IF VISITING THE "MILA" (MERITT ISLAND LAUNCH AREA) AT CAPE CANAVERAL,
YOU CAN HEAR LAUNCH, AND AIR-TO-GROUND ON THE K4GCC REPEATER AT
146.94 MHZ. THIS IS A HAM RADIO REPEATER WHICH CARRIES THE "USUAL
INANE HAM CHATTER" UNTILL SOMETHING COMES DOWN THE NASA SELECT AUDIO
FEED. THEN THE FEED OVERRIDES THE REPEATERS INPUT FREQUENCY, AND THE
NASA FEED IS BROADCAST. SO DON'T GET FRUSTRATED THAT THESE RATCHET-
JAWS ARE HOGGING THE AIR, IT JUST MEANS NOTHING IS HAPPENNING YET.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 11-OCT-89 12:57:11

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT IS ON 444.3 (NN0V) AND 146.40 IN THE CEDAR RAPIDS IOWA AREA.
FOR THIS MISSION (STS34) IT HAS BEEN ON 444.3 ONLY. WE KNOW OF QUITE
A FEW LISTENERS FOR THIS; ALSO MAY BE ON COX CABLE CH 13 (KTS).

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 18-OCT-89 21:16:09



---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
WE WILL BE RETRANSMITTING STS-32 AUDIO IN MAIN VIA HAM RADIO ON
224.84 MHZ K1MON/R MT AGAMENTICUS , YORK MAINE
AND 146.925 KA1SSZ/R PORTLAND MAINE

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 16-DEC-89 06:28:36

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT AUDIO IS REBROADCAST IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA ON
THE FOLLOWING FREQUENCIES:
145.46 MHZ
224.04 MHZ
448.825 MHZ
NASA SELECT VIDEO IS REBROADCAST FROM THE MT. WILSON REPEATER
K6KMN AT A FREQUENCY OF: 1241.25 MHZ

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 21-DEC-89 16:43:13


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
IN WASECA, MINNESOTA,NASA SELECT AUDIO CAN BE FOUND ON 147.45 MHZ.
VIDEO IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON 427.25 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 02-JAN-90 23:55:15

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
A "CLEAN" (NO CHATTER OR OTHER TRAFFIC) RETRANSMISSION OF NASA
SELECT AUDIO CAN BE HEARD IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA ON 52.640 AND
448.825. THE SAME SIGNALS ARE SUPPLIED T224.940 AND TO THE
CACTUS SYSTEM. THE CACTUS SYSTEM USUALLY CARRIES THIS FEED TO
THE FOLLOWING AREAS AND FREQUENCIES.
SANTA BARBARA 449.000 SAN JOSE 443.550
SAN DIEGO 448.625 & 448.675 EAST DESERT 448.650
LOS ANGELES 449.000 & 448.650 BLYTHE 448.975
PHOENIX 449.000 & 448.975 TUSCON 448.625
SW/SE NEW MEXICO 449.000 ; 448.975 ; 448.675 ; 448.650 ; 448.625
EL PASO 448.650 LAS VEGAS 449.000
CEDAR CITY 448.650 SALT LAKE 448.625
SOME OF THE MORE OUTLYING STATIONS MAY NOT COVER ALL THE MISSION
BUT USUALLY ARE ON LINE DURING LAUNCH AND LANDING. OTHER AMATEUR
TRAFFIC WILL BE HEARD ALONG WITH THE MISSION AUDIO. DE WA6CDR

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 07-JAN-90 03:56:19

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
IN REGARD TO NASA SELECT REBROADCASTS, IN CENTRAL MINN, 149.200 MHZ
ON A BEAM ANTENNA TOWARDS MPLS WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH GOOD COVERAGE WITHIN
APPX 120 KM OF MPLS. THIS WAS NOT FOUND TO BE CONSISTANT, AND RECEPTION IN
ST. CLOUD WAS FAIR.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 19-FEB-90 12:22:57


---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT MAY NOW ALSO BE HEARD ON THE 146.790 WA8KZR HAM REPEATER
IN GREENVILLE OHIO.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 11-MAR-90 10:45:13

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------

IN THE NORTHERN CALIF. AREA SPACE SHUTTLE CAN BE HEARD ON 154.530 MHZ. ON THE
WA6IEO REMOTE BASE. 12 WATTS TRANSMITTING FROM AN ALTITUDE OF 3200 FEET.


============END OF MESSAGE=========== 19-MAR-90 00:03:41

THE REPEATER FREQUENCY FOR THE CHICAGO AREA FOR SHUTTLE SPACE FLIGHTS IS
145.210 MHZ.

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
RETRANSMISSIONS OF SHUTTLE ACTIVITY MAY BE FOUND ON 145.130MHZ IN THE
VERO BEACH AND FT. PIERCE AREAS OF FLORIDA. KB4PLH.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 19-APR-90 07:25:37

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
THE WB9KMO SANTA BARBARA AMATEUR TELEVISION REPEATER RE-TRANSMITS NASA SELECT
VIDEO AND AUDIO ON 1277 MHZ. THE NASA SELECT FEED IS PROVIDED BY WB6HOZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 21-APR-90 02:34:21

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
NASA SELECT AUDIO CAN BE HEARD ON THE WD4AOG REPEATER IN THE JACKSONVILLE, FL.
AREA ON 147.12 MHZ.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 25-APR-90 19:13:17

---------MESSAGE FROM USER-----------
HELLO ALL I HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO THE SHUTTLE ON FREQUENCY 448.425 IN CT.

============END OF MESSAGE=========== 02-MAY-90 17:27:02

_________MESSAGE FROM USER____________
IN ST. PETERSBURG, FL. THE SHUTTLE AUDIO CAN BE HEARD ON 444.725. ON THE
KA9RIX REPEATER OUR OF E-SYSTEMS.

============END OF MESSAGE===========03-JUNE-92 14:35:26

SHUTTLE AMATEUR RADIO EXPERIMENT (SAREX)

SPACELINK NOTE: The next flight of the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment (SAREX)
will be STS-47 (Spacelab-J), targeted for launch in September, 1992.

A SAREX Working Group is comprised of Roy Neal, W6DUE, of NBC - Chairman; Jon
Bloom, KE3Z - American Radio Relay League (ARRL); Bill Tynan, W3XO, Radio
Amateur Satellite Corp. (AMSAT); and Lou Mc Fadin, W5DID, Johnson Space Center
(JSC) Amateur Radio Club President.

Details on frequencies and equipment will be provided closer to the actual
launch date.

The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) is the customer on the SAREXII
payloads. NASA gave its authorization for SAREX operations for the
following reasons:

To encourage our youth to become excited about science and
technology, and

To familiarize large numbers of the general public with manned
space flight

NASA's intent in making astronauts available for SAREX operations is to
involve the largest possible numbers of people, particularly
youngsters, in Amateur Radio and the US space program. With Amateur
Radio Clubs and hams, our astronauts will speak over the ham airwaves
directly with large groups of students, showing teachers, parents and
communities how Amateur Radio energizes youngsters about science,
technology, and learning.

You can easily become a part of this activity in your local schools, as
the astronauts will operate the SAREX equipment on the 2-meter band.
You will be able to send and receive messages via packet for periods of
about 12 hours daily. The astronauts' work schedules will determine
your chances for a voice or television message, but Ron and Ken may
have an hour or more each day for these modes.

The Johnson Space Center's Amateur Radio Club station, W5RRR, in
Houston, Texas, will re-transmit Astronaut's signals to WA3NAN, at
Goddard Space Flight Center, in Greenbelt, MD (near Washington, DC),
and to W6VIO, at the Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena, CA. These
stations, plus W1AW and several VHF and UHF repeater groups, will
re-transmit the signals on most amateur bands so that you and the
students can copy the communications. You will hear NASA Mission
Commentary, frequent bulletins to advise listeners of astronaut-planned
transmissions, and all amateur two-way voice and amateur television
transmissions with the shuttles. Using a simple hand-held transceiver,
you can open the world of science to hundreds of youngsters. Students
themselves can take part in the shuttle flight via a packet message,
and some will even be able to talk directly to the astronauts in orbit.

ARRL and AMSAT are co-sponsoring these exciting missions, with AMSAT
heading up technical operations. Hundreds of Amateur Radio operators
have already been working behind the scenes for months.

The ARRL takes the lead with information and educational support. ARRL
Educational Activities Branch (EAB) and NASA HQ will create lesson
plans for teachers. All you need to provide is a 2-meter rig or a
packet radio setup. If you are a teacher or instructor, contact ARRL
EAB to get everything you will need and regular news updates. If you
are a parent or a grandparent, contact ARRL EAB and a local school.
EAB will send you materials, including ways to convince teachers and
school administrators that Amateur Radio is an important discipline the
school should take advantage of on a full-time basis.

This a tremendous opportunity for you to showcase SAREX 1992 and
Amateur Radio to kids of all ages in a big way. Plan on being a part
of it; contact ARRL EAB now and give your best to our exciting hobby
and to our hope for tomorrow: America's youth.

Write to Rosalie White, WA1STO, the ARRL Educational Coordinator at

ARRL Headquarters Phone (203) 666-1541, Ask for Rosalie
225 Main St. FAX (203) 665-7531
Newington, CT 06111

Listen to the ARRL Bulletins on W1AW (see QST for CW and voice
bulletins) on a daily basis; and to the AMSAT International Satellite
Nets on Tuesdays, 3.840 MHz, 0130Z to 0300Z, and on Sundays, 14.282
MHz, 1800Z to 2100Z, +/- QRM.

PAYLOAD DESCRIPTION AND MISSION OVERVIEW

This section contains a general payload description and a mission
overview. It is not intended to specify requirements or constraints
that should be specified in other sections.

Payload Description

Configuration A - SAREX-II configuration A consists of a suite of
amateur radio equipment, much of which was flown previously on STS-51 F
and prior to that as a reduced capability configuration (configuration
B) on STS-9. Configuration A is comprised of a low power handheld
Frequency Modulation (FM) transceiver, a pare battery set, an
Interface (I/F) module, an SAREX headset assembly, an equipment
assembly cabinet, a Television (TV) camera and monitor, a Payload
General Support Computer (PGSC) and an antenna capable of being mounted
in one of the Orbiter's flight deck windows. The equipment assembly
houses power supplies, a Slow Scan Television (SSTV) converter, a
packet radio Terminal Node Controller (TNC) and switches and displays
necessary to control the equipment as well as connectors to connect it
to other equipment comprising configuration A.

SAREX-II configuration A is capable of communicating with amateur radio
stations within Line Of Sight (LOS) of the Orbiter in any one of three modes,
e.g., voice, SSTV or data. In the latter two modes, the equipment can be
operated either attended or unattended. In the attended method of operation,
the operator manually provides the equipment with TV pictures (using the TV
camera) or computer data (using the PGSC keyboard) and observes the TV picture
on the monitor or printed text via the PGSC screen. In the unattended method
of operation, the operator sets up the equipment, turns the equipment on and
selects the operating mode. The operator then attends to other duties with
only occasional observation of the SAREX-II equipment operation.

The function of each of the SAREX-II configuration A equipment suite is
summarized as follows:

a. Handheld transceiver - Receives and transmits FM voice, SSTV or
packet radio signals in the two meter (144 to 146 MHz) Amateur
Band.

b. I/F module - Serves to provide a means of interconnecting the
SAREX-II equipment with the standard crew microphone/headset or the
SAREX headset assembly and standard crew personal tape recorder.
The I/F module also interconnects the handheld transceiver with the
equipment assembly cabinet.

c. Equipment assembly cabinet - Houses the SSTV converter, packet
radio TNC, power supplies and switches, displays and connectors.

1. SSTV converter - Takes normal TV from the camera or Shuttle
TV distribution system and makes still pictures which can
be transmitted in a voice bandwidth radio circuit and takes
still TV frames transmitted up on a voice bandwidth radio
circuit and converts them for viewing on a standard TV
monitor.

2. Packet TNC - Interconnects a computer with a radio
transceiver so that data to and from the computer is
transmitted to and received from other stations in bursts
of characters using a special amateur developed protocol.
This protocol includes error correction and station
addressing features.

d. TV camera - Allows scenes in the Orbiter as well as external scenes
available through the various windows to be televised and sent to
the SSTV converter.

e. TV monitor - Allows viewing of TV pictures from the SSTV converter.

f. Antenna - Permits the radio signals to and from the handheld
transceiver to be transmitted and received through one of the
Orbiter's windows while limiting the leakage of Radiofrequency (RF)
energy into the cabin.

g. PGSC - Serves as a data terminal for the packet radio portion of
the experiment.

h. Associated cables - Interconnect the various pieces of equipment
making up the SAREX-II configuration A suite of equipment.

i. SAREX headset assembly.

j. Personal tape recorder - to record contacts.

Configuration B - SAREX-II configuration B consists only of the
handheld transceiver, I/F module, spare battery set, SAREX headset
assembly, personal tape recorder, and the window antenna. It is capable
only of exchanging voice communications with amateur stations within
LOS of the Orbiter. Configuration B can be operated only in the
attended mode.

Configuration C - SAREX-II configuration C consists of the handheld
transceiver, I/F module, PGSC, spare battery set, window antenna,
packet module, SAREX headset assembly, personal recorder, and the
required cable assemblies. The packet module contains a power supply
and packet TNC. The power supply provides power for the TNC and the
handheld transceiver. The TNC interconnects with a radio transceiver
so that data to and from the computer is transmitted to and received
from other amateur radio stations. Configuration C is capable of
operating in either the voice or data mode in communications with
amateur stattions within LOS of the Orbiter. This configuration can be
operated in the attended mode for voice communication and either the
attended or automatic mode for data communications.

Configuration D - SAREX-II configuration D is the same as configuration
A except that a Fast Scan Television (FSTV) module is added to the
antenna assembly. The FSTV module contains a receiving RF preamplifier
and a video decoder that provides NTSC video for SAREX-II. This
configuration communicates with amateur stations within LOS of the
Orbiter in one of four modes, e.g., voice, SSTV, data, or FSTV. The
voice mode is operated in the attended mode while SSTV, data, or FSTV
can be operated in either the attended or unattended mode.

Note 1: This band is also part of the Amateur Satellite Service
frequency allocations established on a worldwide basis by the
International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

Mission Overview

Integrated Ground Operations.- After the payload is initially prepared,
it is transported to the Orbiter integration facility. The payload is
installed in the Orbiter at the launch pad.

Flight Operations.- Operation in-flight will be limited to usage during
off-duty hours by licensed crewmembers. Upon completion of in-flight operation activities, thequipment will be returned to its flight
stowage position(s) for landing.

Postlanding.- After landing, the payload is removed from the Orbiter
and returned to the customer at JSC.

MISSION OPERATIONS

The mission operations section includes a definition of requirements
and constraints by mission phase.

Payload Control Parameters

The payload control weight and payload control dimensions define the
maximum weight and dimensions of the payload for NSTS mission planning
purposes. A payload may not exceed its control weight or control
dimensions without NSTS approval.

The payload control weights are as follows:

Configuration A 60 lb (27.21 kg)
Configuration B 35 lb (15.90 kg)
Configuration C 45 lb (20.41 kg)
Configuration D 70 lb (31.75 kg)

All configuration A and D payload equipment, except the window antenna,
will be stowed in one and one half middeck locker volumes. The window
antenna will be stowed in the Orbiter window shade bag. All
configuration B and C payload equipment, except the window antenna,
will be stowed in one half locker volume. The window antenna will be
stowed in the Orbiter window shade bag.

For configurations A, C, and D a PGSC can be used to provide the
middeck SPOC function which would eliminate the requirement to carry a
second SPOC. In this configuration SAREX-II would be operated on a
non-interference basis with SPOC requirements.

Operational Requirements and Constraints

The following payload operational requirements and constraints will be
used in the flight planning and implementation of the STS/payload
mission. Requirements that impose flight design and/or crew activity
constraints will be implemented to the extent practical within primary
payload objectives or mission objectives as determined by the NSTS.

Launch Readiness - Prelaunch Constraints:

a. The payload will be in final lift-off configuration when installed
in the Orbiter. At this time, the payload will be capable of
sustaining this configuration indefinitely without access or NSTS
support.

Launch Commit Criteria: The payload will not constrain launch.

On-orbit.- All SAREX-II operations will be conducted in the 2 m (144 to
146 MHz) Amateur Satellite Service band utilizing FM with a nominal
frequency deviation of 5 kHz. The specific frequencies to be used are
listed at the end.

Operating times for the SAREX-II payload will be such as to not
interfere with any other planned mission activities. The payload
operating times will be logged via the standard crew personal tape
recorder or the PGSC, as appropriate. The customer will identify the
desired ground locations expected to be used for SAREX-II payload
operations prior to the flight.



AMATEUR RADIO IN SPACE

Past Flights for Ham Radio

On November 28, 1983, STS-9 was launched carrying mission specialist Owen
Garriott, call sign W5LFL, and his ham radio into orbit. For 10 days the Space
Shuttle Columbia streaked through the skies, and for the last 7 of those days,
hams around the world were sent emotionally into orbit when they heard Dr.
Garriott's voice break their squelches calling Earth-bound stations. But it
was just the beginning. Amateur Radio had moved into its newest frontier, and
it was there to stay.

Lance Collister, WA1JXN, of Frenchtown, Montana, became the first Amateur Radio
operator to work an astronaut- ham orbiting the world. He was far from the
last. More than 300 calls were logged by Garriott on his 10-day journey.
These calls ranged from classrooms of children to King Hussein of Jordan.
Garriott was even patched into the Capcom at NASA's Mission Control Center to
demonstrate the utility of the ham system operating as a backup to some of the
space shuttle's communication systems.

Dr. Garriott had been interested in carrying a ham radio into space since his
Skylab mission in the early 1970s, but the plan to do so came too late in the
development of the program, and so it was rejected.

Space shuttle flights presented another opportunity. The American Radio Relay
League (ARRL) and the Amateur Radio Satellite Corporation (AMSAT) jointly
requested that NASA supply a small transceiver to be carried by Garriott on
STS-9. NASA accepted the proposal with the stipulation that the activity would
not interfere with mission activities and that safety requirements would be
met.

All ham radio operation for STS-9 was in the Amateur Radio 2-meter band
(144-148 MHz). Dr. Garriott's transceiver had the capacity to transmit and
receive on channels 20-kHz apart. To simplify procedure, Dr. Garriott
transmitted on only one or two frequencies to make it easier to locate him. He
received on 10 to 20 different frequencies so hams could spread out across the
band and not pile up on one frequency.

As Columbia approached the portion of the ground track where Amateur Radio
operations were planned, Dr. Garriott called and listened on alternate minutes.
He transmitted continuously for one minute, beginning on the even minutes, and
received continuously for one minute, beginning on the odd minutes.

The second ham radio transmission from space came on the Challenger STS 51-F
mission, and a new dimension was added to the already proven techniques used on
STS-9. Working with a small group of NASA hams, mission specialist Tony England
developed the idea of adding a repeater with a 2-meter input and a 10-meter
output that also would have the capability for slow-scan TV (SSTV) uplink and
downlink. The Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment (SAREX) on STS 51-F would
determine if TV images could be sent and monitored in space.

A system was designed to comprise an MX 300 series transceiver from the
Motorola ARC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida; a Panasonic TV monitor, camera and
cooling fans; Abbott-Transistor's dc-to-dc power converters; and a ROBOT scan
converter. An Amateur Radio group at the NASA Lewis Research Center came up
with the buffer amplifier required to provide the proper interface between the
scan converter and the shuttle's video system. It allowed images from the
Challenger cameras to be selected in addition to the small, hand-held camera in
the SAREX package.

Many of the unit's capabilities not needed for the flight were deleted. But,
in order to accommodate the maximum number of SSTV hams worldwide, the
capability to allow a special automatic sequence of frame speeds was added.

The software was designed to provide two red frames followed by one green
frame, one blue frame, a low- resolution color image, and a high-resolution
color image, concluding with a carrier wave (CW) identification,
W0ORE/CHALLENGER.

During the flight, 130 independent voice contacts were established including
one from an automobile ham radio. In order to generate enthusiasm for this
project and ham radio in general, young people had been encouraged to take part
in the communication. Youth groups that participated included Scouts, Civil
Air Patrol and the Young Astronaut Program.

In addition to the voice contacts, there were 10 exchanges involving SSTV
signals monitored by the shuttle ham station. The first SSTV image monitored
by Tony England--the first TV watched in space--was a picture of his wife,
Kathi.

Amateur Radio in Space Again

There are currently two flights scheduled to continue Amateur Radio experiments
in space. Payload specialist Ron Parise, WA4SIR, will fly on STS-35 and Ken
Cameron, KB5AWP, will pilot STS-37. These missions will demonstrate the unique
capability of packet radio to collect and disseminate a high volume of stored
messages to and from orbit. Packet is a digital transmission technique
becoming increasingly popular with Radio Amateurs. Because of high capacity of
the mode and the fact that the proposed SAREX-II will permit operation without
an astronaut present, it is conservatively estimated that more Amateur stations
will be contacted using this mode than the total contacts in both of the
previous missions.

The scheduled flights will also demonstrate the capability of providing a
television uplink to manned spacecraft using a broadcast-standard transmission
format which has never been done on U.S. manned missions. Amateur Radio
operators hope to use this uplink to carry live video from crew members'
families to the shuttle.

In addition, these experiments will show that Amateur Radio operations can
proceed for virtually the entire shuttle mission without adversely impacting
other activities. This will be possible because the modifications being made
to SAREX involve a new antenna that can be left in place without affecting
other in-orbit activities, as well as the automatic operating capability
associated with packet operation.

These missions will provide another opportunity for the public, especially
school children, to become directly involved in the U.S. space program by
witnessing demonstrations of amateurs communicating with the shuttle.

Equipment Configurations

The configuration for STS-35 (configuration C) consists of a hand-held
transceiver, interface module, a payload general support computer (PGSC), spare
battery set, window antenna, packet module, SAREX headset assembly, personal
recorder, and the required cable assemblies. The packet module contains a
power supply and a packet radio terminal node controller (TNC). The power
supply provides power for the TNC and the hand-held transceiver. The TNC
interconnects with a radio transceiver so that data to and from the computer is
transmitted to and received from other Amateur Radio stations. This
configuration is capable of operating in either the voice or data mode in
communications with Amateur stations within line of sight (LOS) of the orbiter.
This configuration can be operated in the attended mode for voice
communications and in either the attended or automatic mode for data
communications.

The configuration for STS-37 (configuration D) comprises a low power hand-held
frequency modulation (FM) transceiver, a spare battery set, an interface
module, a SAREX headset assembly, an equipment assembly cabinet, a TV camera
and monitor, a PGSC, and an antenna capable of being mounted in one of the
orbiter's flight deck windows. The equipment assembly houses power supplies,
an SSTV converter, a fast scan television converter (FSTV), a packet radio TNC
and switches and displays necessary to control the equipment as well as
connectors to connect it to other equipment in the configuration. The FSTV
module contains a receiving radio frequency preamplifier and a video decoder
that provides National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) video for
SAREX-II. This configuration communicates with Amateur stations within LOS of
the orbiter in one of four modes, e.g., voice, SSTV, data, or FSTV. The voice
mode is operated in the attended mode while SSTV, data, or FSTV can be operated
in either the attended or unattended mode.

All on-orbit SAREX-II operations are conducted in the 2-meter (144 to 146 MHz)
Amateur Satellite Service band utilizing FM with a nominal frequency deviation
of 5 kHz.

Ground Equipment

An elaborate station setup is not required for making a 2-meter contact. NASA,
AMSAT and the ARRL all request that high power amplifiers be avoided to
minimize interference. An effective radiated power of no more than 100 watts
will give excellent results. A fixed antenna such as a turnstile or a single
monopole (vertical) mounted above obstructions will eliminate the need for
elaborate orbit tracking and pointing. The vertical is very desirable because
it has a good radiation pattern at low elevations where the majority of the
shuttle passes occur. High gain directional beam antennas require very
accurate pointing and greatly increase the operating complexity because of the
short duration passes.

Accurate tracking and pointing data for your station location is best provided
by a computer satellite tracking program. If you have a computer or
programmable calculator and need a tracking program, write to AMSAT Software
Exchange, Box 27, Washington, DC 20044. The orbital parameters required by
these programs are broadcast on W1AW bulletins and AMSAT nets.

QSL Cards

Specially designed QSL cards (post cards used by hams to confirm two-way
contact or reception of signal) are available to anyone who sends a reception
report of Amateur Radio operation from the shuttle. Nonamateurs can listen in
on a ham receiver or monitor on scanners to qualify for the special QSL. Send
all reception and confirmed contact reports to ARRL, 225 Main Street,
Newington, CT 06111.

The real key to making a contact is being in the right place at the right time
and following proper procedures, because there will probably only be a single
opportunity when the shuttle passes within your range.

What is a "Ham" Operator?

More than 1.5 million persons worldwide, including more than 400,000 Americans,
are currently licensed Amateur Radio operators or "hams."

Oddly enough, there is no universally accepted explanation of where the popular
term "ham" originated. Various theories have been propounded and all generally
discredited. The most likely explanation is that the term derives from the
frontier-day custom of referring to an unskilled or inept telegraph operator as
ham- fisted. Regardless, it is a term in which Amateurs take great pride.

The term amateur refers to one who engages in a pursuit as a pastime rather
than as a profession. Amateur Radio is the personal use of short wave radio
equipment for direct, worldwide communications on a one-to-one basis. Amateur
Radio has been a source of communicating and technical skills, especially
during emergencies, but hams never accept compensation for services they
provide.

Licenses

Every Radio Amateur must be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC). In order to obtain a license, a ham must pass examinations in radio
theory, rules and regulations, and International Morse Code proficiency.

There are Radio Amateurs from ages 8 to 80 and they qualify for one of five
grades of licenses, each at progressively higher levels of proficiency. The
licenses are Novice, Technician, General, Advanced, and Amateur Extra. Higher
classes of licenses have additional operating privileges. The minimum license
required to operate on the frequencies to the shuttle is Technician.

Call Sign

The Amateur's call letters are issued by the FCC at the time of obtaining a
license. The first letter indicates nationality -- in the United States the
first letters are A, K, N or W.

There are several means of communicating with Amateur Radio in addition to
Morse Code (radio-telegraphy) and voice transmission (radiotelephony). These
include radioteletype, computer-data exchange, and fast scan and slow scan
Amateur television.

Organizations and Publications

AMSAT -- Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation: founded in 1969, to provide
satellites that can be used for Amateur Radio communication and experimentation
throughout the world, and to disseminate information derived from such
communications and experimentation. The AMSAT address is P.O. Box 27,
Washington, DC 20044.

ARRL -- American Radio Relay League: founded in 1914, as the hams' own
organization; publishes a monthly technical journal, annual handbook, and is
the representative body with the FCC. Send inquiries to 225 Main Street,
Newington, CT 06111.

The Amateur Radio Newsletter, The Westlink Report, Formerly Ham Radio Report,
Poco Press, 11119 Allegheny Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352.

Questions and Activities for the Classroom

1. All Radio Amateurs must pass a proficiency exam in International Morse
Code. Have your students research the history of this means of
communication.

2. Contact a local ham operator and arrange for a demonstration of Amateur
Radio techniques. Determine when the shuttle will be making a pass over the
area and listen for the shuttle transmission.

3. What is an Amateur Radio station and what equipment is essential?

4. What are the differences in Amateur Radio and citizens band radio?

5. Describe methods in which Radio Amateurs can provide a service in the
public interest.

STS-47 Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment Activities

SHUTTLE AMATEUR RADIO EXPERIMENT

The Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment (SAREX) is designed to demonstrate
the feasibility of amateur shortwave radio contacts between the Space Shuttle
crew and ground amateur radio operators, often called ham radio operators.
SAREX also serves as an educational opportunity for schools around the world to
learn about space first hand by speaking directly to astronauts aboard the
Shuttle via ham radio. Contacts with certain schools are included in planning
the mission.

STS-47 crew members Jay Apt, call sign N5QWL, and Mamoru Mohri, call sign
7L2NJY, will operate SAREX. Ham operators may communicate with the Shuttle
using VHF FM voice transmissions and digital packet. The primary voice
frequencies to be used during STS-47 are 145.55 MHz for transmissions from the
spacecraft to the ground and 144.95 MHz, 144.91 MHz and 144.97 MHz for
transmissions from the ground to the spacecraft. Digital packet will operate
on 145.55 MHz for transmissions from the Shuttle to the ground and on 144.70
MHz for transmissions from the ground to the Shuttle.

Equipment aboard Columbia will include a low-power, hand-held FM
transceiver, spare batteries, headset, an antenna custom designed by NASA to
fit in an orbiter window, an interface module and equipment cabinet.

SAREX has flown previously on Shuttle missions STS-9, STS-51F, STS-35,
STS-37, STS-45 and STS-50. SAREX is a joint effort by NASA, the American Radio
Relay League (ARRL), the Amateur Radio Satellite Corp. and the Johnson Space
Center Amateur Radio Club. Information about orbital elements, contact times,
frequencies and crew operating times will be available from these groups during
the mission and from amateur radio clubs at other NASA centers.

Ham operators from the JSC club will be operating on HF frequencies, and
the AARL (W1AW) will include SAREX information in its regular HF voice and
Teletype bulletins. The Goddard Space Flight Center Amateur Radio Club,
Greenbelt, Md., will operate 24 hours a day during the mission, providing
information on SAREX and retransmitting live Shuttle air-to-ground
communications. In addition, the NASA Public Affairs Office at the Johnson
Space Center will have a SAREX information desk during the mission.


STS-47 SAREX Operating Frequencies

Location Shuttle Transmission Shuttle Reception

U.S., Africa 145.55 MHz 144.95 MHz
South America 145.55 144.97
and Asia 145.55 144.91

Europe 145.55 MHz 144.80 MHz
145.55 144.75
145.55 144.70

Goddard Amateur Radio Club Operations
(SAREX information and Shuttle audio broadcasts)

3.860 MHz 7.185 MHz
14.295 MHz 21.395 MHz
28.395 MHz

SAREX information also may be obtained from the Johnson Space
Center computer bulletin board (JSC BBS), 8 N 1 1200 baud, at 713/483-
2500 and then type 62511.





STS-50 SAREX HINTS

The STS-50 crew includes ham-astronauts Dick Richards KB5SIW and Ellen Baker
KB5SIX. During free periods they will attempt to make random contacts with hams
around the world. Based on previous SAREX missions the SAREX team has made the
following recommendations to increase your chance for a successful contact.

Make sure you're using the correct frequencies. Do not use packet frequencies
for voice or vice versa. Make sure you're calling on an uplink frequency and
listening to the downlink frequency.

Do NOT call the shuttle constantly. After a couple of tries listen - if the
astronauts hear your call sign they'll respond. State your entire call sign
clearly - using standard phonetics. Post-flight tapes have many partial call
signs or unintelligible calls. The shuttle is a noisy environment, and stating
your sign clearly will make it easier for the astronaut to understand.

The astronauts will use their own calls for voice contacts, however W5RRR/S
will be the call sign for Slow Scan Television.

Good luck with your attempts to contact the shuttle! 73s!

Philip Chien KC4YER, Earth News

 
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