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Old February 5th 06, 09:44 PM posted to rec.radio.shortwave
Carter, K8VT
 
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Default Suitsat Update

wrote:
Suitsat is alive and kicking but high gain receiving systems, and a
high orbit pass over your area, are needed for reception.


From the NASA web site you referenced:

2) I would not waste your time on passes below 40 degrees elevation.
SuitSat is too far from your station to receive a reliable signal. We
have found that closest approach provides several seconds of SuitSat
communication with 22 element yagis.


Wow, what an understatement saying that "high gain receiving systems"
are necessary--a 22(!) element Yagi with a mast mounted pre-amp...to get
"several seconds"!!!! Folks, that's a BIG antenna, even at 2 meters and
that's a *weak* signal.

I was trying to hear a high pass this morning (about 70 degrees) and no
luck... :-(

Well, at least I re-discovered the "Orbitron" program (
www.stoff.pl) and
it's highly recommended. Great program! (BTW, Suitsat Keps [TLEs] have
been available almost from the second or third orbit. Way to go, NORAD!)