In our second installment of Sean Kutzko’s, KX9X, video series on the basics of operating amateur radio satellites, he covers the basics of operating FM satellites, including what gear you’ll need, the importance of “full duplex,” how to mitigate polarization fading to maintain a good signal throughout the satellite pass, top tools for tracking satellites, CTCSS tones, adjusting for Doppler effect on 70cm, and tips on recording a pass for easy logging. You’ll also watch Sean in action as he works the A0-91 Amateur Radio satellite.
Want to operate like Sean, KX9X? DX Engineering carries the Kenwood 2M/7cm TH-D72A Handheld Transceiver (featuring full duplex capabilities) he uses in the video. Also available from DX Engineering is the EAntenna 2M/70cm DUOSAT Handheld Antenna, perfect for operating satellites. Weighing only 22 ounces, the antenna has three elements for VHF operating and five for UHF.
Watch the first video in the series, “Learn the Basics of Operating Amateur Radio Satellites,” here.
Editor’s Note: Welcome to OnAllBands’ new video series on the fun and challenges of making contacts through Amateur Radio satellites!
Your host is Sean Kutzko, KX9X, OnAllBands blogger, former AMSAT Volunteer Coordinator, and experienced satellite operator.
