One of the most interesting and challenging of these is Space Communications.

Amateur Radio groups in many different countries, including Australia, have designed and
constructed space satellites called OSCAR's (Orbiting Satellite Carrying Amateur Radio).

These OSCAR's are given low cost rides into space by the various launch authorities
and have introduced many new design and communication techniques
that have since been adopted in commercial service.

Apart from the experience gained by those designing and constructing these satellites
many thousands of Amateur operators around the world are increasing their knowledge
of space communications and satellite techniques by using the OSCAR's.

Some operators use the satellites to relay their voice messages
to the other side of the world.
Other operators send and receive digital messages, image files and computer programs.
Many follow the "health" of the satellites by monitoring
and analysing information transmitted by the satellites.

Both the American and Russian manned space programs
regularly include Amateur Radio
in their missions as a recreational activity
for the astronauts and cosmonauts during their flights.

The Russian space station MIR had a permanent Amateur Radio station installed
and the cosmonauts made regular contact with many Amateurs in Australia.

A simple Computer system on MIR allowed messages
to be left for those at the Space Station.
Replies from the cosmonauts could be received at a later time
when the space station was in range.
Similar facilities are carried on most Space Shuttle flights.

Many school students in Australia have taken part in question and answer sessions
with those in orbit using communication links
provided as a community service by Amateur Radio operators.
These live hookups with the spacecraft create great excitement.
To actually talk to someone in space is an experience few will forget.

Communications links are provided from time to time to enable the astronauts
to speak with their families on the ground.
On one occasion an emergency radio link was provided by an Australian
Amateur operator when all of the commercial communication paths had failed.

Both the U.S.A and Russian governments encourage their flight crews to obtain
Amateur Radio licences to enable them to take part in these activities.

It is interesting to note that Australian Amateur Radio operators
have one of the highest participation rates
of any country in the area of Space and Satellite communications.

Australian Amateur Radio operators have been invited to overseas
conferences and workshops to assist in the planning of future satellites.

Through a special interest group called AMSAT Australia,
technical and financial support is given to
various groups to assist in construction of new satellites
and the management of those currently in service.

WIA WA - AR Guide - Amateur Radio & Space Communications
With thanks to the original writer

Page 3 index - Page 9 - Page 10 - Page 11.1

The WIA exists for all Radio Amateurs, Does it speak for you.
Amateurs Unite and Conquer, United we stand, Divided we fall.

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