What are Ham Radio Satellites?
Ham Radio Communication with IISS FM Satellites
The term IISS FM satellites likely refers to a series of communication satellites, which could be part of a broader communication or navigation network. However, if you’re talking about amateur (ham) radio, the type of satellites you’re more likely to engage with are those that support amateur radio communications, including LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites.
Some key points to consider:
Amateur Radio Satellites (often called OSCAR satellites) are specifically designed to facilitate two-way communication for ham radio operators. These satellites can carry SSB signals as part of their design, which is a common communication mode for long-distance transmissions on HF bands.
FM Satellites for Ham Radio:
Some ham radio satellites use FM (Frequency Modulation) for communication, often on very high frequencies (VHF) or ultra-high frequencies (UHF). These satellites can relay signals from one ham radio operator to another. A great example is the AO-91, an amateur radio satellite that operates in FM mode.
IISS FM (if specifically referring to certain FM-based satellites) might be one of those frequencies where a ham operator can communicate, depending on what satellite systems are available. For instance, FM satellites in ham radio usually allow people to connect directly from their radios to satellites for worldwide communication.
Ham Radio Communication Using SSB
For SSB communication, ham radio operators typically use HF bands (high-frequency) to communicate with other operators or satellites over long distances. When satellites are involved:
SSB is very popular on satellite-to-satellite or satellite-to-earth communications for ham radio. Because SSB uses narrow bandwidth and is efficient for long-range communication, it’s ideal for sending clear signals over vast distances, including those relayed by satellites.
Many ham radio amateur radio satellites (like AMSAT satellites) are set up to support SSB communications. They might be in LEO (Low Earth Orbit), meaning they are only visible from your location for a short time as they pass overhead. You’d typically need a tracking antenna to keep the satellite in range while communicating. Using SSB, operators can use these satellites to relay their signals over very long distances, often across continents or even globally.
How Communication Happens:
Satellite Passes Overhead: A ham radio operator will track the satellite using an antenna designed for tracking, usually equipped with an azimuth-elevation mount. As the satellite moves across the sky, it provides a short window for communication.
SSB Transmission:
The operator will transmit in SSB mode to save power and bandwidth. The satellite will either relay this signal directly to another operator or back to a ground station, which can further relay it to other ham operators.
FM Mode:
If using an FM satellite, operators can communicate via simplex (direct) or repeater mode, depending on the satellite’s configuration. FM satellites generally work in a different frequency range than SSB, but both modes serve different communication needs.
Equipment Needed for Ham Radio Satellite Communication:
Transceiver: A ham radio transceiver capable of transmitting in SSB (and possibly FM), typically on VHF/UHF frequencies for FM satellites, and HF frequencies for SSB communication.
Tracking Antenna:
A tracking system or rotating antenna is essential to maintain contact with the satellite while it moves across the sky.
Satellites:
Depending on the satellite you wish to communicate with, you would need to know its orbit, frequency, and mode of operation. Amateur radio satellites (like AO-91, SO-50, etc.) are common for FM, while SSB is often used on satellites like AO-7, FO-29, and others.
Antenna System:
An antenna system capable of tracking satellites in the sky and maintaining communication as the satellite orbits.
Popular Ham Radio Satellites for SSB and FM:
AO-7: This is a well-known satellite that supports SSB communication.
FO-29: An example of a SSB/CW satellite.
SO-50: An FM satellite commonly used by ham radio operators.
AO-91 and AO-92: Both are FM satellites that relay signals, helping ham radio operators talk to each other across regions.