Amateur radio operators have long been fascinated by the boundless possibilities of communication, and one area that has captured their attention is the realm of satellite communication. In particular, the pursuit of chasing HamSats, also known as amateur radio satellites, has become an exciting and rewarding endeavor for enthusiasts. With the rise of CubeSats and the efforts of organizations like AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation), the world of satellite communication has opened up to amateur radio operators in unprecedented ways. CubeSats are miniature satellites with standardized sizes and designs and they have revolutionized the satellite industry. These small, low-cost satellites often include amateur radio payloads, providing a unique opportunity for radio enthusiasts to actively participate in space communication. Amateur radio operators can track and communicate with these CubeSats, establishing two-way links that bridge the gap between Earth and space.

AMSAT, a global organization dedicated to the development and promotion of amateur radio satellites, has played a pivotal role in enabling amateur radio operators to engage with HamSats. AMSAT designs, builds, and launches satellites with amateur radio capabilities, providing a platform for operators to communicate with fellow enthusiasts across vast distances. These satellites often include features like transponders, repeaters, and beacons, allowing operators to experiment with different modes and techniques.

Chasing HamSats with amateur radio offers a bunch of fun. It allows operators to explore the limits of their equipment and skills. Setting up ground stations, tracking satellites, and successfully establishing communication links require technical expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of orbital mechanics. This pursuit pushes operators to continuously refine their knowledge and capabilities. Chasing HamSats also provides a sense of accomplishment and excitement. The ability to establish a communication link with a satellite orbiting hundreds of kilometers above the Earth’s surface is an exhilarating and awe-inspiring experience. It offers a real life tangible connection to the magic of space exploration and a firsthand understanding of the immense distances and challenges involved. Plus, participating in HamSat communication fosters a sense of community among amateur radio operators that engage in this same time of challenge with amateur radio. Through organizations like AMSAT, operators can collaborate, exchange information, and share experiences with fellow enthusiasts worldwide. There are online forums, mailing lists, and events dedicated to satellite communication that provide platforms for knowledge sharing, troubleshooting, and celebrating achievements. If this is something you think you might be interested in doing for yourself, you can find many amateur radio operators that are excellent HamSat chasers who share their knowledge by documenting their adventures and showing you how to do it for yourself in their Blogs and YouTube videos.

To engage in chasing HamSats, as an amateur radio operator you will need suitable equipment, including antennas, receivers, and tracking software. As well as knowing where to find some reliable and accurate predictions of satellite passes and orbital elements, which are readily available through online resources and satellite tracking applications. Once equipped, operators listen for satellite beacons, participate in scheduled passes, or even engage in two-way contacts with other operators through repeaters or transponders onboard the satellites. The excitement of making successful contacts, exchanging call signs, and exchanging information through space channels further fuels their passion for this pursuit.

Chasing HamSats with amateur radio offers a gateway to explore the wonders of space and the possibilities of communication. It combines technical expertise, scientific knowledge, and the thrill of discovery. With CubeSats becoming increasingly prevalent and more and more organizations expanding and pushing the boundaries of satellite technology, the opportunities for amateur radio operators to engage in HamSat communication are more abundant than ever before. So, if you’re an amateur radio operator today or someone who might be interested in getting into amateur radio tomorrow and are looking for a thrilling and challenging adventure, I would strongly suggest that you consider delving into the world of chasing HamSats. It is one of the amazing ways that amateur radio can unlock the potential of space communication and where you can embark on a journey that bridges the gap between the Earth and the stars. What are you waiting for? The cosmos awaits your call!

73,

N3DEZ

To find out more exciting stories about CubeSats I would suggest reading about their start, and fantastic history as documented in this interview with the Fathers of the CubeSat: Professor Bob Twiggs, and Professor Jory Puig-Suari Feder, T. (2014, October 31). Tiny satellites are starting to have a giant impact. Physics Today. https://pubs.aip.org/physicstoday/Online/11998/Tiny-satellites-are-starting-to-have-a-giant