Space—the final frontier. For many amateur radio operators, the thrill of communicating through satellites adds a whole new dimension to the hobby. Whether you’re looking to make your first contact through a “bird” racing overhead or dreaming of decoding signals from the International Space Station, satellite ham radio offers adventure, learning, and a global community of enthusiasts. At Cranbrook Radio Club Society (CRCS), we’re passionate about helping hams take their signals skyward—and there’s never been a better time to get started.
This guide will walk you through the fundamentals of satellite ham radio: what it is, how it works, the gear you’ll need, and practical tips for making successful contacts. Whether you’re a brand-new operator or an HF veteran seeking a fresh challenge, satellite ham radio is accessible, rewarding, and just plain fun. Let’s get you on the air—via outer space!
What is Satellite Ham Radio?
Satellite ham radio is the use of amateur radio satellites to make contacts beyond the normal reach of terrestrial VHF and UHF communications. These satellites, often called “birds,” orbit the Earth and act as repeaters in the sky, receiving signals on one frequency and re-transmitting them on another. This allows hams to communicate over hundreds or even thousands of kilometers, all with modest equipment and antennas.
Amateur radio satellites are launched and maintained by organizations like AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation) and supported by a vibrant, international community. Some satellites offer voice (FM or SSB), digital, or packet modes, while others carry slow-scan TV (SSTV), APRS, or even experimental payloads.
Why Try Satellite Ham Radio?
Satellite ham radio brings unique benefits and excitement to your operating life:
- Extended Range: Make contacts far beyond your line of sight—from your city to the next province, or even another continent.
- Technical Challenge: Hone your skills in tracking, Doppler shift compensation, and portable operation.
- Educational Value: Learn about orbits, space technology, and radio propagation.
- Community: Join a global group of satellite enthusiasts, share tips, and work toward coveted awards.
- ISS Communication: Occasionally, astronauts on the International Space Station will chat with hams or transmit SSTV images for Earth-bound operators to receive.
Most of all, there’s nothing quite like hearing your own signal bounce back from space.
How Do Amateur Radio Satellites Work?
Most amateur satellites are “low Earth orbit” (LEO) satellites, circling the planet at altitudes from 400 to 1500 kilometers. They zip across the sky in just 10–20 minutes, offering brief but exciting windows for communication.
Satellites commonly operate as:
- FM Repeaters: Simplex satellites (one uplink, one downlink frequency), easy for beginners.
- Linear Transponders (SSB/CW): Handle multiple signals at once, enabling SSB or CW contacts.
- Digital/Data Satellites: For packet radio, APRS, or experimental modes.
Each satellite publishes its own frequency “plan,” with designated uplink (your transmit) and downlink (your receive) frequencies.
What Equipment Do You Need for Satellite Ham Radio?
One of the best features of satellite ham radio is accessibility—you can get started with gear you may already own. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. A Dual-Band FM Handheld or Mobile Radio
Many FM satellites (like SO-50 or AO-91) use 2 meters (VHF) for uplink and 70 centimeters (UHF) for downlink, or vice versa. A standard dual-band HT (handheld transceiver) or mobile radio with at least 5 watts of power is enough for most passes.
CRCS Tip: Some satellites require full-duplex capability (listening while transmitting). Radios like the Kenwood TH-D72A, Icom IC-W32A, or Yaesu FT-817 are popular choices, but you can start with a basic HT for “one-way” (half-duplex) operation.
2. A Directional Antenna
While the “rubber duck” antenna that comes with most HTs might work for strong satellite passes, a handheld directional antenna (like an Arrow, Elk, or homebrew Yagi) makes a huge difference. These antennas boost your signal, improve receive quality, and help you “follow” fast-moving satellites.
CRCS Tip: Many hams build their own simple Yagi antennas from PVC and wire—great club project!
3. Satellite Tracking App or Website
Satellites move quickly! Use a tracking app (e.g., “ISS Detector,” “SatSat,” “GoSatWatch”) or online service (like “Heavens-Above” or “N2YO.com”) to know when a satellite will be visible and its path across the sky.
4. Frequency Chart and Doppler Shift Awareness
Satellites’ high speeds cause their frequencies to “shift” as they approach and recede (Doppler effect). Be ready to adjust your receive and transmit frequencies up or down during a pass—most modern radios make this easy.
5. Optional: Audio Recorder
Recording your contacts helps with logging and QSL requests, especially during busy passes.
Getting Started: Your First Satellite Ham Radio Contact
Ready to try satellite ham radio? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your first contact:
Step 1: Get Licensed
You’ll need at least a basic amateur radio license with privileges on 2 meters and 70 centimeters. (In Canada, Basic is sufficient.)
Step 2: Choose a Satellite
Start with FM “easy sats” like SO-50, AO-91, or PO-101. Check AMSAT’s status page or local satellite groups for recommendations.
Step 3: Find Upcoming Passes
Use a tracking app to find satellites passing over your location. Look for passes with high maximum elevation (the satellite passes nearly overhead)—these give you the best chance for success.
Step 4: Program Your Radio
Set your radio to the correct uplink and downlink frequencies. For FM satellites, the uplink and downlink are often published with CTCSS tones (for access). For SSB/CW satellites, you’ll “slide” your frequency to follow Doppler shift.
Step 5: Prepare Your Antenna
Aim your directional antenna at the horizon where the satellite will first appear. As the pass progresses, slowly move the antenna to follow the satellite’s path across the sky.
Step 6: Listen First
Before transmitting, listen to the downlink frequency. You’ll often hear other stations calling “CQ satellite” or making contacts. Note the satellite’s call sign beacon.
Step 7: Make Your Call
- Announce your call sign and grid square (e.g., “VA7XYZ CN89”).
- Try to keep transmissions short—passes are brief and many operators want a turn.
- Listen for replies, and respond with the other operator’s call sign and your own.
Step 8: Log Your Contact
Record the satellite, time, station worked, and grid locator. Satellite QSOs are prized for awards like ARRL VUCC and AMSAT Oscar Satellite Communicator.
Practical Tips for Satellite Ham Radio Success
- Practice Aiming Your Antenna:
Following a satellite with a handheld Yagi can be tricky. Practice on the ISS or weather satellites for experience. - Join a Satellite Net or Club:
Connect with local or online satellite ham radio groups for schedules, tips, and support. - Use Headphones:
Outdoor environments can be noisy. Headphones help you hear weak signals and avoid missing a contact. - Be Patient and Polite:
Some passes are crowded! Wait your turn, keep transmissions short, and follow satellite etiquette. - Experiment and Have Fun:
Try homebrew antennas, portable setups, or different satellites. The learning curve is steep, but the rewards are huge.
Advanced Satellite Ham Radio: What’s Next?
Once you’ve mastered FM satellites, try:
- Linear Transponder Satellites:
Work multiple stations simultaneously on SSB or CW modes (e.g., FO-29, XW-2A), requiring more precise frequency tracking. - Digital Modes:
Use packet radio, APRS, or SSTV via satellites like ISS digipeater. - ISS Contacts:
Watch for scheduled astronaut contacts or special SSTV events. - Satellite Roving:
Operate from rare grid squares and give others a new location—great for awards chasers.
Troubleshooting Common Satellite Ham Radio Issues
- Weak or No Signal:
Try a better antenna, higher pass, or move to an open area away from buildings and trees. Check radio output power and antenna connections. - Unable to Access Satellite:
Confirm CTCSS tone, correct frequency, and satellite status. Some satellites are temporarily down for maintenance. - Doppler Shift Confusion:
Practice adjusting frequencies during passes. Some radios offer “satellite mode” for automatic correction. - Crowded Passes:
Try less-popular satellites or passes at less-convenient times for more elbow room.
Satellite Ham Radio and the CRCS Community
At Cranbrook Radio Club Society, several members are active satellite operators. We regularly hold “satellite demo days” at club meetings, where everyone can try working a pass, build antennas, and share tips.
If you’re new to satellite ham radio, reach out! We love mentoring new operators and can help you source gear, learn tracking, and make that first space contact.
Final Thoughts: Reaching for the Stars
Satellite ham radio brings the excitement of space communication down to Earth for every amateur operator. It’s a hands-on, technical, and social experience that connects you—literally—to the world beyond the horizon. Whether you’re chasing DX through a “bird,” decoding SSTV from the ISS, or simply experimenting with antennas in your backyard, the sky is no longer the limit.
Join the growing community of satellite enthusiasts, and see where the path to space can take your ham radio journey. As always, the CRCS team is here to help you get started, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate your first satellite QSOs.
73 from all of us at Cranbrook Radio Club Society—see you and hear you through the next pass!
