AO-51 satellite reception experiments

Out of curiosity I wanted to see how easy it is to receive HAM satellites. AO-51 is a good candidate, with convenient passes over Italy. First I tried with a UHF 1/4l whip on the car, then I tried to improve reception (on a similar pass) with a Moxon beam (2 folded elements).

The Moxon did provide 2 S-points gain and improve reception, but it is has a broad pattern, so broad the satellite was stronger when beaming to the ground! Anyway the "bird" can be received with a simple vertical and a good receiver.

For locals of JN35, can you tell where I was?

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• ik1zyw
• ao-51
• ham radio
• ft817