I was on AO-40 from its launch, initially running mode US, then mode LS (I bought one of the few DEMI 1268/144 Tx converters that were made). I made several contacts after I got my s-band downlink working. Initially, I was using too small an antenna and did not have a decent preamp. Once I graduated to the 85cm (33-inch) offsst feed dish and added a MKU-232 preamp, I was able to hear anyone. I spent a long time collecting telemetry and could do so out to a squint angle of 49-degrees.
It really is a shame that there was no workaround for the battery issue or even run on solar panels like AO7. But this was before AO7 reawakened to provide that insight. I lived and waited long years for AO-40 and unfortunately wasted time I could have operated on AO-13. Now I have all the stuff needed to work a Heo and hardly anywhere to use it (I bought one of the early FT-847 just for AO-40). I would say a lot of the operators of the Heo years have gone away from satellite activity (some remain lurking on Amsat-bb wishing upon a star ...or a hope and a prayer). I will return, if Murphy will leave me alone long enough! But I mainly operate Oscar-Zero now days. 73, ED - KL7UW At 11:04 AM 2/3/2011, Floyd Rodgers wrote: >Did anyone manage to bag any contacts off A040 before it's sad event? >_______________________________________________ >Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 ====================================== BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 144-1.4kw*, 432-100w*, 1296-testing*, 3400-winter? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@hotmail.com ====================================== *temp not in service _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
