According to Google there are 33 teams ( http://www.googlelunarxprize.org/teams ) vying for the Google Lunar X Prize. Where are these groups getting the money for their launch to the moon? Are any of them "for real"? Many amateur space groups are just blowing hot air, they have a lot of enthusiasm but little understanding of just how hard space flight really is.
The cheap launches to HEO are gone. If we want another HEO satellite we must think outside the box. Collaborations with other organizations will be our ticket to space in the 21st century. What if we offer to provide the communications system for one of these lunar missions. Provide one transponder/telemetry/command system for the lunar vehicle and build another one to drop off in HEO on the way to the moon. Our 50 year history of space communications gives us more credibility than anyone else in that field. Our experience and expertise might be welcomed by one or more of these teams. Assuming, of course, that they are for real and have funding for a launch.... Dan Schultz N8FGV _______________________________________________ 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
