Been a member of AMSAT since the early 80s. Like most of you joined to support the SAT Program. Most of us probably joined for the same reason.
How does AMSAT survive? Survival is through volunteers and financial resources. Where does that come from???? Like any other amateur radio club only a few help do!! A while back I asked what is AMSAT's STRATEGIC PLAN? Technology has changed drastically since I joined. Has the plan changed. I agree FM satellites are the easiest point of entrance for a new SAT communicator. I disagree with I one frequency SAT. That is an expensive way to fill in the GAP. FOX seems to be a great answer to entry levels operators, possibly the majority of the operators. With that said, Linear Transponders like AO 7 and FO 29 at higher altitudes are needed. We have lost VO 52. It is hard to use the birds in our K4AMG mentoring program since their orbits are mostly incompatible with classroom times. NO SOLUTION IN SITE. So there is a need to plan ahead for more accessible birds with more Linear transponders and other features. How do we get there? A strategic plan accesses the current mission and goals to achieve a future vision. Your volunteer time and money can make this happen. One step would be enhanced Field Organization. When we started the K4AMG MARC, Inc. there was no field organization in our area. Plenty of help from A FAR but no one with hands on experience locally. Just a member Rich W4BUE PRES K4AMG.org _______________________________________________ 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
