ARISS request for additional ground stations

Do you want to be part of the international network of ground stations that help support Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) operations?

ARISS is looking to add numerous ground stations capable of relaying ISS amateur radio sessions with schools and also serve as back up communications relays should they be needed. Locations worldwide will be considered, but of greatest interest is the need for stations in Central America, South America, Falkland Islands, Western Australia, Canada, and Alaska.

The following are guidelines for stations wanting to be considered:
- Third Party agreement with United States or waiver from their telecom agency
- Ability to speak and understand English
- Minimal horizon obstructions
- 24/7 access and availability of station
- operator(s) willing to support scheduled contacts at various times
- Phone patch
- AZ/EL tracking satellite system, preferably an auto tracking system with the capability for manual override
- Multi-element yagis for 2 meters and 70 cm (Circular polarity preferred)
- Pre-amps
- Transmit output greater than 70 watts

NOTE: If you can specify your station’s EIRP and receive sensitivity (thereby taking into account cable losses, pre-amps and antenna gain), it would be greatly appreciated.

Stations that can support the following will be given special consideration, but these items are not required:
- Auto Doppler adjustment of frequencies
- Ability to speak and understand languages other than English
- 1.2 and 2.4 GHz satellite hardware
- Packet
- SSTV
- Digital ATV
- Redundant power system
- High-speed internet

If you or your club would like to be considered for selection as one of the new ARISS telebridge stations then send an email with details about your station and contact information to ARISS-telebridge@amsat.org

Frank Bauer, KA3HDO
ARISS International Chairman
AMSAT V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs

Amateur Radio on the International Space Station
http://www.rac.ca/ariss/