First Amateur Radio payload test fails

On Wednesday last week, the first test of the amateur radio payload on SumbandilaSat did not switch on as planned.

The problem was a glitch in the diary software which failed to turn on the amateur radio payload. Ground station engineers are working on the problem and another test will be scheduled within the next few days.

On 13 October the main camera payload was activated during which video was recorded. The video was captured while SumbandilaSat travelled over northern Namibia. To watch the video go to www.amsatsa.org.za.

Details of the next amateur radio test will be posted on www.amsatsa.org.za as information becomes available.

Persons who send in audio clips and reports of the test within 24 hours of the actual test will be entered into the lucky draw for the new ARRL satellite Handbook.

Send the audio clip and reports to www.amsatsa.org.za.

Once the amateur radio payload operates successfully, SA AMSAT will apply for an OSCAR number.

The South African Radio League