Homemade Triumph: Amateur Connects with International Space Station via DIY Antenna

An amateur ham radio enthusiast achieved a remarkable feat by conversing with an astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) using a homemade antenna. Doug, the ham radio operator, successfully established contact with the ISS during its overhead pass in July 2023, fulfilling a long-standing desire to communicate with an astronaut, particularly Woody Hoburg.

Expressing his excitement on his YouTube page, Doug shared his accomplishment, detailing previous contacts over FM satellites and the ISS repeater. However, making contact with an astronaut was a particular thrill he eagerly awaited.

Astronauts and Ham Radio

Despite their busy schedules on the ISS, many astronauts hold ham radio licenses and are enthusiastic about communicating with operators on Earth. The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program, involving NASA, ESA, CSA, and Roscosmos, encourages interactions between astronauts and schoolchildren, fostering interest in STEM subjects.

Rare Encounters with Astronauts

While scheduled educational contact with schoolchildren is common, speaking to an astronaut outside these sessions is rare. Specific factors, such as the ISS passing within Line Of Sight (LOS) during an astronaut’s downtime, contribute to the feasibility of such encounters. The astronaut must actively use Amateur Radio equipment for unscheduled contacts.

While making contact with the ISS requires certain conditions, hearing transmissions from the space station is relatively easy with a simple setup. Additionally, enthusiasts can watch live views from the ISS via platforms like YouTube, providing a glimpse into life aboard the orbiting laboratory.

Read the original article on IFL Science.

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