Space-Based Communications for Skill, Reach, and Resilience

Amateur radio satellites allow licensed operators to communicate through spacecraft orbiting hundreds of miles above Earth. Often called “birds,” these satellites function as space-based repeaters, linear transponders, or digital relays—providing wide-area communication without reliance on local infrastructure.

With modest equipment, disciplined technique, and proper planning, operators can make contacts hundreds or even thousands of miles away using just a handheld radio and directional antenna.

This comprehensive guide covers:

How amateur satellites work
Required equipment (radios, antennas, tracking tools)
Operating procedures
Costs and licensing
Suitability for disasters and preparedness
Authoritative references

What Are Amateur Radio Satellites?

Amateur radio satellites are spacecraft carrying radio payloads specifically for licensed amateur use. Many are coordinated or supported by AMSAT and university programs.

Most active amateur satellites are:

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) — 400–1,200 km altitude
FM Voice Repeaters — simple cross-band uplink/downlink
Linear Transponders — SSB/CW passband allowing multiple simultaneous QSOs
Digital / APRS Relays — packet-based messaging

The International Space Station also hosts amateur radio equipment under the ARISS program, enabling voice contacts and digital modes.

Because these satellites orbit Earth roughly every 90 minutes, they are only available during specific “passes” overhead.

How Satellite Communication Works

Unlike terrestrial repeaters, satellites move rapidly across the sky. Successful operation requires timing and technique.

Key Terms

AOS (Acquisition of Signal) – Satellite rises above the horizon
LOS (Loss of Signal) – Satellite drops below the horizon
Footprint – Area on Earth covered during a pass
Doppler Shift – Frequency change due to relative motion

A typical FM satellite uses:

Uplink (you transmit) on 2 meters (VHF)
Downlink (you receive) on 70 cm (UHF)

Because UHF frequencies are more susceptible to Doppler shift, operators adjust frequency slightly during the pass.

Pass duration: 8–15 minutes depending on elevation.

Equipment Requirements

Satellite operation does not require massive stations—but quality equipment improves success dramatically.

Radios (Transceivers)

Minimum Configuration (FM Satellites)

Dual-band handheld (2m/70cm)
Split-frequency capability
Preferably full-duplex (can hear your own downlink while transmitting)

Full-duplex is highly recommended because:

You can confirm you are accessing the satellite
You avoid interfering with other operators
You can correct Doppler in real time

Reliable equipment is available from manufacturers such as Yaesu, Icom, and Kenwood.

Advanced Configuration (Linear Satellites)

For SSB/CW satellites:

All-mode VHF/UHF transceiver
True full-duplex capability
Fine frequency tuning
Stable oscillator

Linear satellites require lower power and more precise tuning but allow multiple simultaneous conversations.

Antennas

The antenna is more important than raw power.

Entry Level

Stock dual-band whip (possible, but limited performance)

Advanced

Cross-polarized Yagis
Azimuth/elevation rotator systems
Mast-mounted low-noise preamps

Directional antennas:

Improve signal strength
Reduce interference
Allow controlled access to crowded satellites

Power

Most FM satellites require only:

5 watts or less
Often 1–3 watts is sufficient

Linear satellites often require even less.

Excessive power is discouraged—it monopolizes shared resources.

Tracking & Prediction Tools

You must know when a satellite is overhead.

Common tools:

AMSAT pass predictions
Gpredict
SatPC32
Web-based services such as Heavens-Above

These provide:

Pass times
Elevation angles
Doppler frequency corrections
Footprint visualization

Operating Techniques

FM Satellite Operating Procedure

Begin listening before AOS.
Track satellite visually or via prediction software.
Keep transmissions short (5–10 seconds).
Exchange call sign and grid square only.
Avoid ragchews—these are shared systems.

Typical exchange:

“KJ7XYZ FN20”
“W1ABC EN91”

Efficient and professional.

Linear Satellite Technique

Tune the downlink first.
Find your own signal.
Use minimal power.
Avoid calling CQ continuously.

Linear satellites allow multiple operators simultaneously—but require discipline.

Licensing Requirements

In the United States:

FCC Amateur Radio License (Technician class or higher)
Compliance with Part 97 regulations under the Federal Communications Commission

Operators must identify properly and follow amateur radio operating standards.

Cost Overview

Level	Estimated Cost
Entry (HT + whip)	$100–300
Recommended (HT + Yagi)	$250–500
Advanced (All-mode + rotators)	$1,000–3,000+

Satellite operation is accessible without extreme expense.

Suitability for Disasters, Emergencies & Preparedness

Amateur satellites occupy a unique position in emergency communications planning.

They are not a replacement for HF, local repeaters, or digital messaging systems—but they provide an independent, wide-area redundancy layer.

Advantages in Disaster Scenarios

Infrastructure Independence

LEO satellites:

Do not rely on local repeaters
Do not depend on internet backhaul
Are unaffected by regional power outages

If terrestrial systems fail, satellites may still function normally.

Wide-Area Reach

During a pass, one satellite footprint can cover:

Multiple states
Large regions
Cross-border areas

This enables communication between impacted and unaffected regions.

Portable Deployment

Satellite capability can fit in:

A backpack
A go-kit
A field deployment case

With 5 watts and a handheld Yagi, meaningful long-distance contact is possible.

Limitations in Emergency Use

Preparedness planning must be realistic.

Limited Availability

8–15 minute windows
Specific pass times
Not continuous coverage

Bandwidth Constraints

FM satellites can become congested during major events.

Skill Requirement

Satellite operation requires:

Practice
Doppler adjustment familiarity
Antenna tracking technique
Efficient operating discipline

This is not a plug-and-play system.

Best Emergency Use Cases

✔ Initial situation reporting
✔ Short accountability messages
✔ Bridging affected areas to unaffected regions
✔ Redundant regional communications

When Satellites Are Not Ideal

✘ Continuous tactical coordination
✘ Long-form logistics traffic
✘ High-volume data transmission
✘ 24/7 command nets

HF or terrestrial systems are better suited for those roles.

Integrating Satellites Into a Resilient Communications Plan

A layered preparedness communications stack may include:

Local repeaters
Simplex VHF/UHF
HF regional capability
Digital messaging systems
LEO satellite capability

Satellite communications should be viewed as:

A surge redundancy layer—portable, independent, and strategic.

Training Recommendations

If satellites are part of your preparedness strategy:

Practice routinely during normal conditions
Log successful passes
Pre-program Doppler frequencies
Develop a short emergency message script
Train for low-power discipline

Do not attempt first-time satellite operation during a crisis.

Authoritative References

AMSAT – Satellite status and resources
ARRL – Operating guides
ARISS – ISS operations
Federal Communications Commission – Part 97 regulations

Final Thoughts

Amateur radio satellites combine:

Physics
Timing
Skill
Discipline

They are one of the most accessible ways to experience space-based communication firsthand.

For operators focused on communications resilience, they are more than novelty—they are capability.

With preparation and training, a handheld radio and directional antenna can connect you through a spacecraft traveling 17,000 mph overhead.

In a layered communications strategy, that is a powerful tool.

Fortune Favors the Prepared

Amateur Radio Satellites (AMSAT)