[amsat-bb] DO-64 observations

[WILLIAMS MICHAEL]

These is my personal observations about DO-64.
   
  The descending (morning) passes seem to be LHCP. My down link antenna is fixed LCHP only, and I hear the descending passes really well and can access DO-64 easily even at low elevations.
   
  Above 45 degrees, DO-64 is loud and I can back off power < 5 watts CW. Up link antenna is a 11 turn helix RHCP. 
   
  The ascending (evening) passes are very weak. Probably RHCP as I am fixed LHCP. At this time, DO-64 is not in sunlight on the ascending (evening) passes over the central U.S. 
   
  The beacon at 145.870 is easily heard. When you hear the beacon, you can put a signal through the transponder.
   
  435.556 MHz up puts you real close to the center of the 40KHz wide transponder and 145.900 MHz down.
   
  DO-64 does not have the booming signal as VO-52. I think I remember from the video that the transponder output is 200 mW.
   
  On the first half of the pass, the signals seem to be much stronger than the second half. 
   
  It is a challenge and fun to work through this sat . 
   
  This no battery satellite is a good idea.
   
  Many thanks,
   
  Mike Williams
  K9QHO
  AMSAT 33589