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Satellites · ISS · Moonbounce

Your signal can reach space. Work an astronaut on the ISS, track an AMSAT satellite across the sky, or bounce signals off the moon. This is ham radio at its most awe-inspiring.

AMSAT ARISS / ISS Working Sats Moonbounce FAQ

AMSAT — Amateur Radio in Space

Since 1961, amateurs have built and launched their own satellites. AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation) has helped put over 100 OSCAR-numbered spacecraft in orbit. These aren't just beacons — they're repeaters, digipeaters, and transponders you can use with modest gear.

Popular Amateur Satellites

Track passes with AMSAT Pass Predictions, Heavens-Above, or the new OrbitDeck app announced in 2026.

ARISS — Talk to the Space Station

Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) lets students and hams speak directly with astronauts orbiting 250 miles up. It's one of the most magical experiences in the hobby.

How It Works

ARISS schedules contacts with schools and organizations worldwide. Astronauts use the NA1SS call sign on 145.800 MHz FM (downlink). You can also listen to casual passes when crew have time — check ARISS current status pages.

What's Next: Moon & Mars

ARISS and AMSAT's AREx program is developing systems for lunar missions. The CAVIAR project (Communications, Audio, Video and Imaging using Amateur Radio) aims to bring voice, digital, and video from the moon to students on Earth. ARISS is also tracking Artemis 2 for passive ham radio involvement.

Japan's JAXA already sent Morse from the lunar surface (JS1YMG). Ham radio is going back to space — and beyond.

Listen live: 145.800 MHz FM worldwide downlink when ISS is in range. A handheld with a whip antenna can hear astronauts. Transmitting requires planning and often a scheduled contact.

Working Satellites — Getting Started

What You Need

Tips for Success

  1. Practice on SO-50 — the most beginner-friendly FM sat
  2. Pre-program Doppler-shifted frequencies before the pass
  3. Operate full duplex if your radio supports it (hear yourself on downlink)
  4. Start outdoors with clear horizon views — Vegas has great sky!

Satellite Field Day

AMSAT runs satellite activities during ARRL Field Day each June. A perfect time to try your first contact — lots of experienced operators ready to help.

Moonbounce (EME — Earth-Moon-Earth)

Bounce your signal off the moon and back to Earth. Path loss is extreme — 250,000+ miles each way — so this is the ultimate microwave challenge. But with modern digital modes (FT8, Q65) and affordable 2.4/5.6 GHz gear, EME is more accessible than ever.

How It Works

You transmit toward the moon; a tiny fraction of your signal reflects back. The other station does the same. Digital modes decode what voice couldn't carry. You need high gain antennas (often multiple Yagis or a dish), substantial power, and precise tracking.

Getting Started with EME

Las Vegas's clear desert skies and low humidity make it a decent location for microwave work — when it's not 110°F outside!

Satellites & Space FAQ

Yes! Most amateur satellites operate on VHF/UHF bands available to Technicians. Some linear transponder uplinks require General class on certain bands.
SO-50 on FM. Track a pass, program 145.850 MHz up / 436.795 MHz down (adjust for Doppler), call CQ when you hear others. Arrow Antenna makes a popular handheld dual-band Yagi.
Apply through ARISS.org. Organizations submit proposals; selected schools get a direct contact with crew. The process takes planning — start early.
Not as a first project — but digital EME on 2m with a good station is achievable for dedicated hams. Start with satellites, move to terrestrial microwave, then aim at the moon.