A while ago a few radio amateurs discussed innovation in Amateur Radio, specifically the "Wow Factor" and deep space amateur radio communications to and from MARS on the ZS Link Network in South Africa. Many at the time were of the opinion that we currently do not have the equipment and money to setup a Deep Space Amateur Radio Station. I at the time was of the opinion that deep space communications are possible and that equipment were not the stumbling block but rather the will to just do it and to explore different methods to communicate successfully to and from Deep-Space via amateur radio.
Amateur reception of deep space probes is a fascinating and challenging field that blends elements of microwave RF, space communications, space exploration, and radio astronomy. While data from space probes is commonly received and processed by space agencies using very large antennas and sophisticated equipment, it is possible for hobbyists to home-brew modest systems capable of receiving signals from deep-space probes. This is currently one of the only ways in which private citizens can directly experience planetary exploration.
Image: Master satellite spotter, Greg Roberts ZS1BI of Cape Town, South Africa, is one of several amateur astronomers and skywatchers who tracked the first X-37B space plane from Earth in 2010.
A South African Radio Amateur by the name of Greg Roberts ZS1BI achieved many outer and deep space successes that was at the time thought to have been impossible.
The following links provide more information about Greg's wonderful achievements:
1. Radio Transmissions from Outer Space - By Greg Roberts ZS1BI (PDF)
2. X 37B found in orbit for second time by South African observer. - sUAS News
3. Secret Space Plane Can't Hide From Amateur Sleuths - Wired
4. Artificial comet over Cape Town - Greg Roberts
5. Grandpa a 'threat to US security'- Sunday Times
6. Sounds from Space - Greg Roberts
7. Secret X-37B space plane has changed orbit -NBC News
Image: Secret X-37B Space Plane
Now there are many more achievements by Greg Roberts ZS1BI. Unfortunately I cannot publish them all but from the above you will agree that Greg Roberts ZS1BI is no ordinary radio amateur and amateur radio astronomer. Greg has paved the way for the younger generation in amateur radio and astronomy to follow in his big footsteps. His achievements surely merit him being inducted to the SARL Hall of Fame if not already done.
Another Radio Amateur by the name of Scott Tilley VE7TIL also a Amateur astronomer made international headlines when he rediscovered NASA's IMAGE satellite 13 years after it mysteriously disappeared. In this interview with Freethink, Scott discusses his role in the satellite's recovery, why he enjoys amateur astronomy, and how citizen scientists like him have contributed to our knowledge of space from the space race to the present day.
As reported on Spaceweather.com, Canadian radio amateur Scott Tilley, VE7TIL copies signal from Mars-Orbiting Satellite from deep space. His latest conquest has been to copy the signal from China’s Tianwen-1 (pronounced “tee-EN-ven”) probe, which went into orbit around Mars on February 10. Tilley told Spaceweather.com that the probe’s X-band signal was “loud and audible.”
“It was a treasure hunt,” Tilley told Spaceweather.com. He explained that while the spacecraft did post its frequency with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), it was too vague for precise tuning (X band is between 8 GHz and 12 GHz).
Launched last July, Tianwen-1 represents China’s first Mars mission. It consists of an orbiter and a rover, which will land on the Martian surface in May or June 2021. It is able to photograph the planet’s surface while in orbit.
Finding signals from deep space is a sub-hobby for Tilley, who seeks what he calls “zombie satellites” among other signal sources. In 2020, he tracked and identified signals from the experimental UHF military communication satellite LES-5. Tilley said he found the satellite in what he called a geostationary “graveyard” orbit after noting a modulated carrier on 236.7487 MHz. Launched in 1967, LES-5 was supposed to shut down in 1972, but it continues to operate as long as its solar panels are facing the sun, Tilley explained.
In 2018, while hunting for an undisclosed US government spacecraft lost in a launch mishap, he spotted the signature of IMAGE (Imager for Magnetopause-to-Aurora Global Exploration), a NASA spacecraft believed to have died in December 2005. The discovery delighted space scientists.
Tilley has also picked up signals from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and the United Arab Emirates Hope probe, both orbiting Mars some 124 million miles away. He uses a homemade 60-centimeter dish and relies on software-defined radios (SDRs) to accomplish the task.
Radio amateurs have been listening for signals from space since the 1957 launch of Sputnik 1, which transmitted at around 20 MHz.
The following links provide more information about Tilley's wonderful achievements:
1. Meet a Citizen Scientist: Scott Tilley - NASA
2. Ham Radio Operators Hack a NASA Spacecraft - SpaceWeatherArchive
3. Long-Lost U.S. Military Satellite Found By Amateur Radio Operator - npr
4. Canadian Radio Amateur Finds Resurrected NASA Satellite - ARRL
The above radio amateurs and amateur astronomers are a good example of how one can explore Deep-Space with a moderate dish antenna, SDR and Software. You might ask me to elaborate on how this can be achieved. Well I am not going to try explain how to receive Microwave Signals from Deep-Space. I will however introduce you to David Prutchi, Ph.D., N2QG who wrote a comprehensive whitepaper that focuses on amateur reception of deep-space probes at S- and X-band frequencies. He explains the selection and construction of antennas, feeds, LNA's, down converters, receivers, software for antenna tracking and SDR signal processing. The whitepaper consists of 55 pages with valuable information. A must read if you are interested in Deep-Space communications, space exploration and radio astronomy.
Image: Deep Space Antennas - David Prutchi N2QG
Here is the link:
Receiving Microwave Signals from Deep-Space Probes: Amateur DSN and the Ulitmate DX (PDF)
In the vast landscape of technological advancement, there are countless unsung heroes whose contributions have had a profound impact on the modern world. Among them, amateur radio operators stand tall as pioneers of innovation in the field of communications. From the early days of Morse code to the era of digital signal processing, the innovations driven by amateur radio enthusiasts have left an indelible mark on the way we connect and communicate today. Receiving Microwave Signals from Deep-Space is a reality as proven by the above radio amateurs.
I am convinced that receiving microwave signals from deep-space is now more accessible and possible than ever before for amateur radio operators that's also amateur astronomers. But what about transmitting signals to deep-space?
Radio Amateurs already reflect signals off the moon and receive them on earth. So we know that with moderate RF power, and a modest antenna, and an SDR receiver one could do a lot better, because there are losses in the reflection process. However, The distance to Mars varies from 35 million miles to 250 million miles, depending on the positions of the planets. 35 million miles is still about 150 times farther than the moon. To transmit signals into space is quite easy but sending the "correct" radio signals millions of miles into deep-space is another challenge for radio amateurs that should be explored.
Transmitting radio signals to deep space, such as to spacecraft or to search for extraterrestrial intelligence, involves sending electromagnetic waves at the speed of light through the vast distances of space. This requires specialized technologies for transmitting signals, and sophisticated coding techniques to minimize noise and ensure reliable communication.
Here's a more detailed look:
1. Radio Waves as the Medium: Radio waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation, which means they travel at the speed of light, which is approximately 300,000 kilometers per second. While not instantaneous, radio transmissions are relatively fast, especially when compared to the distances involved in deep space communications.
2. Specialized Technology and Techniques: We as radio amateurs need a global network of antennas to communicate with spacecraft, including those that are millions of miles away. Antenna Design: We need antennas that are highly sensitive, able to capture even faint signals from deep space. Coding Techniques: Special coding techniques are needed something similar to WSJT-X to ensure the signal can be distinguished from noise and to maximize the reliability of transmission. Signal Processing: Sophisticated signal processing techniques are used to filter out unwanted noise and extract the relevant information from the received signal.
3. Challenges and Considerations: Long Distances: The vast distances in space mean that signals can take a significant amount of time to travel. For example, a signal to the Moon takes about 1.34 seconds, while signals to outer planets like Jupiter or Saturn take much longer. Signal Attenuation: Radio signals weaken as they travel through space, requiring powerful transmitters and sensitive receivers. Noise and Interference: Various sources of noise and interference can affect the quality of radio signals, requiring careful planning and mitigation.
4. Examples of Deep Space Communication: Spacecraft Communication: The NASA Deep Space Netwrok is used to communicate with spacecraft, sending commands and receiving data from them. SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence): Radio telescopes are used to search for signals from other civilizations in space, although the SETI Institute notes that current commercial demo projects do not significantly contribute to the existing leakage radiation.
5. Future Directions: Deep Space Optical Communications: I and played around with optical communications many years ago. Today there are still many radio amateurs playing around with optical communications. We need to explore higher frequency (and therefore shorter wavelength) light sources to transmit more data efficiently. This new form of spacecraft communication, called Deep Space Optical Communications, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) (.gov), could result in 100 times more data being transmitted. This field of communications provide an abundance of exploration for the radio amateur. Reading the Q65_Quick_Start guide, I saw reference for Optical Scatter using the 300 second period with A tone spacing. What will happen if you use WSJT-X software with optical communications over long distances? Has any radio amateur tried this type of communication?
I am glad to report that radio amateurs are indeed exploring with many communication options relating to Deep Space Communications. At this time I would like to mention two radio amateurs, Joe Taylor K1JT and Rex VK7MO. There are many others out there that is also doing some sterling exploration work in this regard.
Videos: FT8 and beyond! - Joe Taylor K1JT
Videos: Rex Moncur VK7MO
This has been a rather lengthy article about Microwave Signals to and from Deep-Space. A frontier that needs further exploration and serious attention by more radio amateurs. We need to keep on exploring and innovate to be relevant in today's world. Radio amateurs can remain relevant and innovative by embracing new technologies, expanding their activities beyond traditional modes of communication, and engaging in STEM (stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education to attract new members and maintain amateur radio's vitality. This can involve exploring digital modes like software-defined radios, digital voice (DMR, etc.), satellite communications and Deep Space Communications, as well as incorporating AI/GROK and other technologies into our activities.
This article only gave a glimpse of what is happening out there. Maybe it would not be a bad idea to do several future articles about Microwave Signals to and from Deep-Space
In closing Part 1 I would like to quote Scott Tilley VE7TIL:
"Around the world, ham radio operators are doing something once reserved for national Deep Space Networks. “We’re monitoring spacecraft around Mars.”
Image: Western Cape APRS Image (Click on image for larger view.)
Mossel Bay now has its own Private Search & Rescue-, Weather- and Disaster Network/System installed and activated. The network will be expanded later to include various areas of the Southern Cape.
The Network/System is based on the Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) for real time tactical digital communications of information of immediate value in the local area of Mossel Bay. In addition, all such data is ingested into the APRS Internet System (APRS-IS) and distributed globally for ubiquitous and immediate access. Along with messages, alerts, announcements and bulletins, the most visible aspect of APRS is its map display. Object or information can be placed on the map, and it is distributed to all maps of all users in the local RF network or monitoring the area via the Internet or Search and Rescue Network. Any station, radio or object that has an attached GPS is automatically tracked. Other prominent map features are weather stations, alerts and objects and other map-related volunteer activities including Search and Rescue, Disaster Information and signal direction finding.
APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), is a digital communications protocol for exchanging information among a large number of stations covering a large (local) area, often referred to as "ey-pers". As a multi-user data network, it is quite different from conventional packet radio. Rather than using connected data streams where stations connect to each other and packets are acknowledged and retransmitted if lost, APRS operates entirely in an unconnected broadcast fashion, using unnumbered AX.25 frames. APRS packets are transmitted for all other stations to hear and use. Packet repeaters, called digipeaters, form the backbone of the APRS system, and use store and forward technology to retransmit packets. All stations operate on the same radio channel, and packets move through the network from digipeater to digipeater, propagating outward from their point of origin. All stations within radio range of each digipeater receive the packet. At each digipeater, the packet path is changed. The packet will only be repeated through a certain number of digipeaters -or hops- depending upon the all important "PATH" setting. Digipeaters keep track of the packets they forward for a period of time, thus preventing duplicate packets from being retransmitted. This keeps packets from circulating in endless loops inside the ad-hoc network. Eventually most packets are heard by an APRS Internet Gateway, called an IGate, and the packets are routed on to the Internet APRS backbone (where duplicate packets heard by other IGates are discarded) for display or analysis by other users connected to an APRS-IS server, or on a website designed for the purpose. While it would seem that using unconnected and unnumbered packets without acknowledgment and retransmission on a shared and sometimes congested channel would result in poor reliability due to a packet being lost, this is not the case due to the fact that the packets are transmitted (broadcast) to everyone, and multiplied many times over by each digipeater. This means that all digipeaters and stations in range get a copy, and then proceed to broadcast it to all other digipeaters and stations within their range. The end result is that packets are multiplied more than they are lost. Therefore, packets can sometimes be heard some distance from the originating station. Packets can be digipeated tens of kilometers or even hundreds of kilometers depending on the height and range of the digipeaters in the area. When a packet is transmitted, it is duplicated many times as it radiates out, taking all available paths simultaneously, until the number of "hops" allowed by the path setting is consumed. APRS contains a number of packet types including position/object/item, status, messages, queries, weather reports and telemetry. The position/object/item packets contain the latitude and longitude, and a symbol to be displayed on the map, and have many optional fields for altitude, course, speed, radiated power, antenna height above average terrain, antenna gain, and voice operating frequency. Positions of fixed stations are configured in the APRS software. Moving stations (portable or mobile) automatically derive their position information from a GPS receiver connected to the APRS equipment. The map display uses these fields to plot communication range of all participants and facilitate the ability to contact users during both routine and emergency situations. Each position/object/item packet can use any of several hundred different symbols. Position/objects/items can also contain weather information or can be any number of dozens of standardised weather symbols.
Each symbol on an APRS map can display many attributes discriminated either by colour or other technique. These attributes are:
Moving or fixed
Dead-Reckoned or old
Message capable or not
Station, object or item
Own object/item or other station object/item
Emergency, priority, or special
In its simplest implementation, APRS is used to transmit real-time data, information and reports of the exact location of a person or object via a data signal sent over amateur radio frequencies. In addition to real-time position reporting capabilities using attached Global Positioning System receivers, APRS is also capable of transmitting a wide variety of data, including weather reports, short text messages, radio direction finding bearings, telemetry data, short e-mail messages (send only) and storm forecasts. Once transmitted, these reports can be combined with a computer and mapping software to show the transmitted data superimposed with great precision upon a map display. While the map plotting is the most visible feature of APRS, the text messaging capabilities and local information distribution capabilities combined with the robust network should not be overlooked; Parts of South Africa has a network of APRS stations to allow text messaging between stations in the event of the failure of conventional communications.
APRS is not a vehicle tracking system. It is a two-way tactical real-time digital communications system between all assets in a network sharing information about everything going on in the local area. It means if something is happening now, or there is information that could be valuable to you, then it should show up on your APRS computer, cellphone and VHF radio in your vehicle.
Image: Southern Cape APRS Image. (Click on image for larger view.)
Enough of the technical detail....what does the Mossel Bay network look
like and how does it function. Currently I have setup a Internet
Gateway (IGATE) and Digipeater (Digi) in Heiderand, Mossel Bay with the
ID of ZS1I-10 . The Mossel Bay Internet Gateway (ZS1I-10) relay all
South African APRS data (RF and Internet APRS Backbone) to and from the
host server (APRS-ZA hosted by Hennie ZS6EY) in Johannesburg.
The Mossel Bay Igate and Digi consists of the following equipment:
1. 1 x Laptop Computer (Local Server)
2. 1 x Desktop Computer (Gateway and Digi computer)
3. ZS1I Soundcard Interface
4. 1 x AEA Packratt PK232 Modem (HF + VHF Radio ports.)
5. Uiview Software
6. SARTrack Software
7. 1 x Radius Motorola VHF Radio (144.800 Mhz)
8. 1 x Kenwood HF Radio (Connecting to HF Igates if the Internet is down.)
There are several websites that display information from APRS-IS in real time, the best being aprs.fi
The maps shown above is embedded from aprs.fi. It shows a view of the Mossel Bay Area. As it is a live map, what you will see will depend on when you are looking at it, but during the daytime there are usually at least a couple of mobiles driving around (shown by a red car symbol) whose positions are shown on the map. You can also see digipeaters and gateways, shown by a black or green icon. The red dots on a vehicle's track are the waypoints that were transmitted by the radios in the vehicles. If you point at the dots with your mouse, a line will be drawn connecting the waypoint with the gateway that received it and sent the report to APRS-IS.
The symbol WX in a blue circle is a weather station. Click on these and you will see the latest weather report. Some of the weather stations are operated by radio amateurs, and may use RF to send their data to the system. Others are not. They use APRS but report over a separate network and are never transmitted on RF. When viewing coastal locations at aprs.fi you may also see the positions of ships, which are also reported via their own network.
Other symbols you may see on the map are generated by amateur APRS users using their client software. You might see a repeater, shown by a blue antenna tower symbol. Some amateur - perhaps a repeater group member - has taken the initiative to create that object.
To view APRS activity in the Southern Cape and other parts of South Africa do the following:
There are many ways to get involved with APRS. You need a amateur radio license to transmit any information on APRS. However if you just want to follow (receive) stations and objects you can use APRS FI for this purpose.
There are several APRS software packages. For many years the most popular program for Windows PCs was one called UI-View. However, that program has not been developed for many years as its author G4IDE died a few years ago. It is time for something new and I chose a program called SARTrack. (Search and Rescue Radio Tracking) The International BETA version is now available, and it is FREE!
Now with many different Maps (available off-line after initial download) including Topographical and satellite maps and Canada Toporama, all amateur radio APRS functions, and many extra SAR features, including an advanced Operations Log with 3 differerent displays.
SARTrack is based on an ‘un-docked’ window system, that is, all windows are separate, and can be moved anywhere independently. The primary reason for this design was to enable the use of multi-monitor systems, in particular the use of a video projector displaying the Map, while other windows could stay on the laptop screen.
A single small Main Menu window from which all primary windows can be started stays on-top at all times.
Each window has its own basic settings, which means the User will not be subjected to a main window overloaded with settings and icons, which is unfortunately becoming very common.
For example, the Map window will have most settings needed for that window, while the SAR Log window will only have settings required for that window.
All effort has been made to made to keep the program as easy to use as possible, while only showing the user only what he or she needs to see.
When the original New Zealand version became an International version, intended for both Search and Rescue and Amateur Radio operators, an option was added in the main Setup to switch between SAR and HAM operation.
When SAR is selected, the SAR Log system becomes available, and various other settings in the program appear or disappear.
SARTrack now makes heavily use of OSM (OpenStreetMap) compatible Online servers for the Maps. These maps, based on a system of small Map Tiles, can then be saved for off-line use during SAR operations in the field. This off-line use saving of Tiles is not allowed when using Google Maps or other commercial Map systems.
As of February 2013 SARTrack has the following basic features:
- A primary Map window for all OSM-compatible and Local Maps, with many Maps including Topographical maps for Canada and the USA, and Topographical maps for the rest of the world.
- Transparent Overlays are possible, and a User configurable file for OSM servers is included.
- A Google Map window which can be synched with the primary map (but on-line only)
- A New Zealand Topographical off-line Map system (3 Gigabyte download required)
- A full APRS system, including an advanced APRS Message system, Stations, Objects, etc.
- Selectable overlays on the Maps, like Map outlines, Grid, Radio-Range, etc.
- Warning when Stations (Trackers) time out, and warnings when Priority beacons (from Trackers) are received.
- A Replay system, which makes it possible to replay an entire day of a SAR Operation, including the Tracks, Messages and the SAR Log, with a timer window showing when it all happened.
- The SAR Log can be exported in a delimited form.
- There are many more features in the program, to discover it all, download and install the software, if is free.
SARTrack is completely stand-alone, runs on Windows 2000 and higher, does not use any libraries, does not use .NET, does not use the Windows Registry, does not load any things on Windows start-up.
Updates will be checked for once a day, only when SARTrack is started.
These where the original requirements when we started in 2006 and most are implemented:
Furthermore, the program must be
At the time of writing (Updated February 2013), most of the above functions have now been incorporated in the program, and the program is at Beta level.
The way Land Search and Rescue has worked, and it still working, is based on paper maps, the compass, and in later years, radios and even portable GPS units. Search teams take a topographical map with them, and on a regular basis need to stop, try to find their own position on the map, using compass, local features, and then radio his information back to the operations center. Lately, some teams carry portable GPS units with them, but they then have to try to extract the right digits and transmit these back to base over the hand held radio.
At the operations center, the radio operator writes this down, and passes it on to the controller, who then has to locate the position on their own paper map, and mark it. This system is extremely tedious, time consuming, clogs up the radio channel, and prone to error.
Now imagine a system where the location of all search teams shows up live on a computer screen, or a video projection, overlaid on a digital topographical map. Not only the team's current location, but with multi coloured tracks, an arrow in which direction the team travels, and a label with additional information like altitude, speed and the coordinates in either 'GPS' or SA Grid format. Not only the position of the teams in the terrain is clear, but also the relative position to each other can be seen with a single glance at the screen.
A search area can be drawn on the screen, and special Icons, with detailed information attached, can be added. It is immediately clear if areas have been covered, or missed in the search. If a team finds a person, or if they run into trouble themselves, they can trigger a Priority Message, which will cause an visual and audio alarm to go off, and a special Priority Icon will show up on the screen at that location. Other teams can then immediately be dispatched to that location, and directions can be given to them by the controller, who can see, live, where all teams are. If a team takes off in the wrong direction, or into the wrong valley, this can be immediately corrected by the controller. So, this system works exactly opposite as the current situation. It is not a question that the teams try to give their location to the controller.
The controller knows where the teams are, and he can tell the teams where they are, and where he/she wants them to go, which is the way it should be. As described on the Software page, many other features are available in the SARTrack program, all especially designed for SAR use. Other tracking systems There are other tracking systems available, based on a satellite link, or a cellular connection. These systems work well for the purpose for which they are designed. Systems designed to work over the cellular network, only work when you have cellular coverage. This is often not the case in many search areas, and especially not when teams disappear in dense forest of deep gullies or valleys. It is unsuitable for SAR use.
There are two basic satellite tracking systems. One uses a Geo-stationary satellite. This satellite is in a 40,000 Km orbit above the earth, at a 'fixed' position. Any object between the tracker and the satellite , including the person's head or body, will cause the signal to be blocked. The other system is the use of either the GlobalStar or Iridium networks. These satellites orbit the earth at several hundred kilometers. While the Tracker units currently available have certainly improved in size and weight, they are in our opinion still not suitable for use by a person walking bush with a backpack.
These units need to have a clear view of the sky to get proper connection to the satellite, any object like trees, and worse deep gullies will cause loss of signal. Even the head or body of the wearer will block the signal. Also, the cost of these systems is high. The Trackers are not cheap, and the operating costs can be high. In the APRS system as we are currently using it, all trackers transmit a location every 30 seconds. This would become very expensive if 15 teams with 15 satellite trackers would be in the field for days at the time. The SARTrack system use is free. Then there is the problem of the downlink.
Almost all satellite tracking systems advertised at the moment, are based on the signal being received somewhere in the world (and not necessarily in South Africa) by a satellite ground station. It then uses the Internet to get the data to a server, owned by the company who sells the trackers. Then, special software running on the user's computer logs onto this server, and then shows the received data on the screen... But only if the end-user has Internet access!
If the forward field base has no Internet connection, the system cannot be used. Satellite trackers can be an excellent choice for vehicles, boats and aircraft, who generally have a clear view of the sky, can use a high-gain antenna and have the battery power to spare. The data will be forwarded to a permanent operations center with permanent Internet access. But for teams tramping in the bush, with often a forward field base also in the bush, these systems are, in our opinion, not suitable. Also, software especially designed with special features for Search and Rescue is not available.
The SARTrack system consists of a case with Trackers, a couple of small portable Digipeaters, and a laptop with a hand held radio attached to it. The whole system can be quickly set up in any remote location, and is completely independent of outside communication systems. If the portable repeaters can access a permanent repeater and get connection with the outside world, more options open up, but it is not required. Okay quite a mouth full but as can be seen this software is in my opinion well suited for a wide variety of uses in the Southern Cape.
In Summary: APRS provides situational awareness to all operators of everything that is going on in his local area, whether it be MSBWX Weather reporting, traveler info, Direction Finding, objects pointing to ECHOlink and IRLP, or Traffic reporting, Disaster- and emergency response. All of this while providing not only instantaneous operator-to-operator keyboard messaging capability for special events, but also an always-on Voice Alert backchannel between mobiles in simplex range. Think of APRS as a signalling channel/news channel to reveal ALL resources and live activities that are in range of the operator at any instant in time.
I would like to invite radio amateurs in the Southern Cape to join the Mossel Bay APRS network on 144.800 Mhz FM and the general public to monitor Mossel Bay APRS activity on APRS.FI.
Updates to follow as and when the Mossel Bay APRS Network is extended and utilized this holiday season.
- MSBWX
Christi ZS4CGR enjoy playing around with all types of antennas. Mostly all of his antennas are "home-brewed" and they work great and in some cases even better as store bought antennas. This time around Christi decided to construct a Mag Mount Multi Whip VHF/UHF Antenna that works on multiple frequencies. He is still busy "playing" around with the antenna and a followup article will be published once all tests have been completed.
Provisional Results:
EchoLink® software allows licensed Amateur Radio stations to communicate with one another over the Internet, using streaming-audio technology. The program allows worldwide connections to be made between stations, or from computer to station, greatly enhancing Amateur Radio's communications capabilities. There are more than 350,000 validated users worldwide — in 159 of the world's 193 nations — with about 6,000 online at any given time.
This talk was recorded from our Aug 6th, 2024 Beginner's Academy Zoom Transcript.
Today is the 27 May 2025 and the latest dashboard indication is that the balloon was last seen: 2 days, 17 hours, 22 mins ago. It would appear that the balloon is stationary as indicated on the dashboard images. If anybody knows if the balloon is still active and in the air we would like to hear from you. Info can be forwarded by clicking HERE.
Images: Click on images for larger view.
Eden-radioklub het Gisbert Schulze van George en Johan Brittz van Uniondale geluk gewens met hul uitstekende prestasie en gesê hulle sien daarna uit om hulle spoedig op die lug te kry.
Schulze en Brittz het baie ure ingesit ter voorbereiding vir die eksamen, waar hulle 'n minimum van 50% in elk van twee afdelings, asook 'n algehele minimum van 65%, moes behaal om te slaag.
Daarby moes hulle ook onder toesig van amptelike assessors van die SARL (Suid-Afrikaanse Radioliga) 'n radiostasie opstel en met vyf persone (QSO's of radiokontakte) kontak maak onder hulle klub se roepsein.
Albei het A's gekry vir beide die tegniese en regulasie-afdelings van die eksamen.
Eden-radioklub is 'n geregistreerde SARL-eksamenlokaal in George en beskik oor twee bekwame SARL-assessors, Willie Hewitt en Corné Conradie.
Hewitt en Conradie is aangestel om die RAE (radioamateur-eksamen) onder streng SARL-reëls en die oorsig van die Onafhanklike Kommunikasieowerheid (ICASA) te administreer.
Enigeen wat belangstel om by die Eden-radioklub aan te sluit, kan hullekontak by Edenradioclub@gmail.com.
‘Ons bring jou die nuutste Tuinroete, Hessequa, Karoo nuus’
Artikel beskikbaar deur HIER te klik.
- George Herald
I continue with the series "Building Low Budget Antennas" for Radio Amateurs. Nothing fancy .... no just simple low budget antennas!
In this article I will be looking at building a End Fed Halve Wave Antenna for 40 to 10 Meters. Now I know there are thousands of ways to construct this antenna, but how cheap can you build one? R10, R50 or R100. You decide how much such an antenna will cost.
In Part 1 I will describe how I constructed the 49:1 Balun for this antenna. In Part 2 we will be looking at the antenna wire, Nano VNA readings and the results when using this antenna.
General Specifications:
Resonant Frequency: 10.130 Mhz
Frequency Span: 7 - 28 Mhz
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohm or very close to 50 Ohm
Use: General HF use but for now WSPR on 20 Meters
Enough said let's
start building the QRP EFHW 49:1 Balun.
Materials I used:
1 x PL239 Socket
Connector with two brass bolts and nuts
1 x Project Box
2 x Stainless Steel bolts, 4 x nuts and 2 x wing-nuts and 2 washers
1 x 1.5 Meter (1.5 mm) Copper Wire
1 x F82-43 Toroid
1 x 100pf 1kw Capacitor
2 x Electrical Lugs
1 x 2K7 Resistor to test the 49:1 Balun
Odds and Sods:
Cable Ties
Silicon Sealant
Insulation Tape
Solder
Solder Paste
5 -10 m Coax Cable (RG58CU Mil Spec) 50 ohm with 2 x Connectors
Self Amalgamating Electrical Tape
Tools:
Soldering Iron
Sharp Utility Knife
Screw Drivers (Small flat + Star)
Test Equipment:
HF Radio
SWR Meter
Antenna Analyzer (If you have one but not compulsory)
Coax Patch Leads
Mast (Non conductive)
Power Supply or Battery for Radio
Building the Balun and Antenna:
I am not going to go into detail how I constructed my version of this balun and antenna as there is more than enough info on the Internet. Google is your friend.
Here are two sites you can visit that might be of assistance to you if you want to construct this antenna.
Manual impedance transformer for 250 watts End Fed Antenna’s
Build an End-Fed Half-Wave Antenna From a Kit
I used what I had available on my shelves and in the junk box and came up with my version of the 49:1 balun.
The 49:1 Balun diagram:
Preliminary Test Results:
To test the balun before adding the wire and counter poise I used a 2K7 resistor on the ground of the coax connector and antenna connection. The attached NanoVNA images provide info on the results I obtained from the balun. I am sure the SWR readings will change once I add the antenna wire to the balun. The height and closeness of objects will also play a roll.
Finally: In Part 2 I will be looking at the performance the antenna and will also do more experiments and measurements using the NanoVNA and WSPR - Lookout for Part 2!
Images: Click on images for larger view.
Part 2 to follow soon.
"The Knysna fire of 2017 went down into the history books as one of the biggest environmental disasters to hit the Garden Route. As the 8th anniversary of the great fire approaches, the man who predicted the 2017 chaos, Dr Guy Preston, has made an urgent appeal to the entire region.
He has warned that the situation on the ground is far worse, and the next fire will be far more destructive. Are we ready? " - Group Editors
Need I say anything about the fires that occurred in 2017 and 2018 in the Southern Cape? I asked the following question on 29 September 2023:
I am not aware of any active amateur radio emergency communications group in the Southern Cape. I might be mistaken but really there is no mentioning of any emergency communications activity over the air in this area. If anybody knows of any amateur radio emergency communications activity in the Southern Cape I would like to hear from you. Send me and email by clicking HERE.
I need to ask the following question:
"Is your amateur radio station equipped to handle any emergency situation, disaster or total power blackout event ?"
This question leads to more questions than answers. Now some might say I am not interested in amateur radio emergency communications. Whether you are interested in emergency communications or not, if your community experience a disaster and you are asked to assist with radio communications, will you be able to assist within an hour or two.
The following questions are currently unanswered.
Hopefully some of the questions might set your brain into the thinking
and creative mode:
The above questions are not posted to point finger or to "stir". It is questions that came to the fore as a result of the fire disasters that occurred in 2017 and 2018. The above is posted as food for thought and hopefully to motivate some fellow radio amateurs to improve their stations if they are not currently equipped for total blackouts or natural and man made disasters.
Of the utmost importance is communications amongst and between other amateur radio
organizations/clubs/emergency communication networks. It was clear from this event that the one did not know what the other was doing. This was clearly evident in emails received and posts on amateur radio forums.
Emergency Communications training is needed and more frequent Emergency Communications
Training exercises are essential. Simplicity need to be looked at. The disparate radio systems in use by all roll players during the Knysna Fire Disaster interrupted services. This radio communication disparity issue prevented effected communications during the event. I am not aware that this issue has been addressed to prevent such issues during a future disaster.
Finally: I am no prophet of doom but we need to be prepared for any eventuality in this country. The 2017 Knysna Fire Disaster was the wake-up call we all needed. The question remain whether we took this wake-up call to heart? Only time will tell!!
The Power Point Presentation is available by clicking HERE
1. SOUTH AFRICAN AMATEUR RADIO LEAGUE: A basic explanation of antennas used by amateur radio operators
2. Introduction The following applies to antennas: Building regulations; Zoning scheme regulations; Other relevant legislation, pertaining to the obtaining of planning approval from local authorities for antennas used by amateur radio operators.
3. We have a PROBLEM Why? New zoning scheme regulations being implemented by various municipalities throughout South Africa. Restrict the erection of amateur radio operator’s antennas in residential areas zoned as such.
4. Short Legislative History: The Constitution of the RSA, allows that municipal planning may be done in terms of by-laws promulgated by local authorities. The National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977) and the Regulations in terms of the Act provide for local authorities to determine when planning authority is needed or not.
5. Cape Town v Johannesburg: A study of the Cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg’s Zoning Scheme regulations gives an overview of how local authorities approach the obtaining by amateur radio operators of planning approval for the erection of a Free standing Base Telecommunication Station and Roof Antennas.
6. Different Regulations apply to: Rooftop Antennas / Free standing Base Antennas The regulations distinguish between primary and consent use.
7. ROOFTOP BASE: Rooftop base telecommunication station may not extend more than 3m in height above the part of the building that it is attached to. Should it extend more than the permitted 3m, prior approval of the City of Cape Town is required.
8. FREE STANDING BASE: If a free standing base telecommunication station is authorized as a primary use on a property, the free standing base telecommunication station may be as high as 25m. (City of Cape Town) Environmental affairs however kicks in for antennas higher than 15m.
9. Definition of antenna ito Zoning Scheme Regulations: ‘Antenna’ is defined as ‘any system of wires, poles, rods, reflective surfaces or similar devices, used to transmit or receive electronic communication signals or electro – magnetic waves’. ‘Antenna’ is defined as ‘any system of wires, poles, rods, reflective surfaces or similar devices, used to transmit or receive electronic communication signals or electro – magnetic waves’.
10. Definition of ‘rooftop telecommunication station’ ito Zoning Scheme Regulations: Rooftop telecommunication station is defined as ‘ a support structure attached to the roof, side or any other part of a building and used to accommodate telecommunication infrastructure for the transmitting or receiving of electronic communication signals’.
11. ‘Telecommunication infrastructure’ ito Zoning Scheme Regulations: Telecommunication infrastructure is defined as ‘part of the infrastructure of a telecommunication network for radio wireless communication, including voice, data and video telecommunication, which may include antennas; and any support structure, equipment room, radio equipment or optical communications equipment (laser or infra-red) provided by cellular network operators and any other telecommunication provider; as well as ancillary structures needed for the operation of telecommunication infrastructure.’
12. TELECOMMUNICATION STATIONS - PRIMARY USE Zoning: In terms of the Zoning scheme Regulations, telecommunication stations may only be erected in certain zones – RESIDENTIAL ZONES ARE NOT LISTED UNDER THESE ZONES.
13. CONSENT USE – ROOFTOP BASE: Rooftop base telecommunication stations may only be erected as a CONSENT USE in the following residential zones: Single Residential: Zone 1 and Zone 2 General Residential: Zone 1 (Group Housing) General Residential Sub-zones: (GR2 to GR6)
14. FREE STANDING BASE TELECOMMUNICATION STATION: Free standing base telecommunication station may only be erected as a primary use in certain zones: RESIDENTIAL ZONES are not listed under these zones.
15. CONSENT USE – FREE STANDING BASE: Free standing base telecommunication station may only be erected as a CONSENT use in certain zones: RESIDENTIAL ZONES are also not one of these zones.
16. FREE STANDING BASE - restrictions: FREE STANDING BASE Telecommunication stations may therefore NOT BE ERECTED in the following zones: Single Residential Zone 1: Conventional Housing. Single Residential Zone 2: Incremental Housing. General Residential Sub-zones 1: Group Housing. General Residential Sub-zones: Gr2 to Gr6.
17. EFFECT ON AMATEUR RADIO OPERATORS: An amateur radio operator will not be able to erect a free standing base telecommunication station on any property zoned for residential purposes. Unless you rezone to an appropriate zone
18. EFFECT ON AMATEUR RADIO OPERATORS: An owner of a property zoned as residential, will not be able to apply for a departure to erect a free standing amateur radio antenna, as the land use of the property does not permit such a use. Departures from the restriction to 3m of the height of the rooftop base communication station can however be applied for, should the land use allow the erection of such a communication station.
19. HERITAGE PROTECTION: The erection of a rooftop base communication station and a Free standing Base Telecommunication Station will necessitate a permit application should the property be older than 60 years or formally protected in terms of section 27 of the National Heritage Resources Act.
20. JOHANNESBURG ZONING SCHEME REGULATIONS: Free standing Base Telecommunication Station is presently viewed as a ‘building’ for the purposes of the Act.
21. Plans of ‘buildings’ should be submitted to and approved prior to the erection of a ‘building’: This process includes the applicable Building Control Officer making recommendation to the local authority.
22. JOHANNESBURG ZONING SCHEME REGULATIONS The local authority: Must take into account: nature or appearance. Whether the area will be disfigured; Is it unsightly or objectionable; could it derogate from the value of adjoining or neighbouring properties; then the local authority shall refuse to grant approval.
23. National Building Regulations allow for the exemption of ‘minor building works’ exemption of authorisation for erection thereof.
24. SCHEME REGULATIONS: The building control officer can exempt an owner of any building. Suggestion: maybe a Free standing Base Telecommunication Station could be a minor building work. Suggestion: maybe a Free standing Base Telecommunication Station could be a minor building work. Section 18 of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 stipulates when a local authority may allow deviation and allow exemption from national building regulations.
25. POLICIES IN PLACE: Both the City of Cape Town and the City of Johannesburg have Cellular Mast Policies in place. Cape Town in its draft dated January 2011 sets out a cumbersome process for applicants to follow. The main objective being to have the cellular masts at least 50m away from any habitable building.
26. POLICIES IN PLACE: Johannesburg however, sees Cellular Masts as part of infrastructure and as such tries to be accommodating towards the Cellular industry. Both policies however does not cater for the amateur radio operator, and is therefore not accommodating such operators.
27. SUMMARY: A free standing amateur radio antenna is considered a “building” in terms of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977. Approved building plans is therefore required before an amateur radio antenna may be erected.
28. SUMMARY: Free standing amateur radio antennas cannot be erected in any area zoned for residential purposes. (City of Cape Town) No distinction between an amateur radio antenna and a cellular mast erected for commercial purposes in the Zoning Scheme Regulations of either Cape Town or Johannesburg. Both cities have ‘Cellular Mast Policies’ but neither is applicable nor practical for the erection of an amateur radio antenna.
29. SUMMARY: If a local authority accepts that a free standing amateur radio antenna falls under the definition of ‘minor building works’ as defined in the National Building Regulations, the building control officer can be approached to exempt an owner of any ‘building‘ from submitting plans. Should a local authority not deem free standing amateur radio antennas as ‘minor building works’, the local authority can be approached to grant an exemption to the building regulations. This exemption will not include strength specifications or the stability of the antenna structure.
30. SUMMARY: We must for the time being: Apply for exemption to either the building control officer or the local authority. The way forward: The Minister can be approached to exempt an owner (Who is also a radio amateur) of land from the provisions of such applicable national building regulations.
This will be the final posting on the ZS Link Network Blog. This blog will no longer be updated but will remain available for research an...
