If you have ever been interested in making contacts with the ISS also known as the International Space Station then you are on the right page.
There are several ways you can go about this, depending on operating schedules and gear on-board. The best know of course is making contact with the astronauts. This is generally done with schools and by arrangement. If you hear one of the above, please do not interrupt them. Only call if you are hearing a CQ or hear a pileup.
There is an APRS repeater as well as a the occasional SSTV transmission This is one way, receive only! Please do not try and send back an SSTV image with a reply as you would on the HF bands generally speaking. Details are subject to change so please check this often.
Currently used Frequencies by the ISS:
- Voice and SSTV Downlink: 145.80 MHz
- Voice Uplink: 144.49 MHz for ITU Regions 2 & 3
- Voice Uplink: 145.20 MHz for ITU Region 1
- VHF Packet Uplink and Downlink: 145.825 MHz
- UHF Packet Uplink and Downlink: 437.550 MHz
- UHF/VHF Repeater Uplink: 437.80 MHz
- UHF/VHF Repeater Downlink: 145.80 MHz
- DATV (Ham TV) Downlink: 2395.00 MHz
Here is an example of the image you might be able to receive via SSTV. This was received July 7th, 2018 on 145.8 MHz using the PD120 format. (Image is clickable for a larger view)
Recommended Reading (See below for more):
For information on Ham Radio Satellite Frequencies click HERE.
For Information on How to get started on Ham Radio Satellites click HERE>
Useful links related to the topic:
- Amsat and Status Page their Satellite Tracking Tool
- Amsat-UK has a page on SSTV for Beginners
- ISS Tracker - The one I prefer if not using software
- Lizard-Tails ISS Tracker
- ARISS and their Contact Information
- KA7VV - Great information on Satellites
- SatFlare - Observer Community
If you find something incorrect, have an update, or if there is something you would like to see added, drop me a line here. I like to keep things as up-to-date and as accurate as possible. Thank you! - Lucas / W6AER
