Last update: August 12, 2026 – Check back occasionally for updates

Before Liftoff: The Practical Basics

Tips Worth Noting and Recommending:

• The Doppler Effect: LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites move fast, causing frequencies to shift during a pass due to the Doppler effect. As a rule of thumb, expect a shift of about ±3 kHz on the VHF band (2m) and ±10 kHz on the UHF band (70cm). You always start at a higher frequency during approach (AOS) and tune downward as the satellite moves away (LOS). To handle this efficiently, you either need to pre-program frequency steps into your HT’s memory channels or use an app that automatically controls the radio.
• Current TLE, Transponder Data and frequencies: For optimal satellite tracking and rig control, it is best to use software that fetches current TLE and transponder data online. These applications not only control the radio’s frequencies but also automatically account for Doppler correction and other parameters such as CTCSS.
• The Equipment: To get started, a standard handheld transceiver with a simple rubber duck antenna will do the job. For reliable results, you need a clear line of sight and a compact, portable directional antenna (like an Arrow II, an Elk, or a Log-Periodic). If the signal fades, simply rotate the antenna 90 degrees around its axis to compensate for polarization shift. For a serious satellite setup, step up to a full-duplex device or two separate radios. Ideally, you should use dedicated antennas for transmitting and receiving. If you’re running both through a single antenna—which, naturally, must cover both your TX and RX frequencies—a diplexer is mandatory. And remember: monitoring your own downlink isn’t optional—it’s an absolute MUST for professional operation.
• Keep it Short: A pass rarely lasts longer than 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t tell your life story. Callsign, grid square (e.g., “DL1GKK, JN37”), signal report—done.
• Further Information: For more details, I highly recommend checking out the official AMSAT and AMSAT STATUS websites. Another fantastic resource for satellite tracking is N2YO.com.

Below is a list of the satellites I am currently testing

The ISS (International Space Station)

The premier class and the most emotional entry point to space communication. The ISS delivers brute-force signals straight from the Columbus module, making it incredibly easy to receive even with a basic handheld and a rubber duck antenna. Special Feature: The ham radio project runs under the name ARISS. Catching the crew during a school contact or decoding an SSTV image directly from space is an absolute thrill for any operator. Operating Modes: APRS, FM Voice, SSTV (Pictures from space).

AO-7 (AMSAT-OSCAR 7)

Launched way back in 1974, AO-7 is a true legend and holds the absolute record as the oldest still-operational amateur satellite in orbit. Built by AMSAT, this pioneer paved the way for modern space communication. Special Feature: It is a literal zombie bird. The onboard batteries short-circuited in 1981, and the satellite went completely silent for 21 years. In 2002, the short miraculously opened up, bringing the satellite back to life. It now runs exclusively on its solar panels, meaning it only operates in direct sunlight and shuts down instantly the moment it enters the Earth’s shadow. Operating Modes: Analog, linear transponders (SSB/CW).

AO-73 (FUNcube-1)

Developed as a British educational CubeSat and launched in 2013, AO-73 is a compact but highly capable satellite designed to bring space physics and radio technology into classrooms. Special Feature: It runs a smart day/night schedule. In direct sunlight, it prioritizes a high-power educational telemetry beacon. Once it enters the Earth’s shadow (eclipse), the linear transponder kicks into full power specifically for the ham radio community. Operating Modes: Analog, inverting linear transponder (SSB/CW) and digital telemetry.

SONATE-2

Developed at the University of Würzburg, SONATE-2 is a high-tech platform acting as an AI technology demonstrator in space. It’s a brilliant example of academic aerospace engineering meeting amateur radio. Special Feature: Aside from its advanced onboard intelligence, it regularly transmits stunning SSTV images and CW beacons. It’s a fantastic and highly reliable target if you want to practice decoding images from a LEO satellite. Operating Modes: Digital telemetry, CW beacon, SSTV, experimental downlinks.

FO-29 (Fuji-OSCAR 29)

A true veteran from Japan, launched in 1996. Not for handhelds, this one requires an all-mode transceiver (SSB/CW) and some precise tracking. Special Feature: The batteries are long dead, so it runs entirely on solar power and shuts down when in the Earth’s shadow. But when it is illuminated, it boasts a massive footprint, offering incredibly long passes and excellent DX range. Operating Mode: Analog, inverting linear transponder (Higher on VHF = Lower on UHF).

IO-86 (LAPAN-A2)

An Indonesian-Indian satellite that is perfect for standard FM equipment, but comes with a massive catch regarding its trajectory. Special Feature: It flies in an equatorial orbit. If you’re in Central Europe, this means it comes in extremely low on the horizon (max 5–10 degrees elevation). You need a completely unobstructed view to the south, making it a real DX challenge for European operators. Operating Modes: FM Repeater and APRS.

JO-97 (JY1SAT)

A Jordanian CubeSat dedicated to the late King Hussein (Callsign JY1). An extremely stable, clean satellite that operates strictly on U/V (UHF up, VHF down). Special Feature: In addition to the SSB/CW transponder, it features telemetry and beautiful memorial SSTV images of the King. Since it lacks FM or APRS, it’s a perfect training ground for linear transponder work. Operating Modes: SSB/CW Transponder (inverting U/V), SSTV.

RS-44 (DOSAAF-85)

Among connoisseurs, the undisputed “King of LEO Satellites.” A Russian powerhouse from 2019 that punches well above its weight. Special Feature: Highly elliptical orbit (up to 1,500 km altitude). This gives you up to 25 minutes per pass and allows for incredible DX (working the USA or South America right from Central Europe). The signal is brutally strong. Operating Mode: SSB/CW Transponder (inverting) with a massive 60 kHz bandwidth.

SO-50 (Saudi-OSCAR 50)

The legendary workhorse from 2002. A pure FM satellite that is incredibly popular and perfect for a handheld rig and a directional antenna. Special Feature: The “Arming Timer.” SO-50 goes to sleep to save power. To wake it up, you need to transmit a 74.4 Hz CTCSS tone for 2 seconds. After that, switch to 67.0 Hz for normal operation. Be prepared: because it is so accessible, the pile-ups can be wild! Operating Mode: FM Crossband Repeater.

My simple setup with my VGC-N76 and a LogPeriodic antenna

As a beginner in satellite operations, my current daily driver is the VGC N-76. Having a built-in TNC is great, especially since you can program the HT straight from your phone using an app with dedicated APRS and satellite modes. It allows me to select satellites, update TLEs on the fly, and track passes in real-time while fully automating frequency control and Doppler correction—a true plug-and-play setup. To keep an eye on the birds, I also rely on the SatPathFinder app. I use a tripod-mounted 9-element VHF/UHF Log-Periodic antenna that I’ve practically optimized for the field. I extended the mast with an aluminum tube seated in two ball bearings, letting me twist the antenna instantly to adjust polarity. With a lead-weighted handle at the back acting as a counterweight, the whole rig is perfectly balanced and effortless to point across the sky.

I hope you enjoyed this post! Check back from time to time—I’ll keep updating this guide as I dive deeper and discover new tricks. Feel free to browse through my other articles as well; they’re definitely worth a look.

Have fun, all the best, and 73, Karl-Heinz