Reaching for the Stars: How a Ham Radio Enthusiast Made Contact with the ISS
Have you ever gazed at the night sky, watching the International Space Station (ISS) glide silently overhead, and wondered what it would be like to talk to an astronaut aboard? For Doug, a dedicated ham radio enthusiast, this dream became a reality in July 2023.
Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, is a interesting hobby that allows individuals to communicate across vast distances without relying on cell phones or the internet. It’s a world of crackling static, precise frequencies, and the thrill of connecting with strangers—or, in Doug’s case, astronauts orbiting Earth.
Doug’s journey to contacting the ISS wasn’t easy. He had tried before, but his efforts had fallen flat. persistence paid off, however, when he finally made contact with astronaut Woody Hoburg as the ISS passed overhead. In a video shared on his YouTube page, Doug can be heard repeating his call sign, “Kilo Bravo 8 Mike,” until Hoburg responded: “Kilo Bravo 8 Mike, NA1SS got you loud and clear aboard the Space Station, welcome aboard.”
Underneath the video, Doug wrote, “I’ve made numerous voice and APRS [Automatic Packet Reporting System] contacts over the FM satellites and the ISS repeater. But I’ve always wanted to talk to an astronaut. Over the Memorial Day weekend, I finally made that contact. I made contact with the ISS and talked to Woody Hoburg. What a thrill.”
This extraordinary achievement highlights the unique opportunities available through ham radio. Many astronauts aboard the ISS hold ham radio licenses and participate in scheduled contact sessions with Earth. These sessions are part of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program, which encourages children to engage with the station to foster interest in science and space exploration.
However,making contact with the ISS isn’t as simple as tuning into a random frequency. Timing and positioning are critical. The ISS must be within range of your location, meaning you can’t attempt contact from the US when the station is over Australia. Patience and precision are key.
For those inspired by Doug’s story, the journey to contacting the ISS begins with understanding the basics of ham radio and investing in the right equipment. While it may seem daunting, the reward of hearing an astronaut’s voice from space is unparalleled.
| Key Points to Contact the ISS |
|———————————–|
| Equipment Needed: Ham radio, antenna, and knowledge of frequencies. |
| Timing: ISS must be overhead and within range. |
| Programs: ARISS encourages amateur radio enthusiasts and students to connect with the ISS.|
| Challenge: Requires patience, precision, and persistence. |
Doug’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic of amateur radio. Whether you’re a seasoned ham radio operator or a curious beginner, the possibility of reaching out to the stars is closer than you think.
So, the next time you see the ISS streaking across the night sky, remember doug’s story—and maybe, just maybe, you’ll be inspired to pick up a microphone and say hello to the cosmos.
For more information on how to get started with ham radio and connect with the ISS, check out this guide on how to make contact with the ISS using ham radio.The ISS Hosts Regular Ham Radio Sessions to Inspire the Next Generation of Space Enthusiasts
The International Space Station (ISS) is not just a marvel of modern engineering and a hub for groundbreaking scientific research—it’s also a platform for inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts. One of its most unique initiatives is the regular ham radio sessions conducted by astronauts aboard the station. These sessions, designed for educational purposes, allow students and amateur radio operators to communicate directly with astronauts orbiting 400 kilometers above Earth.
The ISS ham radio program, officially known as Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS), has been a staple of the station’s outreach efforts for years. “The ISS runs regular ham radio sessions for educational purposes,” explains a recent report. These sessions provide a rare prospect for students to ask astronauts questions about life in space, the challenges of microgravity, and the future of space exploration.
Bridging the Gap Between Earth and Space
Table of Contents
The ham radio sessions are more than just a novelty—they’re a powerful tool for education and engagement. By connecting classrooms with astronauts, the program fosters curiosity and excitement about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students get to experience firsthand the thrill of space exploration, often sparking lifelong interests in these fields.
The process is surprisingly straightforward. Schools and educational institutions apply to participate in the program,and if selected,they are given a specific time slot to communicate with the ISS. Using amateur radio equipment, students take turns asking questions, while astronauts respond in real-time. The sessions are broadcast live, allowing a wider audience to tune in and listen.
A Global Initiative with Local Impact
The ARISS program is a global effort,with participants from countries around the world. It’s a testament to the global appeal of space exploration and the power of collaboration. For many students, the experience is unforgettable. “It’s not every day you get to talk to someone in space,” one participant remarked.
the program also highlights the importance of amateur radio in modern interaction. Despite the rise of digital technologies, ham radio remains a reliable and versatile tool, especially in remote or disaster-stricken areas. The ISS ham radio sessions serve as a reminder of the enduring relevance of this technology.
Key Highlights of the ISS Ham Radio Program
To better understand the impact of this initiative, here’s a summary of its key features:
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| purpose | Educational outreach and STEM engagement |
| Participants | Students, amateur radio operators, and astronauts |
| Frequency | Regular sessions scheduled throughout the year |
| Global Reach | Schools and organizations from around the world can apply to participate |
| Technology Used | Amateur radio equipment for real-time communication |
| Impact | Inspires interest in space exploration and STEM fields |
Why This Matters
The ISS ham radio sessions are more than just a fun activity—they’re a bridge between the wonders of space and the potential of the next generation. By making space exploration accessible and relatable, the program helps demystify the cosmos and encourages young minds to dream big.
As the ISS continues to serve as a symbol of international cooperation and scientific achievement, initiatives like the ham radio program ensure that its legacy extends far beyond its physical presence in orbit.
How You Can Get Involved
Inspired by the ISS ham radio sessions? you don’t have to be an astronaut to explore the world of amateur radio. Organizations like the American Radio relay League (ARRL) offer resources for beginners,from licensing guides to equipment recommendations. Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply a space enthusiast, there’s a place for you in this global community.
The next time you look up at the night sky, remember that the ISS is more than just a distant speck of light—it’s a beacon of inspiration, connecting us to the stars and to each other.
—
For more information about the ARISS program and how to participate, visit the official ARISS website.
Reaching for the stars: How Ham Radio Operators Connect with the international Space Station
In August 2022, amateur radio operator Matt Payne and his daughter Isabella achieved what many ham radio enthusiasts dream of: they made contact with the International Space Station (ISS). Their conversation with astronaut Kjell Lindgren was a rare and thrilling moment, showcasing the incredible possibilities of amateur radio.
“It’s pretty rare to speak to an astronaut outside of a scheduled educational contact,” matt told IFLScience. “There are several factors that need to align for it to happen.”
The Perfect Alignment
For a successful unscheduled contact with the ISS, timing and conditions must align perfectly. As Matt explained, “The ISS must be passing within LOS [Line Of Sight]… at a time that coincides with an astronaut’s ‘down time,’ as in they must not be working on an official scheduled task.” Additionally, an astronaut must be actively using the amateur radio equipment to make unscheduled contacts.
While the odds may seem slim, these moments of connection are a testament to the dedication of ham radio operators and the accessibility of space communication.
Frequencies and Equipment
The ISS operates on specific frequencies for amateur radio communication. For FM voice contacts, the downlink frequency is 145.800 MHz, while the uplink frequency varies by region: 145.200 MHz for ITU Region 1 (Europe, Middle East, Africa, North Asia) and 145.800 MHz for ITU Regions 2 and 3 (North and South America, Caribbean, Greenland, Australia, South Asia) [3].
For packet radio, the uplink and downlink frequencies are 145.825 MHz, while the UHF FM repeater operates at 437.550 MHz [1]. These frequencies are crucial for anyone hoping to make contact with the ISS.
| ISS Amateur Radio Frequencies |
|———————————–|
| FM Voice Downlink | 145.800 MHz |
| FM Voice Uplink (region 1) | 145.200 MHz |
| FM Voice Uplink (Regions 2&3) | 145.800 MHz |
| Packet Uplink/Downlink | 145.825 MHz |
| UHF FM Repeater | 437.550 MHz |
The Thrill of the Connection
Making contact with the ISS is not just about technical know-how; it’s about patience, persistence, and a bit of luck. As Matt noted, “That’s a pretty long shot, but clearly it does sometimes work out!”
For those inspired to try their hand at space communication, resources like the W6AER website and the ISS Fan Club provide valuable information on frequencies, equipment, and best practices.
A Call to Action
Whether you’re a seasoned ham radio operator or a curious beginner, the opportunity to connect with the ISS is a unique and rewarding experience. With the right equipment, a bit of patience, and a dash of luck, you too could find yourself chatting with astronauts hundreds of miles above Earth.
So, grab your radio, tune into the right frequencies, and look to the skies. The stars—and the ISS—are closer than you think.
—
Have you ever tried contacting the ISS? Share your experiences in the comments below!
D reporters. “The fact that we were able to make this connection is a testament to the power of amateur radio and the accessibility of space interaction.”
Matt and Isabella’s story is just one example of how ham radio operators around the world are reaching out to the ISS. These connections are made possible by the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program, which allows astronauts and amateur radio enthusiasts to communicate using simple radio equipment.
The Magic of Ham Radio and Space Communication
Ham radio, or amateur radio, has been a cornerstone of global communication for over a century. Unlike modern digital communication methods, ham radio relies on analog signals, making it a reliable and versatile tool, especially in remote or disaster-stricken areas.
The ISS, orbiting approximately 400 kilometers above Earth, is equipped with a ham radio station. This setup allows astronauts to communicate with people on the ground,including students,educators,and amateur radio operators. The ARISS program organizes scheduled educational contacts, where students can ask astronauts questions about life in space, scientific experiments, and the challenges of living in microgravity.
How to Connect with the ISS
Connecting with the ISS requires patience, precision, and persistence. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making contact:
- Get Licensed: To operate a ham radio, you need a license from your country’s telecommunications authority. In the U.S., this is managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
- Set Up Your Equipment: You’ll need a VHF/UHF transceiver, an antenna, and a tracking system to follow the ISS as it moves across the sky.
- Monitor Frequencies: the ISS transmits on 145.800 MHz (FM). Listen for scheduled contacts or try to catch unscheduled transmissions.
- Timing is Key: The ISS passes overhead for only a few minutes at a time, so you’ll need to be ready when it’s within range.
- Make the Call: Use the standard ham radio protocol to call the ISS. If an astronaut is available, they may respond.
Inspiring the next Generation
The ARISS program is more than just a fun activity—it’s a powerful educational tool. By connecting students with astronauts, the program sparks interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Many participants go on to pursue careers in these fields, inspired by their firsthand experiance of space communication.
“It’s not every day you get to talk to someone in space,” said one student who participated in an ARISS contact. “This experience has made me realize how much I want to be a part of the future of space exploration.”
Key Highlights of the ARISS Program
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Purpose | Educational outreach and STEM engagement |
| Participants | Students, amateur radio operators, and astronauts |
| Frequency | Regular sessions scheduled throughout the year |
| Global Reach | Schools and organizations from around the world can apply to participate |
| Technology Used | Amateur radio equipment for real-time communication |
| Impact | Inspires interest in space exploration and STEM fields |
Why This Matters
The ARISS program bridges the gap between Earth and space, making the wonders of space exploration accessible to everyone. It’s a reminder that the cosmos isn’t just for astronauts and scientists—it’s for anyone with curiosity and a willingness to learn.
as the ISS continues to orbit Earth, it serves as a symbol of international cooperation and scientific achievement. Initiatives like ARISS ensure that its legacy extends far beyond its physical presence in space, inspiring the next generation of explorers and innovators.
How You Can Get Involved
Inspired by the ARISS program? You don’t have to be an astronaut to explore the world of amateur radio. Organizations like the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) offer resources for beginners, from licensing guides to equipment recommendations. Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply a space enthusiast, there’s a place for you in this global community.
The next time you look up at the night sky, remember that the ISS is more than just a distant speck of light—it’s a beacon of inspiration, connecting us to the stars and to each other.
—
For more data about the ARISS program and how to participate, visit the official ARISS website.
