Tutorials, tips, and insights on satellite operations
The most common mistakes new satellite operators make — and how to fix them — from Doppler tuning to antenna pointing to picking the wrong first pass.
Read more: Common Beginner Mistakes Working Ham Radio SatellitesFrom OSCAR 1 in 1961 to today's FM birds: a practical history of amateur radio satellites and why it still matters to operators.
Read more: A Short History of Amateur Radio SatellitesFull duplex explained for ham radio satellite operators. Why hearing yourself on the downlink while transmitting matters, which radios support it, and how to work satellites without it.
Read more: What is Full Duplex and Why Does It Matter for Ham Radio Satellites?Ham radio satellite Doppler shift explained — why you can't program one frequency and forget it, and how operators handle it in the field.
Read more: Do Satellite Doppler Frequencies Change Every Pass?Everything ham radio operators need to know about Maidenhead grid squares — what they are, how to find yours, and why they matter for satellite operations and contests.
Read more: What is a Maidenhead Grid Square and How Do I Find Mine?Technician class amateur radio operators can legally work all amateur satellites. Here's what you need to know to make your first satellite contact with a Tech licence.
Read more: Can Technician Class Hams Work Satellites? Yes - Here's HowA practical guide to ham radio satellite equipment. What radio, antenna, and accessories you need to start working FM and SSB satellites with modest gear.
Read more: What Equipment Do You Need to Work Ham Radio Satellites?Complete list of amateur radio satellite frequencies for 2026. Uplink, downlink, CTCSS tones and operating notes for SO-50, AO-91, ISS, FO-29, RS-44, AO-7, and more.
Read more: Ham Radio Satellite Frequencies 2026 - Complete ListComplete glossary of amateur radio satellite terms. Definitions for AOS, TCA, LOS, TLE, Doppler shift, azimuth, elevation, footprint, transponder, and more.
Read more: Ham Radio Satellite Glossary — AOS, TCA, LOS, TLE and MoreThe best amateur radio satellites to start with in 2026. Which FM and SSB satellites are active, what equipment you need, and how to make your first contact.
Read more: Best Ham Radio Satellites for Beginners in 2026Learn how to interpret the polar sky view plot in Ham Sat Tracker. Understand azimuth, elevation, pass direction, and how to use the diagram to plan your antenna pointing.
Read more: How to Read the Sky View DiagramHow to work amateur radio satellites with QRP power levels. Antenna choices, technique tips, and why low power is often an advantage in satellite operations.
Read more: QRP Satellite Operations: Working Birds with 5 WattsComparing SO-50 and AO-91 for new satellite operators. Learn the differences in access requirements, reliability, and operating technique to pick the right first bird.
Read more: SO-50 vs AO-91: Which Satellite Should You Start With?Everything you need to know about working the International Space Station on amateur radio. Frequencies, timing, repeater status, and tips for your first ISS contact.
Read more: Making Your First ISS ContactA practical guide to Doppler shift for ham radio satellite operators. Learn what it is, why it matters, and how to correct for it on FM and SSB satellites.
Read more: Understanding Doppler Shift in Satellite CommunicationsComplete guide for beginners getting started with amateur radio satellite operations. Learn about equipment, frequencies, operating techniques, and making your first satellite contact.
Read more: Beginner's Guide to Amateur Radio SatellitesYour feedback has been sent. 73!