Ham Radio Operators Learn to Communicate with the International Space Station and More
Several ham radio operators gathered at the Hurst Stake Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to enjoy a potluck dinner and training on August 15, 2022.
To kick-start the meeting, Barry Dick of the Hurst Stake High Council welcomed everyone out. After everyone enjoyed a hearty meal, he reminded attendees of the upcoming training class that would be offered to advance the Technician Licensees to the General Ham License. (Courses are currently underway.)
First, everyone learned how to purchase special radio operator vanity license plates that use their radio call sign. Kiera Elledge of the River Trails 2nd Ward (congregation), who already has them on her vehicle, demonstrated just how simple it is to order the unique plates online.
Nikki Jones. Image courtesy of Pat Autrey.
Next, Nikki Jones of the River Trail 2nd Ward, reviewed the registration steps with Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES.) All ham operators are encouraged to complete the four home study classes and attend the training at the Fort Worth Emergency Operations Center (EOC.) Once completed, a storm spotting class is also provided in the spring just prior to tornado season. Then these ham operators will be equipped with the knowledge to provide needed emergency communication assistance and become a vital link in the community's response efforts.
YAGI Antenna.
Pat Autrey, the Hurst Stake Emergency Coordinator, then demonstrated how to communicate with the International Space Station (ISS) using specialized dual band YAGI antennas—this is a directional antenna that radiates signals in one main direction—and how signals can be bounced off the ISS to other ham operators around the world.
The International Space Station in orbit of the Earth. Elements of this image provided by NASA.
Lastly, there was a discussion about how to make homemade vertical dipole antennas depending on the particular band being used. These types of antenna require little space and their feed systems are relatively simple. For instance a #14 gauge stranded wire only 16' long can be used to talk on the 20 meter band and offers nationwide coverage!
Example of a vertical dipole antenna.
When Kiera Ellege was asked what excites her about ham radio she responded, “When I first started the training, I wanted to learn about ham radios in order to be better prepared in the event of a disaster in our area. Being able to hear about impending problems—often before local news stations can share it—can make a major difference in your ability to successfully avoid dangerous situations.”
“Now that I have my license and am able to talk/listen on my ham radio, I am fascinated by the tremendous sense of community, not just in our area, but around the world, of amateur radio operators,” said Elledge.
“Everyone I have met in the amateur radio community has been so kind and willing to help with equipment, radio suggestions and so much more. I have even taken the National Weather Services' Storm Spotter Training and am looking into taking the emergency management classes offered by FEMA to be able to help in the event of a local disaster.”
Ellege further extended an invitation to join the community of ham operators, “To those considering it, I would say, ‘go for it’....it is fun, informative and a way to help your community in the event of a disaster. And if you're lucky, maybe you will get to talk to the astronauts at the International Space Station!”
Article by Pat Autrey
The next ham radio operator meeting will begin a monthly breakfast gathering at Braum's for all ham operators to talk shop, have a laugh, and continue team building. If you are a ham operator in the area, you are welcome to join us. Contact Pat Autrey to receive an invitation to Braum’s or find out about the next training meeting here.
Pat Autrey is the Hurst Stake Emergency Coordinator and spends his days selling Medicare Insurance to seniors. During his free time he enjoys watching movies, playing guitar, and recording music in his home studio.