(Please be patient while reading this.)
### I. Why Promote Satellite Communication?
New ham radio operators, like A, can operate on three frequencies (Shanghai and Zhejiang, as I mentioned earlier). The main ways to communicate include using local repeaters, which are primarily used by experienced hams for casual conversation, or operating in the 2-meter band, which is only active during the summer months and requires more advanced knowledge. For those who want to communicate with stations outside their local area, even internationally, satellite communication is the best DX method.
### II. Introduction to Amateur Radio Satellites
Currently, amateur radio satellites are primarily FM satellites and linear satellites. FM satellites use FM modulation, with the same frequency for both uplink and downlink, and typically have low orbits (300km-500km), making them easy to operate and requiring relatively lower equipment and technical expertise. Linear satellites typically use SSB or CW for uplink modulation, with SSB for downlink, and have separate frequency bands for uplink and downlink. These satellites generally have higher orbits (1000km or more) and require higher levels of equipment and technical expertise. This tutorial introduces FM satellite communication.
### III. FM Satellite Communication Methods
When using FM satellite communication, many people use a radio in conjunction with a Yagi antenna (specifically, a dual-band Yagi). Some enthusiasts install a remote-controlled Yagi on the roof, while those with limited financial resources (including myself) can operate the antenna manually.
Due to the high speed of satellite movement, a Doppler effect will occur when the satellite passes through (see B站 for details). Therefore, when communicating with satellites, it is necessary to adjust your uplink and downlink frequencies according to the satellite's passing situation. You can manually set the frequency based on the Doppler frequency calculated in real-time by look4sat or the satellite WeChat app, or you can pre-divide the Doppler frequency during the satellite's passage into five segments and write them separately into the radio channel (I do this). Then, adjust the Doppler frequency by switching channels according to the passing situation.
When using CQ in satellite communication, the following methods should be used:
1. CQ BG9JMR (using the phonetic alphabet)
2. BG9JMR (using an alphabetic explanation)
3. CQ SATELLITE BG9JMR (using an alphabetic explanation)
Please note: When using satellite communication, keep your CQ (call sign) as short as possible, and avoid transmitting it when people are around (unless you don't want to communicate with them). Do not transmit CQ between two stations, do not transmit CQ without stating your call sign, and remember that your call sign is the most important part of satellite communication; only if someone hears your call sign will they attempt to contact you or respond.
When calling someone via satellite communication, it should be:
BG2GFC (explained using letters) BG9JMR (explained using letters) 59!
The appropriate response to someone calling should be:
BG9JMR (using an alphabetic explanation) BG2GFC (using an alphabetic explanation) 59! 73!
After someone has answered you, try to add a follow-up sentence like this:
73!
Otherwise, if you fail to achieve a QSO (Congratulations, you missed out on a new station) with a relatively strict QSO-oriented radio.
Amateur satellite communication often occurs at a fast pace, with QSOs (two-way radio contacts) typically happening every 10 seconds. Therefore, amateur enthusiasts should improve their ability to recognize and record call signs, otherwise they may experience situations such as being unable to hear or understand communications.
### Conclusion
To reiterate: Using amateur FM satellite communication is the best way to achieve DX (long-distance) for A, and it's a reliable method.
Amateur satellites are suitable for every DX enthusiast, and the availability of satellite access in rare regions (such as Qinghai, Xinjiang, and Tibet) will make it easier for newcomers to acquire these valuable frequencies and regions.