jgpo@iwu1c.UUCP (08/24/83)
According to Westlink, the frequencies which Dr. Owen Garriott, W5LFL, will use on the historic STS-9 Shuttle mission have been announced. Dr. Garriott will transmit, using mode F3, on 145.550 MHz. He will monitor frequencies between 144.910 MHz and 145.090 MHz, in 20 kHz steps. According to an article in the September issue of 73 Magazine, Dr. Garriott will announce which call area(s) he will listen for. He will announce his intentions for 60 seconds. For the next 60 seconds, he will monitor his preprogrammed frequencies between 144.910 and 145.090. During the next 60 seconds, he will read back a list of the callsigns he has recognized. It is recommended that earth stations limit their transmitter output power to 10 watts. Remember, that Dr. Garriott is in charge of the show and can easily bypass any channel having excessive QRM caused by the high-power boys. Use a good antenna; a 2M turnstile is recommended. Do not use a highly directional antenna; the Shuttle will be moving way too fast to keep it aimed properly. Westlink's Hollywood number, (213)-465-5550, will be devoted entirely to STS-9 information starting September 1. Be sure to listen to the W1AW bulletins. Good luck! 73, John Opalko KA9MNK