Display Morethanks for the answer Clayton.
I have no elements to reply to your post.
I can only observe that currently the AMSAT promotes/operates some mono-channel FM satellites and an old disused military satellite that allows you to do things that I did almost 30 years ago.
These are the facts. This pains me.
My gratitude to Amsat remains intact for all I received in the past. I cannot say that today Amsat promotes and stimulates my knowledge.
with respect
Lucio, I0LYL
Lucio,
I appreciate and respect your point of view.
The classic approach of AMSAT in developing large, complex satellite systems was forced to change. The availability of affordable launches for large payloads has been significantly impacted. We continue to explore and investigate new opportunities.
The launch affordability problem has grown more complex over the past twenty years. A new approach requires miniaturization, re-thinking our complex systems of the past, and integrating them into much smaller payloads. There is also the complexity of law (USA and International) regarding orbital debris mitigation and satellite lifetime.
It is a common misconception that AMSAT is only interested in single channel FM, but I can understand why some people believe this. AMSAT was forced to reconsider and redesign systems from the path set forward in the 1970's.
I believe that AMSAT has a vision to grow technologically. It will take time and a tremendous effort by many volunteers to succeed.
Sincerely,
Clayton
W5PFG