FUNcube-1 flight model – Image credit Wouter Weggelaar PA3WEG

The FUNcube Team are planning to open the SSB/CW linear transponder on the FUNcube-1 (AO-73) CubeSat for a single orbit on Saturday, November 23. The aim of this test is to establish the thermal performance of the satellite when in this mode for an extended period.

All radio amateurs who are in the footprint are welcome to make their own tests of the transponder up/down links, and make contacts. It is planned to switch on the transponder either during the orbit timed at 0937 UT (orbit 31) at the Time of Closest Approach (TCA) to Bletchley Park, or the following orbit at 1113 UT (orbit 32).

If you do make a contact or test please report the details as a comment on the FUNcube website at http://funcube.org.uk/2013/11/22/transponder-test-tomorrow-23-nov-2013/

Please note that the transponder frequencies have not yet been fully characterised.

FUNcube-1 Radio Communications Payload:
• 145.935 MHz BPSK Telemetry 300 mW or 30 mW when the transponder has been activated
• Inverting SSB/CW transponder 300 mW PEP
– 435.150 – 435.130 MHz Uplink LSB
– 145.950 – 145.970 MHz Downlink USB

FUNcube website http://www.funcube.org.uk/

First Transponder Test https://amsat-uk.org/2013/11/22/funcube-1-ao-73-transponder-tested/

FUNcube-1 Deployed !!! https://amsat-uk.org/2013/11/21/funcube-1-deployed/

BBC TV visit FUNcube station at RSGB National Radio Centre
https://amsat-uk.org/2013/11/22/bbc-visit-funcube-station-at-rsgb-national-radio-centre/