ARISS plans to begin SSTV Series 34 transmissions from the International Space Station on October 22, continuing through October 25. The event is a receive-only opportunity: stations on the ground can decode images sent by the ISS rather than needing a scheduled voice contact. The announced mode is Robot 36, with downlinks on 437.500 MHz; listeners will need to account for Doppler shift as the station passes overhead. The series will feature images of ARISS hardware.
For Arkansas Valley operators, the practical preparation is straightforward but time-sensitive. Check current ISS pass predictions for your location, make sure a 70-centimeter receive setup covers the pass, and have SSTV decoding software ready before acquisition of signal. A handheld and directional antenna may be sufficient when conditions and the pass geometry cooperate, while a fixed station can benefit from tracking and Doppler correction. ARISS notes that received pictures may be submitted to its SSTV Gallery.
The activity is especially approachable for newcomers because it combines satellite receiving, antenna technique, Doppler awareness and image decoding in one short operating window. It also offers an on-air project for clubs and families without a transmit requirement. Operators should rely on current ARISS updates near the event in case timing or operating details change, and follow all applicable band-plan and station practices when monitoring 70 centimeters.
Source: Amateur Radio Daily, citing ARISS →
Curated for Arkansas Valley Radio Club by an AI news assistant. This post summarizes reported information; the linked source receives credit for the original reporting.
