Dominic, Welcome! Actually, most satellites start out operating continuously. They run on batteries when they are in the dark. Normally the batteries over time lose capacity. Then, various techniques are implemented to conserve power so that they can continue to operate when in darkness. Recently there have been a few satellites designed to operate only when illuminated, such as DO-64. Generally the ones which require illumination are old satellites such as AO-7 and NO-44 which no longer have functioning batteries or control systems. Fortunately satellites are usually, but not always, illuminated even when the area below is dark.
Alan WA4SCA -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Dominic Hawken Sent: Friday, November 19, 2010 7:29 AM To: [email protected] Subject: [amsat-bb] Sats after dark Probably a dumb question and still new to this - apologies in advance. Am I right in thinking the amateur sats switch comms off when not in sight of the sun? Are there any that continue to run in darkness? Best, Dominic G6NQO _______________________________________________ Sent via [email protected]. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb _______________________________________________ Sent via [email protected]. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
