CatSat Completes First X-Band Downlink Test
The Sun is setting just before this dish of the Arizona Array was used to receive first microwave signal from from UofA’s CatSat satellite.
Carol A. Parker
More than 20 years ago a team of the University of Arizona and Rincon Research Corp. built one of the first CubeSats named RinconSat. The project ended when the Soviet Rocket carrying it to space exploded. Several years ago (before COVID) they and Free Fall Aerospace, all of Tucson, decided to work together on UofA’s next CubeSat called CatSat. CatSat was launched early in July and immediately disappeared for a couple of weeks. When found, a number of problems were analyzed and worked around by a dedicated team of students who controlled the satellite through UHF ham stations.
With satellite batteries topped off, they decided to test the microwave downlink for the first time. It must work to achieve many of the science objectives. A good microwave signal was received on the first try. This is a major milestone for which the entire team should be proud.
While a team of UofA students controlled the satellite, I was proud to be one of four Rincon Research Employees running the receiving station. Of these, two were veterans of the original team that ended when the Soviet rocket exploded. All four are ham radio operators and made contributions to CatSat or ground station design. To John, Joel, Hilly and many many others, thank you for all the help and support.
Mike Parker
KT7D
Founder of Rincon Research Corp.
Founding member TAPR
NRO Pioneer