HearSat Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

3. Which frequencies do satellites use?

This is a very broad question which does nbot have a simple answer.
There are thousands of satellites in Earth orbit, and the majority of
them communicate with ground controllers by radio through their
"downlinks".

Downlink frequencies can be in the HF (High Frequency), VHF (Very
High Frequency), UHF (Ultra High Frequency), S-Band, X-Band, L-Band,
C-Band, and Ku-Band (microwave bands).

The newcomer to the satellite monitoring hobby will usually be
interested in signals that can be received easily using inexpensive
equipment. A good start would be to monitor weather satellites in the
137 MHz band. Strong signals can be found on 137.50, 137.62 MHz and
137.85 MHz -- if a satellite is passing overhead while you are monitoring
the frequency.

Another good hunting ground is the 149 - 150 MHz band where American and
Russian navigation satellites transmit. Strong signals can be found on the
following frequencies: 149.91, 149.94, 149.97, 150.00 and 150.03 MHz --
if a satellite is passing overhead while you are monitoring the frequency.

The Russian Space Station Mir transmits on several frequencies (which
seem to get changed frequently). Try listening on 143.625 MHz for voice
communications (in Russian) with ground controllers.

Check out the HearSat-L mailing list and other areas on this website for
other frequency suggestions.