A First For Hams at Nuclear Cleanup Site

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A First For Hams at Nuclear Cleanup Site

When there's an emergency, you can't have too many ways to communicate - particularly when the crisis involves nuclear materials. That's why here in the US, the Department of Energy recently asked amateur radio operators to be part of a drill at a plant where the agency conducts nuclear waste management and decontamination.

It was a first for the Amateur Radio Emergency Service in Paducah [PUH-DUKE-KUH], Kentucky: responding to a mock emergency at a government-owned site that conducts nuclear deactivations and spent-fuel cleanup. Paducah is one of more than 100 government sites across the country handled by the Energy Department's Emergency Management program, which conducts nuclear remediation.

The hams, first-responders at numerous natural disasters throughout Kentucky, were now providing backup in a nuclear scenario.

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ISS SSTV Events Upcoming

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Two ARISS SSTV events are planned over the next few weeks. First, an event is scheduled for 3-6 October commemorating the launch of Sputnik in 1957. Then, on 17-20th October 2025, scouting-themed images will be transmitted to coincide with the International Scouting Jamboree.

ISS SSTV images are transmitted using the PD-120 mode on 145.800 MHz.

More information about start/end times - https://amsat-uk.org/2025/10/03/iss-slow-scan-tv-oct-3-9/

OFCOM Reviews License Procedures for Some Satellites

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The UK regulator has proposed changes in the way licenses are granted to certain satellites. 

Ofcom is hoping to improve the licensing procedures that were introduced in 2021, covering non-geostationary satellite orbit systems used by businesses, individuals and other entities, particularly in remote areas. The regulator opened a consultation earlier this month and is seeking comments up to the 18th November 2025.

Having issued eight such network and nine gateway licences for these systems, Ofcom believes it is time to work towards a swifter decision-making process while minimising the administrative burden on system operators. Ofcom is also looking at enabling the gateways to connect to a broader range of satellite services using both the Q and V bands.

The regulator intends to publish its decision early next year.