Historic Live ISS Satellite Demonstration Inspires Over 12,000 Students in India

Historic Live ISS Satellite Demonstration Inspires Over 12,000 Students in India

One of the largest live amateur satellite demonstrations ever conducted took place in Pransla, Gujarat, India, where more than 12,000 students witnessed real-time satellite communication via the International Space Station (ISS)—a possibly record-setting outreach event of its kind.

Organized as part of the “Rastriya Katha Sibir” by Shri Vedik Mission Trust, this unprecedented science and space outreach program was carried out with the active support of AMSAT-INDIA and UPARC (ISRO). The centerpiece of the event was a live two-way amateur radio contact through the ISS, demonstrated by Rajesh Vagadia, VU2EXP, Regional Coordinator of AMSAT-INDIA and an experienced amateur satellite operator.

Inspiring Young Minds Through Space Science

The program began with an engaging and easy-to-understand presentation by Rajesh VU2EXP, introducing students to:

• The International Space Station (ISS) and its scientific importance

• How astronauts live, work, and conduct research in space

• The ISS as a symbol of global collaboration

• The ARISS program and amateur radio operations from space

• Indian connections to space, including Sunita Williams (ARISS contacts, 2012) and Shubhanshu Shukla (Axiom-4 mission, July 2025)

  
  

Live ISS Pass and Two-Way Contacts

On 29 December 2025 at 08:47 AM IST, the ISS passed over Pransla at an altitude of approximately 400 km, traveling at nearly 28,000 km/h. Using a portable satellite ground station, VU2EXP called CQ on the ISS cross-band FM repeater.

Within moments, the first reply was received from VU2MZT (Dr. Kishor, Maharashtra)—sparking loud applause and excitement across the entire venue. The ISS downlink audio was amplified through a PA system, allowing thousands of students—many hearing satellite signals for the first time—to experience live space communication.

Successful contacts during the single ISS pass included:

• VU2MZT – OM Kishor (Maharashtra)

• VU2KYZ – OM Ashokbhai (Surat), exchanging strong 59 signal reports

• VU2AAP – OM Amar (Hyderabad), completed on the second attempt

  
  

Despite challenges such as a brief power outage affecting the PA system and the complexity of simultaneously managing microphones, antennas, tracking, logging, and public audio, the demonstration concluded successfully and safely, with three confirmed two-way contacts.

A Rare and Remarkable Achievement

Conducting a live ISS satellite communication:

• In a vast open ground

• With 12,000+ students present simultaneously

• While maintaining discipline, safety, and clarity

• And completing multiple successful contacts

  
  

…is a rare and possibly unique achievement worldwide in amateur radio and science outreach. This event stands as a testament to meticulous planning, technical expertise, teamwork, and unwavering dedication.

Acknowledgements and Gratitude

This historic event was made possible through the exceptional cooperation of:

UPARC (ISRO)

• Balaji VU2JEL and Amit VU34AK for continuous coordination and logistical support

  
  

AMSAT-INDIA

• Nitin VU2JEK (Secretary) and the AMSAT-INDIA team for technical guidance

  
  

Shri Vedik Mission Trust

• Acharya Shri Dharmabandhu Swamiji and Shri Dipakbhai for outstanding organizational support

  
  

Special appreciation goes to the military personnel, BSF, teachers, organizers, and numerous volunteers whose efforts ensured discipline and flawless execution for such a massive gathering.

We sincerely thank the stations who worked the ISS pass:

• VU2MZT – OM Kishor

• VU2KYZ – OM Ashokbhai

• VU2AAP – OM Amar

  
  

We are equally grateful to all amateurs who supported and coordinated the effort, including VU2SPF, VU2KOC, VU2JEK, VU3XFQ, VU3YFD, VU2UUU, VU2TEK, and many others.

Heartfelt thanks to my XYL Kiran and my family for their constant encouragement and support behind the scenes.

Educational Impact and Global Recognition

The achievement received warm appreciation from across India and internationally, including:

• AMSAT communities worldwide

• ARISS leadership

• Indian astronaut Angad Pratap

• Space scientists from ISRO

• Representatives from ARSI & GIAR

• Amateur radio and satellite operators globally

  
  

Most importantly, the event ignited curiosity, inspiration, and dreams among thousands of students—transforming space science from textbook theory into a live, unforgettable experience.

Learning Through Comparison

A powerful educational moment came from comparing two demonstrations:

Parameter	29 Dec Demo	30 Dec Demo
Satellite	ISS	SO-125 (HADES-ICM)
Type	Space Station	PocketCube
Mass	~420 tons	~400 grams
Size	~110 meters	~5 × 5 × 8 cm
Power	~25 W	~0.25 W
Students	12,000	120
Stations Worked	3	1

This comparison clearly illustrated how scale, power, altitude, and antenna systems directly affect satellite communication—turning abstract concepts into real-world understanding.

UPARC (ISRO) and AMSAT-INDIA also operated an educational booth, showcasing amateur radio equipment and services. Additional SSTV and VHF demonstrations were conducted by VU2JEL, VU34AK, and VU2EXP.

With continued guidance from organizations like AMSAT-INDIA and UPARC (ISRO), and the collective efforts of the amateur radio fraternity, space education is becoming more accessible, practical, and inspiring for the next generation.

73

Rajesh Vagadia, VU2EXP

Regional Coordinator – AMSAT-INDIA

Pransla / Rajkot, Gujarat, India