I just got back from a week in Colorado. I have a new (to me) toy, and I decided to try it out taking some images. A favorite is displayed on the right (long-term version here)

Hopefully, more to come.

Going on ten years ago, I played a small role in the launching of QuikSCAT, a rapid-replacement satellite for a capability that was lost on another satellite. My job was to come up with the training scenario that integrated the range, weather, and launch squadrons with their support personnel. Today, QuikSCAT was honored by NASA for its revolutionary data.

It's looking like TEMPO³ will be transmitting on the amateur radio bands (exact frequencies still under investigation), so some team members suggested I take my amateur radio tests. It's not that hard, especially if you have a technical background, you tinker in electronics, or have taken one electrical engineering class. Morse Code is not required for any license level. I tested for both Technician Class and General yesterday. Here are some resources to help other prospective operators:

• Here is a narrative study guide for the Technician test(pdf file)
• Here is a narrative study guide for the General test (pdf file)
• Here is a site where you can take repeated exams with samplings of each question pool
• When you're ready, you can find a testing location here. Testing locations are authorized to charge up to $14 to defray costs (going up to $15 in '09).

I don't have any radio equipment at my house yet, so my first transmission may be from space!

Space exploration advocacy is rife with historical comparisons. The American West as a frontier engine is a common one, though I tend to think the great migration from Africa is a much better one. Rand Simberg is hosting a discussion comparing Europe's use of the Canary Islands in the development of the new world to using the moon in the development of Mars.

The Planetary Society has summarized what they see as basic principles for a roadmap to space. They're looking for supporters. I like their lead in:

Human exploration of Mars should be a primary goal