Have you ever wondered how we communicate with astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS)? This incredible process combines technology, planning, and dedicated individuals, like Martin Diggins. Martin, an amateur radio station operator from Mandurah, is one of only nine people worldwide who help connect Earth to the ISS through radio transmissions.

The Role of Amateur Radio in Space Communication

Amateur radio, often referred to as “ham radio,” is a hobby that involves making and using radio transmitters. To participate, one must obtain an amateur radio license. Martin explained, “There are three levels. There’s the foundation (beginner) license, the intermediate license and the advanced license, which is the one I have. Having spent a couple of years at TAFE, learning electronic theory.”

But Martin’s involvement goes beyond just a hobby. He is part of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) ground station network. This network enables direct communication between astronauts and school students on Earth. “The ISS has its own amateur radio station on board, and the astronauts who pass their ham licenses can use it. With ARISS, we connect schools to astronauts for a live chat that lasts about 10 minutes,” said Martin.

How a School Connects to the ISS

The process of connecting a school to the ISS is detailed and requires significant planning. Schools interested in making contact must apply through the ARISS website, a process that can take up to 18 months. Once approved, NASA coordinates with the ARISS ground stations to determine which station will support the school’s contact. Martin described the procedure, “NASA sends out a list of passes to the nine ground stations, and we choose which passes we can support. The final selection is then presented to the astronaut, who decides which pass works best for them.“

On the day of the contact, Martin prepares his equipment in Mandurah. “About an hour before the scheduled contact, NASA calls to perform audio-level tests. A minute or two before the ISS arrives over the horizon, I take control and initiate the conversation,” Martin explained. The connection lasts only 10 minutes, as the ISS travels at an incredible speed of 27,500 kilometres per hour, crossing the horizon quickly.

A Glimpse into a Live Contact

Recently, Martin made contact with the ISS during an event in Cape Town, South Africa. The communication was part of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly. Martin recalled the experience: “The astronaut I spoke to was Suni Williams, who had arrived on the ISS aboard the Boeing Starliner. She enjoys working the ham passes and was excited to interact with the students at the IAU event.“

During the live contact, students had the opportunity to ask questions directly to Suni, making the experience unforgettable. “The excitement generated is palpable,” Martin said. “I’ve seen teachers in tears, overwhelmed by the realisation that their students are speaking to an astronaut.“

You can check it our for yourself in the YouTube video below. (Skip to 2 hours 5 mins to hear Martin connect to the ISS)

The Impact of ARISS and Martin’s Research

Martin is currently pursuing a PhD at Curtin University, focusing on the ARISS program. His research investigates the impact of live interactions with astronauts on students’ interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). “The purpose of my research is to determine how well the ARISS program enhances students’ interest in STEM subjects and careers,” Martin explained. “There’s no doubt that the program is achieving its goals. The excitement and engagement it generates are undeniable.”

Getting Started in Amateur Radio

For those interested in amateur radio, Martin suggested starting by visiting the Wallace Institute of Australia website. “There, you’ll find details on the nearest ham radio courses and information on how to sit for the exam,” he advised. Fortunately, Morse code is no longer a requirement, which many find a relief. Martin, who obtained his license in 1983, recalled, “I had to learn Morse code back then, but it’s no longer necessary.“

Connecting with astronauts aboard the ISS through amateur radio is a remarkable achievement. Thanks to individuals like Martin Diggins, students around the world can experience the thrill of speaking directly to someone in space, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Listen to Martin’s full conversation with Bec and Norm.