Northwest Satellite and Microwave Society

NWSMS

The Northwest Satellite and Microwave Society is an organization composed of amateur radio operators, engineers, educators, and other like-minded individuals dedicated to advancing analog and digital radio communications through satellite and microwave technologies.

OperateSatellite

ExploreMicrowave

DevelopRF + Digital

ShareKnowledge

01 / Mission

Advance the radio art

NWSMS exists to expand practical knowledge and capability in the upper bands: building equipment, improving operating technique, experimenting with new systems, and helping more people become effective satellite and microwave operators.

Our work combines the experimental tradition of amateur radio with engineering, software, education, field operation, and collaboration across the broader science and technology community.

02 / Operate

Live systems

Tracking / orbital dataSatellite TrackingA dedicated satellite operating and tracking system, with its own radio chain. Receiver / browser interfaceWebSDRA true browser-accessible software-defined receiver using an independent radio chain.

03 / Explore

What we work on

Hardware + softwareProjectsAntennas, microwave systems, RF hardware, embedded control, instrumentation, software, and field experiments. Operating practiceSatellite GuidePractical guidance for responsible FM and linear-transponder satellite operation. Learn + referenceResourcesTechnical references, operating material, tools, organizations, and equipment resources. Participate + contributeMembershipFor operators, engineers, educators, experimenters, builders, and people who want to learn.

04 / Principles

Build. Operate. Teach.

We encourage practical experimentation, responsible operating, open exchange of technical knowledge, and support for newcomers entering satellite and microwave work.

The goal is not simply to use existing systems, but to understand them, improve them, and help develop the next generation of radio communication technology.