I currently use a dual band "tactical" j-pole antenna and have had several unsuccessful attempts at making contact with ISS. I am on a TYT TH-7800 using 50 watts. I have the downlink (145.800) and uplink (144.490) frequencies programmed into my radio. The antenna is not very high in the air right now and there are trees around. What could I do differently to have a better chance of success in contacting the ISS?

I currently use a dual band "tactical" j-pole antenna and have had several unsuccessful attempts at making contact with ISS. I am on a TYT TH-7800 using 50 watts. I have the downlink (145.800) and uplink (144.490) frequencies programmed into my radio. The antenna is not very high in the air right now and there are trees around. What could I do differently to have a better chance of success in contacting the ISS?

ARISS contact planned for school in Serbia

An International Space Station school contact has been planned for Ricky Arnold KE5DAU with Tehnicka Skola Zajecar, Zajecar, Serbia.

The event is scheduled Tuesday 19 June 2018 at approximately 14.20 UTC.

The contact will be a direct operated by YU1ACR.

The downlink signals will be audible in parts of Europe.

73 de IW2BSF Rudy