Quote Originally Posted by N8YX View Post
Are amateur satellites even relevant at this point in time?

Especially those equipped with mode A/B linear transponders?

Hell yes.

I would love to see a philanthropist such as Gates, Buffet (Warren or Jimmy; doesn't matter) or that rich Ru$$ian oil d00d pony up the cash to construct an RTG/solar powered, hardened AmSAT with HF/2/432/1296 linear/FM capabilities. Say, something with a 15+ year life span...which could be serviced and returned to duty while in space.

Such a project would never be funded by the amateur community - that I can practically guarantee.
What would the cost of the unit-hardware alone be? Not to include launch and etc.