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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-satellite-spin-fading

What causes spin fading of satellite signals?

Rotation of the satellite and its antennas.

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  1. Rotation of the satellite and its antennas ✔
  2. Doppler shift of the received signal
  3. Polarized noise from the sun

Why: Many small satellites slowly spin. As their antennas turn, the signal you receive rises and falls in a regular rhythm.

Huh, didn't know that: Circularly polarized antennas on the ground can help smooth out this fading.

The dad joke
Why did the satellite signal keep fading? It was spinning a tale.
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References

Answer: Rotation of the satellite and its antennas. Many small satellites slowly spin. As their antennas turn, the signal you receive rises and falls in a regular rhythm.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool (Feb 19, 2026 errata) ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    T8B09 (B) What causes spin fading of satellite signals? B. Rotation of the satellite and its antennas
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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