Hi, Jim:
  Me again, with another update re the sources of TLE (Two-Line Element) 
files used by the satellite-tracking programs that are helpful in monitoring 
comms from and between the Shuttle, Mir, Soyuz and such.
  I just received two e-mail files from AMSAT today, offering the same basic 
data in two different formats.  One is the TLE format I've mentioned above 
(and in previous posts).  The other file offers the same data in "Keplerian" 
format (named after the early astronomer Johann Kepler), which offers the 
same data in a format used by other satellite-tracking programs.
  I don't know much about AMSAT, other than (1) they seem to specialize in 
Hams who use Amateur Radio relay satellites, and (2) the guy I've been 
communicating with at AMSAT has been very prompt and helpful.
  I just plugged the current TLE file into the satellite-tracking program, 
and it seems to work like a charm.  Pretty neat to be able to look at a 
detailed world map, and see exactly where Mir and the Hubble Telescope (and 
tons of other high-tech space hardware) are at any given instant, let alone 
tuning in!
  I'll try to continue passing along any related data for you, if you like.  
As before, just don't forget me when you hit the Lotto!
Cheers, Frank
... I am Mr. T. of Borg.  Gonna 'similate ya upside yo head, sucka!
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