TEVEL2-3 FM satellite transponder will be switched on tonight

All the TEVEL series of satellites had re-entered some time back and a new set of 9 TEVEL2 satellites were launched recently. So far only telemetry was being received from these new set of FM satellites. Yesterday 4X1DG announced on Amsat Bulletin Board that FM transponder of TEVEL2-3 has been activated from yesterday, on an experimental basis for 72 hours and asked for reports from LEO satellite operators.

Some reported having successful contacts through the FM transponder, but felt that the audio was distorted. Yet others reported that they could not open the squelch with 5W power and a directional antenna. Then the controller informed that they are switching off the transponder and will be switched back on tonight with a lower squelch level. Lower squelch level will enable access at lower power output from the radio.

Some mentioned that popular satellite tracking websites have not included TEVEL2 series. I checked Gpredict in my computer and found that it is available in list of satellites which can be added from the configuration menu.