Catch a Message
from Space!
Join the icMercury Satellite Challenge.
Can You Hear a Message from Orbit? Let’s Find Out!
High above Earth, SpinnyONE (HADES-SA), a 1.5P PocketQube satellite from Spinning Around, is transmitting messages from orbit. Now, you can tune in and listen too! Whether you're a student, a family, or a ham radio enthusiast, this is your chance to receive a real signal from space and be part of a global community of satellite explorers. All you need is a bit of curiosity, some simple equipment, and a sense of adventure.
When you successfully receive and decode a message from SpinnyONE, share it in the icMercury channel on the icMercury app. Eligible participants may receive exclusive icMercury goodies and be entered into drawings for selected icMercury event tickets.
Small in Size, Big in Spirit
Say hello to SpinnyONE (HADES-SA), a 1.5P PocketQube satellite from Spinning Around that is carrying messages through space. Though small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, this tiny spacecraft demonstrates how even the smallest satellites can connect people across the world through radio communications.
As SpinnyONE travels around the Earth, it regularly transmits messages from orbit that can be received by amateur radio operators and satellite enthusiasts. Through this challenge, you have the opportunity to listen for those signals, decode a message from space, and share your discovery with the icMercury community.
🛠️ SpinnyONE at a Glance
Size & Mass
Volume: 5 × 5 × 8 cm
Mass: 400 g
Communication
FSK 200 bps • Voice • SSDV Images
Onboard Experiments
The mission will validate core software, micro-electronics, and operational architecture behind Spinning Around’s vision of accessible, customizable gravitational environments for life-science research.
Tune In to a Real Satellite
SpinnyONE (HADES-SA) is orbiting the Earth and transmitting messages from space that can be received by radio enthusiasts around the world. With the icMercury app and a few simple tools, you can track the satellite, listen for its signals, and try decoding a message from orbit right from your own backyard.
Track SpinnyONE in Real Time
Open the icMercury app to track SpinnyONE and see when it will pass over your location. You can also use popular satellite tracking websites and apps by searching for:
• SpinnyONE (HADES-SA)
• NORAD ID: 68446
Knowing when the satellite is overhead will help you plan your listening session and improve your chances of receiving a message from orbit.
Get the Right Tools
To receive SpinnyONE's transmissions, you'll need:
• A UHF antenna
• A radio receiver or SDR capable of receiving signals on 436.875 MHz
• A receiver with SSB (USB – Upper Side Band) capability
• Digital decoding software, such as AMSAT-EA's recommended SoundModem for SpinnyONE
Listen to the Signals (Downlink)
Tune into SpinnyONE's UHF downlink frequency (436.875 MHz) during a satellite pass. SpinnyONE regularly transmits digital messages from orbit and can also send images, voice recordings, and mission data. Every pass offers a chance to receive something unique directly from space.
Explore, Discover, and Share
Every pass of SpinnyONE offers a chance to receive something unique from orbit. Share your messages, images, and voice recordings with friends and the icMercury community, and help make space exploration more accessible to everyone.
“Beginners welcome!”
You don't need an amateur radio license to participate. Anyone with a suitable receiver or SDR can listen for SpinnyONE's transmissions and try receiving messages, images, and voice recordings from orbit.
Share Your Discovery
Received a message, image, or voice transmission from SpinnyONE? Post it in the icMercury channel and become part of our growing community of space explorers. Eligible participants may receive exclusive icMercury goodies and opportunities to attend future icMercury events.
Recommended Software Downloads
The following software tools can help you receive and decode SpinnyONE's transmissions, including digital messages, images, and voice recordings from orbit. Download the tools below to begin your journey into satellite communications and start catching messages from space.
Continue the Journey Beyond the Sky
If you enjoyed listening for messages from SpinnyONE, you may also enjoy A Fool’s Journey Beyond the Sky: A User’s Guide for the icMercury Satellite Owner.
Blending real satellite knowledge with symbolic storytelling inspired by the Tarot’s Major Arcana, the guide explores the world of PocketQube satellites, radio communication, orbital travel, and humanity’s relationship with space in a poetic and approachable way.