I had a QSO with an astronaut in space!

On Sunday, October 12, 2025, I accidentally fulfilled a dream. I made radio contact with an astronaut in space!

Around 11:30 UTC, I received a notification on my phone that the ISS was flying over Europe. I thought I’d briefly power on the radio and have in a few QSOs with other radio amateurs via the repeater onboard the ISS but as soon as I heard the ISS, I noticed something was different. Many stations were calling the call sign NA1SS instead of “CQ ISS” or “CQ Satellite.” I soon heard the voice of Michael Fincke, an American astronaut who was part of the current ISS crew. With little hope of success, I called “November Alpha One Sierra Sierra - Delta Kilo One Mike India!” Then it happened: I heard him say “Delta Kilo One Mike India - November Alpha One Sierra Sierra, I hear you loud and clear!” Stunned by my unexpected success, I proceeded with this QSO as I would any other, without addressing the special circumstances. I wish I had been better prepared, but I am more than happy to have had this great opportunity. Having a QSO with an ISS crew member is something I had heard about, but never thought I would actually achieve.

Best hobby ever!