Re:it's not as easy as it sounds (Score 5, Interesting)

You are right for the lower frequency bands, but once you start moving up above 1000 MHz then EME is possible with much more modest systems. For example on 23cms (1296 MHz) you can work CW EME with 100W and a 3m dish, if you are peering with someone like HB9Q or HB9BBD then you can use a lot less than that.

The introduction of digital modes like JT44 and JT65 (using FFTs, correlation and strong FEC) has made a big difference and has made EME available for people with much smaller gardens and purses. Unfortunately there are a number of EME operators who insist that a digital mode somehow isn't "real" or that the contacts count for less. This is a shame and gives newcomers the wrong impression of a fine part of the hobby.

I intend to get active soon with a marginal system for CW work but more than adequate for the more advanced data modes.

For info about more reasonable microwave EME systems see G4CCH and N2UO