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GB2RS NEWS Sunday 21 October 2012
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News...@rsgb.org.uk
Oct 22, 2012, 8:00:12 AM10/22/12
to
GB2RS NEWS
Sunday 21 October 2012
The news headlines:
RSGB Extraordinary General Meeting, 17 November 2012
Is it time to validate your licence?
G6 QSL Manager details incorrect in RadCom
RSGB Members are now receiving their copy of the November 2012 RadCom.
Contained with in it are details of the EGM to be held on 17 November
2012, at which Members will be invited to vote on new governance
arrangements for the Society. RSGB Members can vote electronically via
the RSGB website, by post or in person at the EGM. The Board is very
keen to ensure that the outcome of the EGM accurately reflects the view
of the whole membership, and all Members are encouraged to cast their
vote.
If you received your Licence for Life between November 2006 and August
2007 and have not validated it with Ofcom since, then it's time to do
so. Ofcom extended the validation period of licences issued during that
time for an extra year, to avoid having a large number of validations
to process around the time of the London Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Amateurs are recommended to use the online licensing system at
www.ofcom.org.uk/licensing/olc. If you experience difficulties or need
assistance in processing your licence online, please call Ofcom on 0300
123 1000 or 020 7981 3131.
The QSL bureau wishes to apologise to Tony, G6GLP, for any
inconvenience caused by wrongly attributing his name and call to the G6
sub-series in the November issue of RadCom. The new collection
sub-manager for the G6 series of call signs is Steve Wellon, G6DMG. His
details can be found on the RSGB website by following the links to QSL
managers, via the Operating section. If any Member is concerned that
they may have recently sent collection envelopes to the wrong address,
please contact the QSL bureau. The phone number is 01422 359 362, or
email Q...@RSGB.org.uk.
At 6pm last Sunday the Emergency Planning Officer from Maldon District
Council requested Essex RAYNET to be placed on standby, in response to
flood alerts issued by the Environment Agency. At 8pm, members were
mobilised. They were deployed to the riverbanks at Heybridge Basin,
Fulbridge and the Hythe in Maldon. This was in preparation for the high
tide and tidal surge due at quarter to one in the morning. High tide
was reached without any significant incident, and the stand down was
issued at 1am. Further information on Essex RAYNET can be found online
at www.essexraynet.co.uk.
An amateur radio balloon project launched in May finally ended this
month with the recovery of the payload. Argentinean amateurs, members
of AMSAT-LU, launched a high altitude balloon on 19 May from La Pampa,
Argentina. The payload included a 70cm to 2m 4W FM repeater, live SSTV,
an HF beacon and two video cameras. During the 4 hour flight, over 200
stations made contacts through the repeater. The balloon came down in
an isolated and flooded area. It was finally recovered from the mud by
a 4x4 adventure group on 6 October. The flight data was retrieved,
including over 6 hours of video from the two cameras. Details can be
found at www.uk.amsat.org/?p=11094.
The famous Alexanderson SAQ CW transmitter will be on the air on 24
October, celebrating United Nations Day. The electromechanical 17.2kHz
transmitter will be started at 1010UTC and a message will be sent at
1030UTC. More details are on the Alexanderson website,
www.alexander.n.se.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast. Ofcom has announced that it intends
to legalise AM and SSB CB apparatus, subject to the MOD agreeing to the
use of spectrum allocated to it. According to the statement on the
Ofcom website, the relevant ECC Decision about harmonising CB across
Europe should probably be implemented in the UK by the end of 2013. The
statement indicates that there are several legislative and other steps
that must first be carried out. It also points out that, until these
changes are implemented, it will remain an offence to install or use
AM, SSB or any other CB apparatus other than in accordance with the
current exemption regulations and Interface Requirement. The full Ofcom
statement is at http://tinyurl.com/Ofcom-SSB-CB.
And now for the details of rallies and events for the coming week
Today sees the Galashiels and District ARS radio rally at The Volunteer
Hall, St Johns Street, Galashiels, Scottish Borders TD1 3JX. Entry is
£2.50 and the opening time is 11.30, or 11.15 for those with special
needs. Details from Jim, GM7LUN, on 01896 850 245.
Also today, the Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society rally and
surplus equipment sale takes place from 10.30 at The Hugh Ripley Hall,
Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 2TP. Admission is £2. Details are available
online at www.ripon.org.uk/content/radars-rally-2012.
On Saturday 27 October the Radio Astronomy Group of the British
Astronomical Association will be holding a one-day meeting at the
National Space Centre in Leicester. The main speakers will be Prof
Andrew Lyne from Jodrell Bank and Dr Chris North from Cardiff
University, who is also a co-presenter for the BBC's Sky at Night.
Other papers will be presented by Peter Blair, G3LTF and Brian Coleman,
G4NNS. Tickets are £15 and include a buffet lunch, entrance to the
National Space Centre and free parking. Further details from Paul,
G4CSD 01256 470135, or online at www.britastro.org/radio.
Next Sunday sees the North Wales Rally at John Bright School, Llandudno
LL30 1LF. Opening from 10am to 4pm, admission is £4.50 and there are
disabled facilities. There will be trade stands, a Bring and Buy,
special interest groups and catering. Details from Gordon, MW0GBR 0773
3531 766, or online at www.nwrs.org.uk.
Now for the news of special events
Members of the Worked All Britain Awards Group and the British Amateur
Radio Lighthouse Society will be operating GB0RME from Great Ormes Head
on 27 October. Activity will be mostly on 40m and 80m. The WAB square
is SH78 and the Lighthouse reference is A5134X. The summit will not be
valid for SOTA as this activation does not fulfil their criteria. Full
details of GB0RME are on QRZ.com.
The 30m Multi Mode Weekend starts next Saturday. Its stated objective
is to promote experimenting and using different digital modes on the
30m band. The organisers are at pains to point out that this is not a
contest, although there is an awards programme. More details are online
at www.30mdg.net/news.html.
Ham Radio Celebrates Hollywood will be active on 28 October from 1600
to 2000UTC. The station is located on Stage 9 of the CBS Studio Center
facility in Studio City, California. Modes in use will include HF, VHF,
UHF, D-Star, Echolink and IRLP. A schedule of operating times and
frequencies is on www.papasys.com. Operators will blog in real time at
www.facebook.com/KA0XTT, and on Twitter as @NN6JA. A special QSL card
will be issued to all confirmed contacts.
And now the DX news compiled from 425 DX News and other sources
The Radio 7 team operation on Rodrigues Island, AF-017, finishes on
Tuesday. 3B9SP is active on 160-6m on CW, SSB and datamodes. QSL via
HB9ACA or the OQRS on ClubLog. Full details are at
http://hb9fr.ch/3b9sp.
The Canadian authorities have approved revised dates of October 22-31
for the DXpedition to Sable Island, NA-063. The two-man team of
WA4DAN/CY0 and AA4VK/CY0 will focus on 15, 12 and 10m. More information
is on the web at www.CY0dxpedition.com.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast. F1NGP will be working stroke FG from
Saint Francois Island in Guadeloupe, NA-102, until 26 October. He will
be active on 40 through 10m on CW, SSB and RTTY. QSL via his home
callsign.
N3IQ will be on the air as C6AQQ from Nassau's Providence Island,
NA-001, from 25 31 October. Activity will be mostly on the lower
bands. QSL via N3IQ, direct, via the bureau, Logbook of the WQorld or
eQSL.
Now the contest news
All contest times are UTC.
Today, from 0900 until 1200, it's the 50MHz AFS, which is a Super
League event. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal
report, serial number and locator.
On Tuesday the 50MHz UKAC takes place from 1900 to 2130. Using all
modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and
locator.
Also on Tuesday, the SHF UKAC is from 1900 to 2130 on the 2.3 to 10GHz
bands, all modes. Signal report, serial number and locator form the
exchange.
The 80m Club Sprint is on Thursday from 1900 to 2000. Using SSB only,
the exchange is serial number and name.
Next weekend sees the CQWW DX SSB Contest, from 0000 on Saturday until
2359 on Sunday. Using SSB on all contest bands from 3.5 28MHz, the
exchange is signal report and Zone, which is 14 for the UK.
And now the solar factual data for the period from Friday the 12th to
Thursday the 18th of October, compiled by Neil Clarke G0CAS on Friday
the 19th of October
Seven new sunspot groups appeared during the period, however, solar
activity was low on most days with a number of C class solar flares
taking place, except for the 13th when none took place and, as a
result, solar activity was very low. Solar flux levels increased from
122 units on the 12th to 138 by the 18th. The average was 132 units.
The 90 day solar flux average on the 18th was 119, that's one unit up
on last week. X-ray flux levels showed little variation day to day and
averaged B4.7 units. Geomagnetic activity increased to `minor storm'
levels at mid latitudes and `severe storm' levels at high latitudes on
the 13th with an Ap index of 52 units. Activity gradually declined and
was at quiet levels from the 15th. The average was Ap 15 units. The
solar wind data from the ACE spacecraft saw wind solar wind speeds
increase from 400 kilometres per second on the 12th to 600 during the
evening of the 13th. Particle densities were low every day. Bz, which
is the magnetic component of the solar wind, was minus 5 and plus 3
nanoTeslas on the quietest day and between minus 12 and plus 9
nanoTeslas during the disturbance. Except for the 13th, MUFs reached
predicted values and some trans-Atlantic working was reported at 28MHz.
VHF aurora was reported, particularly on the morning of the 13th but,
since this was only a mild disturbance, few contacts if any were
reported from the UK.
And finally the solar forecast for the coming week. The active side of
the Sun is still expected to be looking our way. Saying that, solar
activity is expected to be at low to moderate levels, with occasional M
class solar flares taking place on the odd day. Solar flux levels
should increase and be around the 150's later in the week. Geomagnetic
activity is expected to be mostly quiet, however, if a coronal mass
ejection heads our way then activity would increase. MUFs during
daylight hours at equal latitudes should be around 30MHz or even
slightly higher. Just a reminder that daytime highs normally take place
around local noon during the winter months. Darkness hour lows should
be about 8MHz. Paths this week to South America should have a maximum
usable frequency with a 50 per cent success rate of around 35MHz. The
optimum working frequency with a 90 per cent success rate will be about
27MHz. The best time to try this path will be between 1100 to 1600
hours UTC.
And that's all for this week from the propagation team.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
Next, the Local News:
Please note that details of all RSGB-affiliated clubs and societies can
be found on the RSGB
website, including email addresses and website links where known.
[Note to Newsreaders: Please read the local news items appropriate to
the service area of your transmission.]
NEWS FOR THE MIDLANDS We start with clubs that have several events this
week. Wythall Radio Club is holding club net on 145.225MHz today and
next Sunday. On Monday the Advanced course continues, and there's a
curry night at Monsoon. Dave Pick, G3YXM is speaking on Tuesday on
preparing for the 160m Club Calls Contest. On Thursday it's the RSGB
80m Club Sprint SSB Contest and on Friday there's a social evening in
the shack. Details from Chris, G0EYO, on 07710 412 819.
Friskney and East Lincolnshire Communications Club is running a club
net on Monday from 7pm on 144.165MHz USB, vertical polarisation. On
Wednesday there is a M3+M6 club net on GB3FR and on Friday there is a
club net on 3.748MHz. Contact the FELCC Information Line on 07554 362
020 for more information.
South Birmingham Radio Society is having an open meeting and ragchew on
Monday. On Thursday there are training classes by Dave Murphy, G8OWL,
and Friday sees shack and aerial work. Contact Don, on 01214 581 603.
Lincoln Short-Wave Club is taking part in the 50MHz UK AC on Tuesday.
The club used equipment sale is at Aisthorpe Village Hall on Wednesday.
Thursday sees the club net on 145.375MHz from 20.00, and participation
in the CQ World Wide Contest starts at 23.00 on Friday, continuing all
day Saturday. For more information contact Pam Rose, G4STO, on 01427
788 356.
Now we return to the traditional listing in date order. On Monday
Gloucester Amateur Radio & Electronics Society is on the air. Contact
Anne, 2E1GKY, on 01452 548 478, daytime.
On Tuesday Derby & District Amateur Radio Society is having an
illustrated talk on the work of the RAIBC by Russell, G0OKD. Contact
Richard Buckby, by email to ra...@dadars.org.uk.
On Tuesday Loughborough & District Amateur Radio Club is looking at
internet video. More information from Chris, G1ETZ, on 01509 504 319.
On Wednesday Midland Amateur Radio Society's new committee is looking
at social planning and training classes. Details from Norman, G8BHE, on
07808 078 003.
On Wednesday South Kesteven Amateur Radio Society is holding a club net
on 145.525MHz from 20.00 BST. Contact Nigel, M0CVO, on 01476 402 550.
On Wednesday South Notts Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on
propagation by M0RIA. Contact Robin, G4NDM, on 01159 372 942.
On Wednesday Telford & District Amateur Radio Society is having a video
presentation of a Hamfest lecture. Contact Mike, G3JKX, on 01952 299
677.
On Thursday Central Radio Amateur Circle is on the air from 20.00 on
145.375MHz. Details from Martin Hallard, G1TYV, by email to
radio-...@live.co.uk.
On Thursday Salop Amateur Radio Society is holding its AGM. Details on
the club website at www.salop-ars.org.uk.
On Thursday Tamworth Amateur Radio Society is having a night out on the
local high spots, meeting initially at the club. Details from Darren,
by email to secr...@tars.es.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
NEWS FOR THE NORTH OF ENGLAND On Monday Angel of the North Amateur
Radio Club is on the air. Contact Nancy Bone, G7UUR, on 01914 770 036.
On Monday Sheffield Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on motorbike
mobile in Germany by Roland, M0NUE. More information from Peter Day,
G3PHO, by email to sa...@g3pho.org.uk.
On Monday Workington and District Radio and IT Group is having a talk
on data modes by Alex, G7KSE. Details from Barry Easdon, G0RZI, on
01946 812 092.
On Tuesday Morecambe Bay Amateur Radio Society is having a data modes
night. Contact Sheila, on 07867 516 836.
On Wednesday Denby Dale Radio Club is on the air on 145.575MHz from
19.30. Details from Richard, M0RBG, on 07976 220 126.
On Wednesday South Lancashire Amateur Radio Club is having a visit by
RSGB president Dave Wilson, M0OBW and Region 3 Manager Kath Wilson,
M1CNY. They will be presenting two informative talks about the RSGB and
the operation of repeaters. Everyone is welcome, come to Bickershaw
Labour Club, Bickershaw Lane, Bickershaw, WN2 5TE. Entry is £1 on the
door, which includes a raffle ticket. Contact Allan Green, 2E0RAG, on
07533 970 841.
On Wednesday Hornsea Amateur Radio Club Club is having an activity
night and, on Thursday, is taking part in the 80m Club Sprint SSB.
Contact Gordon MacNaught, G3WOV, on 01377 240 573.
On Thursday South Manchester Radio and Computer Club is having a talk
on beginning DXing by John, G4IRN. Details from Ron, G3SVW, on 01619
693 999.
On Friday East Cleveland Amateur Radio Club is on the air. For more
information contact Alistair, G4OLK, on 01642 475 671.
On Saturday Tynemouth Amateur Radio Club commences its weekend
operating in the CQ Worldwide DX Contest. Contact Bob, M6KLO, by email
to ma...@g0nwm.com.
NEWS FOR NORTHERN IRELAND Mid Ulster Amateur Radio Club is recruiting
candidates for a new Foundation course. This will hopefully be followed
by an Intermediate course shortly afterwards. More details are on
Training link on the club website, www.muarc.com.
NEWS FOR SCOTLAND Jim Kelly, GM0SYV, RSGB Deputy Regional Manager for
District 12, that's Lanarkshire & Renfrewshire, has indicated he wishes
to stand down. The Society wishes to record its thanks for Jim's many
years of service. Deputy Regional Managers represent Members within
their area and are a key interface between the Society, local Members
and clubs. If you think you can meet the challenge of this key post,
please contact Len Paget, GM0ONX, on 01563 534 383 or email
r...@rsgb.org.uk for further details. Candidates for the post must be a
Corporate Member of the RSGB of at least 2 years standing and resident
within the area he/she wishes to represent.
On Tuesday Livingston & District Amateur Radio Society is having Morse
code practice. Details from Norman, GM1CNH, on 07740 946 192.
On Saturday Cockenzie & Port Seton Amateur Radio Club is taking part in
the CQWW SSB Contest. More information from Bob, GM4UYZ, on 01875 811
723.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
NEWS FOR THE SOUTH EAST and EAST ANGLIA We start with clubs that have
several events this week. Today, Chesham & District Amateur Radio
Society is taking part in JOTA with 1st Aylesbury Scouts, using the
callsign GB0AYL. On Wednesday there's a talk on using data modes by
Terry, G0VFW, including a demo of PSK31. More details from Terry,
G0VFW, on 01442 831 491.
Chelmsford Amateur Radio Society has its Top Band net on 1975kHz from
8.30pm on Tuesday. Thursday sees the Advanced exam revision course at
Danbury Village Hall from 7pm. Contact Martyn, G1EFL, on 01245 469 008.
Now we return to the traditional listing in date order. On Monday
Braintree & District Amateur Radio Society has its 70cm net. For more
information contact John, M5AJB, on 01787 460 947.
On Monday East Kent Radio Society is closed. Details from Karl Davies,
M1DFM, on 01227 710 120.
On Tuesday Brede Steam Amateur Radio Society is at the shack. For more
information contact Steve, on 01424 720 815.
On Tuesday Dorking & District Radio Society is having a talk by Peter
Hart, G3SJX, on receiver architectures and assessing their performance.
Contact Garth, G3NPC, on 01737 359 472.
On Tuesday Harwell Amateur Radio Society is having a shack activity
night. Details from Malcolm, G8NRP, on 01235 524 844.
On Wednesday Fareham and District Amateur Radio Club is having a grand
junk sale from 8pm. More information is on the web at
www.fareham-darc.co.uk/index.htm.
On Wednesday Farnborough & District Radio Society is having a talk by
Chris G0FDZ on the history, construction, purpose, trial and
tribulations of the 2m beacon GB3VHF at Wrotham, Kent. Contact Neville,
G3SPD, on 01252 404 816.
On Wednesday Newbury & District Amateur Radio Society is having a talk
by Tony, G4LDL on the real story of T32C. Contact Rob, G4LMW, on 01635
862 737.
On Wednesday Norfolk Amateur Radio Club is having a talk by Steve
Nichols, G0KYA, on living radio history in California. Details from
Chris Danby, G0DWV, on 01603 898 678.
On Wednesday Worthing & District Amateur Radio Club is having part 2 of
the talk on Linux and amateur radio by Gerry, M3ORE. Contact John,
G8FMJ, on 01273 593 232.
On Thursday Bittern DX Group Club is meeting at Pinewood Park Leisure
Club. Details from Linda, G0AJJ, on 01692 404 154.
On Thursday Edgware & District Radio Society is having a Morse key
evening. More information from Mike, G4RNW, on 02089 500 658.
On Thursday Havering & District Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on
Logbook Of The World by Dave, M0TAZ. More information from John, M0UKD,
on 07890 222 111.
On Thursday Reading & District Amateur Radio Club is holding its autumn
junk sale. Details from Pete, G8FRC, on 01189 695 697.
On Thursday Shefford & District Amateur Radio Society is having a talk
on propagation by a member of the RSGB team. Details from John Burnett,
M6JBU, on 07860 804 793.
On Thursday Vange Amateur Radio Society is having a natter night.
Contact Steve, G0KVZ, on 01268 552 606.
On Thursday Worthing & District Amateur Radio Club is taking part in
the 80m CW Sprint contest. Contact John, G8FMJ, on 01273 593 232.
On Friday Cambridge & District Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on
UHF aerials by Arthur, G3BMI. Contact Ron, G3KBR, on 01223 501 712.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast. On Friday Itchen Valley Amateur Radio
Club is looking at the RTL-SDR with Brian, G0UKB. Details from Liz,
M0ACL, on 02380 254 599.
On Friday Mid-Sussex Amateur Radio Society is holding its autumn fox
hunt. Cyprus Hall is closed. Contact Rob, 2E0RJA, on 01444 232 129.
On Friday Wimbledon & District Amateur Radio Society is holding its
AGM. Contact Andrew Maish, G4ADM, on 02083 353 434.
On Saturday Kent Weald Radio Club is holding a club meeting. Contact
Patrick, G0UXG, by email to pal...@btinternet.com.
On Saturday Shefford & District Amateur Radio Society is taking part in
the CQWW Contest from Barry's field. Details from John Burnett, M6JBU,
on 07860 804 793.
NEWS FOR THE SOUTH WEST Exeter Amateur Radio Society is having CW
practice and operations on Monday from 7pm at the Moose Centre. The 2m
net is on Tuesday and the 4m net is on Thursday. Contact Nick, 2E0NRJ,
on 01363 775 756.
On Monday Weston Super Mare Radio Society is having a construction
evening. Details from Paul, G3SDH, on 01761 221 206.
On Wednesday Thornbury & South Gloucestershire Amateur Radio Club is on
the air. Contact Tony, G0WMB, on 01454 417 048.
On Thursday South Bristol Amateur Radio Club is holding open house and
is on the air. Details from Andrew Jenner, G7KNA, on 07838 695 471.
On Thursday Swindon & District Amateur Radio Club is having an activity
night. Contact Den, M0ACM, on 07810 317 750.
On Friday Poole Radio Society is having an activity night and
Intermediate course session. Contact Bill Coombes, G4ERV, by email to
secr...@g4prs.org.uk.
On Friday Torbay Amateur Radio Society is having a visit by Tony Helm
with his mobile military radios. For more information contact Dave,
G6FSP, by email to g6...@tars.org.uk.
NEWS FOR WALES On Thursday Aberystwyth & District Amateur Radio Society
is having a club night on the air, starting on 145.500MHz then moving
to 145.550MHz. Details from Ray, GW7AGG, on 01970 611 853.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
Sunday 21 October 2012
The news headlines:
RSGB Extraordinary General Meeting, 17 November 2012
Is it time to validate your licence?
G6 QSL Manager details incorrect in RadCom
RSGB Members are now receiving their copy of the November 2012 RadCom.
Contained with in it are details of the EGM to be held on 17 November
2012, at which Members will be invited to vote on new governance
arrangements for the Society. RSGB Members can vote electronically via
the RSGB website, by post or in person at the EGM. The Board is very
keen to ensure that the outcome of the EGM accurately reflects the view
of the whole membership, and all Members are encouraged to cast their
vote.
If you received your Licence for Life between November 2006 and August
2007 and have not validated it with Ofcom since, then it's time to do
so. Ofcom extended the validation period of licences issued during that
time for an extra year, to avoid having a large number of validations
to process around the time of the London Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Amateurs are recommended to use the online licensing system at
www.ofcom.org.uk/licensing/olc. If you experience difficulties or need
assistance in processing your licence online, please call Ofcom on 0300
123 1000 or 020 7981 3131.
The QSL bureau wishes to apologise to Tony, G6GLP, for any
inconvenience caused by wrongly attributing his name and call to the G6
sub-series in the November issue of RadCom. The new collection
sub-manager for the G6 series of call signs is Steve Wellon, G6DMG. His
details can be found on the RSGB website by following the links to QSL
managers, via the Operating section. If any Member is concerned that
they may have recently sent collection envelopes to the wrong address,
please contact the QSL bureau. The phone number is 01422 359 362, or
email Q...@RSGB.org.uk.
At 6pm last Sunday the Emergency Planning Officer from Maldon District
Council requested Essex RAYNET to be placed on standby, in response to
flood alerts issued by the Environment Agency. At 8pm, members were
mobilised. They were deployed to the riverbanks at Heybridge Basin,
Fulbridge and the Hythe in Maldon. This was in preparation for the high
tide and tidal surge due at quarter to one in the morning. High tide
was reached without any significant incident, and the stand down was
issued at 1am. Further information on Essex RAYNET can be found online
at www.essexraynet.co.uk.
An amateur radio balloon project launched in May finally ended this
month with the recovery of the payload. Argentinean amateurs, members
of AMSAT-LU, launched a high altitude balloon on 19 May from La Pampa,
Argentina. The payload included a 70cm to 2m 4W FM repeater, live SSTV,
an HF beacon and two video cameras. During the 4 hour flight, over 200
stations made contacts through the repeater. The balloon came down in
an isolated and flooded area. It was finally recovered from the mud by
a 4x4 adventure group on 6 October. The flight data was retrieved,
including over 6 hours of video from the two cameras. Details can be
found at www.uk.amsat.org/?p=11094.
The famous Alexanderson SAQ CW transmitter will be on the air on 24
October, celebrating United Nations Day. The electromechanical 17.2kHz
transmitter will be started at 1010UTC and a message will be sent at
1030UTC. More details are on the Alexanderson website,
www.alexander.n.se.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast. Ofcom has announced that it intends
to legalise AM and SSB CB apparatus, subject to the MOD agreeing to the
use of spectrum allocated to it. According to the statement on the
Ofcom website, the relevant ECC Decision about harmonising CB across
Europe should probably be implemented in the UK by the end of 2013. The
statement indicates that there are several legislative and other steps
that must first be carried out. It also points out that, until these
changes are implemented, it will remain an offence to install or use
AM, SSB or any other CB apparatus other than in accordance with the
current exemption regulations and Interface Requirement. The full Ofcom
statement is at http://tinyurl.com/Ofcom-SSB-CB.
And now for the details of rallies and events for the coming week
Today sees the Galashiels and District ARS radio rally at The Volunteer
Hall, St Johns Street, Galashiels, Scottish Borders TD1 3JX. Entry is
£2.50 and the opening time is 11.30, or 11.15 for those with special
needs. Details from Jim, GM7LUN, on 01896 850 245.
Also today, the Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society rally and
surplus equipment sale takes place from 10.30 at The Hugh Ripley Hall,
Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 2TP. Admission is £2. Details are available
online at www.ripon.org.uk/content/radars-rally-2012.
On Saturday 27 October the Radio Astronomy Group of the British
Astronomical Association will be holding a one-day meeting at the
National Space Centre in Leicester. The main speakers will be Prof
Andrew Lyne from Jodrell Bank and Dr Chris North from Cardiff
University, who is also a co-presenter for the BBC's Sky at Night.
Other papers will be presented by Peter Blair, G3LTF and Brian Coleman,
G4NNS. Tickets are £15 and include a buffet lunch, entrance to the
National Space Centre and free parking. Further details from Paul,
G4CSD 01256 470135, or online at www.britastro.org/radio.
Next Sunday sees the North Wales Rally at John Bright School, Llandudno
LL30 1LF. Opening from 10am to 4pm, admission is £4.50 and there are
disabled facilities. There will be trade stands, a Bring and Buy,
special interest groups and catering. Details from Gordon, MW0GBR 0773
3531 766, or online at www.nwrs.org.uk.
Now for the news of special events
Members of the Worked All Britain Awards Group and the British Amateur
Radio Lighthouse Society will be operating GB0RME from Great Ormes Head
on 27 October. Activity will be mostly on 40m and 80m. The WAB square
is SH78 and the Lighthouse reference is A5134X. The summit will not be
valid for SOTA as this activation does not fulfil their criteria. Full
details of GB0RME are on QRZ.com.
The 30m Multi Mode Weekend starts next Saturday. Its stated objective
is to promote experimenting and using different digital modes on the
30m band. The organisers are at pains to point out that this is not a
contest, although there is an awards programme. More details are online
at www.30mdg.net/news.html.
Ham Radio Celebrates Hollywood will be active on 28 October from 1600
to 2000UTC. The station is located on Stage 9 of the CBS Studio Center
facility in Studio City, California. Modes in use will include HF, VHF,
UHF, D-Star, Echolink and IRLP. A schedule of operating times and
frequencies is on www.papasys.com. Operators will blog in real time at
www.facebook.com/KA0XTT, and on Twitter as @NN6JA. A special QSL card
will be issued to all confirmed contacts.
And now the DX news compiled from 425 DX News and other sources
The Radio 7 team operation on Rodrigues Island, AF-017, finishes on
Tuesday. 3B9SP is active on 160-6m on CW, SSB and datamodes. QSL via
HB9ACA or the OQRS on ClubLog. Full details are at
http://hb9fr.ch/3b9sp.
The Canadian authorities have approved revised dates of October 22-31
for the DXpedition to Sable Island, NA-063. The two-man team of
WA4DAN/CY0 and AA4VK/CY0 will focus on 15, 12 and 10m. More information
is on the web at www.CY0dxpedition.com.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast. F1NGP will be working stroke FG from
Saint Francois Island in Guadeloupe, NA-102, until 26 October. He will
be active on 40 through 10m on CW, SSB and RTTY. QSL via his home
callsign.
N3IQ will be on the air as C6AQQ from Nassau's Providence Island,
NA-001, from 25 31 October. Activity will be mostly on the lower
bands. QSL via N3IQ, direct, via the bureau, Logbook of the WQorld or
eQSL.
Now the contest news
All contest times are UTC.
Today, from 0900 until 1200, it's the 50MHz AFS, which is a Super
League event. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal
report, serial number and locator.
On Tuesday the 50MHz UKAC takes place from 1900 to 2130. Using all
modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and
locator.
Also on Tuesday, the SHF UKAC is from 1900 to 2130 on the 2.3 to 10GHz
bands, all modes. Signal report, serial number and locator form the
exchange.
The 80m Club Sprint is on Thursday from 1900 to 2000. Using SSB only,
the exchange is serial number and name.
Next weekend sees the CQWW DX SSB Contest, from 0000 on Saturday until
2359 on Sunday. Using SSB on all contest bands from 3.5 28MHz, the
exchange is signal report and Zone, which is 14 for the UK.
And now the solar factual data for the period from Friday the 12th to
Thursday the 18th of October, compiled by Neil Clarke G0CAS on Friday
the 19th of October
Seven new sunspot groups appeared during the period, however, solar
activity was low on most days with a number of C class solar flares
taking place, except for the 13th when none took place and, as a
result, solar activity was very low. Solar flux levels increased from
122 units on the 12th to 138 by the 18th. The average was 132 units.
The 90 day solar flux average on the 18th was 119, that's one unit up
on last week. X-ray flux levels showed little variation day to day and
averaged B4.7 units. Geomagnetic activity increased to `minor storm'
levels at mid latitudes and `severe storm' levels at high latitudes on
the 13th with an Ap index of 52 units. Activity gradually declined and
was at quiet levels from the 15th. The average was Ap 15 units. The
solar wind data from the ACE spacecraft saw wind solar wind speeds
increase from 400 kilometres per second on the 12th to 600 during the
evening of the 13th. Particle densities were low every day. Bz, which
is the magnetic component of the solar wind, was minus 5 and plus 3
nanoTeslas on the quietest day and between minus 12 and plus 9
nanoTeslas during the disturbance. Except for the 13th, MUFs reached
predicted values and some trans-Atlantic working was reported at 28MHz.
VHF aurora was reported, particularly on the morning of the 13th but,
since this was only a mild disturbance, few contacts if any were
reported from the UK.
And finally the solar forecast for the coming week. The active side of
the Sun is still expected to be looking our way. Saying that, solar
activity is expected to be at low to moderate levels, with occasional M
class solar flares taking place on the odd day. Solar flux levels
should increase and be around the 150's later in the week. Geomagnetic
activity is expected to be mostly quiet, however, if a coronal mass
ejection heads our way then activity would increase. MUFs during
daylight hours at equal latitudes should be around 30MHz or even
slightly higher. Just a reminder that daytime highs normally take place
around local noon during the winter months. Darkness hour lows should
be about 8MHz. Paths this week to South America should have a maximum
usable frequency with a 50 per cent success rate of around 35MHz. The
optimum working frequency with a 90 per cent success rate will be about
27MHz. The best time to try this path will be between 1100 to 1600
hours UTC.
And that's all for this week from the propagation team.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
Next, the Local News:
Please note that details of all RSGB-affiliated clubs and societies can
be found on the RSGB
website, including email addresses and website links where known.
[Note to Newsreaders: Please read the local news items appropriate to
the service area of your transmission.]
NEWS FOR THE MIDLANDS We start with clubs that have several events this
week. Wythall Radio Club is holding club net on 145.225MHz today and
next Sunday. On Monday the Advanced course continues, and there's a
curry night at Monsoon. Dave Pick, G3YXM is speaking on Tuesday on
preparing for the 160m Club Calls Contest. On Thursday it's the RSGB
80m Club Sprint SSB Contest and on Friday there's a social evening in
the shack. Details from Chris, G0EYO, on 07710 412 819.
Friskney and East Lincolnshire Communications Club is running a club
net on Monday from 7pm on 144.165MHz USB, vertical polarisation. On
Wednesday there is a M3+M6 club net on GB3FR and on Friday there is a
club net on 3.748MHz. Contact the FELCC Information Line on 07554 362
020 for more information.
South Birmingham Radio Society is having an open meeting and ragchew on
Monday. On Thursday there are training classes by Dave Murphy, G8OWL,
and Friday sees shack and aerial work. Contact Don, on 01214 581 603.
Lincoln Short-Wave Club is taking part in the 50MHz UK AC on Tuesday.
The club used equipment sale is at Aisthorpe Village Hall on Wednesday.
Thursday sees the club net on 145.375MHz from 20.00, and participation
in the CQ World Wide Contest starts at 23.00 on Friday, continuing all
day Saturday. For more information contact Pam Rose, G4STO, on 01427
788 356.
Now we return to the traditional listing in date order. On Monday
Gloucester Amateur Radio & Electronics Society is on the air. Contact
Anne, 2E1GKY, on 01452 548 478, daytime.
On Tuesday Derby & District Amateur Radio Society is having an
illustrated talk on the work of the RAIBC by Russell, G0OKD. Contact
Richard Buckby, by email to ra...@dadars.org.uk.
On Tuesday Loughborough & District Amateur Radio Club is looking at
internet video. More information from Chris, G1ETZ, on 01509 504 319.
On Wednesday Midland Amateur Radio Society's new committee is looking
at social planning and training classes. Details from Norman, G8BHE, on
07808 078 003.
On Wednesday South Kesteven Amateur Radio Society is holding a club net
on 145.525MHz from 20.00 BST. Contact Nigel, M0CVO, on 01476 402 550.
On Wednesday South Notts Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on
propagation by M0RIA. Contact Robin, G4NDM, on 01159 372 942.
On Wednesday Telford & District Amateur Radio Society is having a video
presentation of a Hamfest lecture. Contact Mike, G3JKX, on 01952 299
677.
On Thursday Central Radio Amateur Circle is on the air from 20.00 on
145.375MHz. Details from Martin Hallard, G1TYV, by email to
radio-...@live.co.uk.
On Thursday Salop Amateur Radio Society is holding its AGM. Details on
the club website at www.salop-ars.org.uk.
On Thursday Tamworth Amateur Radio Society is having a night out on the
local high spots, meeting initially at the club. Details from Darren,
by email to secr...@tars.es.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
NEWS FOR THE NORTH OF ENGLAND On Monday Angel of the North Amateur
Radio Club is on the air. Contact Nancy Bone, G7UUR, on 01914 770 036.
On Monday Sheffield Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on motorbike
mobile in Germany by Roland, M0NUE. More information from Peter Day,
G3PHO, by email to sa...@g3pho.org.uk.
On Monday Workington and District Radio and IT Group is having a talk
on data modes by Alex, G7KSE. Details from Barry Easdon, G0RZI, on
01946 812 092.
On Tuesday Morecambe Bay Amateur Radio Society is having a data modes
night. Contact Sheila, on 07867 516 836.
On Wednesday Denby Dale Radio Club is on the air on 145.575MHz from
19.30. Details from Richard, M0RBG, on 07976 220 126.
On Wednesday South Lancashire Amateur Radio Club is having a visit by
RSGB president Dave Wilson, M0OBW and Region 3 Manager Kath Wilson,
M1CNY. They will be presenting two informative talks about the RSGB and
the operation of repeaters. Everyone is welcome, come to Bickershaw
Labour Club, Bickershaw Lane, Bickershaw, WN2 5TE. Entry is £1 on the
door, which includes a raffle ticket. Contact Allan Green, 2E0RAG, on
07533 970 841.
On Wednesday Hornsea Amateur Radio Club Club is having an activity
night and, on Thursday, is taking part in the 80m Club Sprint SSB.
Contact Gordon MacNaught, G3WOV, on 01377 240 573.
On Thursday South Manchester Radio and Computer Club is having a talk
on beginning DXing by John, G4IRN. Details from Ron, G3SVW, on 01619
693 999.
On Friday East Cleveland Amateur Radio Club is on the air. For more
information contact Alistair, G4OLK, on 01642 475 671.
On Saturday Tynemouth Amateur Radio Club commences its weekend
operating in the CQ Worldwide DX Contest. Contact Bob, M6KLO, by email
to ma...@g0nwm.com.
NEWS FOR NORTHERN IRELAND Mid Ulster Amateur Radio Club is recruiting
candidates for a new Foundation course. This will hopefully be followed
by an Intermediate course shortly afterwards. More details are on
Training link on the club website, www.muarc.com.
NEWS FOR SCOTLAND Jim Kelly, GM0SYV, RSGB Deputy Regional Manager for
District 12, that's Lanarkshire & Renfrewshire, has indicated he wishes
to stand down. The Society wishes to record its thanks for Jim's many
years of service. Deputy Regional Managers represent Members within
their area and are a key interface between the Society, local Members
and clubs. If you think you can meet the challenge of this key post,
please contact Len Paget, GM0ONX, on 01563 534 383 or email
r...@rsgb.org.uk for further details. Candidates for the post must be a
Corporate Member of the RSGB of at least 2 years standing and resident
within the area he/she wishes to represent.
On Tuesday Livingston & District Amateur Radio Society is having Morse
code practice. Details from Norman, GM1CNH, on 07740 946 192.
On Saturday Cockenzie & Port Seton Amateur Radio Club is taking part in
the CQWW SSB Contest. More information from Bob, GM4UYZ, on 01875 811
723.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
NEWS FOR THE SOUTH EAST and EAST ANGLIA We start with clubs that have
several events this week. Today, Chesham & District Amateur Radio
Society is taking part in JOTA with 1st Aylesbury Scouts, using the
callsign GB0AYL. On Wednesday there's a talk on using data modes by
Terry, G0VFW, including a demo of PSK31. More details from Terry,
G0VFW, on 01442 831 491.
Chelmsford Amateur Radio Society has its Top Band net on 1975kHz from
8.30pm on Tuesday. Thursday sees the Advanced exam revision course at
Danbury Village Hall from 7pm. Contact Martyn, G1EFL, on 01245 469 008.
Now we return to the traditional listing in date order. On Monday
Braintree & District Amateur Radio Society has its 70cm net. For more
information contact John, M5AJB, on 01787 460 947.
On Monday East Kent Radio Society is closed. Details from Karl Davies,
M1DFM, on 01227 710 120.
On Tuesday Brede Steam Amateur Radio Society is at the shack. For more
information contact Steve, on 01424 720 815.
On Tuesday Dorking & District Radio Society is having a talk by Peter
Hart, G3SJX, on receiver architectures and assessing their performance.
Contact Garth, G3NPC, on 01737 359 472.
On Tuesday Harwell Amateur Radio Society is having a shack activity
night. Details from Malcolm, G8NRP, on 01235 524 844.
On Wednesday Fareham and District Amateur Radio Club is having a grand
junk sale from 8pm. More information is on the web at
www.fareham-darc.co.uk/index.htm.
On Wednesday Farnborough & District Radio Society is having a talk by
Chris G0FDZ on the history, construction, purpose, trial and
tribulations of the 2m beacon GB3VHF at Wrotham, Kent. Contact Neville,
G3SPD, on 01252 404 816.
On Wednesday Newbury & District Amateur Radio Society is having a talk
by Tony, G4LDL on the real story of T32C. Contact Rob, G4LMW, on 01635
862 737.
On Wednesday Norfolk Amateur Radio Club is having a talk by Steve
Nichols, G0KYA, on living radio history in California. Details from
Chris Danby, G0DWV, on 01603 898 678.
On Wednesday Worthing & District Amateur Radio Club is having part 2 of
the talk on Linux and amateur radio by Gerry, M3ORE. Contact John,
G8FMJ, on 01273 593 232.
On Thursday Bittern DX Group Club is meeting at Pinewood Park Leisure
Club. Details from Linda, G0AJJ, on 01692 404 154.
On Thursday Edgware & District Radio Society is having a Morse key
evening. More information from Mike, G4RNW, on 02089 500 658.
On Thursday Havering & District Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on
Logbook Of The World by Dave, M0TAZ. More information from John, M0UKD,
on 07890 222 111.
On Thursday Reading & District Amateur Radio Club is holding its autumn
junk sale. Details from Pete, G8FRC, on 01189 695 697.
On Thursday Shefford & District Amateur Radio Society is having a talk
on propagation by a member of the RSGB team. Details from John Burnett,
M6JBU, on 07860 804 793.
On Thursday Vange Amateur Radio Society is having a natter night.
Contact Steve, G0KVZ, on 01268 552 606.
On Thursday Worthing & District Amateur Radio Club is taking part in
the 80m CW Sprint contest. Contact John, G8FMJ, on 01273 593 232.
On Friday Cambridge & District Amateur Radio Club is having a talk on
UHF aerials by Arthur, G3BMI. Contact Ron, G3KBR, on 01223 501 712.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast. On Friday Itchen Valley Amateur Radio
Club is looking at the RTL-SDR with Brian, G0UKB. Details from Liz,
M0ACL, on 02380 254 599.
On Friday Mid-Sussex Amateur Radio Society is holding its autumn fox
hunt. Cyprus Hall is closed. Contact Rob, 2E0RJA, on 01444 232 129.
On Friday Wimbledon & District Amateur Radio Society is holding its
AGM. Contact Andrew Maish, G4ADM, on 02083 353 434.
On Saturday Kent Weald Radio Club is holding a club meeting. Contact
Patrick, G0UXG, by email to pal...@btinternet.com.
On Saturday Shefford & District Amateur Radio Society is taking part in
the CQWW Contest from Barry's field. Details from John Burnett, M6JBU,
on 07860 804 793.
NEWS FOR THE SOUTH WEST Exeter Amateur Radio Society is having CW
practice and operations on Monday from 7pm at the Moose Centre. The 2m
net is on Tuesday and the 4m net is on Thursday. Contact Nick, 2E0NRJ,
on 01363 775 756.
On Monday Weston Super Mare Radio Society is having a construction
evening. Details from Paul, G3SDH, on 01761 221 206.
On Wednesday Thornbury & South Gloucestershire Amateur Radio Club is on
the air. Contact Tony, G0WMB, on 01454 417 048.
On Thursday South Bristol Amateur Radio Club is holding open house and
is on the air. Details from Andrew Jenner, G7KNA, on 07838 695 471.
On Thursday Swindon & District Amateur Radio Club is having an activity
night. Contact Den, M0ACM, on 07810 317 750.
On Friday Poole Radio Society is having an activity night and
Intermediate course session. Contact Bill Coombes, G4ERV, by email to
secr...@g4prs.org.uk.
On Friday Torbay Amateur Radio Society is having a visit by Tony Helm
with his mobile military radios. For more information contact Dave,
G6FSP, by email to g6...@tars.org.uk.
NEWS FOR WALES On Thursday Aberystwyth & District Amateur Radio Society
is having a club night on the air, starting on 145.500MHz then moving
to 145.550MHz. Details from Ray, GW7AGG, on 01970 611 853.
Copyright © RSGB 2012. Not for public release before Monday 22 October
2012 except as a GB2RS broadcast.
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