Monday, December 5, 2016

Portable Ops at Dec 3rd Samson, AL Rocket Launch

I squeezed in some amateur radio at the Southeast Alabama Rocketry Society (SEARS) launch in Samson, Al. My goal was to QSO with my friends on 40 meters. I used a 40 meter dipole 9 feet above the field to take advantage of NVIS propagation.  My rig was the KX2 at 10 watts.



I had success working:

  • Bob WB4BLX in Panama City (85 miles) CW
  • Bob W5RE in Crestview, FL (49 miles) CW
  • Tom WD0HBR in Dothan, AL (50 miles) CW
  • Phil N4STC in Panama City, FL (85 miles) SSB
  • Steve N4VSP in Lynn Haven, FL (85 miles) SSB
  • Bob KK4DIV in Chipley, FL (48 miles) SSB 
Thanks Guys!

KK4DIV was running 5 watts to Chameleon Loop from the Falling Waters State Park. I was very pleased. This antenna is a good choice for 40 meters particularly the close in contacts. I can shorten it up for higher bands as well. I forgot the stakes that came with the poles but I improvised. The poles breakdown into 3 foot sections that are pack-able. Here are a few more photos from the launch.

Russ Roberts R2D2

R2D2 Launch


Roy Houchin's Christmas Rocket

Suzy meets Toby who lives with Mike AI4NS