At 0915z I switched on 15m FT8 RX using the FT817ND and the indoor loop. It is currently 0937z and so far 37 stations have already been spotted.
UPDATE 1007z: 83 stations spotted today so far on 15m FT8 RX. As 15m is looking so much like yesterday, maybe I should QSY to 10m FT8?
UPDATE 1030z: 99 stations spotted. Now QSYed to 10m.
Many years ago, I used to really enjoy this contest. Working on 10m SSB it was possible to work many stations. Since my voice was adversely affected by my stroke, it has been harder. It is even harder still if you do as I did and totally forgot it was on!
The last weekend in October should have been in my diary. Mind you, on 10m with an indoor loop at this part of the solar cycle it would have been hard work. Maybe next year?
The rules for the 2020 contests (SSB and CW) are attached, even though these have passed.
At 1845z, I QSYed to 2m FT8 with 2.5W and the big-wheel omni antenna. It is now 1852z. Already 5 stations have spotted me.
UPDATE 2245z: 11 stations spotted me this evening with the furthermost being GI6ATZ (479km). Now QRT.
As I write (1030z Saturday) the head of the UK and EU are going to speak on the 'phone and as yet there is no BREXIT trade deal, even though to have one is in everyone's interest.
I suspect there is brinkmanship on both sides. In these last few weeks, I think these children should throw away their toys and behave as grown-ups if this is possible. We all know that is what is best.
Go on, get a mutually good deal that all can sell as a success.
UPDATE 1848z: Talks to continue on Sunday.
You will be pleased to know that OFCOM is considering its strategy for the radio spectrum in the years ahead. It is navel gazing about the future. Sorry, "vision". See the OFCOM website.
It is now 0950z. At about 0915z I turned on 15m FT8 RX. So far today, 67 stations in Asia and Europe spotted. Still using the FT817ND and the tiny loop on the shack windowsill.
I find it incredible that some stations are so strong. One Ukrainian station was +2dB S/N even with the tiny loop!
UPDATE 1005z: So far today, 81 stations have been spotted on 15m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1128z: 134 stations spotted so far today on 15m FT8 RX with the tiny indoor loop and FT817ND in 4 continents.
