11 Jan 2021
10 Jan 2021
QSY to 2m FT8 QRP (Sunday)
Just before 1700z, I QSYed from 10m to 2m FT8 QRP. I am running 2.5W to the big-wheel omni antenna. Already I have spotted 2 stations and my QRP has been spotted by 9 stations.
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| Stations spotting my 2.5W 2m FT8 this evening |
Life - NOT amateur radio
Some days ago I mentioned the estimates for the number of planets in the visible universe. The numbers are staggering. Assuming just a very small number of these have intelligent life, that still leaves a huge number.
I have no idea how many humans have existed over time, but I am estimating 10,000,000,000. To be a conscious being alive today on Earth is an incredible thing. Just think, if just one of our ancestors had not had children then we would not be here. Amazing.
No doubt in the years to come our understanding of the universe will change dramatically, but one could be forgiven for thinking each of us is unimportant, yet the opposite seems to be true. Each of us seems important and our love and kindness seem to matter.
No, life and consciousness are deep mysteries. Most religions try to answer these issues, but only hint. All seem too small.
10m FT8 QRP (Sunday)
Since about 1140z, I have been on 10m QRP FT8 with 2.5W and the indoor loop. No spots yet.
UPDATE 1644z: No spots today on 10m FT8.
UPDATE 1715z: Just a single local QSO all day.
G3XBM history
My history in amateur radio goes right back to the early 1960s. On my main website is a page about my history. In all those years we have seen many changes in our hobby. I still enjoy it.
9 Jan 2021
Less meat? - NOT amateur radio
Although I enjoy meat I am sure I could be perfectly happy as a vegetarian or even vegan. Looking at non-meat recipes they look just as good and are no doubt better for the planet. Over time I am sure that adverts will persuade us to eat less meat. It doesn't bother me. Quite a few people are trying to go meatless in January. They probably save money too.
Oscar 100 activity
Activity levels on the narrowband transponder of the geosynchronous satellite Oscar 100 seem to be quite high today. My quick look on the Web SDR at Goonhilly Downs in Cornwall was late afternoon in Europe.
2m FT8 RX (Saturday)
It is now 1339z. A short while ago I went on 2m FT8 RX with the FT817ND and big-wheel omni antenna. So far G4YTM (179km) spotted and 3 other Gs. Furthermost is 2E1EMK (182km).
UPDATE 1353z: Now 6 stations in 2 countries spotted.
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| Spots of me to 1620z on 2m FT8 TX (2.5W) |
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| Stations spotted today on 2m FT8 RX |
