Roger G3XBM's (Mainly) Amateur Radio Blog

3 Jul 2023

Berlin Zoo - NOT amateur radio

Although not a zoo person, today we visited Berlin's famous zoo.

How it all started

We all have different ways of getting into amateur radio. Some of us started as CBers with others taking a different route. I was reminded of my own journey that started in 1961 by this photo that I saw today of a Radio Shack 1970s 3 transistor regen RX that someone made and still has. My own journey started with a similar Heathkit.

Northern Iceland - NOT amateur radio

This was northern Iceland in 2011.

My station 1990s style

The photo shows my station in the 1990s. I think I have far less now.

Not everyone's taste - NOT amateur radio

This is Berlin Cathedral. It is a very decorated, domed building.

I prefer the simplicity of English cathedrals. All in continental Europe seem very ornate - too ornate for me!

Sunspots - Monday July 3rd 2023

Solar flux is 170 and the SSN 126. A=5 and K=1.

2 Jul 2023

European Es

At the moment Es in Europe looks excellent with widespread openings on several bands.

See https://www.tvcomm.co.uk/g7izu/radio-propagation-maps/europe-sporadic-e/

Berlin TV tower - NOT amateur radio

This is the highest structure in Germany. It is the TV tower in what was East Berlin. There is a revolving restaurant up there too.

On the water in Berlin - NOT amateur radio

This morning we went on a boat trip around Berlin. It was good to see places from a totally different angle.

G3TFX

About 10 years ago Richard G3TFX told my wife to get me to hospital quick. His decision probably saved my life. The photo shows him with me having a chat about 6 months after coming out of hospital.