The Annual 13 Colonies Special Event
The 13 Colonies Special Event is an annual amateur radio event that takes place during the week of July 1st to commemorate the history of the original 13 colonies of the United States. It is organized by a group of amateur radio operators and stations located in the original 13 colonies.
The 13 Colonies Special Event is an annual amateur radio event that takes place during the week of July 1st to commemorate the history of the original 13 colonies of the United States. It is organized by a group of amateur radio operators and stations located in the original 13 colonies.
During the event, amateur radio operators from each of the 13 colonies set up special event stations with unique call signs and operators. Participants try to make contact with as many of these special event stations as possible to earn a certificate and/or special award.
The event typically runs for a week and operators may use various amateur radio bands and modes to make contacts. It provides an opportunity for amateur radio enthusiasts to learn about the history of the 13 colonies while engaging in the hobby.
When: July 1st through July 7th, 2023
Bands: All HF bands will be in play, including the WARC bands, with the exception of 60 meters. Using simplex on 2 meters and 6 meters is encouraged.
Modes: All modes of operation may be represented – SSB, CW, RTTY, Digital, Etc. – The mode of operation is up to the individual colony state station.
The exchange for this event is: CALL SIGN, RS / RST / RSQ, STATE / PROVINCE or COUNTRY
exchange example : This is AF4Y, I copy your 59, you are 59 into Kentucky
For a list of stations, rules, or more info visit http://www.13colonies.us/
Bluegrass Amateur Radio Society Launches Pico Balloon AI4SR-14 During Field Day
Jim Schings AI4SR built and tested the pico balloon transmitter and the weather held of for the launch during the Bluegrass Amateur Radio Society Field Day event.
Actual launch is around 4:00 minute mark, thanks to Sean Foley AC4H for the video on his Facebook.
As of the writing of this article the balloon has made it’s way southeast from Lexington, crossing over areas of Perry County (Buckhorn) and Harlan County (Cumberland) in Kentucky. Then on over the communities of Keokee and Gate City in Virginia while continuing to Kingsport, Tennessee. The balloon then took an eastward track across North Carolina. It currently is tracking a northeastward path and is out over the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of New York. Current speed is 39 miles per hour and it’s altitude was roughly 29,000 feet. You can track the balloon’s progress on APRS.FI by clicking here.
