Unexpected costs may put Namibian VHF/Satellite DXpedition in jeopardy

Unexpected vehicle and equipment expenses may put the Namibian VHF/Satellite DX-pedition into jeopardy.

SA AMSAT has set up a fund to handle contributions towards the cost of the expedition. Individual Radio Amateurs and clubs are urged to make contributions to ensure that the Namibian event is a great success.

Contributions can be paid into the SA AMSAT account at ABSA account number 560 153 171. The branch code is 632 005.

The expedition includes operation on a number of VHF bands and modes. The team will be led by HB9CRQ, one of Europe's top EME operators and will include moon bounce operation on 50, 144, 432 and 1 296 MHz. January is also one of the peak months for Tropospheric ducting propagation in the South Atlantic ocean and experienced tropo operators will be making a serious attempt to complete the first ever 144 MHz contact spanning the Atlantic Ocean.

Satellite operation is also planned and even using the low earth-orbiting satellites the location should give good coverage including all of Africa and much of the eastern portion of South America.

The group will assemble in Pretoria on January 5th and will leave early the following morning for the drive to Luderitz where the station will be put into operation on arrival. The last day of operation is expected to be on the 16 January.

Please assist with a financial contribution. When doing an internet banking transfer please indicate that it is for the Namibian DX-edition and send an email to saamsat@intekom.co.za with your contact details.

All contributors will be acknowledged on the SA AMSAT website.