Updates from the Peter I DXpedition team!

22nd February - 2200UTC

We are now anchored 1.2 miles off the NW coast of the island in 68 meters of water. We are experiencing 15ft seas and winds at 25 knts gusting higher. It is a bit uncomfortable and the team has broken out their sea sickness medications.

Gordon WØRUN dismantles an operating position

We are awaiting another break in the WX to retrieve our final loads. The WX forecast is not good for another few days, so we may be here awhile. The decision to pull the team off the island a few days early is looking better all the time. We are QRV as XR9A/mm during the evenings and mornings here! The rig is a ICOM 756 Pro III and a Hustler 4BTV mounted on the stern rail.

Our time is split between various activities; for example, coniderable time is being spent collecting the 17,000 photo images that the team members have taken and compiling them. Some of the fotos are absolutely stunning.

There is also a lounge with a TV and DVD player. Typically about half the team can be found there watching movies or asleep in their chairs. The other hangouts are the bridge, the dining room and the specially designed ham shack and now photo compilation room. Otherwise their only option is their small room or bunk. Hanging about outside is not an option.

Just waiting and watching!

22nd February - 1650UTC

The ship's helicopter attempts to collect another load from the island

As previously reported, during helicopter operations yesterday to remove the remaining equipment and shelters, heavy fog forced stoppage of helicopter operations.

We can now report that this resulted in four people having to remain on the island for approximately 19 hours.

Per our contingency planning for evacuation of the island, these individuals had the necessary food, supplies, and materials for a shelter to allow them to remain on the island for an extended time.

We were in continuous radio contact with the three members of the ship's crew and Mr. Charles Veley. Although cold and wet, they were never in significant danger.

This morning at approximately 1100 UTC a helicopter flight was possible and these individuala are now safely back aboard the ship.

73's to all from The Peter I team!

• Historic QSO between 3Y0X and NA1SS
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