Memorial Day POTA activation in Maine

by Micah (N4MJL) As a junior pilot on the seniority list at American Airlines, it was no surprise to me when my May schedule had me flying all of Memorial Day weekend. Fortunately, it was a pleasant surprise to see that I had a decent overnight in Portland, Maine. I was scheduled for 15 hours … Read more

ANS-159 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

AMSAT News Service ANS-159 June 8, 2025 In this edition: Nominations Close Soon for 2025 AMSAT Board of Directors Election NOAA-18 Decommissioned Request for Expression of Interest for futureGEO Project SO-125 FM Transponder Activated Changes to AMSAT TLE Distribution for June 6, 2025 ARISS News AMSAT Ambassador Activities Satellite Shorts From All Over The AMSAT … Read more

Two Compact Microphones for the Elecraft KX2 & KX3

Many thanks to Dean (KG7WGX) who recently shared a couple of interesting microphone alternatives for voice/SSB ops who use the Elecraft KX2 or KX3—especially in portable or pedestrian mobile setups. Dean mentioned that while the stock Elecraft MH3 mic is excellent, it can feel a bit bulky for field use, especially when packing light for … Read more

Post-Hamvention POTA: A Challenging but Relaxing Activation with Friends in Dayton

Sunday, May 18, 2025, was the final day of Hamvention. It’s typically the slowest day, and I’ve even been known to skip it in favor of doing POTA with friends instead. This particular Sunday, though, my dear friend Vince (VE6LK) was giving a mid-morning presentation about building go-boxes, so Eric (WD8RIF), Miles (KD8KNC), Len (W8VQ), … Read more

James’ first POTA activation with the IC-705

Many thanks to James (KI5OEB) who shares the following field report: My First POTA Activation with a New Radio by James (KI5OEB) I decided, thanks to the influence of many people, mainly Thomas K4SWL and Steve KM9G, to purchase my first-ever new transceiver. I purchased an ICOM IC-705 from a retailer that had an open … Read more

Scott Compares the FTX-1 and IC-705

If you’re curious about the new Yaesu FTX-1 field radio and how it compares to the Icom IC-705, Scott (KK4Z) has been doing a deep-dive series over on his blog. So far, he’s taken a look at form factor, connectivity, and power requirements, but he will add more. You can check out all of Scott’s … Read more