[Nodxa] Fwd: Chesterfield Islands DX-pedition Update #10

[Tedd Mirgliotta (KB8NW)]

-------- Original Message --------
Subject: 	Chesterfield Islands DX-pedition Update #10
Date: 	Thu, 8 Oct 2015 18:08:15 -0600
From: 	Do Not Reply <DoNotReply at tx3x.com>
To: 	undisclosed-recipients: ;



Oct 9th

The wind continues to blow with high intensity.  The tents are holding 
up very well although the noise from the wind and shaking tents sounds 
like a never ending freight train, all we're missing is the train 
whistle. Fortunately, the RadioSport headsets provide a high degree of 
noise blocking with excellent sound quality. The operator positions are 
shaking along with the tent. This morning one op commented that he has 
complete confidence in the tents -  as he was trying to get some sleep 
last night the tent was shaking around him as it continued to withstand 
the constant beating.  We had rain squalls for the first time last night 
and at the moment it's raining, we're surrounded by clouds and the sea 
is unsettled.

Walking to the antennas is a challenge because of the sand depth and 
high wind.  The antennas are holding up very well. We're just a few 
meters from the ocean on both sides, salt spray covers everything. We're 
inspecting the antennas daily and washing salt build-up off the 
insulators. To date, there have been no equipment or generator failures. 
We've experienced high atmospheric noise levels, the Elecraft K3 noise 
reduction system works extremely well.

We're receiving space weather reports, even the sat phone service was 
impacted.  This morning even the skipper had problems downloading 
weather maps.

We began taking unused and non essential equipment back to the boat 
today. Our plan is to take down the stations first thing in the morning 
Oct 12 (local). We expect it will take the better part of the day to 
ferry equipment back to the boat and prepare to get underway. The 
skipper will decide when to leave based on available sunlight and wind 
conditions. We're surrounded by submerged coral so he must be able to 
see the underwater obstacles to navigate to the open sea.

We know all too well the frustration some of you may be experiencing. 
Propagation has been a real challenge, with unexpected openings 
occurring during times we're working another geography. Yesterday I was 
called by a W6 on 40 meters long past his sunrise. When we hear these 
unexpected openings we take advantage of them.

And finally, we know there are PSK31 log entries that should be either 
SSB or CW and a few other problems. We are discussing alternatives to 
fix the log from the island.

We appreciate everyone's understanding. We can assure you, the 
conditions in your shack are far superior to those on the island.

Team Chesterfield Island DX-pedition

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