In December 2024, I had an amazing opportunity to participate part in the S21DX IOTA DXpedition to Bangladesh's Dhal Char Island (AS-140). This journey not only represented a significant turning point in my amateur radio activities but also a highly personal experience that strengthened my resolve, broadened my technical understanding, and enhanced my respect for the international amateur radio community. The Call of Adventure When I first heard about the S21DX IOTA DXpedition, I was excited by the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious activity. The goal was to activate a rare island for the islands on the air (IOTA) program, connecting with operators worldwide and promoting the rich culture of Bangladesh. For a young operator like me, the opportunity of working alongside experienced operators and pushing my limits was irresistible. Preparation and Support The primary objective of our DXpedition was to celebrate the victory day of Bangladesh on December 16 by activating Dhal Char Island and providing hands-on training for local amateur radio enthusiasts, particularly the youth. Our goal was to enhance understanding of various hf antennas, propagation techniques, and pileup handling, thereby fostering a new generation of skilled operators in Bangladesh. Journey to Dhal Char Island Our adventure commenced on December 10, 2024, as we embarked on a public launch, ferrying heavy equipment, including generators, antennas, and personal gear, to the remote island. The logistical challenges were immense, but the team's collective enthusiasm and determination propelled us forward. Setting Up the Station Upon arrival, we immediately began setting up our stations and antennas. Our antenna array was diverse, designed to optimize performance across various bands: · 160M CAPACITIVE HAT LOADED TX VERTICAL · 80M 1/4 GP VERTICAL · 60M INVERTED L · 40M 4 SQUARE VERTICAL ARRAY · 20/15/10M SPIDERBEAM · 17M VDA (VERTICAL DIPOLE ARRAY) · 12M VDA · 30/20/17/15/12/10 1/4 FAN GP VERTICAL · K9AY DIRECTIONAL LOOP RX As someone with limited technical expertise, actively participating in the setup was both challenging and enlightening. The hands-on experience significantly enhanced my understanding of antenna configurations and their impact on signal propagation. The Experience Operating from the island was an unparalleled experience. The thrill of breaking pileups, logging contacts with stations from every corner of the globe, and receiving enthusiastic responses made the sleepless nights worthwhile. As I called out “CQ, CQ, this is S21DX,” the realization hit me—this was more than just a hobby. It was a way of building global friendships, fostering peace, and showcasing Bangladesh’s unique heritage to the world. Operating The Stations Our operations were designed to maximize contact opportunities: Modes: we operated primarily in SSB and FT8, utilizing the FT8 SUPER FOX mode on most bands to manage pileups effectively. Schedule: aiming for at least 20 hours of operation daily, our actual operating time was contingent on generator fuel availability and operator stamina. Personally, I spent most of my time operating the SSB station, as I preferred the direct voice communication it facilitated. Engaging with amateur radio operators worldwide was exhilarating. Handling pileups, especially during peak propagation periods, was a test of patience and skill, but each successful QSO was immensely rewarding. Challenges Faced The expedition was not without its hurdles: Weather extremes: the island's climate posed significant challenges, with intense heat during daylight hours and sharp temperature drops at night. Adapting to these conditions requires resilience and proper gear. Logistical constraints: transporting and setting up heavy equipment in a remote location tested our planning and physical endurance. Ensuring a stable power supply with our generators was crucial for uninterrupted operations. Technical learning curve: with limited prior technical knowledge, i faced a steep learning curve. However, the collaborative spirit of the team facilitated a supportive learning environment, enabling me to gain valuable technical skills. Personal Growth Participating in the S21DX IOTA DXpedition was a transformative journey. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, strengthened my technical skills, and deepened my passion for amateur radio. Most importantly, it reaffirmed my belief in the power of youth to contribute meaningfully to global communities. The takeaway Being part of the S21DX IOTA DXpedition as a youth member was not just about making qsos; it was about making memories, overcoming challenges, and leaving a mark in the world of amateur radio. I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to inspire others to take up the microphone and join this incredible journey. To my fellow young operators: never underestimate the impact you can have. Whether you’re breaking pileups or breaking barriers, your voice matters. Let’s keep the spirit of amateur radio alive and thriving! 73, de s21acp md. Sabbir hossain
Quite a lot actually. I got my license in October 2023 and I feel really lucky to be able to participate in DXpedition like IOTA, one of the biggest event in Bangladesh in 2024. Please visit s21dx.org for more information.
Thanks for the operation. I hope you'll go back again next year with focus on 80 and 160 for NA. 73 and GL!
