ZD8K Helps Celebrate Ascension\'s 500th Birthday

Today, the 25th of March, marks the 500th anniversary of the discovery of Ascension Island. It was first sighted by Juan da Nova, who named it Conception, but it gained its present name when it was re-discovered on Ascension Day in 1503. The Barry Amateur Radio Society's DXpedition to Ascension Island should now be on the air as ZD8K, including an entry in this weekend's CQ WPX SSB contest.


Other events on the island to mark its 500th anniversary include a reception to be given by the island's Administrator, performances by a band of the Royal Marines, the burying of a Time Capsule, a parade of floats and various social events. The amateur radio DXpedition moves on to St Helena island this week, from where they will be active as ZD7K for a further 12 days. Take a look at the group's web site for full details of operating frequencies and pictures of the operating sites.