AU2K – Kanika Island DXpedition Wrap-Up

The AU2K team, led by Cezar (VE3LYC), Sarath (VU2RS), Adi (VU3WEW), and Anil (VU3DXA), has successfully concluded their operations from Kanika Island, IOTA AS-179, marking a remarkable achievement in the world of amateur radio.

Highlights from the Expedition:

• Activity Dates: December 2-7, 2024
• Total Contacts: Over 10,000 QSOs logged, including 5,000 unique stations across 100+ DXCCs.
• 6M Success: An impressive 250 contacts on 6 meters, reaching as far as Guam using a locally-built Kanika beam.
• Challenges:
  • Intense noise from a nearby industrial port, particularly affecting operations on CW and SSB during the evenings.
  • Harsh environmental conditions, including sandstorms and scorching heat, posed additional challenges for the operators and equipment.
• Modes and Bands: Operations spanned 40-6 meters, with modes including CW, SSB, and FT8. FT8 proved invaluable under noisy conditions.

Next Steps:

• Log Updates: The final, verified logs will be uploaded to Club Log after further checks following Cezar's return home on December 16.
• IOTA Validation: The team is working on documentation for IOTA credit validation for this operation and their upcoming activity from Sagar Island (AS-153).
• QSL Requests: Matching on LoTW and Club Log OQRS for AS-179 will begin on January 2, 2025, pending IOTA approval.

A Look Ahead:

The team is already preparing for their next adventure from Sagar Island, AS-153, ensuring more opportunities for amateur radio enthusiasts worldwide to connect with these dedicated operators.

Congratulations to the AU2K team for their exceptional effort and contribution to the IOTA program, overcoming significant challenges to make this operation a success! Stay tuned for updates on their future activities.