Nestled amidst the expansive Indian Ocean, Mauritius stands as a serene tropical paradise. However, as the 3B8M DXpedition team gears up for the annual CQWW CW contest, nature is proving to be a formidable adversary.
The Cyclone Challenge
The serene tradewinds that typically grace Mauritius in November have given way to an unexpected foe—a tropical cyclone named Bheki. What began as a mild depression evolved into a violent storm, prompting authorities to issue a Cyclone Warning Class I for the island. Situated on a low, exposed islet, the team’s QTH is at the mercy of the Indian Ocean’s fury.
Preparations have shifted from contest strategy to survival. Antennas have been dismantled, shutters secured, and food and water supplies stockpiled. While the storm's exact trajectory remains uncertain, the team is bracing for potential evacuation.
Engineering Ingenuity
Despite these challenges, the 3B8M team remains undeterred. Comprised of renowned operators such as G0CKV (3B8HA), 4O3A, E70A, and YL3JA, the team is armed with robust equipment and resourcefulness. Their field-day-style operation features vertical antennas on Spiderbeam poles strategically placed along the oceanfront. From a top-loaded vertical for 160m to vertical dipole arrays (VDAs) for the higher bands, each antenna is designed to maximize propagation while battling environmental constraints.
One innovative addition is the K9AY receive loop positioned 50 meters out on a lagoon rock, aimed at countering high tropical noise levels on the LF bands. The team hopes this experimental setup will unlock clearer signals during the contest.
The Contest Strategy
Scheduled for November 23-24, 2024, the CQWW CW contest is a highlight of the amateur radio calendar. While nature’s interruptions may delay antenna assembly, the team’s resilience ensures that the high bands will be active at the contest's onset, with lower bands joining as conditions stabilize. Utilizing a blend of Flex, K3, and FTdx10 radios powered by amplifiers running up to 800W, the team plans to dominate the airwaves with a mix of CW and FT8 operations.
A Spirit of Perseverance
This year’s DXpedition is not just about scoring QSOs; it’s a testament to the unyielding spirit of amateur radio. Whether battling high winds or deciphering ionospheric mysteries, the 3B8M team embodies the resilience and passion that unite radio enthusiasts worldwide.
As the storm subsides and antennas rise against the Mauritian skyline, the world will hear the story of a small, determined team that conquered nature's challenges to connect the globe. Stay tuned for updates from the island, and good luck to all contest participants!
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