FW7AA – Wallis & Futuna DXpedition Conclusion

The FW7AA DXpedition from Wallis & Futuna has now concluded. Here's an update on their activity:

Summary of Activity

• Total QSOs: The team made a remarkable 15,000+ contacts during the expedition, averaging over 1,000 QSOs per day. It was an intense and rewarding experience, similar to a Field Day event that stretched over two weeks.
• QSL Information: OQRS (Online QSL Request System) will be activated when the team returns home next week.

Challenges and Conditions

• Band Conditions: While the team had great success overall, the band conditions were tougher than previous trips to Tonga, Lord Howe, and Vanuatu. They particularly had difficulty making long runs on EU bands, especially from Western EU. They also faced challenges with propagation to the east coast USA and the Caribbean.
• 80m and 160m: Despite numerous requests for 160m QSOs, propagation was poor, and they could not utilize the band as expected. The 80m band showed some promise, and they managed to make a few contacts, but the 160m inverted L antenna did not perform well due to weak propagation.

Current Location and Plans

• After concluding the FW7AA operation, Bob (W7YAQ) and Al (K7AR) have traveled to Nadi, Fiji, where they arrived late at night. They are preparing to set up their stations at the Club Fiji Resort.
• Future Activity: The duo will operate as 3D2NB from Fiji starting December 1, for 3 days. They expect better conditions for 160m since their inverted L antenna will be set up directly on the beach, which should improve propagation.

Antenna Setup

• Stations: They are using two Elecraft K3 stations along with two DX Commander antennas.
• 160m: Initially, they decided not to set up their 160m antenna in Wallis & Futuna because they would only have a limited time to use it, and the setup was too time-consuming. However, they are optimistic about better results in Fiji, thanks to their location.

Closing Remarks

• Gratitude: The team thanks everyone for their patience and for participating in the pileups. They were pleased with the level of activity and the support they received during their time in Wallis & Futuna.

Stay tuned for updates on their 3D2NB operation from Fiji!