Repost: [QRT] 4S7SPG – Sri Lanka DXpedition Update

The 4S7SPG team has wrapped up their operation from Sri Lanka with impressive results on 160 m! Over the past three nights they logged 868 QSOs on 160 m FT8 alone, and the team has now decided that no further activity will take place on the top band.

Recent Highlights:

• 160 m Success:
  For three consecutive nights, 4S7SPG pushed 868 FT8 contacts on 160 m. As of the latest update, conditions on 160 m were described as average—with 191 QSOs already logged on February 23. The team is experimenting with alternating between 80 m and 160 m as they work through some antenna wiring challenges.

• Equipment Update:
  On February 25, one of the amplifiers refused to cooperate—so moving forward, two stations will be operating “barefoot” (without amplification).

• On-Site and Operational Conditions:
  The team’s current setup includes an 80 m vertical (see provided images) and a VDA for 10 m & 15 m. Although they encountered some setbacks—such as a virus (likely picked up on the plane or from the air conditioner) that has limited operations to mostly FT8—they continue to persevere.

• Community and Log Details:
  With nearly 8,000 QSOs approached overall, the team’s logs are available online via Club Log. QSLs are processed via SP6CIK for those interested in confirming contacts. For more in-depth information and live updates, check out the official 4S7SPG website and logsearch.

The 4S7SPG operation from their base near Nilaveli Beach, on the North-East coast of Sri Lanka, continues to impress. Despite the occasional technical hiccup, the team’s dedication and adaptive strategies have led to a successful deployment on HF bands.

73 and happy DXing!