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Hobbies in Amateur Radio
Amateur Radio is just plain fun. There are so many different facets of amateur radio that it would take a lifetime of research and documentation to cover them all. Below is a list of just some of the hobbies within the hobby of Amateur Radio.
- Work stations in distant countries. We call this DX. Collect QST post cards (wallpaper) that document the conversations.
- Contests such as Field Day which is held the weekend closest to June 22nd. There is literally at least one contest to compete in on any weekend of the year. We do it mainly for a reason to get together and see what works.
- There are awards which you can earn from many other agencies like the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL). Each has its own set of guidelines.
- HF Pack has become popular over the the past few years. The premise behind it is pretty much what its name suggests. People take complete radio systems and antennas with them while hiking or biking. They make contacts around the world using only 5 watts or less.
- Morse Code – This is where Amateur Radio got its start. Although it is no longer required to know it for entry level licensing many people still enjoy using it on a daily basis.
- QRP – Using very little power (1 watt or less) to make distant contacts.
- Digital Modes - Packet, ASCII, RTTY, AMTOR, PACKTOR. Each is a challenge in itself.
- Space Communications - Space Shuttle and Space Station both have Amateur Radio operators aboard at all times. Yes! You could actually talk first hand to the astronauts.
- Satellites - There are at least 70 satellites in orbit with amateur radio equipment on board. You can work distant stations through them.
- Civil Service Organizations - ARES, Sky Warn, Weather Spotting, MARS, Relaying messages for people in the service. These are the agencies within Amateur Radio which help in times of emergency. More Info
- Community Service – Facilitate communications during parades, shows and other community events.
- Slow Scan TV and Facsimile Transmission of pictures
- Weekly and or daily nets for all sorts of purposes
The list goes on and on. Whatever your current hobbies, whatever you do for fun, there is likely a part of Amateur Radio that would interest you. If there isn't then you might be the one to make the next new hobby within the hobby of Amateur Radio.
This page last updated 11/18/2006 |
