Bruce,
Correct. For those of us “Back East”, 6 Meter VUCC and Satellite VUCC are probably the easiest to earn. 2 Meters is certainly achievable especially using WSJT meteor scatter and EME.
Those in most parts of the West have an advantage on microwave—since high spots with five grids within range are most plentiful.
222 and 432 are within each of most—especially if we have increased activity on these bands.
Microwave about 2.3 GHz is tougher but if you’re willing to travel the five (5) grids required could be worked by yourself and a partner in a weekend.
For the record, I just achieved my second VUCC. This one on 2 Meters—a feat that took over a decade to complete. I’m limited to an indoor antenna due to HOA. Closing in on Satellite VUCC which would give me three of the awards.
Completing 432 would be possible—but likely would require a single Yagi EME effort from the driveway at night. My HOA will allow portable operations—but everything has to be back inside when the sun comes up.
That would give me four bands—anything else will require microwave and travel. A considerable expense. But one that I’d be willing to make if the reward was not only 10 GHz VUCC but also the new Five Band VUCC Award.
I really hope the ARRL will seriously consider the proposal. If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 22, 2019, at 7:52 AM, Bruce kk5do@amsat.org wrote:
So, I could do my 100 on satellite, 100 on 6m, then 100 on 2m and 50 on 70cm and be done.
The higher frequencies are impossible from the Houston area as we have no mountains. Those in mountainous regions have a distinct advantage in the higher frequencies. That is why you see a large group of high frequency use in Europe, East Coast and West Coast. I am not saying it does not present a challenge everywhere
73...bruce
On 4/22/2019 1:20 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
Bruce,
Thank you for your input. Current VUCC rules would apply:
6 Meters, 2 Meters, and Satellite require 100 grids confirmed. 222 and 432 require 50 grids 902 and 1296 require 25 grids 2304 requires 10 grids All higher bands including 5 GHz, 10Ghz, and laser require only five.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 21, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Bruce <kk5do@amsat.org mailto:kk5do@amsat.org> wrote:
100 grids terrestrial on 1296 or 2400. that is a bit rough. what 5 bands would it be? 222, 2m, 70cm, 1296 and ??? 2400?
73...bruce
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 21, 2019, at 9:50 PM, Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@amsat.org mailto:amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
Lady & Gentlemen,
Not certain if my earlier message was received. No reply from anyone on the distribution list. Here it is again, in case the first one was lost in cyberspace.
In an effort to stimulate activity on VHF/UHF bands beyond 70 CM, I’d like to suggest the creation of a Five Band VUCC (5B VUCC) award that would closely mirror the 5 Band DXCC Award.
Successful applicants would need to achieve VUCC status on five or more of the VHF/UHF bands to be eligible for the larger award. A special certificate and pin could be created to honor recipients.
My feeling is that this award would encourage greater activity on the VHF/UHF bands, especially on bands that have less use like 222, 1296, and higher microwave bands. This increased activity encourages the sale of more gear, helps protect our spectrum from commercial interests, and advances the state of the radio art.
Please let me know if you think this idea has any merit, or what I could do to help support the creation of the new award. As always, grateful for your service to the hobby.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
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--
Bruce Paige, KK5DO
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