Summits on the Air

Are you an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking, running, and biking? Do you also have a passion for ham radio? If so, have you ever considered combining these two interests by participating in Summits on the Air (SOTA)

SOTA is an amateur radio program that encourages radio operators to hike to the summit of a mountain or hill, set up a portable station, and make contacts with other SOTA participants. It’s a great way to combine your love of the outdoors with your passion for ham radio, and it offers a unique challenge and sense of accomplishment.

One of the great things about SOTA is that it doesn’t require a lot of equipment. For your first SOTA activation, you might consider using an Lab599 TX-500 transceiver, a wire antenna, and a 6Ah LiFePO4 battery to power your equipment. The TX-500 is a compact and lightweight transceiver that offers a wide range of features and modes, making it a great choice for portable operations. A 6Ah LiFePO4 battery is a lightweight and long-lasting power source that can provide several hours of operation.

When you’re ready to give SOTA a try, you can start by finding a summit near you and checking its status on the SOTA website. Some summits are more popular than others and may have more activity, so you might want to start with a summit that is well-activated. You can also join a local SOTA group or club to meet other SOTA enthusiasts and get tips and advice.

In summary, SOTA is a great way to combine your love of the outdoors with your passion for ham radio. With the right equipment and a little bit of planning, you can have a fun and rewarding experience on the summit. So why not give it a try and see what you can accomplish?