Amateur radio offers an unlimited number of paths to explore, learn, and master. For most of us it could very well take several lifetimes to fully explore it all. Just listing out some of the variables is enough to make one's head spin. There are antennas (theory and construction), modes, bands, DX contacts, awards, electronics, physics, radio wave propogation, atmospheric science, emmergency communication, radio related law, safety, contests, field day, test equipment, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, direction finding, computers, .... and on and on. However, as the saying goes, "life is short and then you SK", which is a humorous way of reminding ourselves that our time is finite and we need to make the most of every day.
In the spirit of making the most of our days, we have started compiling our personal "bucket list" of the things we would like to do in amateur radio before we become a silent key. In no particular order:
- Completing the DXCC award
- Elmer and bring new hams into the ranks
- Complete a moon bounce contact
- Complete contacts via satellite
- Earn the 5 band WAS award
- Earn the DXCC Challenge award
- Setup a big tower along with an awesome multiband antenna farm (i.e. beams)
- Join a DX Expedition to a really wonderful and rare location
- Build and use some wonderful homebrew antennas and radio gear
- Add an amp to the shack
- Work from as many mountain tops, islands, and other exotic locals as possible
- Operate from a true "big gun" shack during an event or contest
- Make friends and leave the world a better place
If you care to share your ham bucket list do drop us an email. Your list may find its way into a future post.
