October 19, 2012

55th annual Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) is October 20-21

The 55th annual Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) is October 20-21. This 48-hour event runs from 0000 (local time) on Saturday, October 20 (right at midnight Friday) through midnight (local time) on Sunday, October 21. JOTA is an opportunity for Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from all over the world to experience the magic and excitement of Amateur Radio.



Radio amateurs do not have to be registered to get on the air during JOTA. In addition to the World Scout Frequencies, the BSA has listed a US frequency guide that includes frequencies for 80-6 meters (SSB, CW and PSK31), 2 meters, 70 cm and D-STAR, as well as dedicated IRLP and EchoLink nodes.

In our local Pittsburgh area, the Skyview Radio Society has organized JOTA events including a radio merit badge class.  This is sure to be a wonderful event and everyone involved is looking forward to it.

Be sure to get on the air this weekend and make some contacts with scouts (the future of amateur radio).