Shortwave radio listening, or SWLing, is a unique hobby that holds a special allure for enthusiasts. It’s a bit like finding hidden treasures in a vast, mysterious landscape, akin to discovering Easter eggs in video games. The enjoyment of SWLing stems from uncovering something that has always been there, waiting to be found, yet often overlooked or dismissed.

If you’re a dedicated shortwave radio enthusiast, you know that a significant part of the enjoyment comes from DXing. DXing, or long-distance listening, is the practice of tuning into distant radio stations, often from other countries or continents. It’s the equivalent of embarking on a grand adventure, where the reward is the joy of discovering elusive signals amidst the cacophony of static and interference. However, DXing is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to maximizing your SWLing experience. Here, we explore additional tips to help you get the best out of your shortwave radio journey.

 

  1. Understand the Basics: The 25-30-20-25 Rule

To fully appreciate the magic of shortwave radio, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals. SWLing is not just about the radio itself; it’s a synergy of factors that contribute to the overall experience. Imagine it like this: 25% of the magic lies in the radio you use, 30% is in your outdoor antenna setup, 20% depends on your knowledge of the right time and frequencies for listening, and the remaining 25% revolves around your location. For optimal results, invest in a good radio, set up an efficient antenna, master the art of timing, and seek out quiet places for listening.

 

  1. Dive into the Metaphorical World of SWLing

There’s a beautiful metaphorical world that can be associated with SWLing, allowing you to look beyond the surface and appreciate the deeper meaning of this hobby. Consider some of these associations:

Tuning into Enjoyable Frequencies: Just as in SWLing, in life, you can choose to tune into the enjoyable frequencies. Identify the things that bring you joy, fulfillment, satisfaction, and make a conscious effort to incorporate them into your daily routine.

Reducing Noise and Adjusting the Tuning: Life often presents noise in the form of irritations, annoyances, and distractions. Like adjusting the tuning on your radio, you can reduce this noise by addressing these irritations and finding ways to enhance your comfort and enjoyment.

The Tuning Is Off: Sometimes, the outcomes in life may not align with your desired goals. Just as in SWLing, where the tuning can be slightly off, in life, you may need to recalibrate your efforts and strategies to get closer to your desired outcomes.

Incorporating these metaphorical perspectives into your SWLing experience can add depth and meaning to your hobby, helping you draw parallels between the art of listening to shortwave radio and the art of living a fulfilling life.

SWLing is a journey of exploration, both in terms of uncovering hidden radio signals and discovering the subtle, metaphorical messages it holds for our lives. By understanding the 25-30-20-25 rule, investing in quality equipment, and embracing the metaphorical aspects, you can truly unlock the magic of shortwave radio and enjoy the profound rewards it offers. So, keep tuning in, and let the hidden secrets of the shortwave world continue to captivate your imagination and enrich your life.

 

In a momentous stride toward enhancing its broadcasting capabilities, on July 30, 2023, Radio Pakistan embarked on the groundbreaking ceremony for an expansive transmission facility, poised to connect the diverse tapestry of nations spanning from the Mediterranean to the Pacific.

The heart of this transformative endeavor revolves around the installation of a cutting-edge 1,000 kW Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) transmitter at the eminent Radio Pakistan high-power transmission complex, strategically situated near the capital city of Islamabad. This monumental project comes with a price tag of approximately 4 billion rupees (nearly US$14 million) and is slated for completion by the year 2025.

Central to this project’s significance is its alignment with the Digital Radio Mondiale standard, which is a monumental leap into the digital age for Radio Pakistan. This groundbreaking move underscores Radio Pakistan’s commitment to modernization, leveraging state-of-the-art technology to usher in a new era of broadcasting excellence.

Image via https://www.radioworld.com/

Guiding this landmark occasion was the honorable Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Marriyum Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb highlighted the pivotal role that this initiative would play in expanding Radio Pakistan’s reach, resonating across 52 nations spanning South Asia, Central Asia, the Far East, Middle East, and even Eastern Europe.

Quoting her words:

It’s worth noting that Radio Pakistan, since its inception in 1947, has primarily relied on analog medium, and shortwave transmitters. However, this transformational project acknowledges the changing tides of technology. Out of its current inventory of 20 transmitters, 14 have outlived their utility. This forward-thinking initiative is set to redefine broadcasting norms by empowering Radio Pakistan to transmit up to four distinct signals concurrently with remarkable efficiency. Moreover, the energy-efficient design of the 1,000 kW DRM transmitter is expected to reduce energy consumption by an impressive 33%, subsequently leading to substantial savings in operating costs.

Beyond the transmitter’s exceptional capabilities, Marriyum Aurangzeb revealed another ambitious plan that aligns seamlessly with the government’s vision. A new media city is poised to take shape in Rawat, complementing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visionary commitment to bolstering investment in information technology and media technologies. This holistic approach aims not only to cultivate enhanced employment opportunities but also to actively engage the youth with the captivating world of radio.

As the groundbreaking ceremony set the wheels in motion for this transformative endeavor, Pakistan takes a bold step toward shaping the future of broadcasting. With the fusion of tradition and modernity, the country’s rich tapestry of culture, identity, and communication is set to resonate across borders, reaffirming the enduring power of the airwaves to unite, inform, and inspire.

This article was reproduced by Tecsun Radios Australia from the original article posted on https://www.radioworld.com/

If you have a passion for maritime history, adventure, and connecting with fellow radio enthusiasts, then this one is for the calendar – the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)! This annual gathering has become a global celebration of lighthouses, lightvessels, and navigational aids, bringing together radio operators from over 40 countries for a weekend of camaraderie and exploration.

What is the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)?

The ILLW had its roots in the Scottish Northern Lights Award, originally organised by the Ayr Amateur Radio Group (UK) in 1998. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most anticipated events on the amateur radio calendar, drawing in more than 500 lighthouse entries across the globe.

Held on the third full weekend of August each year, the ILLW allows amateur radio operators to set up their portable stations at lighthouses, light vessels, and other historic maritime locations. The objective is to establish contacts with fellow operators and share the fascinating stories and significance of these iconic beacons of light. 

August: A Month of Lighthouses

The month of August has become synonymous with lighthouses, thanks to the ILLW’s growing popularity. As we have seen, different countries have embraced the spirit of preserving and honouring their maritime history in various ways. In the United States, August 7th is celebrated as National Lighthouse Day, designated by Congress to pay tribute to these historical structures.

Across the pond in Britain, the Association of Lighthouse Keepers (ALK) organises the International Lighthouse Heritage Weekend during the same time as the ILLW. 

The ALK encourages lighthouse managers, keepers, and owners to open their sites and visitors’ centres to the public, aiming to raise awareness about these vital navigational aids and preserve their legacy for future generations.

 

Why participation is so high for this event.

The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is unlike any other amateur radio event. Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking part or following this historic gathering:

  • Fascinating History: Lighthouses have played a crucial role in maritime history, guiding ships safely through treacherous waters. The ILLW provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the captivating stories behind these structures and their keepers.
  • Global Connections: With participants from over 40 countries, the ILLW is a unique chance to connect with fellow radio operators worldwide, share experiences, and make lasting international friendships.
  • No Pressure, Just Fun: Unlike traditional contests, the ILLW emphasises enjoyment and camaraderie. There are minimal rules, and the focus is on celebration, not competition. Plus, it’s free to participate!
  • Preservation of Maritime Heritage: By participating in the ILLW, you contribute to raising awareness about the importance of preserving lighthouses and navigational aids, ensuring that their historical significance is not forgotten.

Want to get involved? Here’s how!

Participating in the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is easy and exciting. If you’re an amateur radio operator, consider setting up your portable station at a lighthouse or maritime location during the event weekend. Contact your local club to see if they are already planning to get involved. Engage in conversations with other operators, exchange stories, and celebrate the magic of maritime history.

If you’re not an amateur radio operator, you can still be part of this historic event by following the ILLW activities, learning about different lighthouses, and supporting the preservation efforts.

Join the ILLW Celebration!

The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is an exceptional experience that combines the thrill of amateur radio with the allure of maritime history. Whether you’re an avid radio enthusiast or simply intrigued by lighthouses, this event promises a weekend filled with adventure and discovery.

Wondering if Australia takes part? Here is a list of Australian lighthouses that have previously taken part in this event: 

  • Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse – Western Australia
  • Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse – Western Australia
  • Split Point Lighthouse (Aireys Inlet Lighthouse) – Victoria
  • Cape Otway Lightstation – Victoria
  • Point Lonsdale Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Macquarie Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Montague Island Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Kiama Blowhole Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Barrenjoey Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Point Perpendicular Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Cape Nelson Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Cape Schanck Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Cape Wickham Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Low Head Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Tasman Island Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Maatsuyker Island Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Point Hicks Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Griffiths Island Lighthouse (Port Fairy Lighthouse) – Victoria
  • Warden Head Lighthouse – New South Wales

The list has grown substantially in Australia this year, you can view the lighthouse list by clicking here https://wllw.org/index.php/en/#VK

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are likely many other lighthouses in Australia that have participated in the ILLW. Additionally, participation may change from year to year, so it’s best to check the official ILLW website https://illw.net/ 

The Best Radios for Your ILLW Adventure

To make your ILLW experience truly extraordinary, we recommend the Xiegu G-90 transceiver! This high-performance portable HF multimode transceiver covers an impressive 0.5-30MHz general coverage receiver and 10-160-meter amateur band Tx/Rx coverage with 20 watts of RF output. The Xiegu G-90 ensures crystal-clear communication and unparalleled reliability throughout the weekend.

Enhance Your Reception with Tecsun Communication Headphones
We understand that excellent audio quality is vital to your radio pursuits. That’s why we offer Tecsun Communication headphones, providing you with an outstanding dynamic range through efficient 50mm NdFeB magnet drivers. Plus, the 3m connection cable guarantees ample length for comfortable headphone use during the ILLW activities.
Here are some of our top products to enhance your event experience.

1.Tecsun PL-330: This pocket-sized portable receiver comes with SSB capability and direct frequency entry, making it the ideal choice for listening to shortwave radio utility stations, amateur radio transmissions, and regular shortwave broadcasts.
2.PL-880: Featuring digital Signal Processing on the HF band, the PL-880 is a quantum leap forward for receiving weak signals. It also offers selectable IF bandwidth for fine-tuning your listening experience.
3. PL-990x: Considered Tecsun engineering at its finest, the PL-990x High-Performance Shortwave Radio utilizes multiple frequency conversion and modern DSP digital demodulation technology, resulting in improved receiving sensitivity, selectivity, and image rejection.

4. The newest addition to the Tecsun radio range, the H501x DSP Shortwave Radio is the result of years of research and development by Tecsun’s engineering department, incorporating feedback from shortwave radio listeners. Its hybrid desktop portable design ensures uncompromised performance without sacrificing size.

Coincidentally, these fantastic radios are also compatible with our premium headphones, ensuring you enjoy the best audio quality during your shortwave radio adventures.

We need to also mention the TRA HF Portable Dipole antenna, your ultimate radio companion! With a power handling capability of 100 Watts PEP, this antenna is designed to deliver exceptional performance. It comes conveniently packed in a durable canvas carry bag, making it easy to carry and set up wherever you go. Plus, we’ve got you covered with 10 meters of Rg58 cable for effortless connection to most transceivers.

Mark your calendars for the third full weekend of August, and let’s celebrate “Lighthouse Month” together! Join the ILLW community in commemorating these timeless beacons that have guided sailors throughout history. Step into the world of amateur radio, explore maritime heritage, and make connections that span the globe. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be part of an international tradition like no other!

International broadcaster DW Arabic, has introduced a new radio program called “Sudan Now.” This 30-minute daily program is broadcast in Arabic and can be accessed through various platforms such as shortwave radio, Hotbird, SES-5 satellites, and the DW Arabic website.

“Sudan Now” aims to deliver unbiased coverage of current issues in the region, fostering political, social, and cultural dialogue through engaging interviews, talk shows, and reports. 

This program fills a critical information gap in Sudan, where independent sources are scarce, and established media face challenges broadcasting due to internet outages and ongoing conflicts. To overcome these obstacles, “Sudan Now” has been strategically designed for transmission via shortwave radio and the Hotbird- and SES-5 satellites, enabling listeners in the target region to receive the program on their TV sets.

Dr. Nadja Scholz, the Managing Director of Programming at DW, emphasised the necessity of providing the people in Sudan with dedicated programming that offers independent, current, and in-depth information. By utilising shortwave radio, DW expands its reach and ensures access to a wide audience.

Manuela Kasper-Claridge, DW’s editor-in-chief, underlined the urgency of the situation in Sudan, where the humanitarian crisis persists and access to free and independent information is severely limited. The introduction of this Arabic-language radio program is a significant step towards addressing this critical need.

Starting from Monday, June 26, 2023, “Sudan Now” will air every weekday at 2:30 pm (local time, GMT+2), with a repeat broadcast at 8:30 pm. Listeners can tune in to the program on shortwave frequencies 15275 kHz/17800 kHz in the afternoon and 15275 kHz/17840 kHz in the evening.

The launch of “Sudan Now” reflects DW Arabic’s commitment to providing vital information and facilitating dialogue in a region grappling with ongoing conflicts and limited access to independent media.

Information from this article was sourced from :https://corporate.dw.com/en/sudan-now-dw-arabic-launches-new-radio-program-for-sudan/a-66036734

In a world driven by advanced technology and instantaneous communication where it is common to see people are walking around staring at their phones as a way of communication and entertainment, it’s easy to overlook the seemingly oldschool domain of shortwave radio. While smartphones, social media, and streaming services dominate our lives, shortwave radio quietly persists as a captivating and enigmatic medium. Despite its long history and unique characteristics, shortwave radio remains mysterious to many people today. We are passionate about sharing as much about this hobby as possible. Here are some of the reasons we love this sometimes mysterious medium which continues to capture the imagination of enthusiasts around the globe.

1.The Wavelength Wilderness: Shortwave radio operates on high-frequency bands, typically ranging from 1.6 to 30 MHz. Unlike traditional radio broadcasting, these signals have the remarkable ability to travel long distances by bouncing off the Earth’s ionosphere. This characteristic enables listeners to tune into broadcasts from far-flung corners of the world. However, the unpredictable nature of ionospheric propagation adds an element of uncertainty, as reception conditions fluctuate depending on atmospheric conditions, solar activity, and time of day. This unpredictability creates an air of mystery and adventure, as dedicated listeners attempt to catch elusive transmissions from distant lands.

2.A Global Portal of Voices: Shortwave radio is renowned for its capacity to connect people across continents, cultures, and languages. It serves as a gateway to alternative perspectives, unheard voices, and diverse narratives. Many international broadcasters utilize shortwave radio to reach audiences in regions where access to the internet or other forms of media may be limited. Tuning into these broadcasts offers a glimpse into unfamiliar cultures, political climates, and social issues, fostering a sense of curiosity and intrigue. The broad spectrum of content, from news and current affairs to music and cultural programs, adds to the allure and mystique of shortwave radio.

3.Spy Numbers and Clandestine Activities: During the Cold War, shortwave radio gained notoriety for its use in espionage and clandestine activities. Spy agencies and governments utilized coded messages, known as “numbers stations,” to communicate with their operatives in the field. These eerie and cryptic broadcasts, often consisting of synthesized voices or monotone readings of numbers, remain a subject of fascination and speculation. The cloak-and-dagger world of shortwave espionage adds an element of intrigue and secrecy, perpetuating the air of mystery surrounding the medium which continues today.

4.The Art of Listening: Unlike modern digital platforms, shortwave radio requires active participation from the listener. Tuning into frequencies, adjusting antennas, and carefully fine-tuning the receiver are skills that dedicated shortwave enthusiasts have mastered. This active engagement and the inherent limitations of shortwave reception make it a more involved and immersive experience than passively scrolling through a digital playlist. The quest for the perfect signal, the joy of discovering a distant station, and the shared experiences within the shortwave community create a sense of camaraderie and exclusivity that keeps the allure of shortwave radio alive.

5.Nostalgia and Analog Charm: In an era dominated by sleek digital devices and seamless connectivity, shortwave radio represents a nostalgic connection to simpler times. The crackle of the airwaves, the warmth of the analog dial, and the feeling of anticipation as you search for a station evoke a sense of bygone charm. The fascination with retro technology and the desire for a more tangible and tactile experience have contributed to the enduring appeal of shortwave radio among collectors, hobbyists, and enthusiasts.

Shortwave radio, with its long-distance reach, cultural diversity, historical intrigue, and active engagement, continues to captivate a dedicated following in the digital age. Its mysterious nature, inherent limitations, and the unique experiences it offers contribute to its enduring appeal. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, shortwave radio

Here at Tecsun Radios Australia we are proud to support this hobby and introduce it to more people on a daily basis through our store, blogs, newsletter, and social media.

 

This Kings Birthday Long Weekend, Saturday and Sunday the 10th and 11th of June 2023, the Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club cordially invites visitors and members to attend the ORARC 47th annual Field Day.

This is a two day event that includes fox hunts on both the Saturday and Sunday. Browse the disposals or take your own gear to sell ( no commissions taken).

There will be a barbeque lunch on both days with a bacon and egg breakfast available on Sunday morning.

Sunday is the trading day. The Field Day dinner is at 5 pm on the Saturday night in the Seaview Room at the Port Macquarie Golf Club with a menu to suit all tastes. The Wauchope Showground permits camping and is pet friendly. For two people an RV or caravan is $20 per night and a tent is $10 per night with power and the use of toilets and hot showers. Contact the on-site caretaker 0475 111 074 for bookings.

The June 2023 Friday Night Get Together will take place at 7 pm on Friday the 16th of June 2023 in the SES Building, Central Road, Port Macquarie.

These field days are a great excuse to get out, talk to like-minded radio enthusiasts, and possibly even pick up a radio or some great gear to add to your radio shack.

The aim of the Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club is to foster the hobby of Amateur Radio and associated electronics, to encourage persons interested in the scientific development of radio communications and associated electronics, and to provide a central meeting point for people interested in Amateur Radio and associated electronics where they may receive and give instruction and advice on matters pertaining to Amateur Radio Communications.

For more information, head to the official event page https://www.orarc.org/?p=70424

 

 

We are not just a radio store. We are proud to be a place to come to learn about shortwave, keep up with shortwave news, download guides, and even listen to our live SDR.

I am sure you are aware by now Tecsun stocks a range of shortwave and internet radios already. All of these radios have been hand tested by Tecsun Radios Australia Owner, and radio enthusiast Garry.

This is your assurance that you are purchasing a quality radio.

Each radio comes with a shortwave listeners guide, which was written by Garry himself and contains loads of useful information, like what to listen to, how shortwave works, and troubleshooting advice.

Unlike other online retailers, we provide trouble shooting advice from the owner himself, who has over 50 years experience in evaluation, using, and troubleshooting radio receivers. What we like to call good old fashioned customer service. Something you don’t get much these days!

On this very topic of customer service, we published a blog about customer service earlier this year after a rather extraordinarily bad experience connecting a new apartment to the internet.
In fact, our fantastic blog on our website has, over the past 7 years, featured everything from road testing products to radio reviews right through to the latest news and radio competition updates.

On the blog you can also see a cute video of penguins at an Antarctic base dancing to some shortwave music and learn how Tecsun Radios Australia has kindly donated over two dozen radios to this base,

Thinking about buying a new radio but not sure where to start? Each radio has a very comprehensive description and list of features, what’s more, previous customers have left reviews on most of our products so you can also read how other people have found that radio or product!

We have a variety of downloadable guides available on our website, simply head to the radio guides tab of the website, there you will find a drop-down menu that includes a digital copy of our shortwave listener’s guide, A shortwave explained guide, MW stations listing, and a DAB+ Explained guide. In addition, we also have some radio guides available for the visually impaired.

Tecsun Radios Australia also provides an online shortwave radio listening platform. Simply head to our website menu and click on Tecsun SW radio online. Then click to start OpenWebRX.
The screen will come up with some static sound and a waterfall screen, then simply follow the instructions below. Signals that are on the air are represented by vertical lines down the screen.

Using the drop down menu on the RH side of the screen:

  • Enter the desired frequency in the box marked “kHz” in top left hand white box
  • Or use the “select band” menu to jump to a pre-defined band.
  • Use the zoom icons to zoom in or out from the frequency you have entered.
  • Tune by clicking on the waterfall, spectrum or the cyan/red-colored station labels.
  • Select a mode. Shortwave stations use AM, amateur radio stations use LSB 10Mhz and below and USB for 10Mhz and above. 
  • If you are looking for a DRM station click the DRM mode button and select a station from the drop down schedule.

  When you purchase a radio from Tecsun Radios Australia you are supporting a small Australian business that support local jobs and local industry. We conduct all of our warehousing, marketing, advertising, printing, from local businesses and source our Australia pined AC chargers with C tick approval from an Australian supplier. Tecsun Radios also extends a wealth of product knowledge and experience to customers through our email and phone support channels to ensure customers receive the best advice and get the most from their radio purchase.

The recent temporary failure of an Inmarsat satellite serving the Pacific, has forced commercial aircraft to rely on the backup HF communications system used between air traffic controllers and pilots over the Pacific.

On April 16 the satellite began experiencing a service outage affecting aircraft transiting through the North and South Pacific Major World Air Route Areas (MWARA).

Increased traffic was heard on 5643, 8867, 13261, 17904 kHz in the South Pacific (San Francisco, Auckland, Brisbane, Nadi, Tahiti and 5628, 6655, 8951, 10048, 13339, 17946 and 21925 kHz in the North Pacific (San Francisco, Tokyo) areas. All frequencies listed are USB.

The services did not fully recover until April 21. The satellite had experienced a previous failure in 2008 and is 5 years past the predicted operational lifetime. Bearing this in mind, enthusiasts may discover increased HF traffic during this period of satellite uncertainty, proving that HF radio is far from obsolete.

 A celebration of how amateur radio has been serving people for over 100 years.

With over 3 million radio amateurs worldwide this day is the perfect time to tune in and connect with fellow hobbyists.

Date: Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Time : All Day

This year’s theme is “Human Security for All, HS4A” 

The theme is born from a first time partnership between the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security and the World Academy of Art and Science in conjunction with IARU, in a campaign to highlight the role that amateur radio plays in addressing the world’s most pressing needs.

Human Security measures security at the individual level. First introduced by the U.N. in 1994, the concept identifies seven interrelated dimensions of security that are essential to an individual’s wellbeing: economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community, and political.

The partners believe Amateur Radio is uniquely positioned to address people-centered, context-specific security challenges by promoting technical knowledge, practical skills, innovative technology, and the deployment of backup systems at the community level that can be called upon in times of emergency. The pandemic, climate change, natural disasters, and armed conflicts on several continents undermine our security, and respect no boundaries. Amateur Radio has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to address human security needs. It is a truly global communications medium comprising some three million radio enthusiasts connecting communities and the peoples of the world.

Every year on April 18, Radio Amateurs worldwide take to the airwaves in celebration of Amateur Radio Day. This year the IARU and its member-societies will be conducting a special two-week on-the-air event 11–25 April. Special event stations will be operating from around the world, making two-way radio contacts to call attention to the HS4A campaign. There are a number of stations involved.

Simply click this link to participate https://hs4a.iaru.org/,to read more and participate,  look for the blue participate button on the top right of the page and register.

We would love to hear if you are planning to participate.

Products we recommend for this event are the XIEGU G90 HF Transceiver, our HF Amateur Radio Dipole Antenna, and of course, our ultra-comfortable TRA communications headphones, so you can block out the world and improve your listening comfort!

 

 

 

We have received some extraordinary footage all the way from an Argentinian Antarctic base. Penguins enjoying some music being played in this very remote location from a Tecsun Radio.

In an all white landscape, typically quiet apart from the sound of cracking ice, distant seals and penguins honking.

Alejandro LU8YD captured some penguins being entertained by some music broadcast from the local FM station LRA36 Radio Nacional Arcangel San Gabriel, using his Tecsun PL360.

They have named this footage “Pinguino”. It’s interesting to see the penguins gather around and listen to this music while preening themselves and relaxing.

This a reminder of how radio is used around the world, often in extremely remote locations as a source of information and entertainment, even for the penguins!

In a time where the news cycle can be on a constant negative cycle, we thought we would share this fun little snapshot from Antarctica! 

The radio you are seeing in this video is a PL360. Here at Tecsun Radios Australia, we have recently introduced the new upgraded version of this radio, The Tecsun PL-368 DSP Handheld HF SSB Receiver with Synchronous Detection, you can read all about it here.

Speaking of Antarctica, We are excited to announce that Tecsun Radios Australia will donate shortwave radios to the Argentine Antarctic Base.

The Esperanza Antarctic base was founded in 1952 and has approximately 65 people living year-round. There are approximately 8 families with their children and a school with three levels of education. Each family has its own independent house. Scientific activities are carried out in cooperation with other countries. LRA36 is a station created in 1979 and broadcasts on shortwave on 15476 KHz USB, FM on 96.7 MHz, and streaming.

The place is located next to Caleta Choza in Bahia Esperanza north of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Tecsun Radios Australia will supply a range of Tecsun radios to those living at the Argentinian Esperanza Antarctic Base as part of an investigation into DX propagation and MW/SW monitoring in a low noise environment.

We will be supplying a mixture of PL-365s, PL880s, and other models to this community to be used in schools, family homes, communal dining rooms, warehouses, and power plants.

We expect we will receive some details on what shortwave reception is like from down there.

We look forward to sharing with you more details as to how these are put to use once they arrive at the base community.