Modes

In common with any major multi-operator DXpedition, the group will provide contacts on a variety of modes. All ten bands, from 160m-6m will be in use, with a large variety of antennas.

There are two main objectives:

• To provide the possibility for every amateur radio station in the world - even those running QRP or very simple antennas - to make at least one contact with Rodrigues Island.

• To enable top DXers to put 3B9C in their logs on as many bands and modes as possible. It should be possible for top DXers active on all bands and on all three modes to work the station on close to 20 band / mode slots.

CW is expected to be the most popular mode overall. The main reason for this, is that 30m is CW only and the majority of QSO's on 160m are expected to be in that mode. Taking those bands out of the statistics, the DXpedition will strive to maintain an even number of CW and SSB contacts. The StarLog computer logging technology and reporting will enable the group to monitor the rates on each band and mode minute by minute.

In addition to the two "big" modes, look for the DXpedition on RTTY,  PSK31, PSK63, SSTV, FM and OSCAR-40 and Moonbounce.

Multi-Multi
The DXpedition will operate 24 hours a day from ten or more individual high power stations, as band conditions permit. Don't be surprised to find the DXpedition using more than one mode on the same band at the same time!

CW
The DXpedition will operate CW on all bands from 160m to 6m inclusive. We are fortunate to have some of the world's most experienced CW DXers with the DXpedition.

SSB
The DXpedition will strive satisfy the needs of SSB users from all corners of the globe. A dedicated group of SSB operators will work their way through the pile-ups.

RTTY
The majority of RTTY operation will be on 20m, with additional bands as facilities permit. Leading RTTY operators are a part of the DXpedition.

PSK31 & PSK63
Running in addition to RTTY, look for what we believe will be the first major operation on this mode from Rodrigues.

FM
Look for the DXpedition to operate some 10m FM on the usual frequencies.

Top Band, 160m
The DXpedition is fortunate to have specialist antennas and equipment on loan for top band. The 160m operation will utilise the well-known Titanex vertical, with various loops and Beverages for receive. Considerable efforts will be made on the band, subject to suitable propagation and lack of local noise.

LF Bands, 80m and 40m
Rodrigues is high on the wanted lists for the LF bands. The DXpedition is aiming to satisfy this need. A full sized four-square array will be used on 40m. On 80m we will run two phased verticals on SSB and another two phased verticals on CW. This is ensure as many QSO's are made on both modes as possible. Expect to find us at both ends of the band at the same time during openings.

HF Bands and 6m Bands
Stacked mono-band antennas will be used for 10m and 6m. Single mono-banders will be used for each of the remaining HF bands. On 30m, we will use a Trident full-size two element beam which has proved excellent in tests. Additional beams and wire antennas will be available, to enable us to appear on the same band on more than one mode.

Satellite
Plans are in hand for operation through OSCAR-40. See our satellite pages for details. Due to the current problems with AO-40, we may not be able to operate in satellite mode.

Moonbounce EME
Our plans include moonbounce activity from Rodrigues Island. We will use both 70cm and 6m. See this special feature.

CQ WW WPX SSB Contest
During the operation, the CQ World-Wide WPX SSB Contest takes place. The team will enter the contest on all bands, running in the multi-multi section. During the contest, non-contest operations will continue on all bands using other modes.

In Summary
The Rodrigues DXpedition is a major (and expensive!) operation. The operators will strive to make quality contacts with as many individuals as possible. In particular, the group will aim to work those with a more modest set up, in addition to the big guns.

Check our operating frequency plans.