Chris M0RSF, accompanied by his wife Natalie, delivered a captivating and comprehensive talk on Summits on the Air (SOTA) at Hadars. SOTA is an increasingly popular activity among amateur radio enthusiasts, involving the operation of portable radio stations from mountain summits. Chris began by explaining the basics of SOTA, detailing what qualifies a summit and the scoring system, which is based on the peak’s height above sea level. Points are awarded for summits ranging from 500m to 900m, making the activity both challenging and rewarding.
A key principle of SOTA is that participants must reach the transmission point on foot; using a mobile station is not permitted. This requirement underscores the physical and adventurous nature of SOTA, as operators must hike to often remote locations. Chris shared reference numbers of some popular peaks in the UK, directing attendees to the SOTA summits website for more detailed information and resources.
Safety was a major focus of Chris’s presentation. He emphasized the significant temperature differences encountered at higher elevations, making appropriate warm clothing and strong boots essential. The necessity of carrying all required radio equipment, including power sources, highlights the self-sufficient nature of SOTA. Operators must be well-prepared, as the activity combines elements of hiking and technical radio operation.
To successfully activate a summit, operators must make a minimum of four contacts from the location. On VHF bands, 2m FM is particularly popular, typically requiring at least a handheld radio with an upgraded antenna for better performance. Chris noted that while SSB is a favored mode, CW (Morse code) is used less frequently but remains an integral part of SOTA operations. HF bands, including SSB and CW, are also widely utilized, providing diverse opportunities for making contacts.
Chris showcased the group some of the popular QRP (low power) radios he uses, such as the Yaesu FT-817 for general use, the FT-857 for higher power requirements, and the Yaesu VX-7 for its versatility and portability. These radios are well-suited to the lightweight, portable nature of SOTA.
He also discussed the upcoming 10m challenge for 2024, a highly anticipated event among SOTA enthusiasts. Chris described various antennas used in SOTA operations, from simple 2m multifunction antennas to the SB270 yagi, which requires a small mast for support. These antennas are designed to be lightweight and easy to transport, aligning with the backpacking aspect of the hobby.
The talk concluded with a discussion on the awards available in SOTA, such as the “Mountain Goat” for those who actively activate summits and the “Shack Sloth” for operators who make contacts from home. Chris reiterated the importance of safety throughout his presentation, advising on proper clothing, robust footwear, and thorough preparation for emergencies. His talk underscored the importance of combining technical skills with outdoor preparedness to ensure that SOTA remains a safe and enjoyable pursuit for all participants.
Many thanks to Chris and Natalie for an informative and engaging presentation which was well received by Hadars members.