Radio fans tune in for bid to reach Australia - and space

By pkemp

EDITION PREVIEW: Amateur radio enthusiasts will make contact across the world – and perhaps even into space – at an event in Tamworth this weekend.

Radio amateurs will be setting up their equipment at Tamworth Castle on Saturday and Sunday as part of the International Museums Weekend.

The event will see them making contact with other museums across the UK and the world. And organisers say they will even attempt to tune in and make contact with the International Space Station.

"Amateur radio enthusiasts have a very low profile in this country. The event is a way of introducing it to the public," said Bob Williams, Tamworth Amateur Radio Society secretary.

"It is a bit of fun as well and is a chance to talk to people across the world.

"It is a scientific hobby where many innovations, such as mobile phones and the internet were developed."

During the event enthusiasts will share information and historical facts about where they are transmitting from.

The types of museum will vary widely from ships such as HMS Belfast to the Geelong Regional Museum in Australia.

And Bob said during the event they would attempt to contact astronauts on the space station – most of whom are radio amateurs – but it would depend on atmospheric conditions, distance and timing.

"Their schedule is a bit unpredictable as far as their daytime and nighttime is concerned.

"We should be able to hear them and we will try for a conversation."

The event runs from 12noon to 4.30pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Normal castle entry fees apply.

● Tamworth Amateur Radio Society meets every Thursday at St Francis' Church, Masefield Drive, Leyfields, Tamworth.

For details contact secretary Bob Williams on 07777 694415.

* Tamworth Herald, June 18, 2009, edition.