Amateur 73 Radio Today

Magazine Overview

Title: Amateur 73 Radio Today
Issue: #489
Date: August 2001
Publisher: BUCKMASTER PUBLISHING
Country: USA
Price: USA $3.95, CANADA $4.95

This issue of Amateur 73 Radio Today focuses on the intersection of amateur radio and unexplained phenomena, with a prominent feature on a DXpedition to the "UFO Watchtower" in Colorado's San Luis Valley. The cover highlights several articles, including "Amazon Death Flight," "Return of the Wavemeter," "Wall-Warts: The Ugly Truth," "CQ ET!", "More Transistor Lore," "Tomorrow's Hamfest Today," and "Flea Market Quest: Portable HF Antenna."

"CQ ET!" The UFO Watchtower DXpedition

The main article details a planned DXpedition to the UFO Watchtower in the San Luis Valley, Colorado. Located at nearly 8,000 feet, the valley is described as the highest Alpine valley in the world, surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks and known for its high-altitude climate and 350 days of sunshine per year. Historically, the valley was known as Peaceful Valley to local Indians and was considered a holy place. Spanish settlers arrived in 1708, and the area has since been known for its agricultural productivity.

The article delves into the valley's reputation for "high strangeness," citing ancient Native American traditions of underground "ant people" and the legend of a "bilocating nun" who allegedly converted locals in the 17th century. More recently, public attention was drawn in 1967 by the "sensational animal mutilation of Snippy the horse." Reports of strange lights and craft have continued, with many modern-day sightings. A significant event mentioned is a 1995 daylight video of a huge craft, "at least a mile in length," shown on the Paramount Television program "Sightings." Locals have also reported strange underground noises.

The author, Jack Speer, describes his motivation for organizing DXpeditions to areas of unexplained happenings. The first DXpedition is to the UFO Watchtower near Hooper, Colorado, located about 22 miles north of Alamosa. A preliminary test run was conducted in early April, braving snow-covered passes and high winds. Despite the unannounced nature of the test and challenging weather, 30 contacts were made using a G5RV antenna and a Kenwood 440S radio.

The article provides specific frequencies for the upcoming DXpedition, scheduled for the Labor Day weekend: 75 meters (3853 kHz), 40 meters (7237 kHz), 20 meters (14310 kHz), 17 meters (18150 kHz), 15 meters (21385 kHz), and 10 meters (28510 kHz). QSL cards are to be sent to the author's Callbook address, with a request for a large SASE.

Future DXpeditions are being considered, with Roswell being a potential destination.

Other Articles and Features

While the "CQ ET!" article is the most prominent, the cover indicates several other topics:

• Amazon Death Flight: The title suggests a story related to aviation or travel in the Amazon region, possibly involving a mysterious or dangerous event.
• Return of the Wavemeter: This likely covers the technical aspects or resurgence of interest in wavemeters, a device used in radio frequency measurement.
• Wall-Warts: The Ugly Truth: This article probably discusses the common power adapters for electronic devices, often referred to as "wall-warts," and may expose issues or provide technical insights.
• More Transistor Lore: Continuing a theme of electronic components, this article likely delves into further details, history, or applications of transistors.
• Tomorrow's Hamfest Today: This suggests a preview or report on an upcoming amateur radio convention or hamfest, highlighting future events or trends.
• Flea Market Quest: Portable HF Antenna: This article focuses on practical amateur radio equipment, specifically the search for or construction of a portable High Frequency (HF) antenna, likely aimed at mobile or field operations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently bridges the gap between amateur radio operations and broader interests in the unexplained, such as UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and exploration, encouraging readers to investigate unusual topics while maintaining a practical, hands-on approach to amateur radio technology. The inclusion of technical articles alongside features on UFOs suggests an audience interested in both the scientific and the speculative aspects of the world.