The weather was dry and bright, with a cold breeze, although we did get some light rain later in the day. Conditions however were flat, with talkback varying between 57 and lost in the noise.
We tried sending and receiving with 333ks/s, but nothing was received at either end. I then tried 125ks/s and Brian saw some carrier and symbol lock. After several overs by Noel and myself, I sent a long transmission for nearly 15 minutes at 125ks/s and during this, Brian was able to capture a few seconds of locked video. Unfortunately, Brian could only send 333ks/s and we could not make it a two way, but 255km one way was a very satisfactory result for flat conditions when talkback was a struggle at times.
For the first time, I assembled all my gear by the back seat of the car and this made operating much more comfortable, especially when we had a shower!
We did not hear any other stations, although I know some of you were monitoring. I apologise that we did not beam East, but truthfully we were fully occupied trying to work Brian. Also, this site is partially obstructed to the East by a large above ground water reservoir with earth banked sides, which you can just see to the right of the photograph. This means that our aerials only clear the top by a few feet and the areas where we can park and avoid it are either behind locked gates or a quagmire!
According to the propagation predictions, next week will bring another lift, Thursday 29th December looking good at present. This might be just what we need to make this path, and perhaps others to the North, work. I will be available again to go /portable to the Mendips and look forward to hearing if anyone else is also available.
Our aiming point North is straight over Bristol Lulsgate airport terminal buildings.
Thanks to everyone who made an effort to come out for the second time in December and brave the cold! A Happy Christmas to all ATVers!
73 Shaun G8VPG.