A First Taste of DXing

Over the past couple week I’ve been reading a lot of all over the web about all the fun things to do in HAM Radio: DXing, satellites communications, antenna construction, moon bounce, etc. One thing I latched onto was Amsat, I spent a lot of time on their website. After downloading some satellite tracking software I headed up to the Ham Shack with the anticipation of picking up a beacon from something overhead.  To my dismay the only VHF/UHF radio that was capable had a misaligned antenna, and I didn’t end up hearing anything from space. But I did pick up some DXers on 20-meters, while playing with HF transceiver. To my amazement I was able to pick up signals from Tennessee, Florida, and Arizona. Being only a Technician Class Operator I could not legally attempt to make contact. But it did light a fire under me to get studying for the next HAM Exam.