The Juan Fernández Archipelago, best known for the legendary novel by Daniel Defoe, will soon be heard on the amateur radio bands again. Felipe, XQ7IR, has released fresh information about the upcoming activation under the 3G0Z brand, which promises not only rare connections but also technical innovations in the form of remote operation.
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3G0Z schedule and first steps on the island
According to the latest reports from May 8, 2026, there is less than a week left until the start of the journey to Robinson Crusoe Island (IOTA SA-005). Felipe estimates that the first signals under the 3G0Z brand should cross the airwaves on May 19 at approximately 21:00 UTC. The entire operation is planned for approximately 20 days, which is long enough for DX hunters from all over the world to find their connections, provided the propagation conditions are favorable.
Initial activity will focus mainly on the lower bands – 160, 80 and 40 meters. Felipe chose this approach to take advantage of the night windows while he gradually installs the rest of the antenna park.
Inovácia v podobe remote station
One of the key elements of the 3G0Z expedition will be the operation of a so-called remote station. Felipe will install the equipment on the island, which will then be operated by an experienced team of operators led by Renner, PY7RP. This group of renowned radio amateurs will actively contribute to the success of the entire event, thereby increasing the efficiency of the use of time and the number of established contacts in various modes. QSL via M0URX OQRS.
Ambitious plan for SA-101: Alejandro Selkirk
In addition to the main activity from Robinson Crusoe Island, work continues on activating a much more challenging location – Alejandro Selkirk Island (IOTA SA-101). This plan is taking shape and Felipe is working closely with veterans like Rick K6VVA and Mike K9AJ. They provided him with invaluable information from their previous CB0Z expedition, which took place in 2020.
Their reports indicated that the biggest enemy of the operators on Selkirk was the extremely high level of industrial interference (QRN). This was mainly generated by solar systems installed in the local settlement. To avoid such complications, Felipe is currently working to secure a site outside the inhabited area, at a higher altitude. This location, combined with the support of the local population, should provide a much more favorable environment for DX work than previous expeditions. However, the terrain here is unforgiving and many directions, especially towards the west coast of the USA (W6), Japan (JA) and the Pacific, are heavily shaded by the surrounding hills.