N1DT and K1VV plan to activate Boston and The Graves Light under the call W1AA for the National Lighthouse Weekend 2006 on August 5, 2006 from 7:00 AM EST (1100 UTC) until about 5:00 PM EST (2100 UTC).
National Lighthouse Weekend is held annually to promote public awareness of ham radio and lighthouses; to contribute to the recognition that lighthouses, lightships, and their keepers deserve.
Whitey, K1VV notes that he and N1DT will begin operations on 75 meters, above 3980 kHz. “Check 3996.” On 40 phone, look for W1AA between the nets, most likely below 7270, down to 7225. Whitey says they’ll also use 20 phone later in the morning above 14310, or 17 meters above 18150. “We will return to 40 phone about 1530 to 1600 UTC, about noon local time.”
Morse code operation will be conducted roughly on the half hour, on 7035, 10116, 14035 and 18080 kHz, plus or minus QRM.
“We will be posting our spots on the DX Summit. but we would appreciate any and all W1AA spots by the members.” He adds, “DX QSLs are via the W1 Bureau and stateside are via W1AA please with an SASE. A photo of the lighthouse will be furnished.”
The Graves Light is located in Outer Boston Harbor. It can be seen from points along the shore in Winthrop (Shore Drive), Hull (Nantasket Beach), and Nahant, but is best seen by boat. It was established in 1905. With a height of 113 feet, it exhibits two white flashes every 12 seconds. Its fog signals two blasts ever 20 seconds.
Boston Light is located on Little Brewster Island in Outer Boston Harbor. The station was initially established in 1716. The current lighthouse tower was built in 1783. Constructed of stone with brick lining, the tower stands 89 feet high. The lighthouse flashes white every 10 seconds. Its fog signals one blast every 30 seconds.