The Wireless Society of Southern Maine, a ham radio club based in Scarborough, will join other Amateur Radio operators from around the world in celebrating International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend, on August 18-19. From 10am-4pm on both days, local hams will attempt two-way communications with other lighthouses and lightships, as well as other hams, from the Spring Point Ledge Light, in South Portland, ME. The international event, which sees over 500 light houses and lightships activated in over 40 countries, helps promote the preservation of lighthouses and lightships, and at the same time give the community an opportunity to experience Amateur Radio.
The Wireless Society of Southern Maine, founded in 2010, has participated in ILLW since 2011, activating several lighthouses along the Maine coast and Canada. Past activations have included Pemaquid Point Light, Portland Head Light, West Quoddy Head Light, Cape Neddick “Nubble” Light, and Seguin Island Light, among others.
Former club president Thom Watson, of Gorham says of this year’s event: The Wireless Society of Southern Maine and The Spring Point Ledge Light Trust, are excited for the opportunity to promote this historic light. It’s always fun to participate in ILLW, as it allows us to show off what we’re capable, setting up and operating with portable antennas and battery power, and at the same time raise awareness about preserving historic lighthouses and lightships.”
For this year’s event, WSSM will be using the special 1X1 call sign, K1S during ILLW.
For more information about Amateur Radio, and the ILLW event, please visit: www.ws1sm.com
WS1SM Ham Radio Blog 