39 Dover Street programming on Dec 27

Season's greetings from the Isle of Wight.

Just to let you and listeners know, that 39 Dover Street will broadcast an extended 30 minuteprogramme over the holiday period.This will be a selection of featured Musicians from the programmes of the last 10 months or so.

The times and frequencies, through IRRS, are as follows:

Sunday, December 27, 2009 0n 9510 ast 12:30 UTC; 6170, 19:30 UTC.

Wishing everyone a good holiday.
Take care
Stephen John Jones

Tune-in the holidays from a QSL perspective

A Christmas treat for blog readers that may not be subscribers to Monitoring Times. The following is a portion from my December 2009 edition of QSL Report. Hope it gives you some new ideas for QSLing during the holidays.

To learn more about Monitoring Times, consult http://www.monitoringtimes.com/

Gayle Van Horn

Ready or not the holiday season is here, and for shortwave listeners it’s a month of annual holiday programming favorites. This is a great opportunity to preserve your favorites by QSLing the best of the season. Listeners can find a variety of programs from around the world featuring classical music, comedy, choral, plays, religious services and nostalgic favorites.
Between Christmas and New Year, look for year-end retrospectives, looking back at the events of 2009 and forward to 2010. New Year celebrations begin in New Zealand at 1100 UTC on December 31, as you follow the New Year around the globe (easy on the toasting). Follow the latest holiday schedules from MT’s Programming Spotlight columnist, Fred Waterer as he keeps you abreast of the holidays in his informative column, and on his DogHouseCharlie website at www.doghousecharlie.com/christmas-programming/ Consult M.T.’s SW Guide and MTXtra Shortwave Broadcast Guides for current by-hour frequency schedules.

Radio Free Asia is offering their 13th Anniversary QSL card until December 31, 2009. The card not only commemorates RFA’s anniversary, but also helps capture the spirit of RFA’s family and friends around the world while promoting freedom, democracy and peace. This years anniversary card is a sketch drawn by the children of RFA personnel. Reception reports may be submitted at the QSL Reports link at www.techweb.rfa.org or by email at qsl@rfa.org Postal address: Radio Free Asia, 2025 M. Street NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036 USA.
Complete language listings for RFA are listed in the MTXtra Shortwave Broadcast Guide.

European readers should look for Radio Bila Hora, broadcasting from the Czech Republic, on New Years Eve. Each year the annual pirate broadcaster operates on 3333 kHz, and was heard last year at 1530-1600 and 1900-2000 UTC from the United Kingdom. Send program details to rbh@email.cz The station’s Czech website at http://czechian.net/ may be translated using Google language tools. You Tube video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTreCgFS0z4

After an absence of several months, listeners are hearing Radio Amanecer, Internacional again on 6015.02 kHz from the Dominican Republic. Monitoring has been from 2300-0300 UTCin Spanish, and reception reports may be sent to; Apartado Postal 1500, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (or) Juan Sánchez Ramírez #40, San Domingo, Domnican Republic. Streaming audio and podcast at http://www.radioamanecer.org/

An amateur radio Dxpedition is planned for December 29-January 4, 2010 from Robertson Island, Houtman Abrolhos (OC-211). Located off the west coast of Australia, the Abrolhos were activated for the first and only time in 1996. Consult www.westozdx.net/IOTA/OC211.html for broadcasting details, QSL via VK4AAR-Alan Roocroft, 376 Old Toowomba Road, Placid Hills, QLD 4343 Australia.

The following web addresses and email updates may be used for surfing and QSLing.
Clandestine, Radio Free Chosun www.rfcosun.org/eng email: rfchosun@rfchosun.org
Euro Pirate, Playback International, email: playbackinternational@gmail.com
Israel World Federation Inc. (via WHRI), http://www.british-israel-world-fed.ca/

email: biwf.canada@bellnet.ca
Polish Radio, english.section@polishradio.pl
RAE Argentina, argentinainternationalradio@gmail.com
Radio Miraya FM, email: mirayasudan@mirayafm.org
Radio Tirana, Albania english@hotmail.com
Southern Sudan Interactive Radio, ottok@sentech.co.za
U.S. pirate, Northwoods Radio has changed their email address to northwoodsradio@gmail
while WBNY/Commander Bunny has a new web address at http://wbny.webhop.org/
Voice of Vietnam, englishsection@vov.org.vn

Weekly Propagation Forecast Bulletins

Product: Weekly Highlights and Forecasts
:Issued: 2009 Dec 22 2051 UTC
# Prepared by the US Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Weather Prediction Center
# Product description and SWPC web contact: www.swpc.noaa.gov/weekly.html
#
# Weekly Highlights and Forecasts
#
Highlights of Solar and Geomagnetic Activity
14 - 20 December 2009

Solar activity was very low during 14-15 December. Activity was low on 16-19 December as Region 1035 (N31, L=250, class/area Bxo/20 on 14 December) produced several C-flares, with numerous B-flares, and associated radio emissions. One event was a C5/sf at 16/0124 UTC
with an associated slow moving partial-halo coronal mass ejection. Another C1 at 16/2212 UTC had a very weak Type IV radio sweep associated with it. Two new regions were numbered on 19 December as Region 1036 (S29, L=210, class/area Bxo/10 on 19 December) and Region 1037 (N18, L=137, class/area Bxo/10 on 19 December). On 20 December activity returned to very low and a new region was numbered as Region 1038 (N16, L=204, class/area Axx/10 on 20 December).

No proton events were observed at geosynchronous orbit.

The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit was at normal background levels during the period.

The geomagnetic field was predominantly quiet throughout the summary period. The exception was quiet to unsettled levels observed on 14 December between 14/0300 - 1500 UTC. Observations from the ACE spacecraft showed signatures of a solar boundary crossing with an increase in the interplanetary total field and a period of sustained southward Bz.

Forecast of Solar and Geomagnetic Activity
23 December 2009 - 18 January 2010

Solar activity is expected to be predominantly very low during the first half of the period. Activity is expected to be very to low during the second half of the period.

No proton events are expected at geosynchronous orbit.

The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit is expected to be at normal levels through the period.

The geomagnetic field is expected to be mostly quiet for the forecast period.

Product: 27-day Space Weather Outlook Table 27DO.txt
:Issued: 2009 Dec 22 2051 UTC
# Prepared by the US Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Weather Prediction Center
# Product description and SWPC web contact: www.swpc.noaa.gov/wwire.html
#
# 27-day Space Weather Outlook Table
# Issued 2009 Dec 22
#
# UTC Radio Flux Planetary Largest
# Date 10.7 cm A Index Kp Index
2009 Dec 23 76 5 2
2009 Dec 24 74 5 2
2009 Dec 25 74 5 2
2009 Dec 26 72 5 2
2009 Dec 27 72 5 2
2009 Dec 28 72 5 2
2009 Dec 29 72 5 2
2009 Dec 30 72 5 2
2009 Dec 31 72 5 2
2010 Jan 01 72 5 2
2010 Jan 02 72 5 2
2010 Jan 03 73 5 2
2010 Jan 04 74 5 2
2010 Jan 05 75 5 2
2010 Jan 06 76 5 2
2010 Jan 07 78 5 2
2010 Jan 08 80 5 2
2010 Jan 09 82 5 2
2010 Jan 10 82 5 2
2010 Jan 11 84 5 2
2010 Jan 12 84 5 2
2010 Jan 13 85 5 2
2010 Jan 14 85 5 2
2010 Jan 15 82 5 2
2010 Jan 16 82 5 2
2010 Jan 17 80 5 2
2010 Jan 18 80 5 2
(NOAA)

BBC Scotland Hogmanay show available worldwide

For the first time, BBC One Scotland’s Hogmanay Live show will be available across the world. Nobody does Hogmanay like the Scots and now Scots, and people from all nationalities across the UK and around the world, can tune in to celebrate with Scotland.

Hogmanay Live 2009 goes out on BBC One Scotland on Thursday 31 December at 2345-0045 UTC. It will also be available live on BBC Red Button for digital TV viewers in England, Northern Ireland and Wales and on BBC iPlayer for seven days after transmission.

Worldwide audiences will be able to watch the programme streamed live on-demand for 24 hours through the website www.bbc.co.uk/hogmanay .
(Source: BBC Press Office/R Netherlands Media Network)

Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation launches live streaming

Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) has started live streaming of its broadcasts. A PBC official told Daily Times that programmes of National Broadcasting Service (NBS) could now be listened to live on the Internet. NBS is a dedicated Current Affair Channel of Radio Pakistan which broadcasts news bulletins, sports news, business updates and stock market reports, talk shows and interviews of prominent personalities besides social and cultural programmes 17 hours a day starting at 6:55 am and concluding at 12 midnight (0155-1900 UTC).

The official said programmes broadcast from NBS mainly originated from Islamabad while major regional stations of PBC including Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta also made their contribution in the daily transmission. He said the programmes of NBS, launched in August 2008, were broadcast on a network of eleven stations. “PBC is working on a plan to broadcast NBS programmes from a new FM network in the main cities of the country to make the broadcasts more loud and clear,” he said.

As of now, Radio Pakistan listeners around the world can get easy access to various programmes in all regional languages as well as in Urdu and English. NBS programmes can be accessed live on www.radio.gov.pk .
(Source: Daily Times/R Netherlands Media Network weblog)

Radio Joystick and IRRS to continue broadcast in 2010

Radio Joystick can be heard on every first Saturday of each month at 10 hs Central European Time. (0900-1000 UTC) on 9510 kHz. Each show lasts 59 minutes, and consists of Information on Malta, Media - and Music, presented by DJ Charlie Prince, who founded Radio Joystick as a hobby almost 25 years ago!

The first show for 2010 will be with an interview again:
Ms Ingris Kidder, President of the German Maltese Circle, tells all about her experiences on Malta.
Two musical milestone will also be included:
A wilful version of the Beatles Hit "I Want To Hold Your Hand" -
and the most wonderful piece from the movie soundtrack "Three Tough Guys"!
So tune in on the 2nd of January at 10:00 o'clock German local time on 9510 kHz.

Lat not least Radio Joystick wishes a nice Chrismas and a fantastic New Year to every Free Radio Enthusiast!

Contact address:

Radio Joystick

P. O. Box 23 31

55543 Kreuznach

Rhineland Palatinate

GERMANY/ALLEMAGNE.
(Charlie Prince/HCDX)

Pitcairn Island - Callsigns and QSL Cards

On four occasions in recent time here in Wavescan, we have presented special features about radio broadcasting on Pitcairn Island, way out there in the center of the South Pacific. Since then, a very interesting item of information that answers a previously unanswered question has been discovered among the many items of Pitcairn memorabilia provided by John Scuddas here in the United States.
This interesting information is found in a two page article written by Dorothy Hall, W2IXY, and printed in the British radio magazine, “T & R Bulletin”, dated December 1938. It is remembered that Dorothy Hall in New York City made frequent radio contact with Pitcairn during this era.
Back there in the years 1938 & 1939, three different styles of QSL cards were issued to verify the reception of transmissions from the station that was variously identified on air as PITC, VR6A & VR6AY. The callsign PITC was in use for the relay of broadcast programming to the RCA station KKW located at Bolinas in California, and the callsigns VR6A & VR6AY were in use for amateur radio QSO contacts.
The first QSL card showed a map of the Pacific with Pitcairn highlighted, and also a photograph of the radio equipment that was exported from the United States to Pitcairn Island. The callsign was printed in large red letters and it showed VR6A.
The next QSL card issued from Pitcairn was actually this same card, but with the letter Y handwritten at the end of the callsign, thus identifying the station as VR6AY.
The third QSL card issued from Pitcairn was a re-printing of the original card, with a slight re-alignment of the text on the address side of the card, and the listing of the callsign as VR6AY. The final letter Y was added at the time of printing.
However, the question that has caught the interest of the radio world, is this: Why the change in callsign? What was happening back there more than half a century ago?
The most common answer was that the first printing of this QSL card contained a printing error, and that the second printing corrected the mistake by adding the letter Y at the end of the callsign. However, further information demonstrates that this answer is incorrect. This is what really happened.
When the radio pioneers Granville Lindley & Lewis Bellem visited Pitcairn Island for the purpose of establishing the 60 watt shortwave station, they also took with them 1,000 generic QSL cards that would be used to verify the reception of this new amateur radio broadcasting station. The callsign on this card was printed as VR6A, without the final Y.
The supply of these QSL cards was soon used up, and so another batch of 5,000 cards was printed, with a slight re-adjustment of the text on the address side, and the identification of the station as VR6AY, including the final Y.
The magazine article by Dorothy Hall states that the Pitcairn station PITC made its inaugural transmission on March 5, 1938, as VR6A. It would appear that the callsign, VR6A, identified Pitcairn Radio as, for example, the first station on the island. However, at this stage, it was without a license, and as the article states, “panicky engineers” in the United States ordered the station off the air until the license situation was clarified.
Radio station PITC-VR6A was off the air until the legal paper work arrived, and it was re-launched in early April as VR6AY, with the last two letters of the callsign as the initials of the local operator, Andrew Young.
The first QSL card, as VR6A without a hand written alteration, is nowadays quite rare, though a few were issued for the original brief period of on air activity. We hold one QSL card of this nature, without the handwritten alteration.
We also hold as well one amateur card from Canada and a letter from an amateur operator in the United States, which confirm QSO contacts on March 8, 1938, during the four day era of its unlicensed operation before the station was temporarily closed.
The second QSL card issued from Pitcairn is actually the same card, but with the letter Y added in hand writing at the end of the callsign. This card is more common these days.
The third QSL card, which was actually the second print run, contains the full callsign as VR6AY. This card was used to confirm QSO contacts, and operations as a broadcast program provider, and also as a tourist souvenir, until the complete stock was depleted. This card is these days the most common. Thus far, we have not seen one of these QSL cards confirming a broadcast transmission under the commercial callsign PITC.
Thus, the reason for the change of callsign on these QSL cards was not because of a printing error as previously thought, but because the paperwork had not arrived. When the paperwork did arrive, it was an amateur license for Andrew Young, with the callsign VR6AY.
(AWR Wavescan NWS # 43 via Adrian Peterson)

Return to Pitcairn Island posted 18 December, 2009

Radio Australia -Wanneroo

It was exactly 70 years ago, to the very day, that Australia Calling was launched by the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr Robert Menzies. In later times, Mr Menzies was knighted and became Sir Robert Menzies, and Australia Calling was re-designated as Radio Australia. At the time of its inauguration on Wednesday December 20, 1939, Mr Menzies was celebrating his 45th birthday during his first term as prime minister; and Australia Calling was on the air from just three shortwave transmitters at two different locations; two at 10 kW at Pennant Hills in New South Wales, and one at 2 kW at Lyndhurst in Victoria.
During the following month, preliminary test broadcasts began from a 4th transmitter, again just 2 kW, at a 3rd location, Wanneroo in Western Australia. This then is the story of Radio Australia Wanneroo, and we present this information here in this edition of Wavescan in honor of Radio Australia’s 70th anniversary.
It was back in the year 1932 that the PMG Dept procured the Wanneroo property on the northern edge of the state capital, Perth, for the purpose of establishing a new radio broadcasting station. At the end of the year, the eight year old mediumwave station 6WF, located on the top of a commercial building in downtown Perth, was retired and a new 5 kW transmitter for this ABC service was installed at Wanneroo.
In 1938, work commenced at Wanneroo for the installation of two additional broadcast transmitters, one mediumwave and one shortwave. The one year old mediumwave 6WN was transferred from the city post office building to Wanneroo, and a new shortwave transmitter VLW was installed for coverage of outback areas in Western Australia.
The earliest known test broadcast from the new shortwave station VLW was noted in the United States on 7170 kHz in September 1939. However, with the inauguration of Australia Calling, plans were laid for the incorporation of this new unit on the west coast of the continent into part time usage for programming beamed to South Africa and the islands of Indonesia.
Additional test broadcasts from VLW were noted in Australia and New Zealand during the following weeks, and, in the New Year 1940, test broadcasts were beamed specifically towards Africa. This transmitter was officially taken into the programming service of Australia Calling on April 7, 1940, with programming in both English and Afrikaans.
Interestingly, two sets of callsigns were in use from this low powered transmitter. One set of numeric designators was in use for the ABC outback service in Western Australia, and another set for the overseas service from Australia Calling. For example:-
VLW2 was in use with ABC programming on 9615 kHz
VLW2 Australia Calling 9650 kHz
The initial series of broadcasts beamed to Africa from VLW with a relay of programming from Radio Australia in Melbourne lasted for less than a year. However, a new service in the Malay language for the Asian islands north of Australia was introduced in October 1941, though this service too was soon afterwards terminated.
In 1945, the 2 kW VLW was dropped completely from Radio Australia programming and these program services were transferred to the three new high powered shortwave transmitters located at Shepparton in Victoria. Transmitter VLW was now on the air exclusively with the ABC regional service to the outback.
In 1959, work commenced on a new transmitter building at Wanneroo in which several new mediumwave and shortwave transmitters were installed. These new units, three shortwave and four mediumwave ranging in power from 2 kW to 50 kW, were taken into full service in 1962.
In 1963, a series of test broadcasts at 50 kW were beamed to Africa from Wanneroo; six years later another series of broadcasts were beamed to Africa using two transmitters at 10 kW; and in 1983, there was a series of test broadcasts lasting three days beamed to Africa.
In 1984, there was a series of test broadcasts directed to Antarctica using a 10 kW transmitter and back radiation from a rhombic antenna beamed to the Kimberly region in Western Australia. Programming was in English and French with a relay from Radio France International in Paris.
The shortwave transmitters at Wanneroo were in use for international and outback Australian coverage for some 55 years, but they are silent now. These units were withdrawn from service and closed down in 1994. During their more than half a century of service, they were on the air with programming for the outback from the ABC in Perth, and with a relay from Radio Australia beamed to Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Antarctica.
On this occasion today, we salute Radio Australia for their 70 years of on air service, which included the initial usage of the small 2 kW shortwave transmitter VLW located at Wanneroo near Perth in Western Australia. QSL cards for this unique shortwave service during its initial one year period were issued from the ABC headquarters in Sydney Australia and these QSLs were the early version of the orange colored card featuring the wild kangaroo.
(AWR Wavescan NWS 43 via Adrian Peterson)

RTBF International confirms end of shortwave service

RTBF International has confirmed that its shortwave transmissions [currently on 9970 kHz] will cease as of 2215 UTC on 31 December. Transmissions will continue on the mediumwave transmitter in Belgium on 621 kHz, on FM 99.2 MHz in Kinshasa, and via the AB3 satellite in Africa. It’s not clear if the station will continue to use the Hotbird satellite in Europe, as the website only says that listeners in Europe can listen via the Internet, either streaming or on demand.
(Source: RTBF website/R Netherlands Media Network Weblog)

Website: www.rtbf.be

Radio Netherlands Program Guide - Dec 19-25

Welcome to our weekly guide to Radio Netherlands Worldwide's English Service - a list of the new programmes coming up on Radio Netherlands Worldwide this week, beginning on Saturday.

SATURDAY 19 DECEMBER
*** The State We're In ***

Gay and out of Uganda: John Bosco enjoyed his life in Kampala, Uganda. He'd just graduated university, found work as a banker and had a great social life.

Then the pub he often went to with his gay friends got raided. John wasn't there at the time, but heard the police announce his name on the radio. John went into hiding. The police wanted his family to disclose his whereabouts. They beat his brother to death. John fled to the UK where he finally tasted freedom.

Then in 2008, John was deported back to Uganda. He tells Jonathan how he feared for his life, and how he made it back to the UK where he now lives. Anti-gay pastor: Martin Ssempa is a powerful pastor in Uganda. His anti-gay views have the voice of politicians at the highest levels and his charismatic manner makes him appealing to many Ugandans. We ask him why he thinks targeting homosexuals is justified.

Herdes in the city: Mongolia is the last nomadic nation on earth, but in recent years its capital city of Ulaanbator has swelled to become home to half the country's entire population. Dheera Sujan talks to one herding family to find out why they've abandoned their old lives to come to the city. From farm to slum: Teodoro and his family are among 3-4 million internally displaced villagers in Colombia. Pushed out of the land by paramilitaries working for wealthy landowners, they now live in a slum just outside Bogota. Correspondent Nadja Drost spends a day in their life.
The hidden story of the Karen: It's the world's longest running conflict, but most of the world doesn't know that the Karen ethnic group is losing its farms and homes to the Burmese army. Phil Thornton talks to Karen farmers who are living life on the run.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.00 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
15.00 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.00 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.00 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
00.30 Europe
05.00 North America
14.00 Europe
23.00 North America and CBC

*** Network Europe Week ***

A collaboration by Europe's leading broadcasters

A pan-European team links up across the continent every day to provide a fresh perspective on events and life in Europe. If you missed any editions of Network Europe satisfy your needs with this digest of the programme's top stories.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
19.30 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
04.00 Africa and Asia
13.00 North America
17.00 Europe
22.00 Asia

*** Network Europe Extra ***

Arts and Culture brought to you each Sunday from Europe's widest partnership of international broadcasters.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
1505 South Asia 11835 and 15815, Southeast Asia/India 7530, Tibet 5825

Broadcast times on WRN (UTC):
0300 North America
1200 North America
1500 Europe

SUNDAY 20 DECEMBER
*** Network Europe Extra ***

Arts and Culture brought to you each Sunday from Europe's widest partnership of international broadcasters.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
1000 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720
1800 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
1900 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN (UTC):
0400 North America
0500 North America
1000 Africa and Asia
1200 North America
1430 Europe
1700 Europe
2200 Asia

*** Radio Books (primary programme) ***

'Pope Dream' - by Adriaan van Dis

Award-winning author and television presenter Adriaan van Dis has written numerous novels, travel books, short stories, plays, essays and poems. He is still a popular figure in the Dutch literary scene, though he now lives in Paris - the setting for his Radio Books story.

A man living alone in an apartment within earshot of the bell towers of Saint-Sulpice wakes to a ringing phone. He thinks it must be a wrong number until two unexpected visitors arrive at his door: cardinals in crimson robes sent by the Pope to deliver an important message.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.30 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720
14.00 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.30 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
19.30 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
00.30 Europe
05.30 North America
10.30 Africa and Asia
14.40 Europe

MONDAY 21 DECEMBER
*** Curious Orange (primary programme) ***

Michel Walraven is your guide to modern-day Holland.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.00 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720
14.30 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.30 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.30 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
00.30 Europe
13.00 North America
14.30 Europe
22.10 Asia
23.10 North America and CBC

*** Newsline ***

The latest world news and current affairs.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
15.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.04 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.04 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
14.04 Europe
22.00 Asia
23.00 North America and CBC

*** Network Europe ***

A collaboration by Europe's leading broadcasters

A pan-European team links up across the continent every day to provide a fresh perspective on events and life in Europe.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
19.04 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
05.00 North America
17.00 Europe

*** Euro Hit 40 ***

Europe's No.1 chart Show.

Broadcast times on WRN
05.20 North America

*** Classic Dox ***

'Running the Goat'

The 17th-century Canadian fishing community of Harbour Deep vanished from the map not long ago. But its ghost survives in a traditional set dance called Running the Goat. Summer tourists now learn the steps for an authentic taste of Newfoundland out-port life. Producer Chris Brookes was awarded the Prix Marulic for this lively feature.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.00 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720

Broadcast times on WRN
13.20 North America

*** European Jazz Stage/ World Music ***

Saxophonist James Carter and his quartet join the Jazz Orchestra of the Amsterdam Concertgebouw to perform compositions by legendary composer, tenor and Amsterdam resident, the late Don Byas.

*** Live! at the Concertgebouw ***

Live! at the Concertgebouw 2008

Fireworks throughout this edition, with Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks and Strawinsky's Feu d'artifice. And the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra plays classical arrangements of one of the United States' greatest composers, Duke Ellington.
Hans Haffmans and Cynthia Wilson are the programme's hosts.

TUESDAY 22 DECEMBER
*** Network Europe ***

A collaboration by Europe's leading broadcasters

A pan-European team links up across the continent every day to provide a fresh perspective on events and life in Europe.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
19.04 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
05.00 North America
17.00 Europe

*** The State We're In - Midweek Edition ***

Gay and out of Uganda: John Bosco enjoyed his life in Kampala, Uganda. He'd just graduated university, found work as a banker and had a great social life. Then the pub he often went to with his gay friends got raided. John wasn't there at the time, but heard the police announce his name on the radio. John went into hiding. The police wanted his family to disclose his whereabouts. They beat his brother to death. John fled to the UK where he finally tasted freedom.

Then in 2008, John was deported back to Uganda. He tells Jonathan how he feared for his life, and how he made it back to the UK where he now lives.

Anti-gay pastor: Martin Ssempa is a powerful pastor in Uganda. His anti-gay views have the voice of politicians at the highest levels and his charismatic

manner makes him appealing to many Ugandans. We ask him why he thinks targeting homosexuals is justified.

Herdes in the city: Mongolia is the last nomadic nation on earth, but in recent years its capital city of Ulaanbator has swelled to become home to half the country's entire population. Dheera Sujan talks to one herding family to find out why they've abandoned their old lives to come to the city.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.30 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720
14.15 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.15 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.15 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
04.00 Africa and Asia
10.30 Africa and Asia
14.15 Europe

*** Live! at the Concertgebouw ***

Live! at the Concertgebouw 2009

The complete Firebird by Stravinsky is played by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. We hear Ravel's Suite Ma mère l'oye, Mother Goose. And staying with avian theme, the concert ends with Respighi's Gli uccelli.

Your hosts are Hans Haffmans and Cynthia Wilson.

*** Commonwealth Story ***

A selection of winning stories chosen from the large number of entries for the 2009 Commonwealth Short Story Competition.

'The Sound of One Hand Clapping', by Becky Apteker, South Africa.
A young Zulu couple grieve for their lost son.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.50 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720

Broadcast times on WRN
00.50 Europe
04.25 Africa and Asia
10.50 Africa and Asia
22.50 Asia
23.50 North America and CBC

*** Classic Dox ***

'Hoppin' Alive'

Lindy hop is back! Amsterdam has rediscovered the American feel-good dance of 1930's swing jazz. Hundreds of enthusiastic hoppers enjoy workshops, master classes and parties. Special guest star Frankie Manning who rocked the cradle of this happy dance helps producer Liesbeth de Bakker get the rhythm.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.30 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595

*** Newsline ***

The latest world news and current affairs.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
15.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.04 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.04 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
14.04 Europe
22.00 Asia
23.00 North America and CBC

WEDNESDAY 23 DECEMBER
*** Network Europe ***

A collaboration by Europe's leading broadcasters

A pan-European team links up across the continent every day to provide a fresh perspective on events and life in Europe.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
19.04 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
05.00 North America
17.00 Europe

*** Reloaded (primary programme) ***

Another selection of this week's programme highlights presented by Mindy Ran.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
18.15 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.15 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
14.15 Europe
22.10 Asia

*** Classic Dox ***

'Do the Hustle!'

Music writer John Manuel Andriote and producer David Swatling present a brief history of disco - the dance and music craze which burst into clubs in the mid-1970s. It inspired films, fashion and technological developments in the pop music industry. The first of two parts covers the origins of the craze and

the iconic Studio 54 in New York.

*** Newsline ***

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
15.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.04 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.04 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
14.04 Europe
22.00 Asia
23.00 North America and CBC

THURSDAY 24 DECEMBER
*** Network Europe ***

A collaboration by Europe's leading broadcasters

A pan-European team links up across the continent every day to provide a fresh perspective on events and life in Europe.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
19.04 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
05.00 North America
17.00 Europe

*** Earth Beat (primary programme) ***

Join Marnie in her kitchen as she prepares a massive Christmas feast, and then be shocked and amazed as we calculate her holiday feast footprint.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.00 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720
14.30 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.35 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.15 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
04.00 Africa and Asia
05.10 North America
10.00 Africa and Asia
13.00 North America
14.00 Europe
17.30 Europe
22.10 Asia
23.10 North America and CBC

*** Classic Dox ***

'Fever to Inferno'

Music writer John Manuel Andriote and producer David Swatling continue this brief history of disco with a focus on its huge success for disco stars like the Bee Gees, Village People and Donna Summer - as well as the iconic film Saturday Night Fever. But if disco died in 1979, how did it manage a come-back?

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
15.15 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595

*** Newsline ***

The latest world news and current affairs.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
15.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.04 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.04 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
14.04 Europe
22.00 Asia
23.00 North America and CBC


FRIDAY 25 DECEMBER
*** Network Europe ***

A collaboration by Europe's leading broadcasters

A pan-European team links up across the continent every day to provide a fresh perspective on events and life in Europe.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
19.04 East Africa 12045, West Africa 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
05.00 North America
17.00 Europe

*** Bridges with Africa (primary programme) ***

We're giving the microphone to Diaspora groups in Europe and are linking up with stations in Africa. The show goes beyond the clichés of starving children and war-ridden countries and seeks to bring you genuine voices from a vibrant continent.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
10.00 East Asia 12065, 6040, East China 9720
14.30 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.15 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.15 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
05.10 North America
10.00 Africa and Asia
13.00 North America
17.30 Europe
22.10 Asia
23.10 North America and CBC

*** Classic Dox ***

'Tango in the Minor Key'

Finland is known as a cold place with hot saunas. The last thing we associate with Finland is the tango. And yet producer Dheera Sujan discovered that the

tango is the country's unlikely national dance enjoyed by thousands of Finns at lakeside dance halls.

*** Newsline ***
The latest world news and current affairs.

Broadcast times on SW (UTC):
14.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
15.04 South and Southeast Asia 12080, 15595
18.04 East Africa 12045, Central and East Africa 11655, South Africa 6020
20.04 West Africa 21525, 11655, South and Central Africa 7425

Broadcast times on WRN
14.04 Europe
22.00 Asia
23.00 North America and CBC
(R Netherlands)

NASB to conduct shortwave listener survey

Some time ago, the NASB obtained a quote from a reputable survey firm for conducting a survey to determine the number of shortwave listeners in North America, and some demographic characteristics of these listeners. As the cost was quite high, we attempted to find other shortwave stations that would be interested in sharing the cost with us. Unfortunately, not even one station offered to share in the cost of the survey, so we abandoned the idea. However, at this year's NASB annual meeting in Nashville, a suggestion was made that we conduct a survey of shortwave listeners through our NASB website, www.shortwave.org . This would not give us a figure as to the number of listeners in North America, but it would give us some valuable demographic information about the shortwave audience, not only in North America, but in other parts of the world as well.

A list of survey questions has been prepared, and a platform for the survey has been chosen. Bill Damick of TWR is coordinating the survey preparation, and it has tentatively been scheduled to go online in March of 2010. The survey will stay online for a period of one year, and final results will be announced at the 2011 NASB annual meeting. There will be a link to the survey on the NASB website, and we hope that our member organizations and other shortwave-related publications, websites and other entities will also publicize it.
(NASB Dec 09/Dan Elyea)

'Shortwave radio still going strong in Darfur'

Researcher Graham Mytton presents results of Radio Darfur listener survey
From Press Now

Research shows that Darfuri listen en masse to radio broadcasts via the short-wave band. 95% of the population over the age of 15 listen to the radio at least once a week. Over 70% of the people in Darfur listen at least once a week to Radio Dabanga, the Darfuri name for Radio Darfur. Mytton: ‘This research shows that short-wave radio is a very powerful medium in Darfur.’

After the state radio Omdurman – which broadcasts the entire day – Radio Darfur is the most popular radio station in terms of listeners. Asked which station people tune into to listen to the news, 39% states Radio Dabanga. Furthermore, it turns out that the questioned Darfuri primarily listen to the radio at times when Radio Dabanga transmits its broadcasts, from 7.30 a.m. to 8.30 a.m. and from 6.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.

Graham Mytton, formerly head of Media Research at the BBC and presently working as an independent media researcher, was commissioned by Press Now to conduct research into the listening behaviour of the Darfuri. The survey was held immediately after Ramadan, from September to the end of November 2009. The first results came in three days ago. The survey was held among 1,582 respondents over the age of 18 from all over Darfur, both men and women. The remarkable thing is that men and women listen in equal measure to the radio. ‘I have never seen that, nowhere in Africa – it’s usually a male affair,’ says Mytton, who has led numerous media studies in Africa. ‘The preliminary results are very good for Radio Dabanga.

Graham Mytton presented these provisional survey results yesterday evening in Desmet Studios, Amsterdam, during the celebration of Radio Darfur’s first anniversary.
The data presented by Mytton concerned provisional results that will still be supplemented further. The full research report will be rounded off around 1 January 2010.
(NASB Dec 09 via Dan Elyea)

'KNLS Alaska is famous all over China'

World Christian Broadcasting operates shortwave station KNLS in Alaska, which is a member of NASB. The station broadcasts to Asia in Russian, Chinese and English. Recently, WCB sponsored a tour of China. Thirty-one persons visited the Chinese cities of Beijing, Xian, Luoyang, Zhengzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong. WCB President Charles Caudill described a very interesting experience he had on that trip which highlights the importance of shortwave radio in China:

“A few weeks before leaving for China, I was contacted by e-mail with an invitation to speak for the worship service of one of the underground churches. I emailed back that I would be honored to bring the sermon. I was contacted shortly after that by someone who said she was my contact person and that she would also be my interpreter. She explained that she would meet [my daughter] Kelly and me in the lobby of our hotel and that we shouldn't try to come to them. No problem. We didn't have the address. We still don't.

“At the agreed upon time, a young lady, talking on her cell phone, walked directly to me and called me by name. That's not too surprising since I was the only American man in the crowded lobby. We took a cab and rode for almost an hour. She asked the driver to stop a few blocks from our destination. She did not want the cab driver to know where we were going. We walked those several blocks and were told we were near the building where the church meets regularly. We walked by another building to make sure we were not being followed. After a cell phone call, the lobby door opened and we took an elevator to one of the top floors. Another cell phone call got the door to the apartment opened. We walked into a room that was set up for a worship service – song books, Bibles and study materials.

“Why all of the clandestine moves? Remember, what we were about to do is illegal in China. The participants could be subject to arrest, or even worse. The authorities probably would not have done any violence to Kelly or me because we were foreigners. They simply would have sent us home.

“For years we have wondered about the reception of the KNLS signal in the large cities of China. Our monitors tell us the signal is being received, but that frequently the signal is jammed. We were also concerned about the relatively small amount of mail we receive from this particular city. At the same time we realize that it is illegal to write to us. And now that emails are monitored by the Chinese government, many of our listeners are even afraid to send emails to us.

“So, when I asked the question at the beginning of my talk, 'How many of you are familiar with KNLS?' I was surprised when more than one half of those young people raised their hands with smiles on their faces. Two of them even spoke out and said, “KNLS is famous in [their city.]” Afterward, a patent attorney, one of the leaders of the congregation, told me that the statements made during worship were true. He said, “KNLS is famous all over China.” He said that he listens every day and is a great fan of [KNLS announcer] Edward Short. He expressed surprise that Edward is American and not Chinese. He was amazed that somone other than a native Chinese could display such excellent use of their language.”
(NASB DSec 09/Dan Elyea)

Shortwave radio is important to those at sea

from publico.es, via Yimber Gaviria (translated from Spanish)

The radio is often the main companion of Spanish mariners who live and work thousands of miles from their homes. The magic of shortwave and the team of the veteran program “Españoles en la Mar” (“Spaniards at Sea”), which has been on Spanish Foreign Radio for 40 years, has even been able to keep informed those who were kidnapped on the Alakrana [a Spanish ship kidnapped by Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean] about the developments in their case, according to the program's presenter, Paco Arjona, who along with his colleagues has just received the Miguel Pardo award from the Spanish Maritime Group.

“We use shortwave as our base, which continues to be vital and allows us to be heard on five continents,” said Arjona. “We have to adapt to new technologies, but at sea you need shortwave. As for Internet, today it's very difficult to connect from a ship on the high seas. Two months ago a web page that deals with the subject said that it was a great advancement to be able to connect at 128 kilobites. On the high seas, the Internet is only good for sending e-mails with text.”
(NASB Dec 9/Dan Elyea)
(photo Emma Maersk via Maersk)

When shortwave radio is better than the internet

Reprinted from SWLing.com, via Bryne Edwards

From Reuters:
Fiji has been plunged into a political crisis after the president reappointed military chief Frank Bainimarama as interim prime minister on Saturday, less than two days after a court ruled his 2006 coup and subsequent government illegal.
Bainimarama tightened media censorship on Wednesday and continued to refuse to hold elections before 2014.
The Australian Broadcasting Corp. said local technicians had been ordered by the military government to shut down two FM relay stations in the capital Suva and the western sugar town of Nadi.
But ABC said its Radio Australia news programme was still broadcasting on shortwave transmitters.
The military government has asked that Fiji reporters only publish “positive” news, or in their terms, “journalism of hope.” This censorship has also pushed Radio New Zealand International out of Fiji.
Other reports have indicated that the government is now trying to restrict internet news sources and blogs. Internet cafe owners are under threat of being shut down, as well.
When people ask whether we need shortwave radio in this internet information age, events like this provide a clear affirmative answer. Once ABC and RNZI were ousted from Fiji, these broadcasters immediately reiterated to Fiji listeners that their programming can be heard all day on shortwave.
And that’s the remarkable thing about shortwave–it penetrates borders without regard to who is in power or to restrictions placed upon local media. Even when the internet is crippled. Can shortwave broadcasts be jammed? Sure–but it’s not all that easy to do; it’s much more difficult than, say, seizing control of a country’s internet service provider, or (as in the case of Fiji) of their local broadcasters and stations. Plus, jamming usually targets a specific frequency, so if radio listeners find their broadcasts jammed on one frequency, there are often literally dozens of ways around the jam–other frequencies often carry the same or similiar programming from the same or other international broadcasters.
Much of the decline of shortwave radio is attributed to the end of the Cold War. During the Cold War era, national superpowers were obsessed with piercing borders with their respective messages; since the Cold War ended, that technology is no longer as driven. But as the Fiji story demonstrates, the need is very much ongoing, perhaps even more so, as small countries try out a variety of political options, often exercising this power along the long and twisting road to democratic governance. Now, shortwave should have a new and broader focus: sending news, music, education and human interest programming to the developing world.
(NASB Dec 09/Dan Elyea)

News from Uniwave: First DRM receiver with color screen

from Thomson Radio Broadcast

The Di-Wave 100 receiver from Uniwave packs all the digital functionalities that listeners are looking for into a neat, portable model. The attractive new DRM Radio Receiver was successfully demonstrated at various symposiums and exhibitions and showed excellent results during the Olympics at Beijing with the text-based information service known as Journaline®. With its 3.5” TFT LCD color screen, coming Di-Wave models will be able to receive the new DrTV service with with small scale video services.

With dimensions of 125mm (H) x 65mm (W) x 232mm (L) the UniWave set is a very handy, portable set, light and easy to carry. DRM functions include station name, program information, Journaline®, MOT slideshow, listening time-shift of 10 minutes and a total of 768 station memories (256 DRM, 256 FM and 256 AM). The multi-language graphic user interface includes English, Chinese, German, French and Spanish. Reception is possible with DRM, FM-RDS stereo on phones, SW/MW/LW. Later models could include DRM+, TDMB and DAB+.Di-Wave 100 is the first DRM receiver among a big family. UniWave has set forth an ambitious receiver road map for the next two years, and intends to develop the basic model to include a wide range of market specific features with extended reception options, set top box to connect on TV screen, a Di-Wave portable DVD and an attractive Di-Wave car radio model. Future plans also include a receiver which works with a built-in dynamo, eliminating the need of batteries and access to a mains network.

Following the release of the first prototype batch earlier this year, UniWave collected user reports and has now spent some months to improve the specifications. The first production of 300 pieces of the enhanced model started in September, a few samples being dedicated for demos at IBC. Larger production is planned for end of September. Average retail price is expected to be under 250 Euro, with the outlook to reduce the price with increased order volume. The fact that DRM receiver sets are equipped with a monitor makes DRM an attractive means of transmitting a variety of data services over large coverage areas. Possibilities include electronic advertising, tourist information, traffic information, distant learning and transmission of other important educational, cultural and political contents.
DRM has the ease of use and robustness that comes from digital transmissions and has the potential to bring to every radio set a vast selection of content. Whether for local, regional or international coverage, DRM has proven itself to be the easiest, cheapest and most
independent and reliable means of distribution and reception of information, music and entertainment. Order placements can be made through the internet as follows: www.uniwave .
(NASB Dec. 09/Dan Elyea)

Trans World Radio changes its name

International Christian ministry Trans World Radio, a pioneer in media missions, changed its name to TWR on November 18, 2009 . At the same time, the organization adopted the positioning statement "Speaking Hope to the World" to fortify its new identity.

"While our commitment to radio broadcasting remains steadfast, the name Trans World Radio no longer fully conveys the scope of our organization," says TWR President Lauren Libby. "TWR is more than radio. It is a multifaceted media ministry. By changing the name to TWR, we will maintain radio as a keystone communication component all the while employing a strategic integration of new media platforms. In fact, we will even seek to enlarge our broadcasting footprint."

Libby explained that TWR is committed to leveraging digital advances such as the Internet, MP3 players, video and other mobile-device formats. "In recent years, modern technology has enabled us to make significant strides in engaging with our global audience," he said.
"We also recognize the tremendous ministry value of social media portals like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube," Libby adds. "We're not just endeavoring to reach people for Christ; we want to connect and dialogue with them as they grow in faith. Furthermore, we realize social media is a fast and efficient way to communicate with our stakeholders."

The ministry's new positioning statement, according to Libby, will clearly reflect TWR's primary objective of Speaking Hope to the World. "Speaking not only refers to verbal communication but also signifies the ability to relate with people in other resourceful ways," Libby explained. "With that in mind, we will offer relevant messages of hope in Jesus to men, women and children around the globe. Whether it's by radio or other new media means, TWR is dedicated to helping fulfill Christ's Great Commission."

The name Trans World Radio has existed for more than 55 years. It goes without saying that it is entirely unrealistic to expect everyone to stop using that name overnight. That said, TWR staff, partners and affiliated ministries are encouraged to make the gradual shift toward using TWR as the primary moniker.

Is TWR abandoning or scaling back its commitment to radio broadcasting? No, not at all. In some areas of the world, we are increasing traditional radio broadcasts on shortwave, AM and FM outlets. As TWR's Bill Damick states in his forthcoming document "The Future is Here: Radio, New Media and Missions": "[Radio] has the unique ability to deliver its message efficiently, inexpensively, and compellingly to the greatest percentage of the world's people regardless of their economic status, educational attainment, or geographic location."
(NASB Dec 09/Dan Elyea)

Increasing the Reach of Shortwave Broadcast Systems

Small-footprint Antenna System with Unlimited Flexibility
from Thomson Radio Broadcast

Shortwave broadcast systems can reach millions of people anywhere, anytime from a single transmission site. The possibilities are theoretically unlimited. On the other hand, shortwave infrastructure is a notorious power consumer and stations require a lot of land to accommodate adequate antenna systems. Thomson’s newest rotatable curtain antenna helps broadcasters with limited space and budget to make important power savings while increasing considerably their coverage flexibility. The Thomson HP-RCA 2/2 (High
Performance Rotatable Curtain Antenna) is a highly interesting alternative system solution for broadband fixed curtain antenna configurations.

HP-RCA 2/2 services similar coverage areas as the classical LPD (Log Periodic Dipole Antenna) with up to 45% higher efficiency of the radiated power into a defined target area. Additional comparative figures of merit include

􀂄 Higher gain (up to 19 dBi, or 3 to 6 dB more than typical LPD)
􀂄 Higher front-to-back ratio (6 to 10 dB more than typical LPD)
􀂄 Better power capability (up to 500 kW, as compared to the LPD with an absolute maximum of only 250 kW)

In addition, the HP-RCA 2/2 has a better overall efficiency, requires less land, is easier to maintain and affords better reliability with regard to storms and electrostatic effects. The footprint of this powerful and highly flexible system is surprisingly small. With dimensions
of 51m x 51m, the foundation surface needs less than 12m x 12m. The covered area has a radius of approximately 50m.

With an overall weight of 80t, the antenna has a maximum survival wind speed of 240 km and a maximum operational wind speed of 120 km. It takes less than 3 minutes for a 180° rotation. Based on a rigid array and a tubular shaft, the HP-RCA 2/2 is a back-to-back arrangement of a low band and a high band curtain antenna equipped with a reflector screen. The 2/2 configuration gives a good radiation pattern performance with moderate structural effort.

Whereas the classical HR 2/2 curtain antenna solution is based on a fix structure with phasing system limited to less than 20° azimuthal slewing with considerable sidelobes, the new rotatable structure with a central shaft has 360° azimuthal performance radiation patterns without sidelobes.
from Thomson Radio Broadcast

Shortwave broadcast systems can reach millions of people anywhere, anytime from a single transmission site. The possibilities are theoretically unlimited. On the other hand, shortwave infrastructure is a notorious power consumer and stations require a lot of land to accommodate adequate antenna systems. Thomson’s newest rotatable curtain antenna helps broadcasters with limited space and budget to make important power savings while increasing considerably their coverage flexibility. The Thomson HP-RCA 2/2 (High
Performance Rotatable Curtain Antenna) is a highly interesting alternative system solution for broadband fixed curtain antenna configurations.

HP-RCA 2/2 services similar coverage areas as the classical LPD (Log Periodic Dipole Antenna) with up to 45% higher efficiency of the radiated power into a defined target area. Additional comparative figures of merit include

􀂄 Higher gain (up to 19 dBi, or 3 to 6 dB more than typical LPD)
􀂄 Higher front-to-back ratio (6 to 10 dB more than typical LPD)
􀂄 Better power capability (up to 500 kW, as compared to the LPD with an absolute maximum of only 250 kW)

In addition, the HP-RCA 2/2 has a better overall efficiency, requires less land, is easier to maintain and affords better reliability with regard to storms and electrostatic effects. The footprint of this powerful and highly flexible system is surprisingly small. With dimensions
of 51m x 51m, the foundation surface needs less than 12m x 12m. The covered area has a radius of approximately 50m.

With an overall weight of 80t, the antenna has a maximum survival wind speed of 240 km and a maximum operational wind speed of 120 km. It takes less than 3 minutes for a 180° rotation. Based on a rigid array and a tubular shaft, the HP-RCA 2/2 is a back-to-back arrangement of a low band and a high band curtain antenna equipped with a reflector screen. The 2/2 configuration gives a good radiation pattern performance with moderate structural effort.

Whereas the classical HR 2/2 curtain antenna solution is based on a fix structure with phasing system limited to less than 20° azimuthal slewing with considerable sidelobes, the new rotatable structure with a central shaft has 360° azimuthal performance radiation patterns without sidelobes.
(NASB Dec 09/Dan Elyea)

Shortwave Blog "Bytes"

All times UTC // parallel frequency

Clandestine station frequency updates
Cheetah Radio changes from broker Media Broadcast
English to South Asia:
1600-1700 on 9650 WER 125 kW / 090 deg Sat, cancelled from Dec 5, 2009 (DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Nippon no Kaze to North Korea
Via Taiwan in Korean:
1300-1330 on 9655 TAI 100 kW / 002 deg, ex 1700-1730 on 9820
(R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15) (DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Radio Free Chosun in Korean to North Korea
1200-1300 new freq 9950*TAC 100 kW 065 deg,ex 1230-1300 on 12085 \\ 11560 ERV *co-ch Radio Ukraine International in English (R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15) (DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Radio Dialogue/Zimbabwe Community, broadcasting in Ndebele/English/Shona targetd
t0 Zimbabwe. 1755-1855 new freq 4895 MEY 100 kW / 000 deg, ex 5865,re-ex 3955
(DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Clandestine monitoring
15195 14/Dec 1603 Russia, EOTC Holy Synod Radio, *tentative*, in Amharic, from Samara, with 200 kW. Top of the transmission with an Arabic music, similar to a religious song (Radio station of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Exile), this was followed with male's talk. The 1607 UT Arabic music. Signal weak, comes with a strong sound of airplane turbine. The 1620 UT the QRM sometimes fails, you can hear some clear statements of male announcer. Until the 1630 UT, condition of listening remained unchanged. The 1633 UT Arabic mx. The 1640 YL talk. (Jorge Freitas-B/Cumbre DX)

9605 14/Dec 1735 Russia-Voice of Asena, *presumed*, in Tigrinya, from Samara, with 250 kW, OM talk, the 1736 music (another station opposition to the government of Eritrea). Signal weak. The 1735 what seems as male by phone. The 1746 traditional pop music from Eritrea, then male's talk. (Jorge Freitas-B/Cumbre DX)

9885 14/Dec 1754 United Arab Emirates-*presumed", Radio Horyaal, in Somali, from Dhabbaya, with 250 kW, YL talks, seemed lady interviewing via telephone. phone. The 1800 UT end text by lady. Lightinterference rom Family Radio at the same frequency. Signal weak. (Jorge Freitas-B/Cumbre DX)

FEBA Radio replaces frequency
Via United Arab Emiates in Urdu and Kashmiri to North India 1430-1500 new freq 9650 DHA 250 kW / 070 deg, ex 12045 (DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

HCJB via Lithuania releases new schedule
New sked of HCJB in Russian/Chechen to Eastern Europe from Dec 6, 2009 1530-1628 on 3955 SIT 100 kW / 079 deg Sunday, additional transmission 1630-1728 new freq 3955 SIT 100 kW / 079 deg Daily, ex 3960 Sun only (R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15) (DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Miraya FM Radio frequency change
Via Slovakia: Frequency change of Miraya FM Radio via IRRS Shortwave:
0300-0600 on 9835 RSO 150 kW 160 deg EaAf/Sudan English/Arabic, deleted 1500-1800 new freq 9825 RSO 150 kW 160 deg EaAf/Sudan English/Arabic,ex 15650* *effectived from Dec.15, 2009 (R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15)(DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Radio Free Asia adjust Burmese schedule
From Dec. 12, 2009
0030-0130 new freq 12115 IRA 250 kW / 057 deg, ex13815
1230-1330 new freq 7595 PHT 250 kW / 280 deg, ex15700
1330-1400 new freq 7595 PHT 250 kW / 280 deg, ex 9670
(R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15)
(DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Radio Japan/NHK World adjust frequency via Uzbekistan
1300-1345 new freq 7400 via Tashkent, Uzbek 100 kW 131 deg,ex 5960, re-ex 15215 in Bengali. (DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Russia's GTRK Magadan heard
Thanks to Mauno Ritola of Finland, who translated a portion of my GTRK Magadan reception. Audio at www.mediafire.com/?ytmg2mgdwtt, with speaker making reference to Magadan at 4:19. "The man speaks about gathering geological information about Magadan area in form of maps. Very nice signal!" I appreciate his kind assistance!
Ron Howard

Log:
Russia: 5940, GTRK Magadan, 0210-0300, Dec 14. At 0209 station ID for "Radio Rossii" then into their local program which starts with "Govorit Magadan" ("Magadan speaking"). Series of conversations to 0230 series of advertisements with phone numbers. Russian folk songs noted on // 7320, both fair (Ron Howard, Asilomar Beach, CA)

WYFR Family Radio adjustments
English, targeted to Middle East from Dec 10, 2009
1600-1700 new freq 5965 NAU 500 kW / 139 deg, ex5960, re-ex11995
(R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15)

English targeted to Madagascar, adds new transmission at 1600-1700 on 9795 DHA 250 kW / 215 deg, effective Dec. 15, 2009.

English targeted to Middle East, adds new transmission at 1700-1800 new freq 7390*RMP 500 kW / 120 deg,ex 11850 *co-ch Radio Belarus Minsk in Polish

(R BULGARIA DX MIX News, Ivo Ivanov, via wwdxc BC-DX TopNews Dec 15
(DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

Voice of America frequency changes
Via: Germany, Philippines, Sri Lanka
from Dec 12:
1400-1500 new freq 15530 BIB 100 kW / 075 deg, ex 17520 Tibetan
1500-1600 new freq 9310 PHT 250 kW / 283 deg, ex 13735 English
1600-1700 new freq 6000 IRA 250 kW / 025 deg, ex 11500 Bangla
(DX Mix News #603/wb, Germany)

WJHR International monitoring
DXers are monitoring new station WJHR from Milton, Florida, 15550USB WJHR Dec.16. 1725-1805+ Noted with preacher religious text about salvation. Paused at 1802 with a station identification as .."WJHR Radio International..Milton..Florida.." rest was so low keyed barely could copy the remainder of the station break, then right back to the preacher and his sermon. Signal was fluttery at times fairly good and then just fading right out..... Understand they are still in testing phase. Wonder when they will go into full programming. (Edward Kusalik, Alberta, Canada/Cumbre DX)

15550 17/Dec 2159 WJHR, English from Milton, with 1 kW, in SSB. Male announcer with station ID. Gospel music and religious text.(Jorge Freitas-B/Cumbre DX)

WJHR heard in Florida Dec 17 2100 UTC on 15550, with religious talk and music. Poor reception. (Claes Olsson, Port Charlotte, FL/Cumbre DX)

Blog Logs - Asia

special thanks to our regular California contributor, Ron Howard, for these fine Asian logs.
Gayle

All times UTC // parallel frequency *sign-on sign-off*

China
5050, Guangxi Beibu Bay Radio, 1445-1551, Dec 15.Even though I have not reported on this in a while, it is routinely heard with mostly fair reception. In Vietnamese with Eeasy-listening pop songs. English heard as; "B-B-R", "Top Music", "B-B-R news", "B-B-R weather" and "This is Guangxi Beibu Bay Radio". Several months ago Mark Schiefelbein pointed out to me that the ID had in fact changed from the original "This is Beibu Bay Radio", so not sure just when the change occurred. Good catch Mark! Happy to hear they now use English IDs more than just at the top and bottom of the hour. They also give IDs in Vietnamese for their numerous FM frequencies and seemed to mention FM for Laos and Thailand also. Noted light to moderate interference from All INdia Radio-Aizawl. Head on // 9820 (poor/with interference. Website www.bbrmedia.com/ does not seem to be updated very often. Am pleased to see that the Voice of Strait never did return to 5050 (Ron Howard, Asilomar Beach, CA/Cumbre DX)

India
4850, All India Radio-Kohima, 1307, Dec 15. Poor reception. Heard 1311, Dec 16. Fair reception with local singing and chanting. Head 1315-1340 usual segment followed by news in Hindi and English (area is on a high security alert, Nagaland government has approved the building of a 500 MW power project that will be completed in four years, etc., followed by "the function was held at All India Radio Kohima" today to celebrate Christmas; "The function began with an invocation by . . ."; started the invocation, but at 1400 went off the air in midsentence. Glad to see this still broadcasting even after the end of the Hornbill Festival!

9595, All Indi aRadio, 0142-0203, Dec 16. Fair to good with Urdu service to Pakistan, noted on // 6155 (Bengaluru: fair-good), 7340 (Mumbai: fair) and 11620 (Delhi [Khampur]: weak/QRM); mostly with subcontinent singing. Surprised that 9595 sounded as strong as the 500 kW on 6155 (Ron Howard, Asilomar Beach, CA/Cumbre DX)

Laos
6130, Lao National Radio, 1419-1433, Dec 15 (Tuesday). Late starting, heard "Hi, I am Max", "Hello, my name is Kathy", "Welcome to New Dynamic English." Program of equal amounts of English and Laotian. Lesson of "What time did you get up?" Signal poor-fair (Ron Howard, Asilomar Beach, CA/Cumbre DX)

Malaysia
6049.6v, Radio Suara Islam via RTM, 1558-1600* Dec 15. End of program announcement to choral national anthem, followed by signal of 1+1 pips. Start of the "Salam FM" jingle and suddenly off. Problem with audio (hum/distorted/warble) (Ron Howard, Asilomar Beach,CA/Cumbre DX)