• [QRV @ 1130Z] – 

AU2V started activity from IOTA AS-161 just after 1130z today on 20m FT8, followed by 40m CW. Sarath VU2RS reported there was a delay due to boat engine trouble (mentioned earlier) and the extreme heat tiring out the team during set up. 

Team picture below prior to leaving for the island. Other picture is "on the scene..” 

You Tube video of 40m CW sigs by VU2JO.

  • [FEBRUARY 7 @ 0215Z] –

Team on the way to Sacrifice Rock. Pictures by VU2RS. Initially there was a problem with the boat engine but now appears to be fixed. They also set up a dipole and TX’d from the boat as they sail to island. 

  • [FEBRUARY 5] – 

Sarath VU2RS reports that all gear has arrived safely in Calicut (Kozhikode). He leaves home tomorrow (5th) and meets rest of the team next day.  Sarath mentions that internet access will be spotty after Feb 7th, but will try to keep us updated from Sacrifice Rock. Full details of activity below. 

  • [FEBRUARY 2] –

 — Schedule: February 7-10, 2025.
— Grid Locator: MK71sl.
 — Location: 11.49390° N, 75.52950° E.
 — Frequencies and Propagation: Check AU2V website

  • [JANUARY 30] –

Team have uploaded pictures of Sacrifice Rock, taken by Adersh (VU3WEW) during a reconnaissance trip on January 29, 2025. These pics provide a glimpse into the challenges and beauty of the island, they say. Click on picture to view the gallery.

  • [JANUARY 28] –

The Sacrifice Rock IOTA AS-161 expedition team is thrilled to announce that they have received the official callsign AU2V from the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) authority, Government of India.

The team consists of experienced amateur radio operators, including Sara (VU2RS), Adersh (VU3WEW), Anil (VU3DXA), Sangeeth (VU2TT), Grisih (VU3GDS), and Renju (VU3TPW). The expedition’s QSL Manager is Charles, M0OXO.

The team has set up a website to provide updates and information on the expedition. Donations to support the expedition can be made by Paypal at sarath@lven.in.

Despite receiving some generous donations and assurances of support from foundations, the team is still short of funds to purchase necessary equipment and accessories for the expedition. The team expresses its gratitude to the individuals and organizations that have contributed so far and looks forward to receiving the promised support after the expedition.

For more information, please visit the expedition’s website or contact Sarath at sara@vu2rs.com alternative email: vu2rs.in@gmail.com

  • [JANUARY 8] –

After the resounding success of our previous activations at Nachugunta, Kanika, and Sagar, our team has set its sights on the elusive Sacrifice Rock, one of the most coveted IOTA locations among chasers. This ambitious project has been years in the making, and we’re thrilled to finally share the news with the amateur radio community.

Sacrifice Rock, notorious for its challenging terrain, inhospitable environment, and exorbitant costs, has long been considered a "holy grail” of IOTA activations. Our team is determined to overcome these obstacles and bring this rare entity to the airwaves.

The project’s estimated cost is approximately $10,000, which will cover essential expenses such as:

— Procuring additional generators and equipment.
— Lightweight, portable tents and tables.
— A holding boat and 24/7 safety team.
— Band-pass filters, amplifiers, and reception antennas to combat high noise levels.

We’ve received informal approval from local authorities and officials, and we’re eagerly awaiting formal confirmation. Once we receive the green light, we’ll confirm the callsign and other details.

Time is of the essence, as this activation can only take place between December and February. We urge all IOTA chasers and DXers to support this expedition, which promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Our team of experienced operators is ready to take on the challenge. We have two CW operators and four SSB/digital operators, ensuring that we can run three stations simultaneously, if permitted, or two stations round the clock. Our team members are:

— Sara, VU2RS
— Adersh, VU3WEW
— Sangeeth, VU2TT
— Anil, VU3DXA
— Renju, VU3TPW
— Girish, VU3GDS

Tentative dates are set for the second week of February.

PayPal: sarath@lven.in

We’ll be using a range of antennas, including a 40-6m beam, 6 and 10m beam, and verticals, to ensure maximum coverage and efficiency.

We urge all IOTA chasers and DXers to support this expedition, which promises to be an unforgettable experience. Website

VU2RS @ recent AU2K IOTA DXpedition