Inside the Epic CY9C St. Paul Island Ham Radio DXpedition: Craig Thompson K9CT

Experience the CY9C Ham Radio DXpedition on the rugged and remote St. Paul Island, located off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada. In this exclusive on-island interview, team member Craig Thompson, K9CT, provides an in-depth look at St. Paul Island, ranked 50th on the DXCC most-wanted list. He discusses the island’s challenging weather, its historical significance, and the extraordinary efforts required to reach this isolated location, including the rare use of helicopters.

Craig introduces the dedicated team of operators and details the radio and antenna capabilities driving the CY9C operation. Gain insights into the leadership and teamwork that keep the mission on track in such a demanding environment. As the DXpedition enters its final days, the team encourages radio operators worldwide to make contact with CY9C before the operation concludes.

00:00 Introduction - Kevin Thomas introduces Craig Thompson K9CT and the CY9C DXpedition.

00:27 Connectivity setup - Discussion about using Starlink for internet access on the island.

00:49 St. Paul Island - Craig describes the location, history, and rugged conditions of St. Paul Island.

01:53 Shipwreck history - Details about the island's notorious reputation for shipwrecks and fatalities.

04:49 Appalachian mountain link - Connection between St. Paul Island's geology and the Appalachian Mountains.

05:13 DXpedition team - Craig outlines the team's background and motivations for participating.

06:09 Team dynamics - Insight into the patience, schedules, and personalities required for DXpeditions.

08:16 Leadership structure - Explanation of co-leaders Murray WA4DAN and Glenn W0GJ's roles in planning.

11:00 Helicopter logistics - Unique use of helicopters for transporting people and equipment to the island.

13:18 Fuel and logistics - Challenges and strategies for managing fuel, food, and weather conditions.

18:03 Equipment setup - Overview of transporting and staging gear for the DXpedition.

19:18 Team photo - Craig identifies team members and their roles, including specialized operations like VHF.

21:31 Operating locations - Description of HF and VHF setups, and reasons for limited operating sites.

23:18 Living arrangements - Tour of sleeping tents, mess facilities, and the lighthouse.

25:02 Power and light - Explanation of power supply and equipment, including Flex Radio amplifiers.

26:08 VHF operations - Overview of VHF and 6-meter antennas, conditions, and technical challenges.

27:05 Antennas - Discussion of various antennas used, including issues with filters and configurations.

28:54 HF station layout - Description of HF station setups, equipment, and operational priorities.

29:53 Sponsors - Acknowledgment of sponsors like Flex Radio and DX Engineering.

32:25 Social media engagement - Team's active use of social media to connect with the ham radio community.

35:28 Operating advice - Tips for operators on working specific bands and modes during the DXpedition.

37:09 Closing comments - Craig highlights teamwork, encourages operators to make contact, and shares goals.

38:24 Conclusion - Kevin wraps up the interview, encouraging listeners to find CY9C on the bands.

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