StarShip Adventures

Tonight on @StarShipAdventures, we dive deep into an issue plaguing Amateur Radio today: radio policing — the growing trend of fellow operators silencing discussions they find "uncomfortable" or "off-topic." This Live video explores a real experience I had during a local net where the net control operator attempted to censor political discussion, claiming it violated some unwritten rule. Spoiler alert: it doesn't. We’ll take this as an opportunity to dissect the bigger picture: Why the First Amendment still matters in Ham Radio How censorship on open frequencies contradicts the spirit of Amateur Radio Why nets and clubs enforcing arbitrary speech rules are discouraging to both new and veteran hams The dangers of this culture: gatekeeping, toxic elitism, and declining participation 📡 Key Topics in This Video: What the FCC Part 97 actually says about free speech The difference between “offensive” and “illegal” content How ham radio frequencies are a traditional public forum, paid for and supported by the public Why refusing to allow conversations about real-world events (yes, including politics) violates the intent of emergency preparedness and community building The historical precedent for political, religious, and controversial speech on the bands, and why that’s a good thing The effects of toxic net controllers, overly rigid clubs, and self-appointed frequency cops on the health and future of the hobby The slow decline of civil discourse and freedom of thought within Amateur Radio A call to action for hams who value liberty and the original spirit of the service to stand their ground Amateur Radio is more than just signal reports and weather updates — it’s a platform for experimentation, connection, and yes, conversation. That includes politics, opinions, controversial topics, and the kind of free discussion that fosters resilient communities. When we start censoring that, we lose the essence of what Ham Radio was designed to be. If you’ve ever been told to “keep it apolitical” or “stick to ham-related topics only,” this video is for you. If you’re a new ham discouraged by the behavior of old guard net controllers or elite radio clubs, this message is especially for you. The First Amendment doesn’t stop at the microphone, and ham radio is not some private HOA – it’s a slice of the public commons, and we all have the right to speak freely unless we break the law. Not just what’s “comfortable,” but the whole spectrum of human communication. That’s how we prepare for emergencies. That’s how we build community. That’s how we preserve freedom. 🎯 Join us LIVE to share your own stories, hear others speak out, and help reclaim the amateur radio airwaves for everyone. 🔴 Live Tonight – Subscribe and click the 🔔 bell so you don’t miss it. Explore our broader StarShipStudios family: @ScuffedRadio – Emergency radio streams and talk shows @StarshipAfterdark – Late-night deep dives and discussions @CarlottaAlotta – Creative commentary & analysis ‪@SimplexRadio - Live Interactive Channel #AmateurRadio #HamRadio #FirstAmendment #FreeSpeech #RadioPolicing #FCCPart97 #HamLife #RadioCensorship #EmergencyComms #RadioLiberty #ConstitutionalRights #NetControlAbuse #StopTheGatekeeping #RepeaterPolitics

Original Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWnSAs_7SyY&t=10s Are modern HF radios overpriced, overcomplicated, and out of touch? Or are today’s transceivers just misunderstood by “lazy” hams who don’t want to read a manual? In this episode, we dive head-first into one of the most heated debates in the amateur radio world. We respond directly to passionate feedback from our viewers and break down key points about complexity, pricing, and Chinese radios. Are budget rigs ruining the hobby—or making it more accessible? Are “the Big Three” justified in their pricing—or just coasting on legacy loyalty? From bloated features and elitist attitudes to modular design, affordability, and gatekeeping, we’ll unpack it all. This is a point-counterpoint discussion that doesn’t pull punches—but it does invite real conversation. ✅ Agree or disagree, drop your thoughts in the comments. Your voice matters more than the price tag on your rig. 📺 Stay tuned to the end for a preview of our upcoming review: Budget HF Radios That Actually Work. 🔔 Subscribe for more real talk on radios, gear, and the future of the hobby. #HamRadio #HFRadioDebate #AmateurRadio #HamRadioCommunity #QRP #ChineseRadios #ICOM #Yaesu #Xiegu #HFgear #StarshipAdventures #BudgetRigs #RadioGatekeeping #HamRadioTalk #RigReview More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@UCyah89DsZQZGVJt2XYUdZsw https://www.youtube.com/@UCMy8VZ6r7Lo4ZXHNnCjRWmw https://www.youtube.com/@UCNOAfgkwSu1FDjQINp6IrEw

Are conflicting nets killing participation in your local ham radio community? In this video, Ian – KO4EFS from Starship Adventures – breaks down how poor net scheduling is hurting the hobby and what we can do to fix it. We’ll explore: Why net scheduling matters The best times for hosting successful nets Common mistakes that kill participation Gatekeeping by scheduling (yes, it's a real thing) Tricks to coordinate and optimize your net times Whether you run a local VHF/UHF net, a regional HF net, or just want to grow your group’s engagement, this video offers practical, no-nonsense advice for getting more hams on the air — without stepping on each other. 📅 Good scheduling = Good participation. Let’s stop the overlap and start working together! 🔧 Tools & Tips Included: ✔ Scheduling tricks ✔ Time-slot suggestions ✔ Promotion best practices ✔ How to avoid clashing with other nets ⏰ Best net times? Weeknights 7–9 PM & weekend mornings. 💬 Let us know your net time strategy in the comments! 👉 Like | Subscribe | Share with your club 73s — Ian – Starship Adventures – KO4EFS #HamRadio #AmateurRadio #RadioNets #NetControl #HamRadioCommunity #HamRadioTips #NetScheduling #RepeaterEtiquette #ARRL #VHF #UHF #HamRadioLife More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@CarlottaAlotta https://www.youtube.com/@ScuffedRadio

Disclaimer: This video contains strong language and expresses personal opinions that may not reflect the views of all amateur radio operators. Viewer discretion is advised. In this video, I delve into the ongoing issues surrounding the ARRL's Logbook of the World (LoTW) system. From its complex user interface to recent cybersecurity concerns, LoTW has faced criticism from many in the amateur radio community. I also discuss the ARRL's recent decisions, including membership dues increases and changes to their publication policies, which have sparked further debate among members. kb6nu.com Key Points Covered: Challenges with LoTW's user experience and functionality. Details of the May 2024 cyberattack affecting ARRL systems. Comparison with alternative logging platforms like QRZ.com and Logbook for the Old Man. Discussion on ARRL's financial decisions, including executive compensation and membership changes. Join the Conversation: Have you experienced issues with LoTW? What are your thoughts on the ARRL's recent decisions? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. #ARRL #LoTW #HamRadio #AmateurRadio #ARRLControversy #ARRLDuesIncrease #ARRLCyberattack #HamRadioLogging #ARRLTransparency More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@CarlottaAlotta https://www.youtube.com/@ScuffedRadio

Welcome to Starship Adventures! I’m Ian (KO4EFS), and today we’re diving deep into one of ham radio’s most fascinating and underappreciated bands: Six Meters – The Magic Band. 📡 Why is 6m called the Magic Band? It’s because this 50–54 MHz slice of spectrum acts like both HF and VHF—and during the right season, it comes alive with long-distance DX, unique propagation modes, and fun for hams of all levels. LINKS Mentioned in the Video: 🔗 VHF.dxview.org This is a real-time, interactive map that tracks 50 MHz band openings across the globe. Uses PSK Reporter data (mostly FT8/FT4) to show signal paths and propagation events. You can filter by band, mode, signal report, and time range. Excellent for spotting Sporadic-E and F2 openings as they happen. Ideal for Six Meter operators looking to time their DX or portable sessions. 🔗 PSKReporter.info A powerful and widely-used propagation tracking tool in the ham radio world. Visualizes where your digital signal (FT8, FT4, JS8Call, etc.) is being received. Select “50 MHz” and your mode to track Six Meter activity globally. Helps identify propagation openings you might miss just listening. A must-have tool for digital mode enthusiasts, especially during Magic Band season. 📱 Amateur Radio Toolkit App (Available on Android & iOS) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.daveyhollenberg.amateurradiotoolkit&hl=en_US A multi-tool app loaded with resources for hams on the go. Includes band plans, propagation forecasts, call sign lookup, and antenna calculators. Real-time solar and geomagnetic data that can influence 6m openings. Useful for quick reference during POTA/SOTA activations or field ops. Great companion for new and experienced hams alike. We’ll cover: ✅ What makes Six Meters magical ✅ The best modes for DX: FT8, CW, SSB, FM, MSK144 ✅ Using PSK Reporter to track live openings ✅ Great antenna options for 6 meters ✅ A breakdown of Magic Band Season – When and why the band opens ✅ Frequencies to know for CW, SSB, FM, AM, and QRP ✅ And of course… the 52.525 MHz Activity Day happening this Sunday – 5/25/25! 🛰️ Whether you’re a new ham, Tech-class, or a seasoned DXer, 6m is wide open for discovery—literally. Get your rig tuned up and join the fun this weekend. 📅 Don’t forget: 52.525 FM Calling Frequency + 5/25 = Get on the Air! 🔧 If you want help getting started in ham radio, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you get licensed and on the air! 🔔 Like, Subscribe, and Share to keep the Magic Band alive! 📡 73 and may the band be open when you key up, Ian – Starship Adventures – KO4EFS More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@CarlottaAlotta https://www.youtube.com/@ScuffedRadio #hamradio #SixMeters #magicband #AmateurRadio #52dot525 #HamRadioDX #ft8 #vhf #HamRadioFlorida #POTA #SOTA #RadioPropagation #PSKReporter #FieldRadio #hamradioantenna #starshipadventures #KO4EFS #getontheair #qrp #dxing #HamRadioForBeginners #HFVHFBridge #simplex

In this full review, we dive deep into the new Baofeng UV-5RM, a serious upgrade from the classic UV-5R with real 10-watt output, USB-C charging, a bright 1.77" color screen, and improved audio and usability. Direct Link to Programming Software: https://baofeng.s3.amazonaws.com/Baofeng_UV-5RM_Plus_GPS_CPS_V1.0.zip Direct Purchase Here: https://www.baofengradio.com/products/uv-5rm-plus-gps As a licensed ham radio operator, I put the UV-5RM through its paces on 2 meters and 70 centimeters, testing transmit power, audio clarity, and build quality. Whether you’re a new General Class ham, an ARES/RACES volunteer, or looking for an affordable HT for your go-kit, this radio is worth a look. ✅ Tested on 2m simplex and repeater QSOs ✅ Measured RF output verified with a calibrated wattmeter ✅ CHIRP compatible and supports up to 999 memory channels ✅ Tri-band capable in some models (check your version!) From true aircraft band receive to VOX, dual PTT, and FM radio, this thing is packed with features for under $45. But is it perfect? We’ll cover the pros, cons, and my final thoughts on whether the UV-5RM deserves a place in your shack or backpack. 👉 Drop your thoughts in the comments—have you used the UV-5RM? 📻 Subscribe for more ham gear reviews, field tests, and radio rants! FCC ID: 2AJGM-UV5RM Always verify legality and frequency usage in your jurisdiction. Chapters: Introduction Appearance & Build Quality Power Output Test Frequency Coverage Battery Life & Charging Menu System & Firmware Programming with CHIRP Audio Quality Extra Features Rundown Pricing & Final Thoughts Conclusion & Call to Action 🧷 Hashtags: #BaofengUV5RM #HamRadio #UV5RUpgrade #AmateurRadio #HamGearReview #CHIRPCompatible #BaofengReview #10WattHT #USBCRadio #BudgetHamRadio #VHFUHF More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@CarlottaAlotta https://www.youtube.com/@ScuffedRadio

In this video, I lay out exactly why today’s HF radios from Yaesu, Icom, and Kenwood are failing the average ham radio operator. With prices soaring well past $1000 and unnecessary features crammed into every rig, most hams are left wondering: Where’s the simple $500 radio we actually want? I break down what features hams really use (SSB, FT8, maybe CW), which ones we don’t, and why the Big Three have ignored a huge segment of the market. Most of us just want a basic 100W rig with good audio, digital support, and no endless menu diving. ▶️ In this video: Real talk on feature creep and bloated designs What should be in a budget-friendly HF radio Features that could easily be dropped to lower the price Market analysis of missed opportunities My message to Yaesu, Icom, and Kenwood If you’re a ham radio operator frustrated with how expensive and complicated modern radios have become, this one’s for you. 📣 COMMENT BELOW: What would your ideal $500 HF rig look like? 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more amateur radio talk, live coverage, and real-world gear reviews. 73 from Ian – Starship Adventures – KO4EFS More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@CarlottaAlotta https://www.youtube.com/@ScuffedRadio #HamRadio #HFRadio #Icom #Yaesu #Kenwood #AmateurRadio #HFPropagation #IC7300 #FTDX10 #AffordableRadios #HamGear #QRP #DXing #DigitalModes #HamRadioReview

Welcome to our live stream where you can experience the magic of Slow Scan Television (SSTV) in real time! Watch as static images are transmitted and received via 20 meters, offering a fascinating look at one of ham radio’s oldest and most beloved specialty modes. During this live event, you’ll not only get to see the images come in slowly, but you’ll also hear the unique sounds that accompany SSTV transmissions. ​​Link to Free Software: https://hamsoft.ca/pages/mmsstv.php ​​There is an android version as well: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xdsopl.robot36&hl=en_US&pli=1 You can literally download the software and hold you phone up to the speaker receiving the signal and see it on your phone. What Is Slow Scan TV (SSTV)? Slow Scan Television has been a part of ham radio for over 50 years, and it’s still widely popular today. SSTV allows ham radio operators to transmit static images using audio frequencies, which means that any voice-capable radio can be used for SSTV. The image is transmitted line by line—right to left and top to bottom—using three primary colors. The process uses the same bandwidth as a voice transmission, making it efficient for a variety of radio setups. This live feed will give you a front-row seat to SSTV transmissions on the 20-meter band (14.230 MHz), which is one of the most active frequencies for this mode. Whether you’re new to SSTV or an experienced ham operator, this stream is a great way to enjoy real-time image transmission, from initial signal reception to the complete image display. What to Expect During the Broadcast: Live SSTV Image Reception: As each image is transmitted, you'll be able to watch it slowly appear on your screen, from top to bottom, in vibrant colors. We’ll be receiving images via the popular Robot36 mode, which transmits a single image in just 36 seconds! Real-Time Audio: Listen to the unique tones that SSTV uses to transmit images. These sounds are transmitted at audio frequencies, making it possible for any radio capable of voice transmission to participate in SSTV. 20-Meter Band Reception: We’ll be tuning into 14.230 MHz, a common frequency for SSTV activity, especially during evenings and weekends. You’ll get a chance to see and hear transmissions from ham operators all over the world. How SSTV Works: SSTV takes static images and “scans” them for transmission. The images are sent in red, green, and blue color bands, one at a time. These signals are transmitted as audio tones, which are then decoded by software on the receiving end to recreate the image. You’ll be able to witness the process as the images build up piece by piece! Why Is This Stream Unique? Our setup is designed to give viewers a seamless, immersive experience. Using a digital mode interface between the radio and computer, we receive crystal-clear SSTV images, and the audio has been optimized for broadcast so you can clearly hear the SSTV transmission tones. We’ve also included tools to make the experience accessible to both beginners and seasoned operators. How You Can Get Involved: Even if you’re not currently operating on the ham bands, you can still enjoy this live event. Watching SSTV is an exciting way to observe the communication process in action, and if you’re curious about how to get started, we’ll be discussing the basics of setting up your own SSTV system. Whether you're using an HF radio or VHF mobile rig, you can easily experiment with SSTV by using the right software and digital mode interfaces. Features of Our Live Stream: Real-time SSTV Reception: Watch images being transmitted live in the popular Robot36 mode. 20-Meter Band Activity: Tune in to see what kind of images are being shared by operators worldwide on 14.230 MHz. Condensed Audio and Visuals: For those curious about how SSTV works, we’ve stripped away the dead air, so you can focus on the action-packed moments as the transmissions come through. Educational Insights: Along with live reception, we’ll be explaining the technology behind SSTV and how you can get started with your own SSTV setup. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this real-time look at Slow Scan TV. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a ham radio veteran, this live stream will give you a first-hand look at the fascinating world of SSTV communication. Stay tuned, as we’ll be providing commentary throughout the broadcast, and answering questions from the live chat. Let’s explore the art of SSTV together! More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@CarlottaAlotta https://www.youtube.com/@ScuffedRadio #SSTVLive, #SlowScanTV, #HamRadio, #AmateurRadio, #20MeterBand, #SSTVImages, #RadioTransmission, #SSTVOn20Meters, #HamRadioLive, #RadioSignals, #SSTVBroadcast, #Robot36Mode, #SSTVReceiver, #DigitalModes, #HamRadioCommunity, #HamRadioSSTV, #LiveHamRadio, #SSTVTransmission, #AmateurRadioLive, #SSTVDecoding

Are you calling CQ on 2 Meters and getting no response? You might be doing it wrong. In this video, I dive into better ways to effectively call CQ on the 2 Meter band (VHF) — both on 146.520 MHz FM and 144.200 MHz SSB. Too often, I hear operators quickly toss out their callsign and wonder why no one replies. If you're just blurting out your call and moving on, chances are most listeners never even catch it. I break down how to make a clear, engaging CQ call that encourages others to come back — especially those listening in on scanners or monitoring the call frequency casually. Example: “CQ 2 Meters, CQ 2 Meter Call. This is KO4EFS in North Fort Myers… calling CQ on 2 Meters.” That’s how you get noticed. That’s how you spark a QSO. We’ll also talk about the fun of chasing VHF band openings, how to recognize them, and why SSB on 144.200 MHz is one of the best-kept secrets in the hobby for long-distance contacts on 2 meters. If you're new to Ham Radio, this is a great way to understand how VHF voice contacts actually work and why calling CQ right matters. And if you're a seasoned op, maybe you'll pick up a few tips to help activate more frequencies during those quiet hours. 📡 Let’s light up the VHF bands – the right way. 🔗 Watch now and start making more contacts today! More coverage from our Partners: https://www.youtube.com/@UCNOAfgkwSu1FDjQINp6IrEw https://www.youtube.com/@UCyah89DsZQZGVJt2XYUdZsw https://www.youtube.com/@UCMy8VZ6r7Lo4ZXHNnCjRWmw