This has got to be one of the wackiest operating events that I’ve ever heard about……….but I like it. According the website,
WMPLOTA is a special event and award scheme for amateur radio satellite operators that encourages the practice of portable operation in the ubiquitous and easily accessible location of Walmart parking lots.
The event begins at 0000 UTC on April 28 and runs through April 29.
According to the website, this all got started…
On April 14, Chris K7TAB operated from the EM99/FM09 gridline, which just happened to run through a Walmart parking lot in Morgantown, WV. When Chris posted this activation to Twitter, many other rovers in the amateur satellite community mentioned how they also had operated from Walmart parking lots across the country, which also happened to be conveniently located on gridlines.
The website links to other resources for this event, including a wiki with the rules and announced activations and a Walmart store finder.
There should be bonus points for working mobile from a Walmart motorized scooter.
It’s just one weekend, satcomms only, and the instigators seem to have tongue firmly planted in cheek. Looks like whacky fun.
Next thing you know, you will get multipliers for doing Field Day from there!1
I’d like to see an HF CW component–The New Meets the Old. I may accompany my satellite operating friend with my portable HF CW station, just for kicks. What a great idea this WMPLOTA is! It’s got real potential to grow into something even more! de Bob NC6Q
I sure hope he has a parking permit for that rig!