Public Invited to 24-Hour Amateur Radio Emergency Exercise in Pasadena

Amateur Radio Emergency Exercise (Photo – PasadenaRadioClub)

A 24-hour amateur radio exercise demonstrating emergency communications capabilities will take place June 27-28 at ArtCenter College of Design’s Hillside Campus in Pasadena as part of the annual ARRL Field Day.

By News Desk

Amateur radio operators from across the San Gabriel Valley will gather for the event, which is free and open to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about amateur radio and, during designated hours, operate a station under the supervision of licensed operators.

Field Day, organized annually by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) since 1933, highlights the role of amateur radio during emergencies when traditional communications systems may be unavailable. This year’s event will feature six radio stations operating continuously for 24 hours beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27.

The stations will operate using emergency power sources, including generators and solar batteries, demonstrating multiple communications methods such as voice, Morse code and digital modes. The exercise is designed to simulate disaster scenarios in which cellphone and internet service may be disrupted.

The event also serves as a nationwide competition, with amateur radio clubs across the country attempting to make the greatest number of contacts during the 24-hour operating period.

Participating local organizations include the Pasadena Radio Club, South Pasadena Amateur Radio Club, JPL Amateur Radio Club and Caltech Amateur Radio Club.

Organizers said amateur radio operators have provided communications support during disasters, including wildfires, earthquakes and power outages, and that Southern California operators train year-round to provide backup communications during emergencies.

Although an amateur radio license is required for independent operation, the event will include a “Get on the Air” (GOTA) station from 1:00 to 5:00 pm Saturday, allowing members of the public to transmit under the guidance of licensed operators.

ARRL Field Day will be held in the South Parking Lot of ArtCenter College of Design’s Hillside Campus, with access via 1700 Lida St. The event begins at 11:00 am Saturday, June 27, and concludes at 11:00 am Sunday, June 28. Admission is free.