19/02/2026
Desecheo DXpedition 2026 Update
Date/Time: February 18, 2026 15:30 UTC
-80,000 QSO MILESTONE
-ONGOING ATNO FOCUS
-OPERATING ADJUSTMENT
-COUNTDOWN TO QRT — MARCH 3, 2026
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80,000 QSO MILESTONE:
KP5/NP3VI has now exceeded 80,000 QSOs, all generated using our fully solar-powered, unattended Remote Deployment Unit operating from Desecheo Island.
Current statistics show 80,450 QSOs and 16,772 unique callsigns in the log, with 147 DXCC entities worked to date.
This milestone continues to demonstrate the success of this first-ever approach to activating a rare DXCC entity entirely through renewable energy and remote operation, with no personnel stationed on the island.
The operation continues to deliver significant log impact, including thousands of new DXCCs, band slots, and mode slots for operators worldwide.
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ONGOING ATNO FOCUS:
As we enter the final phase of the operation, we remain focused on providing opportunities for stations that still need KP5 for an All Time New One (ATNO).
We respectfully encourage those who already have KP5 confirmed to operate in the spirit of sharing this rare entity by allowing room for stations still seeking it. The cooperation of the DX community has been essential in maximizing new contacts.
To further support this effort, we have added an extra hour of FT8 operation specifically looking for ATNOs in Europe. This additional window is intended to take advantage of propagation opportunities and give more stations a chance to log KP5 before QRT.
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OPERATING ADJUSTMENT:
Operating schedules continue to be carefully balanced around solar energy availability, battery reserves, and propagation paths to Europe, Asia, and other regions, while maintaining reliable continuous service.
All activity remains constrained by the realities of operating a station powered entirely by solar energy, without generators or amplifiers.
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COUNTDOWN TO QRT:
KP5/NP3VI is scheduled to QRT on March 3, 2026.
With limited operating days remaining, we encourage stations still needing Desecheo Island to monitor spots and propagation closely for remaining opportunities.
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Please continue to monitor the Weekly Mode Schedule and ClubLog livestream, as adjustments may occur based on real-time propagation and power conditions.
The Desecheo DXpedition 2026 Team sincerely thanks the amateur radio community worldwide for its continued interest and support of this innovative, low-impact activation of a rare DXCC entity.
If you are enjoying this operation and would like to support future DXpeditions and the continued development of more effective Remote Deployment Units, donations may be made to the Manyana DX Foundation at:
👉 https://manyanadx.org/dxp/
Please follow our progress on our website and page:
👉 https://desecheo2026.com/kp5/
73,
Steve N2AJ
Media Officer & Pilot
Desecheo DXpedition 2026
Photo Credit: WP4TZ
QSL Manager: M0OXO
