Dexpéditions

Dexpéditions are a niche area of amateur radio activity focused on operating from remote and challenging locations. The term itself is a portmanteau of "dexterity," implying skill and resourcefulness, and "expedition," referring to the journey to a less accessible place for the purpose of operating radio equipment. These operations often involve significant logistical planning, including travel to remote islands, mountaintops, deserts, or even polar regions.

The primary goal of a dexpédition is typically to make radio contact with as many other amateur radio operators as possible, often from locations that are rarely, if ever, activated. This provides an opportunity for operators worldwide to log a contact with a rare entity. The amateur radio bands used can vary widely, from HF (high frequency) bands for long-distance communication to VHF/UHF (very high frequency/ultra high frequency) for local contacts, depending on the location and equipment.

Participants in dexpéditions are usually experienced amateur radio operators who possess strong technical skills in setting up and operating radio equipment in adverse conditions, as well as survival and navigation expertise. The challenges can include extreme weather, limited power sources, and the need for portable antennas and radios. Success is often measured by the number of contacts made and the successful activation of the rare location. Dexpéditions contribute to the global amateur radio community by expanding the list of available operating locations and fostering camaraderie through shared challenges and achievements.