pitkäaaltoaseman

Pitkäaaltoasema refers to a longwave radio broadcasting station. These stations operate on the low-frequency (LF) band, typically between 148.5 and 283.5 kHz. Historically, longwave broadcasting was a significant medium for transmitting radio programs over long distances.

The primary advantage of longwave radio is its ability to propagate over vast geographical areas, especially during the night. The signals can travel beyond the line of sight, bouncing off the ionosphere, which allows for reception in regions far from the transmitter. This characteristic made longwave particularly useful for national broadcasting services and for reaching remote or sparsely populated areas.

However, the longwave spectrum is relatively narrow, limiting the number of stations and the quality of audio that can be transmitted. Interference can also be an issue, especially from atmospheric noise and other LF sources. In many countries, the use of longwave for general broadcasting has declined with the rise of other technologies like FM radio, digital radio, and the internet, which offer better sound quality and more channel capacity.

Despite this decline, some longwave stations still operate, often for specialized purposes. These can include broadcasting public service announcements, time signals, navigation beacons, or specific niche radio programs. The infrastructure for a longwave station typically includes a powerful transmitter and a tall antenna mast, which can be a prominent landmark in its vicinity.