Sunday Forums

🎙 Sunday Technical Forums

Exploring Innovation, Heritage, and the Future of Radio

Sunday at the NZART Centennial Conference is dedicated to a rich programme of technical forums, specialist presentations, and interactive exhibits designed to inform, inspire, and engage radio amateurs of all interests and experience levels.

From practical operating skills and digital technologies to aviation systems, emergency communications, space exploration, and the remarkable story of NZART itself — there is something for everyone.

Whether you are new to amateur radio or a lifelong operator, these sessions provide practical knowledge, technical insight, and fascinating perspectives from experts and experienced operators.

🔹 Featured Forum Streams

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📡 Getting Started & Practical Skills

Building confidence and practical knowledge

Perfect for newcomers and operators wanting to strengthen their foundations.

• Getting Started in Amateur Radio — antennas, equipment choices, making your first contact, and understanding operating terminology
• Digital Modes — from getting started with FT4 and FT8 to more advanced operation
• Mesh Radio Networks — how they work and how to establish networks in your region
• Repeaters & National Systems — how they operate and how to get the most from them
• Hotspots & Modern Connectivity — setup guidance and practical demonstrations

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🚀 Space Communications & Satellite Systems

Exploring the frontiers of radio beyond Earth

Radio has always been central to humanity’s reach into space. From early satellite signals to today’s sophisticated global networks, radio communications continue to enable scientific discovery and exploration.

This forum stream explores the systems, innovations, and challenges behind space-based communications.

Sessions include topics such as:

• Apollo Mission Communications — how voice and video travelled to the Moon and back
• KiwiSat — New Zealand’s satellite story and the challenges of reaching space
• Radiosondes & Weather Balloons — tracking atmospheric science through radio telemetry
• Modern Satellite Systems — how Earth-orbiting networks support communication, navigation, and research
• Emerging Space Radio Technologies — innovations shaping the future of aerospace communications

Whether your interest lies in satellite tracking, space history, or next-generation technology, this stream offers insight into one of radio’s most exciting domains.

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✈ Aviation, Maritime & Emergency Communications

Radio when reliability matters most

• Modern Airliner Communications Systems — technology supporting today’s aircraft
• Coastguard Radio Networks — operational and technical perspectives from maritime rescue services
• AREC Emergency Communications — supporting communities during civil defence and emergencies
• Interference & Investigation — how radio spectrum regulators detect and resolve interference issues
• Military & Air Force Radio Systems — why some traditional technologies remain essential

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🛠 Technology, Experimentation & Projects

Innovation through hands-on engineering

• Designing & Building Radio Projects — real-world development stories
• Software Defined Radio (RTL-SDR) — affordable innovation transforming radio experimentation
• Fibre Optics — light-speed communications explained
• Campervan to Mobile Shack — lessons learned from building a portable radio station
• Choosing the Right Radio Equipment — sponsor showcases and expert guidance

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🏆 Operating Excellence & Competitive Radio

Elevating operating skills and achievement

• Contesting — how to get involved, operate effectively, and compete successfully
• Achieving World Records in Amateur Radio — stories of exceptional operating achievement
• Winlink Global Messaging — practical communications from anywhere
• Digital Voice Systems — D-Star and Fusion technologies explained

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📜 History, Heritage & Storytelling

Honouring the people and moments that shaped amateur radio

• The First 100 Years of NZART — milestones and defining moments
• Vintage Radio Society Exhibits — classic equipment and heritage technology
• Historic Artefacts & Collections — displays celebrating radio’s legacy
• Re-enactment of NZART’s First Meeting — a light-hearted look back in time
• Opening the 1986 Time Capsule & Creating the 2026 Capsule — linking generations
• A Humorous View of Amateur Radio — reflections on the quirks and joys of the hobby
• Panel of NZART Past Presidents — insights, challenges, and memorable moments

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🖥 Interactive & Static Displays

Throughout Sunday, attendees can explore a wide range of hands-on displays and demonstrations:

• Vintage and historic radio equipment exhibitions
• Modern radio technologies and sponsor displays
• Working amateur radio stations on air
• AREC communications vehicles and mobile operations
• Special event stations and live operating demonstrations

These exhibits provide opportunities to see radio technology — past and present — in action.

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🎯 A Programme for Every Interest

The Sunday Forums celebrate the depth, diversity, and future of amateur radio.

Whether your interests lie in space exploration, emergency response, digital innovation, contesting, technical experimentation, or heritage preservation, you will find sessions that inform, challenge, and inspire.

Come ready to learn, ask questions, and share knowledge with fellow enthusiasts from across New Zealand.

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