I am totally amazed at the lack of activity on VARAC. Apparently there are lots of folks with the program, the equipment and the antenna, and perhaps at sometime in the past, an interest in this mode. I see many beacons apparently put out there by computer, something like FT8, and just left to run.
The band must be open, we see the beacons, SSB contacts, nets and etc. are going on. I can't help but wonder what the 20 or so people, that have beacons repeating, are doing.
I am just disappointed. This wonderful mode has become my favorite and I have a hard time finding anyone to visit with. I have been a ham for over 64 years and am disappointed to see that all modes of our hobby are declining. Too much high tech that is too easy, I guess. Why bother with radios, antennas, and computers when you can just jump on the computer and talk anyplace in the world.
OK, this old man is through venting. Please get on the air somewhere and let's visit.😅
As I type this, 0703 UTC, 7th September, I have seen 8 stations sending beacons on 20m, only myself sent a CQ (5 times in the past hour), sadly no replies.
I feel that many hams these days are afraid of their own shadow, let alone want to actually have a QSO. What is wrong with everyone? The "C" in VarAC is CHAT, let's have a QSO!
I am usually active on 14.105 weekday mornings, around 0630 to 1030 UTC.
73 Dave