To the Edge of the World: The 3Y0K Bouvet Island DXpedition and Its Youngest Explorer

In February 2026, an international team of 24 amateur radio operators will embark on a bold mission to one of the most remote and inhospitable places on Earth—Bouvet Island. Among the world’s most isolated islands, Bouvet offers no harbor, no shelter, and no easy way in. Yet from this icy outpost in the South Atlantic, the 3Y0K team will transmit on all amateur radio bands from 10 to 160 meters, aiming to connect with operators around the globe and bring this rare DX entity to life. Months of planning, logistics, and preparation are underway to ensure success in one of the most technically and physically demanding radio operations ever attempted.

Among those answering the call is Max Freedman (N4ML), Education and Learning Support Specialist at the American Radio Relay League—and the youngest member of the 3Y0K team. His journey began at an amateur radio convention, where a conversation with a team leader turned into the opportunity of a lifetime. For Max, Bouvet is more than a destination—it’s a proving ground. From mastering winter survival and field operations to learning the intricate logistics of global DXpeditioning, he’s gaining the knowledge that will shape the next generation of explorers in amateur radio. As he puts it, this is not just about reaching Bouvet—it’s about building the future of the hobby.