Since the late 1970s, a haunting, monotonous buzzing sound has echoed across the airwaves of the shortwave frequency 4625 kHz. Known as “The Buzzer” or UVB-76, this ghostly radio station has captivated listeners and conspiracy theorists alike with its enigmatic transmissions and unexplained origins.

The Origins and Evolution of The Buzzer

The Buzzer began broadcasting in the late 1970s from the heart of Russia, near St. Petersburg. Initially, it transmitted a simple, repetitive buzz tone, which has slightly changed over the years but maintained its characteristic pattern. This buzzing was occasionally interrupted by voice messages, which seemed to be reading coded messages or numbers. The mystery of its purpose and the entity behind it sparked a range of theories, from military communications to alien research.

Unusual Transmissions and Theories

The Buzzer’s broadcasts have included not just the buzzing sound but also voice messages in a specific format, consisting of callsigns and blocks of codes and numbers. Unusual transmissions have been observed, including distant conversations, background noises, and even music, suggesting that the buzzing tones were transmitted from a live and constantly open microphone. These anomalies further fueled speculation about the station’s true purpose.

One theory posits that The Buzzer acts as a “Dead Man’s Switch,” designed to trigger an automated response in the event of a nuclear attack against Russia. Another suggests it’s a method for the Russian military to communicate with spies worldwide or even a system to detect missile distances.

Technical Aspects and Signal Interruptions

Technically, The Buzzer operates on a shortwave frequency, which allows its transmissions to cover vast distances. The station’s equipment and broadcasting power have been identified, contributing to the understanding of its operational capabilities. There have been instances where the signal was interrupted by other broadcasts, including music and an air raid siren, particularly during significant geopolitical events like the Crimean crisis.