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DX clusters aggregate real-time amateur radio spot data, enabling operators to identify active stations and propagation conditions across various bands and modes. DXWatch offers a web-based interface for this essential operating tool, allowing users to filter spots based on specific criteria such as band, mode, or callsign. The service integrates features like a customizable filter system and an external widget for embedding spot data on other platforms, enhancing its utility for DXers and contesters. Operators can access worldwide spot data, with options to zoom into specific regions like the US, Europe, or the North Atlantic, facilitating targeted DXing efforts. The platform also includes a watchlist feature for registered users, enabling personalized tracking of desired stations or entities. Real-time data on solar flux index (SFI), A-index, and K-index are displayed, providing crucial propagation insights alongside the DX spots.

Presents a web-based DX cluster interface, F5LEN Webcluster, which functions as a member node within the broader European DX Cluster network. It displays current DX spots across a wide range of amateur radio bands, from VLF through SHF, including specific bands like 1.8 MHz, 144 MHz, and 10 GHz, as well as satellite operations on QO-100. The service offers filtering options for various modes and activities, such as CW, QRP, IOTA, and specific VHF/UHF bands. Operators can access real-time propagation data, including Solar Flux Index (SFI), Sunspot Number (SSN), Kp index, and Auroral activity (Au), alongside tools for solar forecasts and tropospheric ducting predictions. The platform facilitates DX spotting by providing a centralized point for sharing and viewing contact information, aiding in DX hunting and contest operations. It also includes links to an Atlas, Sun tools, and a mobile version for portable access.

DX Toolbox searches the web for you, gathering information on solar and geomagnetic conditions that affect radio propagation. It's ideal for the ham radio operator, shortwave listener, or other radio enthusiast.

Demonstrates a **DX cluster** web service providing real-time amateur radio spot reports, propagation information, and solar data. The platform integrates features such as a gray line map, **DXCC** tracking, and a personal logbook, allowing users to manage their confirmed entities and contacts. It supports various bands from 160m to 70cm, including specific filters for modes like FT8/FT4, and offers both web and Telnet access for spotting and monitoring. The service provides graphical representations of spot reports, detailing activity across different frequency bands and modes (CW, SSB, digital). Registered users gain access to advanced functionalities, including personalized filters and tools for calculating DXCC status. The platform also includes a classifieds section and options for mobile access, catering to a broad range of amateur radio operators interested in DXing and contesting.

The article "Exploring the World of 10 Meter Beacons" by Ken Reitz, KS4ZR, provides an in-depth look at 10-meter beacon operations, focusing on their utility for propagation analysis. It details FCC Rules part 97.203 governing beacon stations, including license requirements, power limits (under 100 watts), and the specified band segment of 28.200-28.300 MHz for U.S. operations. The content highlights the diversity in beacon construction, from converted CB radios to home-brew QRP transmitters, and discusses the robust operating conditions these 24/7 stations endure. The resource presents several case studies of active 10-meter beacon operators like Ron Anderson KA0PSE/B, Domenic Bianco KC9GNK/B, and Bill Hays WJ5O/B, detailing their equipment, antenna setups, and typical signal report volumes. It also introduces the NCDXF/IARU International Beacon Project, which features 18 synchronized beacons worldwide transmitting on 28.200 MHz at varying power levels (100W, 10W, 1W, 100mW) to facilitate propagation testing. The article also covers the PropNet Project utilizing PSK31 on 28.131 MHz and the 250 Synchronized Propagation Beacon Project on 28.250 MHz. Practical advice for monitoring includes using the RST reporting method, understanding the impact of the solar cycle on 10-meter propagation, and tips for setting up a personal beacon, such as frequency selection and power output considerations. The IY4M Guglielmo Marconi Memorial Beacon Robot on 28.195 MHz is also mentioned for its automatic QSO mode. The article concludes with a list of other resources for 10-meter beacon information.

The DXrobot, operational since 1999, offers a free, non-commercial service primarily for the VHF ham radio community. It specializes in automatic real-time E-skip warnings for **144 MHz** in both Europe and North America, delivered via email or SMS. Additionally, the system provides automatic aurora alerts for _50, 70, and 144 MHz_ openings through the same notification methods. Beyond real-time alerts, the DXrobot facilitates the reception of the latest DX-cluster spots via email, a feature useful for operators without immediate WWW or cluster access. The service also displays recent E-skip and aurora spots detected by the DXrobot on 50, 70, and 144 MHz, with updates every five minutes. Historical data includes lists of all DX spots from the previous day on 50, 70, and 144 MHz, updated daily. Key propagation data, such as MUF timeline, Solar X-rays, Geomagnetic Field, and Estimated Kp index, are also presented.

Understanding high-frequency (HF) skywave propagation is crucial for amateur radio operators seeking to optimize long-distance communications. This resource details the fundamental principles of HF radio propagation, including the properties of electromagnetic waves, the characteristics of various HF bands, and distinct propagation modes such as skywave, ground wave, and line-of-sight. It places significant emphasis on the ionosphere's pivotal role in refracting HF waves, explaining how solar activity directly influences ionospheric conditions and, consequently, propagation paths. The resource integrates real-time monitoring capabilities, featuring dynamic charts and data from DX clusters, WSPRnet, and the Reverse Beacon Network, which allow users to track current band activity and propagation conditions globally. It also delves into advanced topics like Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS) and gray line propagation, providing insights into ionosonde data and various propagation prediction models. The site presents a detailed analysis of solar-terrestrial interactions, geomagnetic indices, and space weather phenomena, illustrating their direct impact on HF communication reliability. Practical tools and applications are highlighted, including real-time QSO planners, online Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) maps, and alerts for solar flares or geomagnetic storms. The guide systematically breaks down complex concepts into accessible chapters, offering a structured approach to learning about ionospheric regions, diurnal and seasonal effects, and the interpretation of propagation indicators like foF2, MUF, and Lowest Usable Frequency (LUF). This makes it a robust reference for hams aiming to deepen their technical understanding and improve operational effectiveness.

The Deutscher Amateur-Radio-Club (DARC) e.V. serves as the largest association for radio amateurs in Germany and Europe, structured into 24 districts and approximately 960 local chapters nationwide. Its core mission involves fostering amateur radio and establishing favorable conditions for the Amateur Radio Service. The DARC actively participates in international affairs as a member of the **International Amateur Radio Union (IARU)**, ensuring German interests are represented on a global scale. Recent activities include the announcement of the FUNK.TAG in Kassel for April 25, 2026, and the HAMCamp at **HAM RADIO** in Friedrichshafen from June 26-28, 2026, offering discounted participation for young operators up to 27 years old. The club also supports special events, such as a short-term award and special callsign DB15ØWG to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Weimar–Gera railway line, active from April 1 to June 30. Regular updates, like the Deutschland-Rundspruch 11/2026, cover topics from the status of 70 MHz band permissions to satellite deployments like Ten-Koh 2, and contest results such as the WWA YL event. Propagation forecasts, including Kp indices and solar flux values, are provided by Hartmut Büttig, DL1VDL, offering insights into HF conditions and Gray-Line DX opportunities. The DARC also reports on district elections and space-related events like the Bochumer Weltraumtag, highlighting the diverse engagement of its members.

This program displays solar-terrestrial data for radio waves propagation that is provided by the N0NBH web-service.

Comprehensive guide to understanding of solar indices, reading this article you will allow a better understanding and interpretation of propagation forecast bulletins and propagation reports

The 11-meter band, often associated with Citizens Band (CB) radio, presents unique challenges and opportunities for long-distance communication, particularly for operators interested in DXing. This group facilitates discussions and information exchange among enthusiasts who operate on this frequency, often utilizing single-sideband (SSB) modulation for improved range and signal clarity compared to traditional AM CB operations. The community provides a platform for members to share experiences, technical insights, and propagation reports relevant to 27 MHz operations. Members engage in discussions covering various aspects of 11-meter DX, including antenna configurations, transceiver modifications, and operating techniques to maximize signal propagation across continents. The forum serves as a central hub for coordinating contacts, sharing QSL information, and celebrating successful long-haul QSOs. Specific topics often include optimizing power output, reducing noise, and understanding solar cycle effects on 27 MHz. The group's activities extend to organizing virtual gatherings and promoting ethical operating practices within the 11-meter DX community. It supports both seasoned operators and those new to the band, fostering a collaborative environment for exploring the capabilities of CB radio beyond local communications.

DX_Central, a compact desktop application, provides amateur radio operators with critical propagation data by aggregating solar statistics and imagery from various authoritative sources. This includes real-time information from agencies like NOAA and NIST, offering insights into current space weather conditions that directly impact HF propagation. The software is designed for both Linux and Windows operating systems, making it accessible to a broad range of hams. It presents a concise overview of solar activity, which is essential for planning DX operations and understanding band openings and closures across the HF spectrum. Operators can utilize the displayed solar flux index, K-index, and other relevant parameters to make informed decisions regarding their operating times and target bands, optimizing their chances for successful long-distance contacts.

Paul Harden NA5N has produced a superb guide to solar activity and HF propagation for the QRPer

This resource provides a unique historical audio archive of 50 MHz DX contacts, documenting significant F2 and Es propagation events experienced by PA2S (formerly PA2HJS) since 1978. The collection includes recordings of beacons and two-way QSOs with stations across North America, South America, Asia, Australia, Europe, and Africa. Specific entries detail contacts with rare DX entities such as ZS6PW, VE1AVX, C5AEH, J52US, TR8CA, LU8MBL, VK8ZLX, and various Japanese stations, often noting the mode (SSB or CW) and propagation type. The archive also highlights challenging pile-up situations and frustrating near-misses during major openings. The recordings, initially in RealAudio format for solar cycles 21 and 22 and later in MP3 for cycle 23, offer a practical illustration of 6-meter band conditions over several solar cycles. The content allows hams to listen to actual signals from different continents, observing signal characteristics like typical TEP fading from 5H3RA or strong F2 backscatter from OZ1BVW. It provides a comparative perspective on propagation effectiveness between solar cycles, noting that cycle 23, while not as robust as previous cycles, still yielded interesting openings. The archive serves as a valuable educational tool for understanding real-world 50 MHz DXing and propagation phenomena.

The 160-meter amateur radio band, spanning 1.8 to 2 MHz, was historically the lowest frequency amateur allocation until the introduction of the 630-meter and 2200-meter bands. ITU Region 1 allocates 1.81–2 MHz, while other regions use 1.8–2 MHz. This band, often called "Top Band" or "Gentleman's Band," was established by the International Radiotelegraph Conference in Washington, D.C., on October 4, 1927, with an initial allocation of 1.715–2 MHz. Effective operation on 160 meters presents significant challenges due to the large antenna sizes required; a quarter-wavelength monopole is over 130 feet, and horizontal dipoles need similar heights. Propagation is typically local during the day, but long-distance contacts are common at night, especially around sunrise and sunset, and during solar minimums. The band experienced a resurgence after the LORAN-A system was phased out in North America in December 1980, leading to the removal of power restrictions.

137 kHz propagation analysis details ground wave and sky wave mechanisms, drawing heavily from **CCIR Rec. 368-6** for ground wave field strength predictions and **CCIR Rep. 265-7** for sky wave modeling. The resource presents field strength values for 1 W ERP at varying distances, considering ground conductivity and permittivity for ground wave, and ionospheric height (70km daytime, 90km nighttime) for sky wave. Key factors like ionospheric focusing (factor "D"), reflection coefficient ("RC"), and antenna ground pattern factors ("Ft", "Fr") are quantified for 137 kHz, enabling calculation of sky wave field strength. Practical coverage ranges are derived for 137 kHz, showing useful ground wave coverage up to 1600 km over seawater and 1100 km over average ground, assuming a -9 dBuV/m noise floor. Sky wave coverage extends beyond 2200 km during night-time and winter daytime, but is negligible during summer daytime at solar minimum. The document also compares ground wave and sky wave strengths, identifying crossover distances at 550 km (night-time), 750 km (winter daytime), and 1250 km (summer daytime), where interference fading can occur. Adjustments for solar maximum conditions are provided, indicating 2-11 dB higher sky wave values depending on distance and season.

Solar data with current solar status, forecast and propagation report

Solar activity can aid or hamper HF propagation beyond line-of-sight range, WA1SVF and N6BV answers to questions about Sun influence on radio signals propagation

OpenHamClock is a modern, open-source dashboard for amateur radio operators, designed as a web-based successor to the original HamClock. Deployable locally on a Raspberry Pi or via the cloud, it centralizes essential DX operations into a single, intuitive interface. At its core is an interactive world map that visualizes real-time DX spots, signal paths, satellite tracking, and POTA activators. The software seamlessly integrates critical tools like WSJT-X, DX Cluster, and PSKReporter for monitoring digital traffic. Additionally, it provides vital environmental data, including real-time space weather indices, solar activity, and personalized HF propagation predictions. With customizable themes and a modular architecture, OpenHamClock offers modern operators comprehensive, at-a-glance situational awareness of global radio conditions

Accurate meteorological data is crucial for optimizing antenna performance, predicting propagation, and ensuring safe tower work. This resource provides a curated inventory of weather stations, including models like the _AcuRite Atlas_ with lightning detection and the _Ambient Weather WS-2902_ WiFi Smart Weather Station, which offer real-time data on environmental factors. The product listings detail specific features such as direct-to-Wi-Fi connectivity, rainfall tracking, and temperature insights, enabling informed decision-making for various amateur radio operations. The platform categorizes products by application, featuring weather stations tailored for home and backyard use, as well as more robust systems for farm and agriculture, which can be critical for field day operations or remote station monitoring. It also highlights _Made in USA_ options, emphasizing local manufacturing and support. Beyond weather instruments, the site also presents related surveillance technology, such as the _Waggle solar CCTV camera_, designed for outdoor reliability with an IP65 weatherproof rating. This integration allows for comprehensive monitoring of remote ham radio shacks or antenna sites, combining environmental data with visual oversight.

Collection of real time solar data by CT1BOH

Ray-trace radio signals through a realistic three-dimensional ionosphere using Proplab-Pro. This software has been used by the military, researchers, universities and amateur radio operators around the world to assist in determining radio propagation conditions and radio signal behavior. It is one of the most respected and well established software packages for radio engineers and enthusiasts, being actively updated for over 28 years.

The document discusses the classifications of sunspots and their potential for solar flare activity, categorizing them into Alpha, Beta, and Delta groups based on their magnetic field characteristics. It explains how these classifications relate to the likelihood of solar flares, ranging from minor to extreme events. The report also outlines the geomagnetic indices and conditions that affect high-frequency (HF) radio propagation, emphasizing the effects of solar flares on radio communication and geomagnetic storms. The information is geared towards amateur radio operators, providing insights into how solar activity influences HF radio operations.

Undesrtanding three band conditions indicators to undestand current and future propagation conditions, solar flux, Ap and Kp indices

Operating from Banana Island, Sierra Leone (AF-037), the 9L2019 DXpedition by F6KOP and a ten-operator team used the callsign 9LY1JM from January 9-21, 2019. This detailed report covers the logistical challenges, including securing visas and licenses with local assistance from Mark 9L1YXJ and Gregory of Dalton’s Guest House. The team deployed monoband quarter-wave verticals on the beach and two Beverage on Ground (BOG) antennas for Europe/Asia and the USA, operating four stations simultaneously. Technical hurdles encountered included high tides submerging antennas, requiring repositioning, and persistent QRM between closely spaced stations, mitigated by doubling filters. CW signal irregularities at 30-32 WPM were resolved by PC and WINTEST restarts. A significant FT8 logging bug was identified and corrected with on-site software. Despite these issues, the team logged over 4,000 QSOs in the first 24 hours, averaging 5,000 QSOs daily, with a peak of over 6,000 in one day. Propagation varied, with excellent 160m conditions on January 12 yielding over 750 QSOs, and a later four-hour opening pushing the 160m total past 1,600. High bands were challenging due to low solar activity, but mid-bands provided intense pileups and rapid continent-wide contacts. The DXpedition concluded with nearly 50,000 QSOs, including a successful school QSO with Collège Doisneau de Sarralbe (57), managed by F1ULQ and F6KFT.

Hamradio_copilot is an open-source tool designed for DXers and contesters who need real-time situational awareness. It is ideal for operators who want to visualize propagation trends instantly rather than scrolling through raw text streams of cluster spots. Rally acting as a copilot for your station, this tool transforms raw data into actionable intelligence. By visualizing Signal-to-Noise Ratios (SNR) across different bands, it helps operators make quick decisions on which band to prioritize or where to point their antennas, effectively showing not just who is on air, but where the propagation is currently open from your location. This is a fantastic information for avid contesters. The software aggregates data from two primary services: - Reverse Beacon Network (RBN) via Telnet. - PSK Reporter via MQTT feeds. It processes this data to generate a comprehensive HTML report featuring SNR heatmaps and statistical breakdowns by ITU Zone. Users can filter data by specific zones or country codes (ADIF), analyze historic time ranges, and optionally integrate solar weather data. The complete source code is available on GitHub, allowing for community customization. It is written in Python and uses SQLite for data management.

Welcome to the G7IZU Radio Reflection Detection website. This site provides also Live Solar Events, and propagation map

During radio's early days, high frequencies were under 30 MHz due to technical limitations. As understanding grew, components improved, allowing for higher frequencies like VHF and UHF up to 3 GHz. The HF band's long wavelengths provide unique propagation challenges influenced by solar activity. VHF and UHF bands face diffraction and reflection issues but offer diverse applications, from amateur radio to 5G and GPS technologies.

Operating on the HF and VHF bands, the URE WebCluster serves as a real-time DX spotting network for amateur radio operators. It aggregates DX spots from various sources, presenting them with detailed information such as DX callsign, frequency, mode, and spotter details. The platform integrates essential propagation data, including current solar indices like _K-index_ and _A-index_, alongside visual propagation maps, which are crucial for planning long-distance contacts. Users can submit new DX spots, contributing to the collective intelligence of the amateur radio community, and filter existing spots by band, mode, or callsign, enhancing operational efficiency. This resource enables operators to monitor band openings and identify active DX stations, significantly aiding in _DXCC_ pursuit and contest operations. The integration of solar-terrestrial data directly within the cluster interface allows for immediate correlation between propagation conditions and observed DX activity, a feature not universally present in all web clusters. By providing both raw spot data and contextual propagation information, the URE WebCluster offers a practical tool for real-time decision-making during operating sessions, allowing hams to quickly adapt to changing band conditions and target specific _DX_ entities.

This page provides information on solar conditions and their impact on ham radio propagation, specifically focusing on the HF bands. A daily graph show the predicted solar flux and Kp Indexes

In 2004, Carl Luetzelschwab, K9LA, wrote a guide on using W6ELProp for radio wave propagation predictions. This tutorial, translated for broader accessibility, explains initial setup, configuration, and daily use. It emphasizes using mean solar index values for accuracy, helping users effectively predict and interpret propagation for improved amateur radio operations.

Operating a web-based DX cluster, this resource presents real-time amateur radio DX spots, facilitating contact logging and propagation analysis. It leverages the Spiderweb platform, offering users the ability to filter DX spots based on various criteria, including inclusion and exclusion rules. The interface integrates directly with QRZ.com for immediate callsign lookups, displaying flag icons for geographical context, and provides charts and statistics derived from spot data. Further enhancing its utility for DXers and contesters, the cluster includes direct links to MUF (Maximum Usable Frequency) maps and HamQSL solar condition reports. These external data sources provide critical propagation insights, assisting operators in making informed decisions about band selection and operating times. The service also offers Telnet access at dxc.sv5fri.eu:7300 for those preferring a command-line interface.

AM radio listening excels at night due to sky-wave propagation, where signals travel farther by reflecting off the ionosphere’s F1 and F2 regions. Daytime ground wave propagation falters as solar radiation ionizes the D region, absorbing signals. At night, reduced ionization allows recombination, letting waves reach hundreds of miles. This enables tuning into distant stations, like KGO in San Francisco from Northern California. Enhanced by tools like the CCRadio-2E, sky-wave propagation turns AM listening into an exciting nocturnal adventure.