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Get the most out of your station with K6TU.NET professional grade propagation prediction, and model your antenna performance over actual terrain using high resolution elevation data

Amateur Radio enthusiasts who are interested in the LF and MF bands may be familiar with WSPR and WSJT JT9. Used as a propagation probe or beacon, WSPR allows very weak signals to be detected, frequently as weak as -27dB SNR.

Discover the key facts about what radio propagation is, the different types available and how they affect different frequencies.

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.

Recent researches seem to support the hypothesis that Sporadic E propagation could be connected to presence of thunderstorms.

Article about the essentials of radio signal path loss, its causes and prediction, and its use in radio coverage and wireless survey tools

This review of progress and future Prospects provides a practical guide for effective use of VHF sporadic-E propagation.

Comments on the irrelevance of WWV numbers to 50 MHz F2 propagation

Shortwave and Amateur Radio Log (SWLog) is a modern suite of applications that provide logging and remote control for amateur radio and shortwave, utility, and broadcast listening. SWLog has been continuously improved and expanded since it was first released in 1988. SWLog is a suite of products that provides logging, radio control, GPS synchronization, QSL management, reporting, and propagation prediction. Program schedules from HFCC, ILGRadio, AOKI, ADDX, SWSkeds, EiBi, and others are leveraged for broadcast reception. Call sign lookups and remote logbooks are integrated with ClubLog, eQSL, QRZ, Ham365, HamQTH, and LoTW. SWLog provides Android and iOS applications for logging on the go as well as web servers for logging and remote control from anywhere. SWLog works on Windows, Linux, iOS and Android

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

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.

A collection of dynamically produced images based on the daily data of the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center

List of Worldwide HF Beacons published by RSGB. The beacon service is a vital part of amateur radio propagation knowledge. Updates to the HF list, which is is a heavily edit form of the G3USF list, are continued by the current committee. It now only contains beacons that are known to be active and have been heard recently.

DXLook is a free, web-based propagation platform that delivers comprehensive, real-time insight into HF and VHF conditions directly from any modern browser. It aggregates live spots from PSK Reporter, WSPRnet, RBN, and DX Cluster, complemented by NOAA space-weather metrics such as SFI, K/A indices, and geomagnetic alerts. Integrated VOACAP predictions allow practical "theory versus reality" comparisons, while the interactive world map with filters, gray line, and grid overlays enhances situational awareness. With no installation or maintenance required, DXLook provides a convenient, accurate, and accessible solution for everyday operating and propagation analysis.

Monitoring propagarion during the day using FT8 reception reprts to determine openings and quality of propagation

The Maine QSO Party is designed to encourage Maine stations to expand their knowledge of DX propagation on the HF and MF bands, improve their operating skills, and improve station capability by creating a competition in which W/VE, and DX stations have the incentive to work Maine. The MEQP is Maine's Premier International HF Contest.

This blog chronicles the development of an 80-meter vertical antenna for amateur radio operation. The author constructs a top-loaded vertical using fiberglass poles, achieving significant performance improvements over their previous end-fed wire antenna. Comparative testing using the Reverse Beacon Network and on-air contacts demonstrates 8-10 dB gain on the east coast. The project evolved to include 40-meter capability through a modified design featuring a four-wire vertical cage, loading coil, and strategic guying system. Despite challenges with signal wobble during windy conditions, the vertical consistently outperforms the end-fed wire, particularly for reaching distant stations during nighttime propagation.

Forecasts for Europe and mediterranean sea

Thunderstorm effects on sporadic E propagation, Very long distance propagation in the 144 MHz band, Analysing the number of skips in multiple hop propagation

Radio transmission is affected by the presence of the earth. Also, the upper atmosphere of the earth is a rarefied, ionized, conducting region that influences transmission considerably. Undertanding Wave Diffraction, Wave Refraction and Absorption

The article enlightens radio amateurs on utilizing real-time space weather data to optimize HF communication. Navigating through Hp30 index, MUF, f0F2, and eSFI metrics, it explains their significance in band selection and propagation forecasting. With essential links and practical insights, enthusiasts learn to discern optimal conditions for high-band DX, low-band DX, and NVIS operations. The author's observations and antenna optimization tips enrich understanding for effective HF operations.

HF-START can estimate HF propagation between any given 2 points over Japan in real-time by using GNSS tomography, and can be used to forecast HF propagation 1 day in advance between any given 2 points globally by using GAIA model.

In order to understand, however imperfectly, when the band will open, it is essential to have some understanding of why the band will open. Article by J. R. Kennedy K6MIO/KH6, Gemini Observatory Hilo, Hawaii

Ionospheric Propagation of Radio Waves in Action, How Do Ionized Layers Form to Enable Ionospheric Propagation of Radio Waves, the foundamental role of F layer, and the role of the other ionized layers

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

FT8 Live is a specialized web-based tool designed for the real-time graphical visualization of amateur radio propagation spots. Leveraging the data infrastructure of the PSK Reporter MQTT stream, the platform provides immediate situational awareness for radio operators. While the tool’s nomenclature references the dominant FT8 digital protocol, it offers broad compatibility, displaying spots from various other modes including CW, WSPR, and JT65. Distinct from the official PSK Reporter map, FT8 Live focuses exclusively on live data streams, eschewing historical archiving to prioritize current signal activity. A defining feature of the platform is its integration with the Summits on the Air (SOTA) API. This functionality facilitates "SOTA chasing" by automatically cross-referencing transmitting callsigns with SOTA alerts; a station is identified as an activator if the spot correlates with a scheduled alert within an eight-hour window. The tool represents a collaborative technical effort, featuring a user interface developed by Arron (ZL1AN), utilizing core data from Philip Gladstone (N1DQ), and stream delivery via Tom Stanton (M0LTE).

The HF Beacon Tracker is an advanced interactive tool designed for DXers and ham radio opoerators in general to monitor active beacons operating below 14 MHz. Built upon a high-fidelity 3D Earth globe, the application provides a spatial perspective on signal paths by integrating real-time environmental data with a comprehensive beacon database curated by Mirek OK1DUB. Beacons are plotted using precise Maidenhead locators and feature a real-time day/night terminator overlay to help operators identify Gray Line propagation opportunities. With a single click, users can calculate the exact distance from their own QTH to any beacon, visualized via an animated Great-Circle Path arc on the globe surface. To enhance its diagnostic capabilities, the tool seamlessly integrates with PSK Reporter, allowing users to right-click CW beacons to instantly fetch current reception reports and signal strength data. The interface is fully optimized with a mobile-responsive design, smooth globe rotation, and togglable Dark/Light themes suitable for any shack environment. Whether you are performing antenna gain tests, conducting ionospheric research, or simply hunting for band openings, the HF Beacon Tracker transforms raw database information into an intuitive, visual diagnostic suite. It serves as an essential asset for any operator looking to master HF band conditions.

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.

This project delves into the development of a compact WSPR beacon, building on earlier experiences with weak-signal modes. Inspired by QRP Labs kits and modified open source designs, it integrates a Si5351 frequency generator, GPS module, and class E PA for efficient operation. Extensive optimizations—addressing drift, heat management, and power stability culminated in a portable, serviceable device. The beacon offers insights into propagation while minimizing reliance on main station equipment. Lessons learned highlight the importance of careful component selection and iterative design improvements for robust amateur radio experimentation.

A Case For Thunderstorms Causing Sporadic E on 6 Meters. In Propagation and Radio Science, Eric Nichols explains one possible mechanism is thunderstorms that are strong enough to break electrons free forming a cloud of free electrons.

Online interactive elevationmap can help radio amateurs by predicting signal propagation, optimizing antenna placement, planning coverage, ensuring line-of-sight, mitigating interference, and enhancing emergency communication. T

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.

This article focus on the radiation angle of vertical antennas and the fundamentals of electromagnetic wave propagation. The calculation of antenna length at 145 MHz is followed by an explanation of electromagnetic wave speed and the link between wavelength, frequency, and velocity. Author discusses the 5/8th wave vertical antenna, namely its performance and the influence of radiation angle on signal transmission. Figures and analogies demonstrate how different antenna types produce distinct radiation patterns. This highlights the importance of selecting the right antenna for a certain purpose, such as local traffic or dxing. The article discusses a variety of factors that affect antenna performance, including SWR, propagation conditions, and equipment dependability

PSKreporter.info is a highly valuable resource for amateur radio operators using digital modes. It provides real-time reception reports collected from monitoring stations worldwide, covering modes such as FT8, FT4, PSK, and others. The platform offers clear interactive maps and detailed filtering options, allowing users to analyze signal propagation, band activity, and station performance with precision. Its data is widely used to evaluate antenna efficiency, transmission coverage, and propagation trends. PSKreporter.info is easy to use, reliable, and has become a reference tool for both daily operations and technical analysis in digital amateur radio.

Discover the secrets of Six Meters with this comprehensive eBook by Jim Wilson, K5ND. Learn about the magic of 6-meter DXing, including propagation, antennas, equipment, operating software, and more. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced ham radio operator, this book covers everything you need to know. With over 8,000 downloads, this updated version includes new chapters on FT8/FT4, MSK144, and Q65 modes, as well as contesting, rover operation, and awards. Get your hands on this valuable resource and enhance your 6-meter DXing experience today.

The Big Gun's Guide" is a comprehensive exploration of low-band propagation, aimed at serious Amateur Radio operators. It delves into the complex physics of the ionosphere at lower frequencies, contrasting it with HF propagation. The book covers essential topics like ionospheric fundamentals, propagation mechanisms, magneto-ionic effects, and disturbances. It also addresses the challenges of low-band DXing and provides insights for overcoming them. Brown's work is detailed and technical, offering valuable knowledge for those seeking to master the intricacies of low-band communication

For amateur radio operators seeking a clutter-free, near real-time visualization of propagation reports, Spotty emerges as a highly efficient web application. By leveraging the robust data of Philip Gladstone’s pskreporter.info combined with the speed of an MQTT broker provided by Tom Fanning (M0LTE), the app delivers a responsive and modern monitoring experience. Visualizing the Airwaves The core experience centers on the Map View. Upon loading, users are greeted with a default visualization (grid AA00 / callsign MY8CALL), but the interface quickly proves its worth once customized. The application uses a clever visual hierarchy to distinguish signal types: - Small spots indicate signals heard by a specific location. - Large spots represent transmissions from a location. - Teardrop markers specifically highlight transmissions from the monitored callsign. This distinction allows operators to instantly differentiate between their own reach and incoming reception. The interactivity is intuitive; clicking a spot reveals an overlay with detailed signal data, which can be dismissed just as easily. Customization and Control Spotty balances simplicity with necessary depth. For those who prefer raw data over geography, the Log View provides a scrolling list of spots. However, the Settings tab is where the utility shines. Users can filter tracking by specific Callsign or Grid, and importantly, these preferences are saved directly to the browser for future sessions. A standout feature is the Time to Live (TTL) setting. While the default is 60 seconds, users can adjust how long a spot remains visible. This is crucial for high-traffic contests or busy bands, allowing the user to prevent the map from becoming overwhelmingly cluttered. Verdict Spotty is a fantastic utility for the digital shack. By combining fast MQTT data delivery with a clean, logic-driven interface, it offers ham radio operators a clear window into where their signals are going—and who is hearing them—in real-time.

Come learn why it is very difficult to predict propagation on the top band. Ionospheric Variability, Time Variations of Ionospheric Parameters, Atmospheric Gravity Waves, Ionospheric Absorption and The Role of Negative Ions.

Amateur radio website dedicated to six meters band with dedicated pages on 50MHz propagation and DXing

With increased ES propagation, this lightweight 5-element LFA antenna offers enhanced performance over the Bigwheel antenna's 5dBi gain, delivering approximately 11dBi and forward gain. Designed from G0KSC’s specifications, the 1.8m antenna was adapted for reduced weight using 6mm and 4mm rods instead of heavier tubes. 3D-printed PETG clamps ensure durability and precision, while the first tests showed excellent SWR and element coupling. Though built with a temporary Choke BalUn, the results were promising, with a Pawsey Stub BalUn planned next for further optimization.

This PDF file provides detailed information on HF propagation for ham radio operators. It covers the principles of how radio signals travel over long distances, including factors that affect signal strength and propagation. The content is useful for hams looking to improve their understanding of radio communication and optimize their transmissions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced operator, this resource offers valuable insights into HF propagation that can enhance your communication skills and efficiency on the airwaves.

Online DX Cluster provided by URE Union Radioafocionados Espanoles Provide current band status, propagation map, solar indices and dx spots with several filtering functions

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.

SvxLink is an advanced software suite for the ham radio community, initially launched in 2003 as an EchoLink application for Linux. Now a comprehensive voice services system, the SvxLink Server functions as an advanced repeater controller and can operate on simplex and duplex channels. It acts as an intermediary between transceiver hardware and applications, offering essential system services. The modular architecture of SvxLink supports customization, with modules in C++ or TCL. Key modules include a help system, parrot mode, EchoLink connectivity, DTMF repeater, voice mail, propagation warnings, and selective calling sequences. SvxLink's development and source code are available on GitHub, promoting open-source collaboration in the ham radio community.

SWR Magazine is free montlhy ham radio online magazine published in English and Spanish. SWR Magazine presents a mix of analysis, hands-on experience, and technical insight for ham radio operators. Covering global radio trends, technical topics like antenna takeoff angle, operating practices outside the shack, reviews of radios, propagation. Explore innovative antennas, digital modes like RTTY, and historical radio origins. This issue bridges the past, present, and future of amateur radio, inviting readers to not just read, but experience and experiment with the content.

Live MUF is a DXC (cluster) telnet client which attempts to resolve propagation modes from spots and also attempts to calculate sporadic e possibilities purely based on incoming data from the cluster. It has great circle mapping (GCM) built in to the app for live mapping of spots. Live MUF also can be used as a world wide converse telnet client, ON4KST telnet client and DXC at the same time. Live MUF also has basic logging capabilities in case you need an emergency logger at any time.

This website explains signal variations on a local radio net by tracking the foF2, a measure of ionosphere's ability to reflect radio waves. The website shows daily foF2 variations and how it affects Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS) propagation for local nets. It also considers D-layer absorption affecting lower bands and F2 MUF distance for long-distance communication. Additionally, the website tracks foEs for E-layer propagation and an EPI index for predicting Es chances.

Radio wave propagation describes how radio waves travel from one point to another, classified as ground waves, skywaves, and free space propagation. Ground waves propagate over the earth's surface in low/medium frequencies, bending around obstacles but limited to short ranges. They enable AM/FM broadcasting and military submarine communication.

This is a theoretical look at propagation on 630-Meters and 2200-Meters using ray tracing software. It expands on the brief discussion in the ARRL Handbooks. The Earth's magnetic field affects 630-Meter and 2200-Meter band propagation. Lower ionization reduces absorption, aiding low-frequency propagation. Differences exist between bands, limited daytime sky-wave propagation. Sunrise/sunset show promise, yet mechanisms are unclear. Ducting possible at night in specific conditions. Negative ions enhance propagation. Inefficient antennas and high man-made noise are anticipated. Groundwave propagation is significant on 2200-Meters.

This article examines how geomagnetic activity influences 160-meter radio propagation. K9LA analyzes observations of enhanced signals preceding K-index increases. Modeling shows that as ionospheric electric fields rise from 0 to 75 mV/meter during early geomagnetic storms, they create an electron density valley above the E region, enabling signal "ducting" between the E and F regions. This effect vanishes at higher field strengths (100 mV/meter). The phenomenon may explain both exceptional 160m openings preceding 6m propagation and possibly Marconi's contested 1901 transatlantic reception, which occurred during a small geomagnetic disturbance.