DX Code of Conduct

The Eastern Iowa DX Bulletin
Number 247, November 8, 2024

Craig Fastenow, KØCF, Editor

This bulletin is a compilation of currently active DX operations (or those that will become active within the current week) from recent issues of the three DX bulletins listed below and other sources. Credit for the source is given at the end of each article.

Articles are ordered by the entity's callsign prefix from the ARRL DXCC Entities List. Callsigns used are in bold with dates of operation highlighted in red. Clickable links are provided for QSL and other information wherever possible. Note that articles may be edited for grammar, language, style and accuracy and will remain in The Bulletin while active; articles that are announcements of ongoing operations, or that have no specified end date, will be removed after three weeks.

Also included is a Propagation section, updated daily; and a Contest Calendar of upcoming popular contests.

DX News items are courtesy of:
   The ARRL DX Bulletin
      The bulletin is available at http://www.arrl.org
   425 DX News, A.R.I. DX Bulletin (425DXN)
      Edited by Mauro Pregliasco, I1JQJ & Valeria Pregliasco, IK1ADH
      425 DX News Home Page: https://www.425dxn.org/
      425 DX News Google Group: https://groups.google.com/g/425eng
   DX Newsletter (DXNL)
      Edited by Andreas Salder, DK5ON
      A weekly service of DARC Committee "DX", http://www.darcdxhf.de
   Ohio-Penn DX Bulletin (OPDX)
      Edited by Tedd Mirgliotta, KB8NW. Although OPDX is no longer
      published as a weekly bulletin, Tedd still sends DX news emails.
      We will occasionally publish some of them.
   Propagation data is from:
      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's
          Space Weather Prediction Center 
      Dr. Tony Phillips' SpaceWeather.com, used by permission
   Contest data courtesy of the WA7BNM Contest Calendar 



DX News

3B9, RODRIGUES I. Kazu, MØCFW is QRV as 3B9/MØCFW until November 27th. Activity is on the HF bands. He will be active as 3B9KW in the upcoming CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 26th-27th), and the CQ WW DX CW Contest (November 23rd-24th). QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 39 October 17, 2024]  (1018-1129)

3D2, FIJI. Theo, PA3CBH will be active as 3D2TP from Viti Levu (OC-016) until December 12th. He will operate QRP on SSB and QRS CW. QSL via PA3CBH.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1108-1213)

3D2/R, ROTUMA I. Antoine, 3D2AG, will leave for Rotuma on October 19th for a research trip lasting three to four weeks (depending on the timing of the return boat in November). In his spare time, he will operate mostly CW and SSB as 3D2AG/p on 160-6 meters, with a focus on the higher bands. He hopes to complete the setup and be on the air by October 25th, so that he can participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 26th-27th). Please note that while on the island he will not have access to the Internet, and that for CW he will use a manual iambic paddle and paper logs, which will be digitized after the trip. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1746 October 19, 2024]  (1018-1115)

5H, TANZANIA. Maurizio, IK2GZU is active again as 5H3MB from Tanzania until November 11th, while doing volunteer work at a local school. In his spare time, he will operate SSB, CW and digital modes on 80-10 meters. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW and eQSL, or via IK2GZU.
-[425DXN # 1741 September 14, 2024]  (1004-1115)

5R, MADAGASCAR. Eric, F6ICX is active again as 5R8IC from Sainte-Marie Island (AF-090), Madagascar until the end of the year. He will operate mainly CW on 40-10 meters; during the last two weeks of December he will also be QRV on the QO-100 satellite. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, or via F6ICX.
-[425DXN # 1742 September 21, 2024]  (0927-0103)

5X, UGANDA. Don, G3XTT as 5X1DF (CW and some FT8) and Alan, G3XAQ as 5X1XA (CW) will be active from Uganda on November 13th to 27th. Their main activity will be during the CQ WW DX CW Contest (November 23rd-24th), in which they will participate as single-band entrants. QSL 5X1DF via G3XTT; QSL 5X1XA via G3SWH's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1746 October 19, 2024]  (1108-1129)

7Q, MALAWI. Don, K6ZO, reports about a new radio amateur in Malawi, 17-year-old Mwabi Mughogho, whose callsign is 7Q2MM. He is active on SSB and FT8 and is also learning CW. QSL only via OQRS.
-[DXNL # 2430 October 30, 2024]  (1101-1122)

8R, GUYANA. Aldir, PY1SAD is active as 8R1TM from Georgetown, Guyana until November 24th. He operates CW, SSB and digital modes on all bands and via satellite. QSL via LoTW, eQSL, QRZ Logbook, or direct to PY1SAD.
-[425DXN # 1743 September 28, 2024]  (1011-1129)

9M6, EAST MALAYSIA. Saty, JE1JKL is active again as 9M6NA from Labuan Island (OC-133), East Malaysia until November 25th. He will participate in the CQ WW DX CW Contest (November 23rd-24th) (SOAB HP). QSL via LoTW and ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1745 October 12, 2024]  (1018-1129)

AP, PAKISTAN. Tariq, AP2TN has been active on 10 meters using FT8 around 1300z. QSL to N4BAA.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 November 7, 2024]  (1108-1129)

CARIBBEAN TOUR. Alex, EA8DBM, tours the Caribbean and stops according to the following itinerary:
   November 1-3.     PJ7/EA8DBM,
   November 4-9.     PJ5/EA8DBM,
   November 10-13.  FS/EA8DBM,
   November 14-18.  FJ/EA8DBM,
   November 19-24.  KP4/EA8DBM
QSL direct to EA8DBM, via bureau to LY5CA, or LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2430 October 30, 2024]  (1101-1129)

CARIBBEAN TOUR. Rudy, DK7PE, tours the Caribbean during November with stops as. VP2MCW, V4/DK7PE, ZF2PE, PJ4/DK7PE/p.
-[DXNL # 2430 October 30, 2024]  (1101-1129)

CE9, ANTARCTICA. David, F4FKT will be QRV as FT4YM from Concordia Base (AN-017) from November until the end of January 2025. Activity will be on 20, 17, and 15 meters. He also plans to be active from the Zuccheli and Cassey bases on 40 meters. QSL via F5PFP.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 41 October 31, 2024]  (1101-1122)

CN, MOROCCO. Members of the Association Royale des Radio Amateurs du Maroc will be active on various bands and modes as CN49MS from Laayoune until November 15th. The special callsign commemorates the 49th anniversary of the so-called Marche Verte (Green March), a mass demonstration in support of the restoration of the Moroccan Sahara and the conclusion of Spanish colonial rule. QSL via CN8WW, OQRS, LoTW, eQSL.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1115)

DL, GERMANY. Germany’s DX newsletter DXMB celebrates its 70th anniversary with the callsign DM7ØDXMB (special DOK 7ØDXMB). QSLs will be sent automatically via the bureau.
-[DXNL # 2431 November 6, 2024]  (1108-1129)

DL, GERMANY. Ric, DL2VFR, takes the callsign DM6ØIOTA to Sylt (EU-042) from November 9th to 17th. QSL via bureau, ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2431 November 6, 2024]  (1108-1122)

DL, GERMANY. Special callsign DM7ØDXMB will be activated by DARC Team SES to mark the 70th anniversary of DARC's DX Newsletter DXMB (DX-Mitteilungsblatt) from November 1st to December 13. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau; direct cards via DL2VFR.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1213)

DL, GERMANY. Special callsign DF2ØDCL marks the 20th anniversary of the DARC Community Logbook for DARC Team SES from October 18th to November 29th. The DCL is a web-based application system for a wide range of DARC awards: https://dcl.darc.de/public/. QSL: All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau; or QSL direct via DL2VFR.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1025-1129)

DU, PHILIPPINES. New vanity call DUØA was issued to Tim, 4F1GN (aka 4G1G, NP4TT, N4GN) on November 6th. He plans to use it "almost exclusively" from now on. "We are currently building a competitive contest station here at DUØA", he says, "where we hope to start breaking some regional records. Our first big operation will be during CQ WW DX CW Contest (November 23rd-24th), where we will have a strong team of operators in the multi-single category". QSL via LoTW (preferred), or direct to KU9C.
-[425DXN # 1749 November 9, 2024]  (1108-1129)

DXCC TOP TWENTY. Here are the top 20 entities on ClubLog’s "DXCC Most Wanted" list as of November 7, 2024:
   1. P5     DPRK (North Korea)  11. ZS8    Prince Edward & Marion Islands
   2. BS7H   Scarborough Reef    12. KH4    Midway Island
   3. CEØX   San Felix Islands   13. VKØM   Macquarie Island
   4. BV9P   Pratas Island       14. PYØS   Saint Peter And Paul Rocks
   5. KH7K   Kure Island         15. KP5    Desecheo Island
   6. KH3    Johnston Island     16. VPØS   South Sandwich Islands
   7. 3Y/P   Peter 1 Island      17. ZL9    New Zealand Subantarctic Islands
   8. FT5/X  Kerguelen Island    18. FK/C   Chesterfield Islands
   9. YVØ    Aves Island         19. VKØH   Heard Island
  10. 3Y/B   Bouvet Island       20. FT/T   Tromelin Island
For the complete list, see https://clublog.org/mostwanted.php
-[KØCF November 8, 2024  (1108-1129)

E5/S, SOUTH COOKS IS. Stan, LZ1GC and Ted LZ5QZ are active as E51SGC from Rarotonga (OC-013), South Cook until November 24th. They operate CW, SSB, FT4, FT8 and RTTY on 160-6 meters with three stations and a focus on 160, 80 and 60m. More information is available on https://www.c21gc.com/. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS (preferred), LoTW, or via LZ1GC.
-[425DXN # 1737 August 17, 2024]  (1101-1129)

E7, BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA. Celebrating Statehood Day of Bosnia and Herzegovina (November 25th), special callsign E7BOSNIA will be active on various bands and modes on November 10th-25th. A certificate will be available, see https://www.qrz.com/db/E7BOSNIA for more information. QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1749 November 9, 2024]  (1108-1129)

EA8, CANARY IS. Mike, DF8AN is QRV as EA8/DF8AN from La Gomera (EU-004) until November 11th. Activity is on 80 to 6 meters using CW and various digital modes while here testing antennas. QSL to DF8AN.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 41 October 31, 2024]  (1101-1115)

EUROPEAN DX FOUNDATION 38 YEARS. The following special event Callsigns celebrate the EUDXF anniversary during November: VK38EUDXF (VK2WN/SP7WT), DU38EUDXF (DV1K), DLØEUF, HA38EUDXF (HA5MA), ON38EUDXF (ON6CC), PA38EUDXF (PA1AW), PB38EUDXF (PB5X), PC38EUDXF (PC5F), PD38EUDXF (PD4RD), PF38EUDXF (PB7Z), PG38EUDXF (PG5M), PH38EUDXF (PA3GVQ), PI38EUDXF (PI4COM), PE38EUDXF.
-[DXNL # 2430 October 30, 2024]  (1101-1129)

F, FRANCE. The Radio Club Vendeen (F6KUF) is active as TM1ØVG until November 17th to celebrate the tenth edition of the Vendee Globe, which Will set sail from Les Sables d'Olonne on November 10th. The Vendee Globe is the only round-the-world single-handed yacht race that is sailed non-stop and without assistance. QSL via F6KUF (bureau), F5OEV (direct), eQSL for QSOs on digital modes.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1115)

FO, FRENCH POLYNESIA. Watch for FO/N5LCP to be active from Bora Bora (OC-067), French Polynesia from November 11th to 16th. He will operate SSB and FT8 mainly on 20 and 15 meters. QSL via LoTW, eQSL, or direct to N5LCP.
-[425DXN # 1749 November 9, 2024]  (1108-1122)

FR, REUNION I. Jean-Marc, F5SGI is active as FR/F5SGI from Reunion Island (AF-016) until November 18th. He operates CW only on 40-10 meters. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1122)

FS, SAINT MARTIN. Aleksandr, EA8DBM will be QRV as FS/EA8DBM from November 10th to 13th. Activity will be on the HF bands using CW and FT8. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 November 7, 2024]  (1108-1115)

GM, SCOTLAND. Erik, PA1ET will be active as MM/PA1ET/p from the Isle of Canna, the westernmost of the Small Isles archipelago, in the Scottish Inner Hebrides (EU-008), on November 8th-11th. He plans to operate QRP on 40 and 20 meters. QSL via PA1ET.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1108-1115)

HR, HONDURAS. K1XM, K2TR, KQ1F, N2WQ and W1UE will participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 26th-27th) as HQ9X from Roatan Island (NA-057), Honduras. They will be there on October 19th-29th, with "some operation" also from October 29th until November 15th. QSL via KQ1F.
-[425DXN # 1746 October 19, 2024]  (1018-1115)

HS, THAILAND. Special event station HS19IARU will be active until November 10th for the 19th IARU Region 3 Conference to be hosted in Bangkok by the Radio Amateur Society of Thailand (November 4th-8th, https://www.iarur3conf2024.org). QSL via LoTW and ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1745 October 12, 2024]  (1011-1115)

I, ITALY. Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the start of regular radio broadcasting in Italy (October 6, 1924), ARI local branches across Italy are using special callsigns until December 29th. The callsigns will be in the format II#Rxyz (e.g. II9RCAT for ARI Catania) and IR#Rxyz (e.g. IR1RVDB for ARI Valbormida). In addition, special event station I1MRTV will be active from the RAI Radio and Television Museum in Torino. Certificates and electronic QSLs will be available for download from the HamAward platform (direct link from each special callsign's qrz.com page).
-[425DXN # 1743 September 28, 2024]  (0927-1227)

JA, JAPAN. Take, JI3DST is active as JS6RRR from Miyako Island (AS-079) until November 25th, including activity during the CQ WW DX SSB and CW contests. Other callsigns to be used are JI3DST/6, JJ5RBH/6 and JR8YLY/6 on CW and SSB, as well as JI3DST/p, JJ5RBH/p and JR8YLY/p on FT8. QSOs will be made available for ClubLog and LoTW Matching on the IOTA website.
-[425DXN # 1744 October 5, 2024]  (1004-1129)

JD1/O, OGASAWARA. Once again Makoto, JI5RPT will be active as JD1BLY from Chichijima (AS-031), Ogasawara until November 10th. He will operate FT8, CW and SSB on 40-6 meters and satellites, with a focus on GreenCube and FT8 on the HF bands. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, eQSL, or direct to JI5RPT.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1115)

K, UNITED STATES. Will, WC6DX, plans to activate San Nicolas (NA-066) from November 8th to 12th, depending on weather conditions, primarily on 40-6 meter SSB and perhaps CW. San Nicolas (CA-009S for the US Islands Awards Program: https://usislands.org/) is the most remote and rarest California island, due to its status as a US Naval facility. The only previous operation was for Armed Forces Day in May 1971. QSL instructions at WC6DX after the operation.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1108-1115)

KH2, GUAM. Robert, N2OEF is active as KH2/N2OEF from Guam (OC-026) until November 13th. The "primary focus of this trip will be activating parks for the Parks on the Air (POTA) program", he says. He will operate mainly SSB; "if conditions require", he "may switch to digital modes". Updates will be posted to https://www.qrz.com/db/KH2/N2OEF. QSL via LoTW (preferred), or direct to N2OEF.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1115)

KH9, WAKE I. Tom, NL7RR is QRV as NL7RR/KH9 until November 11th. Activity is in his spare time, around 0600 to 0800z, on 20-meter SSB. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 40 October 24, 2024]  (1025-1115)

LU, ARGENTINA. Members of the Radio Club QRM Belgrano are QRV as LU4AAO until November 10th to commemorate Dia de la Tradicion which celebrates the birthday of Jose Hernandez. Activity is on the HF and V/UHF bands using SSB, FM, SSTV, and FT8. For more information see. http://lu4aao.org/cert_dia_tradicion_2024.htm. QSL via LU4AAO.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 41 October 31, 2024]  (1101-1115)

ON, BELGIUM. The ONZ Oostkust Radioclub (ON6HC) will be active on all bands and modes as OT8ØCLM until November 11th. The special callsign's suffix stands for Canadian Liberation March, the annual event that celebrates the liberation of the town of Knokke on (November 1, 1944). See https://www.onz.be/ot80clm-award-request/ for the certificate. QSL via eQSL.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1115)

PA, NETHERLANDS. The YNOMY DX Group will be active as PA44PARK on November 8th-10th. Main activity is expected to take place from Duinen Goeree & Kwade Hoek (WWFF PAFF-0155) on Goeree-Overflakkee (IOTA EU-146), but they might also be QRV from Kop van Schouwen (PAFF-0113) on Schouwen-Duiveland (EU-146) or Voornes Duin (PAFF-0156, not IOTA). Information about the PA Flora & Fauna Programme Can be found on https://www.pa-ff.nl/. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1108-1115)

PA, NETHERLANDS. Members of Radio Club Limburg will be active as PF16F until November 30th (https://rclb.nl/pf16f). This special event is intended to be a "Farewell to the Fighting Falcon", as the Royal Netherlands Air Force has officially retired its F-16 jets after 45 years of service. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau, direct cards should be sent to PD8RW.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1129)

PJ7, SINT MAARTEN. Ed, N2HX, plans to put Sint Maarten (NA-105) on the air from October 20th to December 27th as PJ7PL, including the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 26th-27th), the CQ WW DX CW Contest (November 23rd-24th) and ARRL 10-Meter Contest (December 14th-15th). QSL via N2HX.
-[DXNL # 2428 October 16, 2024]  (1018-1227)

PY, BRAZIL. Special callsign ZV2RB will be used by the Liga de Amadores Brasileiros de Radio Emissao (LABRE) to celebrate Brazilian Amateur Radio Day (November 5th). Look for activity on all bands and modes, and via satellite, on November 3rd-10th. A certificate will be available, see https://www.qrz.com/db/ZV2RB for information. November 5, 1924, is when Decree no. 16657 was signed, regulating amateur radio in Brazil. QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1115)

PY, BRAZIL. Special station PR5LM will be active on various bands and modes, and on QO-100, throughout the month of November in honor of the memory of Father Roberto Landell de Moura (1861-1928), a pioneer of wireless audio transmission. QSL via SP7CVW and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1129)

PZ, SURINAME. Members of the Royal Netherlands Army Signal Regiment (PI4VBD) will be active again as PZ5JT during the annual Jungle Warfare Training course in Suriname for a few weeks in October-November. The operators will be QRV in their spare time on 40, 20, 17, 15 and 10m SSB using military equipment. QSL direct to PI4VBD.
-[425DXN # 1743 September 28, 2024]  (1018-1122)

S9, SAO TOME & PRINCIPE. Team S9Z now includes 16 operators (5B4AQN, AI8RD/ HI8R, CT1BOL, CT1DSV, CT1EEB, CT1END, KØIR, K3VN, KH7U, KJ7KOJ, N2WB, N4XP, N5NHJ/I8NHJ, N6MZ, W7YED and WB4JTT). They will be active from Sao Tome (AF-023) from November 11th to 20th with six stations - four for general operations, one for 6 meters and RTTY and one for EME; a position for QO-100 Satellite will also be made available. Plans are for S9Z to operate CW, SSB, FT8 (Super Fox) and RTTY on 160-6 meters (see the band plan on the DXpedition's website), and to use ClubLog's Livestream. Full upload to LoTW within six months after the end of the DXpedition. See https://s9z.org/ for more information and updates. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, or direct to N4NHW.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1108-1122)

SM, SWEDEN. Members of the Gotland Radio Club, SK1BL, will be active in November as SE8ØTG to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the "Hansa" tragedy. The "Hansa" was a Swedish passenger ship, in use on the route between the mainland and Visby. She was torpedoed and sunk by a Soviet submarine during World War II (November 24, 1944); 84 people died and only two survived. QSL via the bureau.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101

TR, GABON. Roland, F8EN (ex CN8EM, FO8BV, 3C3CR), who is 96 years old now, is currently back on the air as TR8CR. QRV on CW until the end of January. Log search on http://LesNouvellesDX.fr/voirlogs.php. QSL via F6AJA.
-[DXNL # 2430 October 30, 2024]  (1101-1122)

V3, BELIZE. Tom, AK2G will be active as V31TL from Belize from November 5th to 14th. First (November 5th-8th) he will be QRV mainly from POTA sites BZ-0057 (Altun Ha Archeological Reserve) and BZ-0067 (Community Baboon Sanctuary); then (November 10-14) he "will be on the ocean and heading to BZ-0075 (Half Moon Caye Marine Reserve) and possibly BZ-0072 (Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve). QSL direct to AK2G.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1115)

V4, ST. KITTS & NEVIS. Once again John, W5JON is active as V47JA from St. Kitts (NA-104) until November 15th. He will operate SSB and FT8 on various bands. QSL via LoTW, or direct only to W5JON.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1115)

V5, NAMIBIA. Members of Amateur Radio DXpeditions will be active as V55LA from Namibia from October 30th to November 11th. The team includes LA3BO, LA7THA, LA7WCA, LA8OM, LA9KKA, LB1FI, LB1QI, LB5GI, LB8DC and OE7PGI. They will operate CW, SSB and digital modes on the HF bands, with up to seven stations and a focus on the low bands. Full LoTW upload 6 months after the DXpedition. See https://www.ardxpeditions.com/dxpeditions/v55la for information and https://www.facebook.com/groups/3093983840726129 for updates. QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1745 October 12, 2024]  (1025-1115)

V5, NAMIBIA. Gunter, DK2WH is QRV as V51WH from Omaruru until November 12th. Activity is on 160 to 10 meters, including 60 meters, using SSB, FT8, and possibly CW. He will be active as V55Y in various contests. QSL to DK2WH.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 35 September 19, 2024]  (0920-1115)

VK9C, COCOS (KEELING) IS. The OM7M and Czech Expedition Club (OK2ZA, OK6DJ, OM3PC, OM4AYL, OM4MM, OM4MW, OM5RW, and OM5ZW), together with VK5GR, will be active as VK9CV from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands (OC-003) until November 15th. They will operate SSB, CW, RTTY and FT8 on 160-6 meters, and via QO-100, from three different operating sites. See https://vk9cv.com/ for more information; updates will be posted also to https://www.facebook.com/groups/489325376829131. QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog and LoTW. QSL via OK6DJ.
-[425DXN # 1741 September 14, 2024]  (1101-1115)

VU, INDIA. Special event station AT78I is QRV until November 13th to celebrate 78 years of independence for India. Activity is on the HF bands using CW and SSB. QSL via VU2JOS.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 31 August 22, 2024]  (0823-1115)

XT, BURKINA FASO. In addition to 160-6m all-mode operations and 2m EME digi, XT2MD, the Mediterraneo DX Club's DXpedition to Burkina Faso (October 31st - November 11th), will also offer all-mode QSOs via satellite (QO-100). The operator will be Richard, GI4DOH, who "will be more than happy" to arrange skeds (contact him via qrz.com email address). Unfortunately, the air freight of the necessary equipment will increase the cost of the expedition, which is already over budget. Supporting XT2MD with your donations is now more important than ever: https://www.mdxc.support/xt2md/. QSL via information at XT2MD or via IK2VUC.
-[425DXN # 1739 August 31, 2024]  (1025-1115)

YB, INDONESIA. Special event station 8FØ1LMD will be QRV on November 9th and 10th for the 1st local conference of ORARI local Lamandau. Activity will be on 40 meters using SSB and on 2 meters using FM. QSL via operators' instructions.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 November 7, 2024]  (1108-1115)

Z6, REPUBLIC OF KOSOVO. Rene, DL2JRM will be QRV as Z68XX during the Worked All Europe DX RTTY contest (November 9th-10th) and as Z66BCC during the upcoming CQ World Wide DX CW contest (November 23rd-24th). QSL both calls via DL2JRM.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 November 7, 2024]  (1108-1129)

ZD7, SAINT HELENA. JM1GDA as ZD7G and JF3SFU as ZD7SFU are active holiday style from ZD7CTO's rental shack on Saint Helena Island (AF-022) until November 22nd. They will operate mainly FT8 (F/H) with some SSB and slow CW on 160-10 meters. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, or direct: ZD7G via JM1GDA and ZD7SFU via JF3SFU.
-[425DXN # 1747 October 26, 2024]  (1101-1122)

ZD7, ST. HELENA. Oliver, W6NV will be QRV as ZD7W in the CQ WW DX SSB contest (October 26th-27th) and upcoming CQ WW DX CW contest (November 23rd-24th). QSL to W6NV.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 40 October 24, 2024]  (1025-1129)

ZF, CAYMAN IS. Andriy, W9KM is active holiday style as ZF2KM from Grand Cayman (NA-016) until November 12th. He will operate CW and digital modes with a focus on 30, 17 and 12 meters. QSOs will be uploaded to LoTW and ClubLog.
-[425DXN # 1748 November 2, 2024]  (1101-1115)

ZL, NEW ZEALAND. Special event station ZM1ØØDX will be QRV from September 29th to December 26th to celebrate the very first trans-world QSO between Z4AA and G2SZ. Activity will be on 160 to 6 meters using all modes. In addition, special event station ZL4AA will also be active for this event. QSL via operators' instructions.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 36 September 26, 2024]  (0927-1227)




Propagation (Updated daily)

Solar Data

The Weekly Solar Data chart plots Solar Flux Index (SFI), Sunspot number (SSN) and Planetary K-Index (Kp) for the past 8 days. With 8 Planetary K-index readings each day, only the minimum, average and maximum K-index values are plotted. Note: You may click here or on the chart above to see the same data for the past month.

The Daily Solar Flux Index, Sunspot number, Planetary K-index, Solar Flux predictions and Solar Flare data used in this bulletin have been collected by KØCF from from the U.S. Department of Commerce's NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.

The propagation graphs above are the creations of KØCF and are unique in space weather reporting.

Please Note: The graphs are high resolution .PNG files which you may view in greater detail using your browser's "zoom" feature. Alternatively, right click on the graph and select "Open Image in New Tab" to enlarge it, or "Save Image As..." to save it to your computer for further analysis.

  NASA's current view of
  the Sun at a wave-
  length of 131 Angstroms.
  This wavelength shows 
  incredible solar detail.

  Click here or on the
  image to view as a full
  screen 48-hour video
  loop. It is fascinating!
The current Sun at 131 Angstroms

Propagation Summary
For the 8 day period from Sunday, November 3rd through yesterday, November 10th.

The average solar flux was 238, down 20 points from the previous week, with a weekly high of 260 on Wednesday, November 6th, followed by a low of 221 on November 9th.

The average sunspot count was 160, down by 63 from last week, peaking at 220 on Sunday, November 3rd followed by a weekly low of 121 on November 10th.

The Planetary K-index weekly average was 4.0 with a maximum of 5.3 on Sunday, November 10th, resulting in minor geomagnetic storm conditions.

Solar flare activity since November 4th has been nearing historic levels with 33 major flares, the largest of which was a major X 2.3 event on Wednesday, November 6th.

Propagation Data
Major solar flares, Monday, November 4th through 1455 UTC, November 11th.

  #     Date     UTC     Mag.  
1 Nov 11  0543  M 1.4 
2 Nov 10  2021  M 4.9 
3 Nov 10  1206  M 9.4 
4 Nov 10  0015  M 4.2 
5 Nov 09  2050  M 1.3 
6 Nov 08  0301  M 1.5 
7 Nov 07  1506  M 2.3 
8 Nov 07  1202  M 1.4 
9 Nov 07  0754  M 2.7 
10 Nov 07  0743  M 1.6 
11 Nov 07  0726  M 1.3 
12 Nov 07  0420  M 2.5 
13 Nov 07  0127  M 2.5 
14 Nov 06  2042  M 1.3 
15 Nov 06  1859  M 1.1 
16 Nov 06  1718  M 1.2 
17 Nov 06  1438  M 5.3 
18 Nov 06  1340  X 2.3 
19 Nov 06  0850  M 5.8 
20 Nov 06  0804  M 2.9 
21 Nov 05  1526  M 4.1 
22 Nov 05  1419  M 2.9 
23 Nov 05  1338  M 1.2 
24 Nov 05  0654  M 2.6 
25 Nov 04  1538  M 5.5 
26 Nov 04  1533  M 3.7 
27 Nov 04  1017  M 1.6 
28 Nov 04  0840  M 1.2 
29 Nov 04  0708  M 1.3 
30 Nov 04  0434  M 1.4 
31 Nov 04  0345  M 1.1 
32 Nov 04  0140  M 3.8 
33 Nov 04  0057  M 1.5 

   (NOAA's graph of recent flare activity: GOES-X-Ray-Flux)

From the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, here are the probabilities of major solar flares and the predicted 10.7 cm Solar Flux for the next 3 days. NOAA updates this information daily.

Date  M-Flares   X-Flares   Solar Flux 
 Nov 11 70%30%210
 Nov 12 70%30%215
 Nov 13 70%30%215

Looking farther ahead, here is the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center forecast of 10.7 cm radio flux and maximum Planetary K-index (Kp) for the next 12 days. This data is updated by NOAA every Monday (last updated on November 11, 2024).

 Date   Flux   Kp 
 Nov 11 2105
 Nov 12 2153
 Nov 13 2154
 Nov 14 2104
 Date   Flux  Kp 
 Nov 15 2053
 Nov 16 2153
 Nov 17 2202
 Nov 18 2303
 Date   Flux  Kp 
 Nov 19 2352
 Nov 20 2354
 Nov 21 2402
 Nov 22 2402

Global D Region Absorption
Conditions in the D-region of the ionosphere have a dramatic effect on HF communications. The D-Region Absorption map combines the effects of solar particles and photons. Yellow to red colors on the map depict increasing signal attenuation, where the bar chart at the right displays attenuation versus frequency. Click the thumbnail below for an animated map of D-Region Absorption:
Absorption

The Aurora Borealis
The aurora is not only beautiful to see but can have a profound impact on HF and VHF radio propagation. For the HF operator, auroras can result in a complete shut-down of propagation. However, on VHF, auroras present interesting DX possibilities. Beam antennas are very desirable and should be pointed north, towards the aurora. Signals are reflected by “back-scatter” and will be distorted with a rough buzz. SSB is the best voice mode to use, but copy can be difficult. CW will have a rough buzzy sound but be perfectly copyable. Click the thumbnail below for an animated map of aurora versus time:
Auroral Oval

Highs for Cycle 25
  Solar Flux: 336 on August 8, 2024.
  Sunspots:  382 on 
August 10, 2024.

Chance of X-Flares Today
Yesterday, sunspot AR3889 almost produced an X-class solar flare (see below). Today, it gets a second chance. The sunspot has an unstable delta-class magnetic field that poses a threat for strong explosions. NOAA forecasters estimate a 30% chance of X-flares on Nov. 11th.
(Copyright © SpaceWeather.com November 11, 2024. Republished by permission.)

Strong Solar Flare and Puny CME
Sunspot AR3889 erupted on Nov. 10th (1206 UTC), producing an M9.4-class solar flare and a shortwave radio blackout over the South Atlantic Ocean. The explosion was just percentage points from category X. NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory recorded the extreme ultraviolet flash:
Strong Solar Flare
Data from SOHO coronagraphs confirm that the explosion hurled a CME into space. Although the flare was strong, the CME looks faint and puny. It will graze Earth on Nov. 13th, according to a NASA model. At most, the impact could spark a minor G1-class geomagnetic storm with photographic auroras at high latitudes.
(Copyright © SpaceWeather.com November 11, 2024. Republished by permission.)

Popular Propagation web sites
  https://prop.kc2g.com/ (Excellent Maximum Usable Frequency map)
  NOAA https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/
  https://www.spaceweather.com/
  https://www.solarham.com/
  https://dx.qsl.net/propagation/

A Propagation Tutorial
The solar X-ray flux tracks solar activity and solar flares. Solar flux, which can vary from as low as 50 to as high as 300, influences the level of ionization in the F2 region of the ionosphere, providing a very good prediction of HF DX conditions. The higher the solar flux, the better conditions will be for the higher HF frequencies and even 6 meters. However, the levels need to be maintained for some days to allow ionization in the F2 layer to build up. A solar flux of 150 results in good HF band conditions, while levels of 200 and up can provide great conditions.

Large X-ray flares on the sun can increase the ionization of the D layer of the ionosphere (a lower layer) on the sunlit side of the Earth, greatly attenuating or blocking HF radio transmissions for up to a half hour. Solar flares often produce Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) which, if Earth directed, can lead to geomagnetic storms. Some large flares are also accompanied by strong radio bursts that may interfere with other radio frequencies and cause problems for satellite communication and radio navigation (GPS).

The Planetary K-index is a measure of the magnitude of geomagnetic storms and is an excellent indicator of disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field. A level of 1 or 2 represents quiet geomagnetic conditions; a reading of 3 or 4 may cause some propagation deterioration; 5 and 6 are minor to moderate geomagnetic storms; and 7 to 9 are strong, severe, and extreme storm conditions. Strong geomagnetic storms can trigger Auroral displays and cause HF radio blackouts. Higher geomagnetic activity also has the adverse effect of lowering maximum usable frequencies, much like lower solar flux does.

For best conditions, the solar flux should be above 150 for a few days with the K index below 2. When these conditions are met, some good DX is likely!
-[Compiled from information on NOAA.gov and other sources]



Contest Calendar

  Weekly Contests

Contest Start UTC End Web Site
K1USN Slow Speed Test Monday 0000Z 0100Z Rules
ICWC Medium Speed Test Monday 1300Z 1400Z Rules
Monday 1900Z 2000Z
Tuesday 0300Z 0400Z
CWops Test (CWT) Wednesday 1300Z 1400Z Rules
Wednesday 1900Z 2000Z
Thursday 0300Z 0400Z
Thursday 0700Z 0800Z
Weekly RTTY Test Friday 0145Z 0215Z Rules
NCCC CW Sprint (NS) Friday 0230Z 0300Z Rules
     Note: Start Days are in UTC, e.g. Monday at 0000 UTC is
     Sunday at 7:00 PM in the Central Daylight Saving Time zone, or
     Sunday at 6:00 PM in the Central Standard Time zone.

  Full Calendar

Contest Start End Web Site
WAE DX Contest, RTTY Nov 9 0000Z Nov 10 2359Z Rules
10-10 Int. Fall Contest, Digital Nov 9 0001Z Nov 10 2359Z Rules
JIDX Phone Contest Nov 9 0700Z Nov 10 1300Z Rules
OK/OM DX Contest, CW Nov 9 1200Z Nov 10 1200Z Rules
North American SSB Sprint Contest Nov 10 0000Z Nov 10 0400Z Rules
LZ DX Contest Nov 16 1200Z Nov 17 1200Z Rules
ARRL Sweepstakes Contest, SSB Nov 16 2100Z Nov 18 0300Z Rules
CQ Worldwide DX Contest, CW Nov 23 0000Z Nov 24 2400Z Rules
ARRL 160-Meter Contest Dec 6 2200Z Dec 8 1600Z Rules
ARRL 10-Meter Contest Dec 14 0000Z Dec 15 2359Z Rules
OK DX RTTY Contest Dec 21 0000Z Dec 21 2400Z Rules
Croatian DX Contest Dec 21 1400Z Dec 22 1400Z Rules
ARRL Rookie Roundup, CW Dec 22 1800Z Dec 22 2359Z Rules
RAC Winter Contest Dec 28 0000Z Dec 28 2359Z Rules
Stew Perry Topband Challenge Dec 28 1500Z Dec 29 1500Z Rules
ARRL RTTY Roundup Jan 4 1800Z Jan 5 2400Z Rules
ARRL Kids Day Jan 4 1800Z Jan 4 2359Z Rules
YB DX Contest Jan 11 0000Z Jan 11 2359Z Rules
North American QSO Party, CW Jan 11 1800Z Jan 12 0600Z Rules
Hungarian DX Contest Jan 18 1200Z Jan 19 1200Z Rules
North American QSO Party, SSB Jan 18 1800Z Jan 19 0600Z Rules
ARRL January VHF Contest Jan 18 1900Z Jan 20 0359Z Rules
CQ 160-Meter Contest, CW Jan 24 2200Z Jan 26 2159Z Rules
BARTG RTTY Sprint Jan 25 1200Z Jan 26 1200Z Rules
Winter Field Day Jan 25 1700Z Jan 26 1700Z Rules
Vermont QSO Party Feb 1 0000Z Feb 2 2400Z Rules
10-10 Int. Winter Contest, SSB Feb 1 0001Z Feb 2 2359Z Rules
Mexico RTTY International Contest Feb 1 1200Z Feb 2 2359Z Rules
Minnesota QSO Party Feb 1 1400Z Feb 1 2400Z Rules
British Columbia QSO Party Feb 1 1600Z Feb 2 2400Z Rules
North American Sprint, CW Feb 2 0000Z Feb 2 0359Z Rules
CQ WW RTTY WPX Contest Feb 8 0000Z Feb 9 2400Z Rules
     -[Contest data courtesy of the WA7BNM Contest Calendar ]