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)
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! |
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).
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|
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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:
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:
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:
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 |
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 |