Amateur Radio Propagation Report

Sun Images for Past 72 Hours

Images copyrighted by the SDO/NASA and Helioviewer project

📋 Propagation Summary:
Today’s HF propagation is shaped by moderate solar activity and quiet geomagnetic conditions. With a solar flux of 136 and sunspot numbers around 102, the higher bands (20m, 17m, 15m) are performing well, especially during daylight hours. Expect good conditions on 20m–15m for both local and DX contacts, while 10m and 12m offer fair daytime openings but close down at night. Lower bands (80m, 40m) are poor during the day but improve to fair at night. No major space weather disturbances are present, so operators can plan for stable conditions and maximize DX opportunities on the mid-to-high bands.

💡 Operator Tips

• Focus on 20m, 17m, and 15m for reliable daytime and evening contacts—these bands are currently the most consistent for both local and DX.
• Try 10m and 12m during midday for possible short- and long-haul DX, especially if you notice enhanced solar activity or sporadic E.
• Nighttime is best for 80m and 40m—use these bands for regional QSOs and nets after sunset.
• Digital modes (FT8, FT4, PSK31) will help you make contacts even when SSB/CW is challenging, especially on marginal bands.
• Monitor grayline times for enhanced DX, particularly on 40m and 20m.
• Keep an eye on solar wind and K-index—if they spike, expect short-term disruptions, especially on higher bands.

⏰ Best Operating Times

🌍 DX Opportunities

• 20m and 17m are the best bets for long-haul DX, especially during daylight and early evening.
• Grayline propagation is strong on 40m and 20m—watch sunrise/sunset for transcontinental openings.
• 10m/12m may open briefly for DX at local noon, especially on north-south paths.
• No significant aurora or geomagnetic storms—polar paths are open and stable.
• Contesters and DXers: Focus on 15m and 17m for rare DX, and check 10m for surprise openings.

📻 Band-by-Band Analysis

The 20m, 17m, and 15m bands are currently the most reliable for both local and DX work throughout the day and into the evening. 12m and 10m offer fair conditions during daylight but tend to close at night. 80m and 40m are not effective during the day but improve to fair at night, making them suitable for late evening and overnight operation.

📊 Current Solar Activity

• K-index: 3 (low to moderate geomagnetic activity; stable HF conditions)
• Solar Flux: 136 (moderate; supports good propagation on 20m–15m, some 10m/12m openings)
• Sunspot Number: 102 (healthy; indicates active sun and supports higher band propagation)
• Space Weather: No major flares or disturbances reported; X-ray flux at B7.9 (quiet)

📈 Geomagnetic Conditions

• The K-index has remained stable and low over the past 24 hours, indicating quiet geomagnetic conditions.
• No recent spikes or disturbances—propagation is not being disrupted by geomagnetic storms.
• Expect continued stability unless solar wind or flare activity increases.

🌟 Space Weather Details

• X-ray Activity: B7.9 (low; no risk of HF blackouts)
• Solar Wind: 586.5 km/s (moderately elevated; could cause minor disturbances if it increases further)
• Particle Environment: Electron flux at 2150 (normal to slightly elevated; minimal impact on HF)
• Aurora Activity: 1 (very low; no auroral propagation expected, VHF/UHF not affected)
• Helium Line: 112.3 (moderate solar activity; no trend toward major events)

📡 Propagation Timeline & Technical Details

Recent months show a gradual decline in both solar flux and sunspot numbers since June, but levels remain sufficient for good propagation on the higher HF bands. The current solar flux (136) and sunspot number (102) are above average for this phase of the cycle, supporting reliable daytime openings on 20m–15m.

🔮 3-Day Forecast