Amateur Radio Propagation Report

Sun Images for Past 72 Hours

Images copyrighted by the SDO/NASA and Helioviewer project

📋 Propagation Summary:
HF propagation today is shaped by moderate solar activity and very quiet geomagnetic conditions. With a solar flux of 104 and sunspot numbers in the mid-70s, expect solid performance on the lower bands (80m–20m) and limited openings on the higher bands (15m–10m). The K-index is at 0, signaling very stable ionospheric conditions—great news for noise-free operation and reliable contacts. Daytime DX is best on 20m and 17m, while nighttime favors 40m and 80m. Higher bands (12m/10m) are mostly closed, so focus your efforts on the lower HF spectrum for the best results.

💡 Operator Tips

• Prioritize 20m, 40m, and 80m for both local and DX contacts—these bands are performing well around the clock.
• For DX chasing, work the grayline on 40m and 20m at sunrise and sunset for enhanced long-path propagation.
• Use digital modes (FT8, FT4, PSK31) on 17m/15m to squeeze out weak-signal contacts where SSB/CW may struggle.
• With the K-index at 0, expect minimal noise—take advantage for weak-signal work and contests.
• Antenna tuning is less critical today, but a resonant dipole or vertical will maximize your reach on 20m and 40m.
• VHF/UHF: No significant aurora or sporadic-E—stick to local FM or repeaters.

⏰ Best Operating Times

🌍 DX Opportunities

• Grayline paths on 40m and 20m are prime for transcontinental DX—work sunrise/sunset for best results.
• 20m is your go-to for daytime intercontinental contacts, especially east-west.
• 17m/15m: Watch for short-lived openings, especially to equatorial regions.
• No significant aurora—VHF/UHF DX is unlikely.
• No major solar events—expect stable but not spectacular DX conditions.

📻 Band-by-Band Analysis

• 80m/40m: Excellent at night and early morning—great for local and regional nets, ragchews, and DX.
• 20m: Best daytime performer—reliable for DX and contests.
• 17m/15m: Fair to good midday, especially for digital modes.
• 12m/10m: Mostly closed, but check for brief E-skip or sporadic openings in the afternoon.

📊 Current Solar Activity

• K-index: 0 – Very quiet geomagnetic field, minimal noise, stable propagation.
• Solar Flux (10.7cm): 104 – Moderate, supports reliable lower/mid HF, but limits higher band openings.
• Sunspot Number: 85 – Moderate, enough for decent ionization but not enough for strong 10m/12m activity.
• Space Weather: No major flares or disturbances; X-ray flux is at B3.3 (quiet).

📈 Geomagnetic Conditions

• The K-index has remained at or near 0 for the past 24 hours, indicating very stable geomagnetic conditions.
• No recent geomagnetic storms or disturbances—propagation is steady and predictable.
• These conditions are ideal for low-noise HF operation, especially on the lower bands.

🌟 Space Weather Details

• X-ray Activity: B3.3 – Very low, no threat of HF blackouts.
• Solar Wind: 332.9 km/s – Low speed, means quiet geomagnetic field.
• Particle Environment: Electron flux at 1730 (moderate), proton flux at 9 (very low)—no significant radio blackouts or absorption.
• Aurora Activity: 3 – Low, so no auroral propagation for VHF/UHF.
• Helium Line: 111.5 – Indicates stable solar activity, no major trend changes.

📡 Propagation Timeline & Technical Details

• Over the past several months, solar flux and sunspot numbers have trended downward from their spring highs (solar flux 138, SSN 101 in June) to current moderate levels (solar flux 104, SSN 76–85).
• This trend means lower bands (80m–20m) remain reliable, while high bands (15m–10m) are less likely to open except during brief enhancements.

🔮 3-Day Forecast

• Expect continued quiet geomagnetic conditions (K-index 0–1).
• Solar flux and sunspot numbers are likely to remain steady, so no major changes in band conditions.
• 80m–20m will continue to be the best bands for both local and DX work.
• Watch for possible brief openings on 15m and 17m during peak daylight.
• No alerts or warnings—enjoy the stable conditions for contests, nets, and DX!