Amateur Radio Propagation Report

Sun Images for Past 72 Hours

Images copyrighted by the SDO/NASA and Helioviewer project

📋 Propagation Summary

Current HF propagation conditions are shaped by moderate solar activity with a solar flux of 111 and a sunspot number of 50. The K-index is at 0, indicating very quiet geomagnetic conditions, which is excellent for HF stability. Expect good performance on the lower bands (80m–20m), while higher bands (17m–10m) are less favorable today. Operators should focus on the lower bands for reliable contacts, especially during the evening and night. Take advantage of the calm geomagnetic field for clear signals and minimal noise.

💡 Operator Tips

• Prioritize 80m, 40m, and 20m for both local and DX contacts—these bands are offering the most reliable propagation.
• Use digital modes (FT8, PSK31) on higher bands (15m–10m) to maximize weak signal performance.
• Daytime operation: Try 20m for long-haul DX and 40m for regional contacts.
• Nighttime operation: 80m and 40m will be your best bet for both local and some DX.
• Keep an eye on grayline times for enhanced propagation, especially on 40m and 20m.
• Contesters: Focus on lower bands for rate, but check 17m/15m for surprise openings.

⏰ Best Operating Times

• 80m & 40m: Best at night and early morning for both local and DX.
• 20m: Good throughout the day, with enhanced DX around sunrise and sunset.
• 17m & 15m: Fair during midday; check for short-lived openings.
• 12m & 10m: Poor conditions—occasional brief openings possible, mostly during peak solar hours.
• Grayline: Sunrise/sunset on 40m and 20m for best long-path DX.

🌍 DX Opportunities

• Grayline propagation is favorable on 40m and 20m—target sunrise/sunset paths for transcontinental DX.
• 20m band remains the most reliable for daytime DX, especially east-west.
• 17m/15m: Watch for short, sporadic openings—monitor cluster spots for activity.
• Aurora activity is low (Aurora: 2), so VHF/UHF auroral DX is unlikely.
• No major solar events—expect stable, predictable conditions for planned DXpeditions and contests.

📻 Band-by-Band Analysis

Analysis:
The lower bands (80m, 40m, 20m) are performing best all day and night, making them the top choice for both local and DX work. 17m and 15m are only fair—worth checking during midday, but expect limited DX. 12m and 10m are mostly closed; only attempt these bands if you see cluster spots or hear activity.

📊 Current Solar Activity

• K-index: 0 (very quiet)
  • Minimal geomagnetic disturbance; expect low noise and stable propagation.
• Solar Flux (10.7cm): 111
  • Indicates moderate solar activity; supports reliable lower band propagation but limits higher bands.
• Sunspot Number: 50
  • Modest sunspot count; enough for good 20m/40m activity, but not enough for consistent 10m/12m openings.

📈 Geomagnetic Conditions

• Recent K-index trend: Stable at 0 over the past 24 hours.
• Impact: Very quiet geomagnetic field means excellent HF conditions, especially for low-band DX. No recent geomagnetic storms or disturbances.

🌟 Space Weather Details

• X-ray Activity: B4.1 (low)
  • No risk of HF blackouts; stable conditions.
• Solar Wind Speed: 434 km/s
  • Slightly elevated but not enough to cause geomagnetic issues.
• Electron Flux: 2580
  • Moderate; may cause minor absorption at high latitudes, but no major impact.
• Proton Flux: 11
  • Quiet; no solar radiation storm effects.
• Aurora: 2
  • Very low; auroral propagation on VHF/UHF is unlikely.
• Helium Line: 117.0
  • Indicates steady solar activity, no major upswings or drops.

📡 Propagation Timeline & Technical Details

Recent months show a declining trend in solar flux and sunspot numbers from late 2025 into early 2026, with a slight uptick in May. This means HF conditions have become more challenging on higher bands, but the lower bands remain strong and stable.

🔮 3-Day Forecast