GB2RS

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 24th September 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 24th of September 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB 2023 Convention
RSGB Board appointment
RSGB Trophy Manager
 
It is just three weeks until the RSGB 2023 Convention so grab a coffee and browse the great line-up of speakers at this year’s event. The keynote and after-dinner speaker is Colonel John Doody, who has the unique experience of having held appointments in Defence, the Intelligence Services and Industry. John will discuss his radio communication experiences across the frequency spectrum from VLF, LF, HF, VHF and SHF to satellite communications from 1965 to today. He will also talk about how amateur radio skills can help people make the most of the many career opportunities within the RF Spectrum. During the rest of the weekend, you will have a wealth of topics and speakers to choose from, ranging from DXpeditions and SOTA to 23cm, aircraft scatter, 30THz cutting-edge technology and everything else in between! AMSAT-UK is also holding its Colloquium at the RSGB Convention again. Find out more at rsgb.org/convention and book your place at this fantastic amateur radio event.
The RSGB Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Horton, G4AOJ as a co-opted Director to assist it in its duties until the RSGB 2024 AGM.
After serving for nine years, the RSGB Trophy Manager is retiring and the Society is looking for a new volunteer for this role. Although traditionally an individual role, the tasks of the Trophy Manager could also be carried out by a small team. Working in close relationship with the three Contest Committees and the RSGB General Manager, the Trophy Manager looks after the RSGB trophies arranges for their engraving and presentation to recipients, and maintains the trophies’ history. Currently, the trophies are stored in a commercial storage facility, paid for by the RSGB, and this can be moved near to the location of the new Trophy Manager or team. If you are interested in applying for the role as an individual or a small team, please email gm.dept@rsgb.org.uk or you can find out more about the role on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/volunteers
For the whole month of October 2023, a new event known as ‘UK Bunkers On The Air’ will be taking place. The event is now a standalone activity and this year it is dedicated to the memory of the late Chris Darlington, M0DOL. It recognises his work to establish Bunkers On The Air within the former Castles And Stately Homes On The Air, or CASHOTA, team. This is a brand new activity with a fully revamped register of former Royal Observer Corps bunkers, with more than 1,500 potential references to activate or chase. Activities are planned for the HF and VHF bands. This is a good opportunity to get out and do some portable activity before the winter closes in. Awards will be available for chasers, activators and short-wave listeners. Overseas amateurs and short-wave listeners will be very welcome to chase activators and apply for awards. For more details, search for ‘Bunkers On The Air’ on Facebook, visit bunkersontheair.org or email bunkersontheair@gmail.com
Lots of operators are taking part in Railways on the Air weekend. Today, the 24th, is the last day of the event, so log the participating special event stations while you can! For more information, and to see a list of stations taking part, visit rota.barac.org.uk
This is the last call for volunteers to apply to be the new Intruder Watch Coordinator when Richard Lamont, G4DYA retires from the role in a few weeks. If you’re interested in finding out more, email RSGB Spectrum Forum Chair Murray Niman, G6JYB at spectrum.chairman@rsgb.org.uk or look at the volunteer description on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/volunteers
 And now for details of rallies and events
The Hack Green Military Surplus and Military Radio Hangar Sale is taking place today, Sunday the 24th of September. The venue is Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8AL. The sale includes electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. For more information visit hackgreen.co.uk or contact coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk Any last-minute news will appear on facebook.com/HGsecretbunker
The Bury St Edmunds Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 24th of September. The venue is Rougham Tower Museum, IP32 7QB. The doors are open from 8 a.m. for traders and from 9.30 a.m. for the public. The entrance fee is £3. The event features trade stands, tabletop sales, bring and buy, local radio clubs’ displays, an RSGB book stall and Raynet. Refreshments are available from the Museum’s cafeteria. Please direct enquiries to rally2023@bsears.co.uk
The Weston Super Mare Radio Society Radio and Electronics Rally is being held today, the 24th of September. The venue is The Campus Community Centre, Worle, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 7DX. The doors are open from 10 am and entry is £3 per person. Under 16s will be admitted free of charge. Free parking and refreshments are available. For more information, email westonradiosociety@gmail.com or call 07871 034 206.
Biggleswade Swap-meet and Auction is taking place today, Sunday the 24th of September. The venue is The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH. The doors are open from 9.30 am and entry is £8. The auction starts at 12.30 pm. Bring and buy, hot food and ample parking are available. For more information, email Jeremy, G8MLK via Jezzer3@hotmail.com
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign OQ95RCL is in use throughout 2023 by Radio Club Leuven, ON4CP, in Belgium, to celebrate its 95th anniversary. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL, the bureau, or direct to ON3AR.
VI10VKFF is the special callsign in use to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the World Wide Flora and Fauna programme in Australia. It will be used from Australian parks until the end of 2023. QSL via Logbook of the World,  eQSL, or via VK5PAS, direct or via the bureau.
 
Now the DX news
Darren, VK4MAP will be active as 3D2RAT from Rotuma Island, OC-060, until the 29th of September. He operates SSB on the 80, 40, 20, 15, 12 and 10m bands. QSL direct to home call.
Holger, ZL3IO will be active as ZL7IO from Waitangi, Chatham Islands, OC-038, until the 29th of September. He is QRV on the 160 to 10m bands using CW, RTTY, SSB, FT8 and FT4. QSL via Logbook of the World, Club Log's OQRS, or via DK7AO.
Don, M0CVZ will be active as 6Y5DH from Jamaica, NA-097, until the 30th of September. He will operate SSB on the 40, 20, 17, 12 and 10m bands. QSL via Club Log and Logbook of the World.
Now the contest news
The CQ Worldwide DX RTTY Contest started at 0000UTC on Saturday the 23rd of September and ends at 2359UTC today, the 24th of September. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and CQ Zone. The UK is in Zone 14.
Today, the 24th, the UK Microwave Group 5.7 and 10GHz Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also, today, the 24th, the Practical Wireless 70MHz Contest runs from 1200 to 1600UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Tuesday the 26th of September, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1830 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on 2.3 to 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 27th of September, the UK and Ireland Contest Club 80m Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.
On Thursday the 28th of September, the Autumn Series Data Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using RTTY and PSK63 on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The UK and Ireland Contest Club DX SSB Contest runs from 1200UTC on Saturday 30th of September to 1200UTC on Sunday the 1st of October. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Stations from the UK and Ireland also send their District Code. This event replaces the original RSGB DX contest. It is listed on the RSGB contest calendar and, for entrants from the UK and Crown Dependencies, counts towards the HF Championship. This international DX SSB contest also has a Teams section. Team members, with a maximum of three members, can be from different DXCCs and can enter different sections. Rules, in English and eight other languages, can be found under the "DX CONTESTS" menu at ukeicc.com
The Worked All Britain DX Contest runs from 1200UTC on Saturday the 30th of September to 1200UTC on Sunday the 1st of October. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
 Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 21st of September 2023
Last week’s space weather was very disturbed from a geomagnetic point of view. The Kp index hit 6.67 on the 19th of September, spawning reports of visible aurora from around the UK once again. This was the result of a coronal mass ejection passing Earth, which caused a period of strong G3 storming very early that morning.
The ionosphere was badly affected with MUFs over a 3,000km path down below 18MHz for most of the day. By Wednesday the 20th, things began to improve and MUFs were back to 21MHz, and sometimes even 24MHz, by late morning. By Thursday the 21st, the Kp index was down to 2.67.
Meanwhile, we had numerous C- and M-class solar flares to contend with as well – a total of 39 from the 18th to the 20th.
So, last week was not exactly a good time for HF operations!
This week, commencing today the 24th, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index will be in the range of 135 to 145 although, if the past month is anything to go by, it could easily be higher. The Kp index is forecast to be 2, apart from on the 28th and 29th when it could rise to 4.
In reality, with so many sunspots, we could have a solar flare and associated coronal mass ejection at any time, so take these predictions with a pinch of salt!
The good news is that we are now past the autumnal equinox, so the ionosphere is improving. Expect better worldwide HF conditions as we head towards October and November.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The recent unsettled weather seems to have set a trend for us with a likely repeat process through the coming week, although there may be a few drier interludes. The next low in the sequence will soon be arriving to keep the rather unsettled theme in play.
This means that rain scatter is a good choice for operators during the period.
There is usually some uncertainty in such a complex pattern, and recent model runs have been alternating between a return of high pressure during the next week, with a chance of Tropo, and the continuation of lows with fronts bringing rain and showers.
We are, however, in a ‘keep the lows coming’ mindset at the moment, so don’t build your hopes of Tropo too high. Such uncertainties in long lead-time forecasts are quite typical at this time of the year when ex-hurricanes can get involved in the Atlantic flow pattern and disrupt the forecasts very easily.
The other modes to monitor are aurora, which has been seen recently from southern Britain, so definitely one to keep in mind, and meteor scatter, which can be productive.
We are approaching the ‘busy season’ for meteors with several good showers between early October and December. However, the last week in September does not hold much promise. There are always random meteors to keep interest alive, but this week might be better used getting equipment ready for the next few months of activity.
Having reached its lowest declination of the lunar month, the Moon is now beginning its slow climb back up. With the Moon out of Sagittarius, sky noise will decrease and is at its lowest mid-week. Path loss, or degradation, will be lowest on the 27th with the Moon at perigee, its closest point to Earth. The full Moon is on the 29th.
Altogether, it looks like a good week for EME operations, especially if you can elevate your antenna or dish reflector.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 17th September 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 17th of September 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Strategic Priorities
RSGB 2023 Convention
YOTA month
The RSGB Board has chosen four strategic priorities for the Society to focus on until the 2024 AGM. These are the growth of amateur radio; membership of the RSGB; spectrum and licensing; and ensuring the continued financial stability of the Society. These priorities will set the framework for the RSGB’s activities over the coming months. Both HQ staff and volunteers across the range of RSGB teams will be involved in planning how best to implement these four priorities. Look out for further details in the coming weeks.
The RSGB 2023 Convention has a great speaker programme and there are also some fantastic forums to take part in. The RSGB HF and VHF Forums will take place on Sunday, and on Saturday in conjunction with ICQPodcast, the RSGB is offering Convention attendees the chance to discuss two important topics. The first will challenge you to consider and take responsibility for the issues within amateur radio today – for example, is amateur radio just about what you like? Should someone else fix the issues you see? The second forum will focus on QRM and how both newcomers and experienced radio amateurs can sometimes feel frustrated or discouraged by on-air activities. In both forums you can discuss personal experiences, share ideas, and help to promote positive interactions with fellow radio amateurs. You will leave with a notepad full of ideas. The only way to participate in these forums is to be at the Convention, so do book your package or tickets now! Full information about the updated programme, speakers, the drop-in buildathon and the social scene are on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/convention
December is Youngsters on the Air, or YOTA, month and is an exciting opportunity for you, your club, school, or social group to host an amateur radio station with the aim of getting youngsters active on the amateur bands. Once approval from Ofcom is received, the RSGB will provide access to the special callsign GB23YOTA and a full list of operating slots will be made available on QRZ.com. These slots will be first-come, first-served, so check your calendars and reserve your place as soon as possible. If you’d like to register your interest for YOTA month, or simply ask for further information, you can email Jamie, M0SDV at yota.month@rsgb.org.uk
The RSGB Learning Team is calling out for your help – it is looking for volunteers to get involved in the development, implementation and relaunching of the new Discovery Challenge, which is a revamp of the Individual Scheme from the Beyond Exams initiative. The team is proposing to split the activities into three levels – Explorer, Adventurer and Master. If you’d like to help out with these exciting changes, or would just like to share some ideas or feedback, you can contact Mark Burrows, 2E0SBM the Beyond Exams Coordinator at be.coordinator@rsgb.org.uk
The UK Six Metre Group’s 2023 AGM will be held via Zoom on Sunday the 8th of October from 6pm BST. The brief formal part of the meeting will be followed by a talk from Antoine, 3D2AG entitled “Extending 6m DX boundaries from the Heart of the South Pacific." Zoom details have been emailed to members. Non-members will be welcome to join the call but will not be able to vote on AGM business. For more information about the group, visit uksmg.org
The popular Railways on the Air weekend, coordinated by Bishop Auckland Amateur Radio Club, usually takes place on the weekend closest to the 27th of September each year. This date celebrates the anniversary of the first steam-powered passenger railway journey which took place on the 27th of September 1825. The first passenger train ran on a line in North East England from Darlington to Stockton. This year, the event will run on the weekend of the 23rd and 24th of September with lots of special event stations on the air. For more information, to register, and to see a list of stations taking part, visit rota.barac.org.uk
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Hack Green Military Surplus and Military Radio Hangar Sale will take place on Sunday the 24th of September. The venue will be Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8AL. The sale will include electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. For more information visit hackgreen.co.uk or contact coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk Any last-minute news will appear on facebook.com/HGsecretbunker
The Bury St Edmunds Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 24th of September. The venue will be Rougham Tower Museum, IP32 7QB. The doors will be open from 8am for traders and from 9.30am for the public. The entrance fee will be £3. The event will feature trade stands, tabletop sales, bring and buy, local radio clubs’ displays, an RSGB book stall and Raynet. Refreshments will be available from the Museum’s cafeteria. Please direct enquiries to rally2023@bsears.co.uk
The Weston super Mare Radio Society Radio and Electronics Rally will take place on Sunday the 24th of September. The venue will be The Campus Community Centre, Worle, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 7DX. The doors will open at 10am and entry will be £3 per person. Under 16s will be admitted free of charge. Free parking and refreshments will be available. For more information, or to book a table, email westonradiosociety@gmail.com or call 07871 034 206.
Biggleswade Swap-meet and Auction will take place on Sunday the 24th of September. The venue will be The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH. The doors will open at 9.30am and entry costs £8. The auction starts at 12.30pm. Bring and buy, hot food and ample parking will be available. To book tables, or for further information, email Jeremy, G8MLK via Jezzer3@hotmail.com
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign TI70RC will be active until the 30th of September to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Radio Club de Costa Rica, TI0RC, founded on the 29th of September 1953. QSL via Logbook of the World.
Special event callsign DM23BUGA is active until the 8th of October. The suffix stands for 'Bundesgartenschau’, the biennial horticulture show and festival that is taking place in Mannheim this year. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau. Direct cards will be managed via DL2VFR.
Now the DX news
Claudio, HB9OAU is active as SV5/HB9OAU from Karpathos Island, EU-001, until the 21st of September. He is operating using SSB, CW, RTTY and FT8 on the 80 to 10m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL, or direct to his home call.
Ken, KH6QJ is active as T32AZ from Christmas Island, OC-024, until the 17th of October. QSL via KH6QJ, direct or via the bureau.
John, VK1POR is active on Deal Island, OC-195, until the 1st of December. He often uses FT8 on the HF bands and uploads his log to eQSL and Logbook of the World.
Now the contest news
Today, the 17th of September, the 70MHz Affiliated Societies Contest runs from 0900 to 1200UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Today, the 17th of September, the IRTS 70cm Counties Contest runs from 1300 to 1330UTC. Using SSB and FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. EI and GI stations also give their county.
Also today, the 17th of September, the IRTS 2m Counties Contest runs from 1300 to 1500UTC. Using SSB and FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. EI and GI stations also give their county.
Also today, the 17th of September, the British Amateur Radio Teledata Group Sprint PSK63 Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using PSK63 on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number.
On Monday the 18th of September, the RSGB FT4 Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using FT4 on the 80, 40 and 20m bands, the exchange is your report.
On Tuesday the 19th of September, the 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on 1.3GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Thursday the 21st of September, the 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The CQ Worldwide DX RTTY Contest starts at 0000UTC on Saturday the 23rd and ends at 2359UTC on Sunday the 24th of September. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and CQ Zone. The UK is in Zone 14.
On Sunday the 24th of September, the UK Microwave Group 5.7 and 10GHz Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Sunday the 24th of September, the Practical Wireless 70MHz Contest runs from 1200 to 1600UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 14th of September 2023
While our terrestrial weather this week was variable, it seems our space weather was equally unsettled!
We warned last week that it wouldn’t take much to cause the Kp index to rise and on Tuesday a coronal mass ejection, or CME, hit the Earth sending the Kp index to 5.67. The Bz component of the interplanetary magnetic field tipped sharply south for a long duration causing visible aurora to be seen across the north of the UK and as far south as Cornwall.
This really hit HF quite hard and good signals were scarce.
Unsettled radio conditions continued into Wednesday bringing the Maximum Usable Frequency, or MUF, over a 3,000km path down below 18MHz for most of the day. The Kp index was still around 3 or 4 on Thursday, but MUFs were recovering and were at around 28MHz over 3,000km by lunchtime.
Next week NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will start the week around 165 and then decline as the week progresses, perhaps ending at around 145 to 150.
Geomagnetic conditions are forecast to be quiet, at least until the 23rd when the Kp could rise to four. But at this point in the solar cycle the risk of a solar flare, and subsequent CME, remains high every day, so watch solarham.net for up-to-date information.
And finally, a new paper by NASA’s Lisa Upton and David Hathaway indicates that sunspot maximum is now forecast to be in the Autumn of 2024. They predict a maximum sunspot number of 135, plus or minus 10, which is slightly larger than Cycle 24’s maximum of 116.4, but well below the average of 179 for Solar Cycles 1 to 23.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
Tropo conditions are still present over southern areas today, the 17th. However, by early next week, low pressure will be a dominant force and the coming week looks very unsettled with rain and quite strong winds at times.
This means that any Tropo, either across the southern North Sea or down across Biscay, will not last beyond this weekend, ending today the 17th.
The unsettled low-pressure-driven weather will mean that rain scatter is a distinct possibility on some of the more active days. The other propagation modes are the usual fall-backs of meteor scatter using random meteors and aurora, which may not be too far-fetched in view of the geomagnetic activity and visible auroras experienced recently.
The September Epsilon Perseids meteor shower has already peaked earlier in the month, but a few lingering meteors may give some truly random radio reflections.
Last week there were indications that this normally quiet period after the August Perseids and the forthcoming October Draconids can still provide some interest for persistent meteor scatter enthusiasts.
During this coming equinox week, the Moon will reach its lowest declination of the month on the 22nd and 23rd. This point also coincides with the Moon being in Sagittarius, so that sky noise will be very high. This will make moon bounce operations particularly difficult towards the end of the week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 10th September 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 10th of September 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB 2023 Convention
RSGB 2023 outreach and buildathons
National Coding Week
 
 
The RSGB 2023 Convention will be held this year from the 13th to the 15th of October. It is an action-packed weekend of amateur radio and includes the AMSAT-UK Colloquium which will be held during the Convention again. You can chat to the Special Interest Groups and RSGB Committees over a coffee, browse the latest amateur radio equipment and maybe even win a great prize if you buy a ticket in the DXpedition Fund raffle. There will also be two interesting forums on Saturday run in partnership with ICQPodcast. For the first time, the Convention will also have a clear focus on outreach and practical activities as the RSGB provides opportunities for individuals and clubs to ‘have a go’ and be inspired to try new things in their local areas. The draft programme will be available in the October RadCom but is also available now on the RSGB website to give you an idea of the fantastic range of talks that will be happening over the weekend. Find out more and take advantage of the early-bird booking price which is available until the 14th of September – go to rsgb.org/convention
As part of the RSGB’s commitment to the growth of amateur radio, Regional Representative David De La Haye, M0MDB will be giving a presentation at the RSGB Convention in which he will explain more about the Regional Team and how its members can support you to do amateur radio outreach in your local area. A particular focus will be on organising the ever-popular buildathon events. Once you’ve picked up some tips, you can then have a go at building one of a range of kits provided by Kanga Products. The RSGB Convention buildathon is a drop-in event on Saturday the 14th of October which runs from 10.30am to 5pm. You can also confirm your preferred time by pre-booking a slot for a deposit of £5, which is refundable against the cost of the kit you choose to build. Pre-booked time slots will be allocated as first-come, first-served, so make sure to book now! For full details and to book your slot, visit the RSGB website at rsgb.org/buildathon
National Coding Week runs from the 18th of September, but the RSGB is dedicating the whole of September to a focus on amateur radio and coding. There is a range of activity sheets on the RSGB website and we know of schools and amateur radio clubs that are getting involved. Whether you’d like to try the BBC:Microbit, have a go at Node RED or find out more about GNU Radio, this is a great way to try something new, extend your skills, or share your knowledge with your local club, school or community group. If you’d like some support or advice, contact RSGB volunteer John Hislop, G7OHO via g7oho@rsgb.org.uk, and if you’re planning an event let the RSGB know – email comms@rsgb.org.uk so the Society can share your stories and photos to inspire others!
Air Ambulance Week 2023 is finishing today, the 10th of September. Lots of amateur radio stations are active on the air to help raise awareness of the lifesaving work that is carried out by the UK’s air ambulance charities. Please give them a call! More information about Air Ambulance Week 2023 can be found by visiting airambulancesuk.org
Amateur radio has been mentioned in the mainstream media twice this week. RSGB President John McCullagh, GI4BWM, was interviewed in a BBC news feature about the demise of longwave radio. You can read it online by searching for “Long wave radio fans mourn fading frequencies”. Secondly, Helen Sharman, the first person from the UK to go into space, was chatting on The Naked Scientists podcast about using amateur radio on the International Space Station to talk to school pupils. Search for “Helen Sharman: chatting with Mikhail Gorbachev” and skip to three minutes and 49 seconds into the podcast.
 And now for details of rallies and events
Caister Lifeboat Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 10th of September. The venue is Caister Lifeboat station, Caister on Sea, NR30 5DJ. The doors are open from 9 am to 2 pm. Access for traders is available from 8 a.m. Admission is free. Inside tables cost £10 each. The outside tables cost £5 each. For more information, contact Zane, M1BFI via email on m1bfi@outlook.com or phone 07711 214 790.
The Angel of the North Amateur Radio Club Rally will be held on Saturday the 16th of September. The venue will be Whitehall Road Methodist Church, Whitehall Road, Bensham, Gateshead, NE8 4LH. The doors will be open to traders from 7.30 am and tables cost £6. The event will be open to the public from 10 am to 2 pm and admission will be £2.50. Bacon butties and hot drinks will be available to purchase. There will be a bring-and-buy and a raffle on the day. Please contact anarc.club@gmail.com for further information.
 
Now the Special Event News
Rustington Amateur Radio Group and Worthing and District Amateur Radio Club will be active with Special Event Station GB1SCW on Saturday the 16th of September. Working between 10.30 am and 4.30 pm, operation will take place on HF, VHF and UHF bands using various modes including SSB, FM and digital modes. The station will be operating to celebrate the work of coastal communities, in particular the National Coastwatch Institution and Royal National Lifeboat Institution. More information is available via QRZ.com
OO35ATH is the special callsign in use by members of the Radio Club de Ath, ON4ATH, in Belgium, to celebrate the club's 35th anniversary. The station will be active until the 30th of September.
 
Now the DX news
John, W5JON is active as V47JA from St. Kitts, NA-104, in the West Indies, until the 12th of September. He is operating SSB and FT8 on the HF and 6m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, or direct only to W5JON.
Mike, DG5LAC is active as OZ/DG5LAC from Romo Island, EU-125, in Denmark, until the 13th of September. He will operate using FT8, FT4 and some SSB. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World and eQSL.
 
Now the contest news
Today, Sunday the 10th of September, the UK Microwave Group 24 to 76GHz Contest runs from 0900 to 1700UTC. Using all modes on 24 to 76GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The Worked All Europe DX SSB Contest started at 0000UTC on Saturday the 9th of September and ends at 2359UTC today, Sunday the 10th of September. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 12th of September, the 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 12th of September, the 432MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 13th of September, the Autumn Series CW Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Wednesday the 13th of September, the 432MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is report and four-character locator. Also, on Wednesday, the 13th of September, the 432MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.
On Thursday the 14th of September, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 17th of September, the 70MHz Affiliated Societies Contest runs from 0900 to 1200UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 17th of September, the IRTS 70cm Counties Contest runs from 1300 to 1330UTC. Using SSB and FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. EI and GI stations also give their county.
Also on Sunday the 17th of September, the IRTS 2m Counties Contest runs from 1300 to 1500UTC. Using SSB and FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. EI and GI stations also give their county.
On Sunday the 17th of September, the British Amateur Radio Teledata Group Sprint PSK63 Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using PSK63 on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 7th of September 2023
The propagation team was caught out last week by two coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, that came off the edge of the Sun. The arrival of those CMEs on the 3rd of September eventually pushed the Kp index to 5.67.
In its report, Spaceweather.com said that it was possible that a CME arrived on the 2nd of September, but its weak impact was masked by a chaotic stream of solar wind already blowing around Earth at the time.
At this time of year, even weak CMEs can do a good job of sparking auroras as a result of the Russell-McPherron effect, which boosts geomagnetic activity around the equinoxes.
So much for saying that we could expect quiet geomagnetic conditions last week!
The Solar Flux Index declined to 131 but has since recovered to reach 147 on Thursday the 7th, with eight active regions visible. We had a number of M-class solar flares last week, but nothing too damaging.
With the Kp index back to one on the 7th, we saw daytime MUFs rising again, heading above 24.9MHz over a 3,000km path. There were lots of Chinese and Japanese stations on 21MHz FT8 around 1100UTC on Thursday. And up on 12m FT8, even more of the same. DX stations included Thomas, KH0/KC0W on the Mariana Islands in the Pacific.
While the 10m band was just about open as well, it offered slim pickings compared with the 12m band.
Next week NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will increase over the week to hit perhaps 155 by next weekend. Geomagnetic conditions remain variable with a Kp index of three or four forecast for the 12th to the 16th.
This weekend the geomagnetic forecast is that it will be quiet although, with so many sunspots visible at the moment, it wouldn’t take much for a CME to disrupt things. As always, keep an eye on solarham.net for near real-time updates.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The RSGB 144MHz Trophy produced good DX on 2m into Poland and Sweden, so we guess that Tropo performed for us this week.
This spell of hot sunny weather, due to high pressure, does mean Tropo was the mode of choice for the end of this current week, ending today the 10th, especially across the North Sea.
However, unsettled weather is gradually encroaching from the west, introducing some thundery rain into western areas, and this will spread east.
Although the Tropo will cease, Gigahertz bands rain scatter is a likely replacement although very isolated rather than the widespread nature of a good Tropo event. It should be noted that next week is not fully determined by all models with quite a spread of outcomes. Either way, it's Tropo or rain scatter for most areas next week.
It’s always possible that meteor scatter and aurora could show during this period. The early morning, around dawn, is usually the best time to look for random meteor scatter activity in the absence of any major meteor showers. For aurora, it’s best to follow the solar data from spaceweather.com to pick up early alerts and an increasing Kp index.
For EME stations, Moon declination is at its highest this weekend but with apogee, the Moon’s furthest point from Earth, next Tuesday, path losses are high. 144MHz sky noise is low for most of the week except for Thursday and Friday when the Moon and Sun are very close, meaning high solar noise in the beamwidth of antennas.   
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 3rd September 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 3rd of September 2023
The news headlines:
Ofcom Consultation
RSGB 2023 Convention
RSGB Foundation Awards
Time is running out to respond to Ofcom’s consultation “Updating the amateur radio licensing framework”. The deadline is Monday the 4th of September. The RSGB will be sending its own formal response, but Ofcom is interested in the views of every radio amateur. This is the biggest review of amateur radio licensing and callsign policy in a generation and your response will count. Please remind your amateur radio friends and colleagues to make time to send in their response so their views are heard too. The RSGB has information, videos and guidance on its website at rsgb.org/licencereview
Have you booked for the RSGB 2023 Convention yet? The ‘early bird’ booking price has been extended to the 14th of September, so join hundreds of others at this fantastic amateur radio event over the weekend of the 13th to the 15th of October. The keynote speaker will be Colonel John Doody who will discuss his radio communication experiences across the frequency spectrum from HF, VHF, SHF and satellite communications from 1965 to the present day. Colonel Doody is a retired officer of the UK Royal Corps of Signals, the author of “From Stripes to Stars” and he served at GCHQ and the former Communications-Electronics Security Group for ten years as Head of Information Assurance Customer Services. John has a wealth of knowledge across the whole spectrum of cyber security, information assurance, cryptography and radio communications. The rest of the Convention programme is nearly complete and includes expert speakers on a wide range of amateur radio topics. From portable contesting and SOTA, to antennas, radio astronomy, and developments in electronic equipment to detect RF electrical interference, you will be spoilt for choice! More details will appear in the October issue of RadCom and the RSGB will be publishing the draft programme on its website soon. For more information and to book go to rsgb.org/convention
Have you just passed your Foundation licence? Or are you an established Foundation licence holder who is looking for a new challenge? The RSGB has just launched a new range of Foundation Awards that are available to UK Foundation licence holders from September 2023. There is an HF Award, a VHF Award and a third Award where you can choose to use a mix of any bands permitted by the licence, but you need to gain a larger number of contacts on a greater number of bands. These Awards give you plenty to choose from whatever you enjoy within amateur radio. For more information see the RSGB website at rsgb.org/foundation-awards
The RSGB’s autumn Tonight@8 programme kicks off at 8pm on Monday the 4th of September with a presentation on MINOS Contest Logging Software by Peter Burton, G3ZPB. Peter will look at what MINOS does in terms of contest logging, installation and set-up, plus how to get hands-on when using it in a contest. You can find out more about the presentation and Peter on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/webinars and you can join the presentation and ask questions live on the RSGB YouTube channel at youtube.com/theRSGB
Air Ambulance Week 2023 is taking place across the UK from Monday the 4th to Sunday the 10th of September. Lots of amateur radio stations will be on the air to help raise awareness of the lifesaving work that is carried out by the UK’s air ambulance charities, so please give them a call. More information about Air Ambulance Week 2023 can be found by visiting airambulancesuk.org
The popular Churches and Chapels on the Air event, also known as ‘CHOTA’, will be taking place next Saturday the 9th of September from 10am to 4pm. All bands and all modes will be in use. For more information about the event, and to see a list of registered stations, visit wacral.org or email John, G3XYF at jhwresdell@gmail.com
 
And now for details of rallies and events
Telford Hamfest is taking place today, Sunday the 3rd of September. The venue is Harper Adams University campus near Telford, Shropshire, TF10 8NB. Talk-in is available on 145.550MHz FM. Further details are available at telfordhamfest.org.uk If you have any questions, contact Martyn, G3UKV on 01952 255416 or John, M0JZH on 07824 737716.
Dartmoor Autumn Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 3rd of September. The venue is Yelverton War Memorial Hall, Meavy Lane, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AL. The usual bring and buy, trader stands and refreshments are available. The doors open at 10am and admission is £2.50. Free parking is available. For more information email Roger via 2e0rph@gmail.com or phone 07854 088 882.
Caister Lifeboat Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 10th of September. The venue will be Caister Lifeboat station, Caister on Sea, NR30 5DJ. The doors will be open from 9am to 2pm. Access for traders is available from 8am. Admission is free. Inside tables cost £10 each. Outside tables cost £5 each. Contact Zane, M1BFI via email on m1bfi@outlook.com or phone  07711 214 790.
The Angel of the North Amateur Radio Club Rally will be held on Saturday the 16th of September. The venue will be Whitehall Road Methodist Church, Whitehall Road, Bensham, Gateshead, NE8 4LH. The doors are open to traders from 7.30am and tables cost £6. The event will be open to the public from 10am to 2pm and admission will be £2.50. Bacon butties and hot drinks will be available to purchase. There will be a bring-and-buy and a raffle on the day. Please contact anarc.club@gmail.com for further information.
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign VI7ALARA is active on the HF bands until the 8th of November to mark the Australian Ladies Amateur Radio Association's meeting in Hobart this year. QSL via Club Log's OQRS. For more information visit alara.org.au
OQ95RCL is the special callsign in use throughout 2023 by Radio Club Leuven, ON4CP to celebrate its 95th anniversary. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL, the bureau, or direct to ON3AR.
Now the DX news
Today, the 3rd, is the last chance to work Matt, AF2F while he is active as K4H from Hatteras Island, NA-067. He is using CW and FT8. QSL via Club Log's OQRS.
Christo, LZ3FN and Thomas, SV2CLJ are QRV from Skyros Island, EU-060, in Greece, as SV8/LZ3FN and SV8/SV2CLJ. They are operating on the 80 to 2m bands using CW, SSB and digital modes until the 7th of September.
Now the contest news
IARU Region 1 Field Day and RSGB SSB Field Day both started at 1300UTC on Saturday the 2nd of September and end at 1300UTC today, the 3rd of September. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The 144MHz Trophy Contest started at 1400UTC on Saturday the 2nd of September and ends at 1400UTC today, Sunday the 3rd of September. Using All modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The All Asian DX Contest started at 0000UTC on Saturday the 2nd of September and ends at 2359UTC today, Sunday the 3rd of September. Using SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number and age.
Today, the 3rd of September, the Worked All Britain 2m QRO Phone Contest runs from 1000 to 1400UTC. Using phone, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
Today, the 3rd of September, the 5th 144MHz Backpackers Contest runs from 1100 to 1500UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Monday the 4th of September, the Autumn Series SSB Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 5th of September, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 5th of September, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 6th of September, the 144MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is report and four-character locator. Also on Wednesday the 6th of September, the 144MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.
On Wednesday the 6th of September the United Kingdom and Ireland Contest Club 80m Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.
The Worked All Europe DX SSB Contest runs from 0000UTC on Saturday the 9th of September to 2359UTC on Sunday the 10th of September. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Sunday the 10th of September, the UK Microwave Group 24 to 76GHz Contest runs from 0900 to 1700UTC. Using all modes on 24 to 76GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 31st of August 2023
We had another week of relatively settled solar conditions. The Kp Index never really got above three and the Solar Flux Index flattened to be below 140. Solar flares were nominal with only minor C-class events occurring and with no Earth-directed coronal mass ejections.
The solar wind speed remains low as does its density. The all-important Bz has headed south at times meaning it more easily couples to the Earth’s magnetic field, but the solar wind’s low speed and density means we have not suffered from geomagnetic disturbances.
As a result, ionospheric conditions were quite good with much DX romping in on 21MHz, including Mongolia on FT8 during the afternoon.
On the 10m band Vlad, 9Q2WX in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Robert, 9N7AA in Nepal, were both logged around lunchtime on CW. At the same time, Ravi, S79VU in the Seychelles could be heard on SSB.
The Chilton and Fairford Digisondes remain down, but Dourbes remains online which is still driving propquest.co.uk
Daytime maximum useable frequencies over a 3,000km path are currently peaking above 28MHz at times, although you may find 21 and 24MHz more usable. Daytime critical frequencies remain above 7MHz making the 40m band very useful around the UK.
Next week, NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will remain in the range of 140 to156. Geomagnetic conditions are predicted to be quiet, apart from an excursion between September the 6th to the 8th when the Kp index could rise to three.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
There will be some GHz bands rain scatter on offer as we end this current week, but it’s ‘all change’ by the weekend. The prospects for VHF and UHF, then, are looking very promising indeed, especially good for those out working portable in the 144MHz Trophy Contest today, the 3rd of September.
After lots of uncertainty in the forecast during the last week, there is now plenty of support from the models that the high-pressure version is the favoured outcome. This should be very encouraging for 2m band contesters hoping to get some enhanced Tropo propagation.
Paths across the southern North Sea to Denmark and southern Sweden look good throughout. It would also be worth looking to the south across the Channel and, for some southwestern parts of the UK, down across Biscay to Spain.
There are two very useful websites that detail the expected Tropo prospects using the weather forecast model data to calculate the vertical changes in the refractive index of the air and hence Tropo. These are dxinfocentre.com and tropo.f5len.org
Remember that Tropo improves as you move from HF to 2m, to 70cm and 23cm. So, give CW or SSB a try and don’t just stay on FT8 or over-crowded repeater channels during lift conditions. These enhanced Tropo conditions will likely extend well into next week, but with a chance of low pressure bringing unsettled weather back to the south by the end of next week.
The daily Sporadic-E blogs have finished for this year, but the jet stream charts will still be available on propquest.co.uk and of course, random meteor scatter and chance aurora are still there if you are lucky.
For EME stations, Moon declination is positive again but reaches maximum late at night initially moving to early morning as the week progresses. Last Wednesday’s perigee means path losses are still low but increasing daily. 144MHz sky noise is low, rising to moderate by next weekend.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 27th August 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 27th of August 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Board Co-option
RSGB 2023 Convention
IARU Region 1 Conference
 RSGB Board Chair Stewart Bryant, G3YSX is pleased to announce that the Board has co-opted Ben Lloyd, GW4BML as a Board Director until the AGM in April 2024. Ben had a significant number of votes in the RSGB 2023 Board elections. Ben brings a fresh perspective together with a very active life as a radio amateur in Wales. The Society hopes you will welcome Ben to his new role.
The RSGB 2023 Convention is just seven weeks away and the Society is delighted that AMSAT will be holding its Colloquium during the event again. The RSGB’s programme includes a fantastic range of expert speakers and amateur radio topics. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about the Rockall DXpedition 2023 and the Bouvet 3Y0J DXpedition; Cathy Clarke, G1GQJ will share the history of RAYNET and its importance in the modern world; and there are presentations on aircraft scatter, PCB Building plus working FM satellites on a budget. Following the exciting news that the UK will be the hosts for the World Radiosport Team Championship in 2026, you’ll hear from competitors and referees who took part in the 2022 Championship and gain an insight into the preparations for the 2026 event. For the first time, the Convention will also have a clear focus on outreach and practical activities as the RSGB provides opportunities for individuals and clubs to ‘have a go’ and be inspired to try new things in their local areas. These are just some of the many highlights and the RSGB will be publishing full details in the October RadCom. Keep an eye on rsgb.org/convention for more details over the next couple of weeks. Also, the RSGB is delighted to announce that Keith Hotchkiss, G0FEA has been appointed as the RSGB’s volunteer Lecture Coordinator for the 2023 Convention. Keith will be working with General Manager and Convention Chair Steve Thomas, M1ACB and the rest of the Convention team to create another fantastic event.
IARU Region 1 will hold its next General Conference from the 1st to the 4th of November 2023 in Zlatibor, Serbia. A wide range of papers and proposals are now available online and the RSGB welcomes comments on these. Topics include: general reports; organisational and budget proposals; the new HF Bandplan; VHF, UHF and SHF changes; and consideration of WRC-23, the World Radiocommunication Conference, which follows shortly afterwards. Other themes include: strategic projects and progress, accommodating digital technologies, contests, EMC and other spectrum matters. Comments should be forwarded to the relevant HF, VHF or Microwave spectrum manager, by Thursday the 12th of October, in order to allow time to finalise the RSGB position. You can find a link to the consultation via thersgb.org/go/iaruconsult
Have you replied to the Ofcom consultation about amateur radio yet? And have you read the article by Ofcom Director for Spectrum, David Willis, in the September edition of RadCom? In it, David says: “We fully recognise the contribution amateur radio has made to developing radio technologies over the years, including in the development of radar and LTE. We know how important amateur radio is as a hobby to those who are involved, and that it plays an important role in nurturing the next generation of radio engineers.” This recognition of the importance of amateur radio skills for careers in engineering dovetails with the RSGB’s strategic priority to grow and develop amateur radio. You can read David’s full article on the RSGB website and watch three RSGB presentations that give information and guidance about the Ofcom Consultation. The Society encourages every radio amateur to submit their views about the Consultation proposals – go to rsgb.org/licencereview
A reminder now that the popular British Inland Waterways on the Air event is taking place this weekend and will finish tomorrow, Monday the 28th. The event is open to amateurs who use canals, towpaths, rivers, lakes or reservoirs for work or recreation. Lots of stations are active, so why not give them a call? To find out more about the event visit Nunsfield House Amateur Radio Group’s website nharg.org.uk and follow the ‘BIWOTA 2023’ link.
It has been announced this week that the UK will host the world’s first summit on artificial intelligence safety in November. The summit will be held at the iconic Bletchley Park, which is one of the birthplaces of computer science. To be able to host an event of this global importance, Bletchley Park and the RSGB National Radio Centre will be closed to the public from Saturday the 28th of October to Friday the 3rd of November inclusive. If you have pre-booked a visit for during that time, Bletchley Park will contact you. For more information see bletchleypark.org.uk
And now for details of rallies and events
Torbay Annual Communications Fair is taking place today, Sunday the 27th of August. The venue is Newton Abbot Racecourse, TQ12 3AF. This is an indoor event with free parking. The doors open at 10am. A bring-and-buy area, on-site catering, and an RSGB bookstall are available. For more information contact Pete, G4VTO on 01803 864 528, Mike, G1TUU on 01803 557 941 or email rally@tars.org.uk
Milton Keynes Amateur Radio Society Rally is also taking place today, Sunday the 27th of August. The rally is being held at a new venue this year – Heron’s Lodge Guide Activity Centre, Bradwell Road, Loughton Lodge, Milton Keynes, MK8 9AA. The venue is opposite the National Badminton Centre and has excellent modern amenities together with free on-site parking, catering and disabled facilities. The entrance fee is £3 and doors are open to the public from 9am. Outdoor pitches and indoor tables are available. For trader and exhibitor enquiries please email rally@mkars.org.uk  For more information see mkars.org.uk
The Huntingdonshire Amateur Radio Society Annual Rally will take place tomorrow, Monday the 28th of August. The venue will be Ernulf Academy, St Neots, PE19 2SH. The gates open for traders at 7am and for the public at 9am. The entrance fee will be £3 and free car parking will be available. The event will feature an RSGB bookstall and bring and buy. For more information, email Malcolm, M0OLG via events@hunts-hams.co.uk or phone 01480 214282.
On Saturday the 2nd of September, the G-QRP Club Convention, featuring its famous Buildathon, will take place at the Harper Adams University campus near Telford, Shropshire, TF10 8NB. The following day, Sunday the 3rd of September, Telford Hamfest will take place at the same venue. Talk-in will be available on Sunday morning on 145.550MHz FM. Further details are available at gqrp.com/convention.htm and telfordhamfest.org.uk  If you have any questions, you can contact Martyn, G3UKV on 01952 255416 or John, M0JZH on 07824 737716.
Dartmoor Autumn Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 3rd of September. The venue will be Yelverton War Memorial Hall, Meavy Lane, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AL. There will be the usual bring and buy, trader stands and refreshments available. The doors will open at 10am and admission will be £2.50. Free parking will be available. For more information email Roger via 2e0rph@gmail.com or phone 07854 088882.
Now the Special Event News
PG100N is the special callsign in use to celebrate the centenary of the lighthouse located at Noordwijk aan Zee. Look out for activity until the 11th of September, especially during Open Monument Day on the 9th and 10th of September. QSL via the bureau to PA7DA.
Special callsign LX90RTL is active in celebration of the 90th anniversary of Radio Luxembourg’s first long wave broadcast. It is being used by various LX operators until the end of the 2023 year.  Look for activity on the HF bands. QSOs are possible via SSB, CW, digital modes and satellite. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the DARC bureau. The logs will be uploaded to  Club Log, Logbook of the World and eQSL on a regular basis. See QRZ.com for more information.
Now the DX news
Frans, DJ0TP will be active as TK/DJ0TP from the main island of Corsica, EU-014, until the 3rd of September. QSL via his home call and Logbook of the World.
From the 1st to the 7th of September, Christo, LZ3FN and Thomas, SV2CLJ will be QRV from Skyros Island, EU-060, in Greece, as SV8/LZ3FN and SV8/SV2CLJ. They will be operating on the 80 to 2m bands using CW, SSB and digital modes.
Now the contest news
Today, the 27th, the UK Microwave Group 5.7 and 10GHz Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also today, the 27th, the CQ RTTYops Contest is running from 1200 to 2359UTC. Using RTTY only on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and the four-digit year of your first licence.
The World Wide Digi DX Contest ends today, the 27th, at 1200UTC. Using FT4 and FT8 on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is your four-character locator.
The All Asian DX Contest starts at 0000UTC on Saturday the 2nd of September and ends at 2359UTC on Sunday the 3rd of September. Using SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number and age.
On Saturday the 2nd of September, the CWops CW Open will run from 0000 to 2359UTC. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number and name.
IARU Region 1 SSB Field Day starts at 1300UTC on Saturday the 2nd of September and ends at 1300UTC on Sunday the 3rd of September. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The 144MHz Trophy Contest starts at 1400UTC on Saturday the 2nd of September and ends at 1400UTC on Sunday the 3rd of September. Using All modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 3rd of September, the Worked All Britain 2m QRO Phone Contest runs from 1000 to 1400UTC. Using phone, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
On Sunday the 3rd of September, the 5th 144MHz Backpackers Contest runs from 1100 to 1500UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 24th of August 2023
Last week saw plenty of DX being worked, thanks to quiet geomagnetic conditions and a seasonal change to a more autumnal ionosphere.
Although we are still in August, there are signs that the ionosphere is moving away from its summer doldrums as its chemical composition changes to more monatomic species, which ionise more easily.
Another bonus is that there has been a big reduction in the size and number of coronal holes on the Sun, which again leads to lower Kp indices.
Mike, G8AXA reports that, for the first time in a long while, his Faros IBP beacon monitoring software recorded the VK6RBP beacon on 28.200MHz between 0857 and 1000UTC, via short path, just making S1 on his long wire and Yaesu FT-991A. On 21.150MHz, he also recorded hearing the ZL6B beacon between 0757 and 0909UTC up to S3.
Conditions should continue to improve as we move towards September and October.
Last week, the solar flux was in the 140s and 150s. The Kp index never rose above three, meaning the ionosphere was quite stable. The proton flux was also very low. FT8 on the 15m band was humming in the afternoon with the Far East and Caribbean both being workable at the same time.
Next week we have active regions 3413 and 3415 rotating to be more Earth-centric. NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will rise to the 160s again and the quiet geomagnetic conditions may continue with a predicted Kp index of two.
So, as long as we don’t get any solar flares, or CMEs erupting from sunspot groups 3413 and 3415, we could have a good week again for HF DX.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The current spell of unsettled weather looks likely to stay with us for most of next week, in fact until around Friday when there are signs of a ridge building in for next weekend, although mainly for southern areas.
This could be in time for some Tropo over the weekend of the 144MHz Trophy Contest. However, the models are a bit uncertain this far out, so keep a watch for changes during the week.
The remaining mode in such unsettled weather is of course rain scatter and most of the period until the end of the week should provide many opportunities.
As we approach the close of the traditional Sporadic-E season, although it can still occur in any month, the activity levels are much reduced after the end of August and certainly tail off sharply after the first week in September. We are still getting the occasional flurry of activity for multi-hop paths on 10m to the Far East and the States, so don’t abandon it just yet.
Remaining modes such as meteor scatter are still available via random meteor activity and there are always chances of a higher Kp index with its implications for aurora. Note that the autumn and spring months are typically a preferred time for aurora.
This Saturday sees minimum Moon declination with the Moon not getting above 10 degrees elevation. It goes positive again next Friday. As the Moon’s perigee is on Wednesday, path losses are at their lowest. 144MHz sky noise is high this weekend, but falling to low levels by next Friday.   
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 20th August 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 20th of August 2023
The news headlines:
National Coding Week
G5RP Trophy nominations
RSGB 2023 Convention
 
National Coding Week is taking place from the 14th of September, but the RSGB is dedicating the whole of September to amateur radio and coding activities. This is a great way to try something new, extend your skills or share your knowledge with your local club, school or community group. You can find out more on the RSGB’s coding page at rsgb.org/coding  and, if you would like to get involved, please contact ESRG member John Hislop, G7OHO via g7oho@rsgb.org.uk  If you are taking part, whether on your own or in a group, the RSGB would love to share what you’re doing so that you can inspire others. Please email details to comms@rsgb.org.uk
The G5RP Trophy is an annual award designed to encourage newcomers to HF DXing. The award is not limited to youngsters or the newly licensed. It is open to anyone who has recently discovered and made significant progress in HF DXing. If you are an established HF DXer and want to recommend someone to be awarded the G5RP Trophy for 2023, now is the time to send in your nomination. Your nominee should be an up-and-coming HF DXer who has made rapid progress in the last year and has some real achievements to show, for example, a good total of new countries worked or some HF DXpedition activity. Please send your nominations to Ian Greenshields, G4FSU by email via hf.manager@rsgb.org.uk  Nominations should arrive no later than Friday the 15th of September 2023.
The RSGB Convention is being held between the 13th and 15th of October. The programme is nearly finalised and contains some fantastic speakers on a range of amateur radio subjects. In addition, there will be a buildathon where you will also gain invaluable advice about how to run a similar event at your club, local school or community group. The early bird booking price has been extended to the 14th of September so don’t miss out – book now! Full details of the programme will be published soon. For more information and to book, visit rsgb.org/convention
Today, Sunday the 20th of August, John, GW3JVB is operating from Steep Holm Island in the Bristol Channel. The Worked All Britain square for the location is ST26 and the IOTA reference is EU-120. John hopes to be operational from approximately 1000UTC to 1930UTC. Using SSB, he is most likely to be working on 40 and 20m, but may also be available on other bands, depending on the weather and conditions. If you hear John on the air, please give him a call. You can read more about John’s amateur activities on his blog via gw3jvb.uk
International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend is taking place this weekend. There are lots of stations on the air waiting for your call. To see a list of registered stations, visit illw.net
Neil Bauers, G4JUV has created ‘Camper Ham UK’ on Facebook. It is for anyone who likes camping and operating their radios, both licensed and shortwave listeners. Motorhomes, vans, caravans, tents and bivvy bags are all OK. Just take a radio! As well as the usual technical discussions about radios and antennas, the group is interested in antenna-friendly camping sites and good spots for portable operation. In the future, there may be meetups organised by group members. For more information search for ‘Camper Ham UK’ on Facebook.
Please send details of all your news and events to radcom@rsgb.org.uk  The deadline for submissions is 10 am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week.
And now for details of rallies and events
The Rugby Amateur Transmitting Society Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 20th of August. The venue is Princethorpe College, Princethorpe, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 9PY. The event begins at 10 am. For more details contact Steve, G8LYB on 07956 855 816, email rally@rugbyats.co.uk or visit rugbyats.co.uk
Lincoln Short Wave Club Summer Rally is also taking place today, Sunday the 20th of August. The venue is The Festival Hall, Caistor Road, Market Rasen, LN8 3HT. The doors are open from 9.30 am and admission is £2. Free car parking and refreshments are available. Tables cost £10. For more information, contact Steve via m5zzz@outlook.com or phone 07777 699 069.
The Red Rose Summer Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 20th of August. The venue is St Joseph’s Hall, Leigh, WN7 2PJ. The event features free parking, a café, traders, individual stands, club stands, low-cost bring and buy, and a raffle for a new digital radio. For more information visit wmrc.co.uk
Torbay Annual Communications Fair will take place on Sunday the 27th of August. The venue will be Newton Abbot Racecourse, TQ12 3AF. This will be an indoor event with free parking. The doors will open at 10 am. A bring-and-buy area, on-site catering, and an RSGB bookstall will be available. For more information contact Pete, G4VTO on 01803 864 528, Mike, G1TUU on 01803 557 941 or email rally@tars.org.uk
Milton Keynes Amateur Radio Society Rally will take place on Sunday the 27th of August. The rally will be held at a new venue this year – Heron’s Lodge Guide Activity Centre, Bradwell Road, Loughton Lodge, Milton Keynes, MK8 9AA. The venue is opposite the National Badminton Centre and has excellent modern amenities together with free on-site parking, catering and disabled facilities. The entrance fee is £3 and doors will be open to the public from 9 am. Outdoor pitches and indoor tables are available. For trader and exhibitor enquiries please email rally@mkars.org.uk  For more information see mkars.org.uk
Now the Special Event News
Celebrating the centenary of the National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise, special callsign II6PN is in use until the 31st of October. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World, eQSL, or via IK6IHU. For details of a certificate that is available, see QRZ.com
8S80AA is the special callsign in use throughout 2023 by Vasteras Radio Klubb, SK5AA to celebrate its 80th anniversary. QSL via Club Log's OQRS is preferred but is also available via the bureau to SK5AA, or direct to SM5FUG. More information about the club can be found at sk5aa.se 
LA100K is the special callsign in use by Akademisk Radioklubb, LA1K to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its foundation. Based in Trondheim, it is the oldest amateur radio club in Norway. The special callsign will be in use until the 31st of December. QSL via the bureau, or direct.
Now the DX news
Laurens, PF3X will be active as TF/PF3X while touring Iceland until the 25th of August. He will operate SSB and digital modes on the HF and 6m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World and eQSL, or direct to his home call.
Chris, OE6CUD plans to visit the Lofoten Islands, EU-076, the Vesteralen Islands, EU-033, and Senja Island, EU-046, while touring Norway by car until late October. He will be QRV as LA/OE6CUD and will operate mainly CW on the HF bands. He might also give QO-100 a try. QSL via home call, direct or bureau, Logbook of the World and eQSL.
Now the contest news
On Tuesday the 22nd of August, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1830 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on 2.3 to 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Next weekend, the CQ RTTYops Worldwide RTTY Contest has two sessions between the 25th and 27th of August. The first session is between 2200UTC on the 25th and 1200UTC on the 26th. The second session is from 1200 to 2359UTC on Sunday the 27th. Using RTTY only on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is a signal report and the four-digit year of your first licence.
The Worldwide Digi DX contest runs from 1200UTC on the 26th to 1200UTC on the 27th of August. Using FT4 and FT8 on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is your four-character locator.
Next Sunday, the 27th, the UK Microwave Group 5.7 and 10GHz Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 17th of August 2023
Sunspot activity continues as we head towards the solar maximum. We have had a reasonably settled Sun over the past week. The Kp index never exceeded 3.33 and was generally in the ones and twos all week. We also had no M- or X-class flares to worry about with only minor C-class events occurring.
The solar flux index stayed in the 140s and 150s, only topping out at 160 on Wednesday and Thursday.
So, it was not a bad week for HF propagation as we head towards the end of August.
There are signs that propagation is improving due to the seasonal change in the chemistry of the F2 layer. With a move towards more monoatomic species and fewer diatomic ones, it means that it is becoming easier to ionise.
Daytime critical frequencies are currently around 6 to 7MHz according to the Dourbes Digisonde, giving a maximum usable frequency over 3,000km of between 18 and 21MHz. 28MHz Sporadic-E contacts have all but finished, but don’t write the 10m band off as you may get the odd surprise.
20m still seems to be the best DX band this week, according to the Chiltern DX Club, with 17 and 15m also contributing.
FO/F4FJH in French Polynesia; E51JD in the South Cook Islands; and FH4VVK in Mayotte have all been heard on 20m SSB, while 3D2AG in Fiji has been worked on 15m CW.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The fine summer-like weather has returned, at least for this weekend and up to about mid-week before it becomes more unsettled again. So, Tropo will be worth exploring, especially this weekend and during the first part of next week.
Note that, in these warmer summer months, Tropo is often better overnight and early morning, especially those misty ones, but tends to decay as the ground warms in the morning sunshine. However, coastal paths often remain good throughout the day so Tropo paths across the North Sea or English Channel could be worth a look from your holiday deck chair!
The Sporadic-E season is slowly coming to a close, but it is still worth a check in the evening tea-time activity window to make sure nothing is missed, and even better if you can add a morning check-up at around 1030UTC.
The recent Perseids meteor shower may have added some useful meteor debris as fuel, so it is certainly not time to give up checking just yet. However, you may have to manage your expectations on the higher VHF bands.
Meteor scatter is still a good bet in the tail end of the Perseids shower and the usual random meteors increase around dawn. Rain scatter is always an option in the summer months so keep a watch on weather radar displays for the brighter thundery rainfall echoes, especially later next week.
There have been some interesting propagation on 50MHz down to the equatorial belt in the late evenings with D2UY in Angola working FT8 stations in an arc from the Canaries around through Northern Scotland, and the whole of the UK to Turkey with ‘Trans-equatorial sounding’ fading patterns, making decodes difficult sometimes.
Moon declination goes negative again this Sunday, shortening Moon visibility windows and, as we are past apogee, path losses will fall all week. 144MHz sky noise is low to moderate until next Friday peaking at 2900 Kelvin on Saturday morning.   
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 13th. August 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 13th of August 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Intruder Watch Service volunteer needed
New RSGB NRC promotional video
International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend
 
The RSGB Intruder Watch Service is looking for a volunteer to act as Coordinator when Richard Lamont, G4DYA retires from the role in September. The function of the Intruder Watch Service is to monitor and receive reports of intrusions of non-amateur transmissions into amateur radio bands and to collate reports and alert Ofcom to persistent and regular intruders. The responsibilities of the volunteer include: submitting details of intruders to the IARU Monitoring Service on behalf of the UK; membership of the RSGB Spectrum Forum; and providing reports for the Spectrum Forum, RadCom and the RSGB Yearbook. The successful applicant for the position will have a station capable of reliable monitoring of amateur bands, up-to-date knowledge of transmission modes and modulation methods in order to be able to identify transmissions, and the ability to receive reports of intruders from other amateur stations by email. If you’re interested in finding out more about this role, please email the RSGB Spectrum Forum Chair, Murray Niman, G6JYB at spectrum.chairman@rsgb.org.uk 
Have you been to the RSGB National Radio Centre? Would you like to encourage your family and friends to visit and find out more about amateur radio? We’ve just released a promotional video that gives a whistle-stop tour of all the fantastic things at the NRC in just one minute. Find it on the RSGB’s YouTube channel or on the National Radio Centre web page on our website at rsgb.org/nrc
International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend is coming up soon. The event is usually held on the third weekend of August which this year is the 19th and 20th. It is one of the most popular amateur radio events in the calendar and in past years there have been over 500 entries from more than 40 different countries. More details about the event and a registration form can be found at illw.net
A reminder now that the popular British Inland Waterways on the Air event will take place between the 26th and 28th of August. The event is open to amateurs who use canals, towpaths, rivers, lakes or reservoirs for work or recreation. Registration for the event is still open. To sign up, visit Nunsfield House Amateur Radio Group’s website nharg.org.uk and follow the ‘BIWOTA 2023’ link.
The RSGB is reminding all radio amateurs that they are required to revalidate their licence with Ofcom at least every five years. If it has been a while since you did that, go to ofcom.org.uk/manage-your-licence or email spectrum.licensing@ofcom.org.uk
The date has been confirmed for the 2023 Scottish Microwave Round Table, or GMRT. It will be held between 10.30 am and 5 pm on Saturday the 11th of November at the Museum of Communication, Burntisland, Fife in Scotland. An interesting programme of speakers has been arranged. Microwave test facilities will be provided, and the event will be an opportunity to purchase components and microwave-related items. The cost is £12 and this includes a buffet lunch. A dinner will be held in the evening at a local hotel. Full information and online registration are available at gmroundtable.org.uk/about  Please email Colin, GM4HWO via gm4hwo@gmail.com for more information.
Don’t forget that booking is open for the RSGB Convention which is being held between the 13th and 15th of October. For more information visit rsgb.org/convention
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Flight Refuelling Amateur Radio Society Hamfest is being held today, Sunday the 13th of August from 9 am to 4 pm. The venue is Cobham Sports and Social Club Ground, Merley, near Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3DA. Admission is £5 and this includes parking. Talk-in will be on 145.550MHz. On-site catering, bar facilities and an RSGB Bookstall will be available. Indoor and field pitches are available and car-boot traders are welcome from 7 am. For more information, email tbaker@tiscali.co.uk, visit frars.co.uk or phone 07743 475 018.
The Rugby Amateur Transmitting Society Rally will take place on Sunday the 20th of August. The venue will be Princethorpe College, Princethorpe, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 9PY. The event will begin at 10 am. For more details contact Steve, G8LYB on 07956 855 816, email rally@rugbyats.co.uk or visit rugbyats.co.uk
Lincoln Short Wave Club Summer Rally will take place on Sunday the 20th of August. The venue will be The Festival Hall, Caistor Road, Market Rasen, LN8 3HT. The doors will be open from 9.30 am and admission will be £2. Free car parking and refreshments will be available. The tables cost £10. To book, contact Steve via m5zzz@outlook.com or phone 07777 699 069.
The Red Rose Summer Rally will take place on Sunday the 20th of August. The venue will be St Joseph’s Hall, Leigh WN7 2PJ. The event will feature free parking, a café, traders, individual stands, club stands, low-cost bring and buy and a raffle for a new digital radio. For more information visit wmrc.co.uk
Now the Special Event News
Special event station PA14JAMBO will be active until Thursday the 17th of August from Spaarnwoude for the 14th Haarlem Jamborette, a large international scout camp that takes place in the Netherlands every four years. Look for activity on SSB, CW, and digital modes. QSL via PA9LUC and eQSL.
Special event station CX90RCU will be operating until Thursday the 31st of August to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Radio Club Uruguayo, CX1AA, founded on the 23rd of August 1933. QSL via the bureau, direct, or via Logbook of the World.
Now the DX news
Josiah, KI5UBT and John, N5VOF will be active as VP5/KI5UBT and VP5/N5VOF from Providenciales, NA-002, on the Turks and Caicos Islands, until tomorrow, the 14th of August. They are operating SSB and FT8 on the 40 to 2m bands. QSL direct-to-home calls.
Bo, OZ1DJJ  will be active again, from Greenland, as OX3LX from Tasiilaq on Ammassalik  Island, NA-151, until the 15th of August. He will focus on the QO-100 satellite and the 6 and 4m bands, but he will also be QRV on the HF bands. He will then go to Ittoqqortoormiit, on the main island of Greenland. QSL via Logbook of the World, Club Log's OQRS, or direct to OZ0J.
Also active from Tasiilaq will be Emil, DL8JJ, operating as OX/DL8JJ until tomorrow, the 14th of  August. In his spare time, he will operate CW with 10W.
Frans, DJ0TP will be active as TK/DJ0TP from the main island of Corsica, EU-014, until the 3rd of September. QSL via DJ0TP’s home call and Logbook of the World.
Now the contest news
Today, the 13th of August, the Worked All Europe DX CW Contest ends its 24-hour run at 2359UTC. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 15th of August, the 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on 1.3GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Thursday the 17th of August, the 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 10th of August 2023
Sunspot activity continues as we head towards the solar maximum. Or have we already gone past that point? Identifying solar maximum can only really be done in retrospect. That is after we have already had it!
Solar maximum is now forecast for early to mid-2025 so we still have some way to go.
Last week the Solar Flux Index declined from 176 on the 5th, to 153 on the 10th.
Geomagnetic conditions were mainly settled, other than a Kp index of 6.67 on the 5th. This was due to an incoming plasma cloud from a coronal mass ejection, or CME, that left the Sun on the 2nd of August.
We had not one, but two X-class flare events recently. These occurred on the 5th and the 7th. The event on the 5th was long in duration with a peak flux at 2221UTC. Luckily it was from active region 3386, which was right on the edge of the visible solar disk, so any associated CME was directed away from Earth.
The second event at 2046UTC on the 7th was also from AR3386, which by now had rotated just out of view of the Earth, so again its associated CME was not Earth-directed.
So, we were lucky on both counts. If this sunspot region is still active on its return, we could be in for a rough ride. Keep an eye out from around the 20th of this month when it should reappear.
HF conditions have been variable, with occasional F2-layer openings on the 10m band. The 15m band has produced some good DX including 5W1SA in Samoa on FT8. The 17m band produced Roland, TR8CR in Gabon on CW for Laurie, G3UML. S79KW in Seychelles was worked by Hugh, EI2HI on 10m SSB, but it has otherwise been quite quiet. Expect more HF DX activity later next month.
Next week, NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will be in the low 160s, with a maximum Kp index of two. If that does pan out, we can expect fairly good HF conditions.
But as always, watch out for solar flares and CMEs that can’t be predicted terribly well. A solar flare could result in a sudden ionospheric disturbance but that would be relatively short-lived. A CME, which might follow a flare in about two days, could see the MUF drop for a day or more.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The brief period of high pressure around the middle of last week will be long gone by the weekend and new Atlantic lows will again dominate the UK weather. At first, this will be mainly over the northern half of Britain before moving to the western side of the country later in the week.
This means that any Tropo at the end of the previous week is not here to stay. The low-pressure input will bring rain scatter propagation modes and, since we are supposedly in the summertime, the rainfall events may be quite heavy or even thundery in places, so there may be good scattering for the GHz bands.
The Sporadic-E season is still simmering with a few brief moments of single hop within Europe, but also some longer multi-hop paths including to the Far East and VK on 10m.
The upper air pattern of jet streams may still be able to trigger a few openings during the coming week, although it is looking much weaker than last week and possibly mainly biased towards northern areas like the Baltic and Scandinavia.
Meteor scatter is one mode that should do well, especially at first with the peak of the Perseids this weekend. It can be quite interesting to monitor the 2m meteor scatter calling channel and stand outside watching for meteors, especially if it’s a bit warmer! The shower has a broad peak so should still provide activity during the coming week.
Lastly, the Sun continues to offer occasional disturbed conditions with a chance of high Kp indices and possible aurora. The easiest solution is to monitor the Kp index and perhaps your favourite Scottish beacon for signs of auroral flutter.
With the Moon at maximum declination this weekend, with long Moon visibility windows, it's the Microwave EME contest. Moon apogee is next Wednesday so path losses are at their highest until then. 144MHz sky noise is moderate until late Tuesday when the Sun and the Moon are close in the sky until Thursday when levels drop back to low.   
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 6th August 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 6th of August 2023
The news headlines:
Tonight@8 events on Ofcom consultation
YOTA summer camp in Hungary
RSGB coding resources and activities
 
A reminder that the second of the RSGB’s special Tonight@8 events on the Ofcom Consultation will take place on Monday the 7th of August. This time the focus will be on Foundation and Intermediate topics including callsign and exam changes, as well as the Consultation clauses that might lead to new opportunities for outreach activities for everyone. The Consultation also affects anyone who isn’t currently licensed but is thinking about taking their exams in the next couple of years. After a short introduction, a panel of RSGB experts will answer your questions on this important Ofcom Consultation. For this event, you can submit a question in advance by 6pm today, Sunday the 6th of August. Send a brief question with your name and callsign to comms@rsgb.org.uk You can also ask a question on the night via the live chat. This is an important event – do join it live on Monday via the RSGB YouTube channel. To find out more about the Consultation and this event go to the RSGB website at rsgb.org/licencereview You can watch a recording of the first Tonight@8 event on the Ofcom Consultation via the RSGB’s YouTube channel.
The 2023 Youngsters on the Air, or YOTA, summer camp in Hungary began this weekend and lasts for a week. The four young people representing the RSGB are Alexander Du Rose, 2E0FMZ who is the Team Leader; Henry-James Robinson, M7HJR; Hannah Lee, M7YYQ; and Jake Saul, M7JNS. Each day, they will be sharing news of the activities they enjoy and the amateur radio skills they learn. Take a look at their updates over the coming week on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/yota-hungary and read their fuller report in the October issue of RadCom.
As part of the RSGB’s commitment to encourage youngsters into amateur radio and to support lifelong learning, the Society is providing resources and creating coding activities for people to get involved in throughout the month of September 2023. From the BBC Micro:bit to Node-RED and GNU Radio, there are some great activities you could try yourself with your club or arrange at a local school or community group. If you are an experienced coder, the Society would like you to support this initiative by passing on your enthusiasm to a local school or STEM club with the help of the suggested activities. If you are new to coding and have no idea what Python is or a Raspberry Pi, then the activities will set you on the path of discovery! Find out more on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/coding. If you would like to get involved, contact ESRG member John Hislop, G7OHO via g7oho@rsgb.org.uk
The RSGB has responded to an Ofcom consultation on licensing Enhanced Long-Range Navigation, or eLoran, systems. This would use a new network of 400kW EIRP transmissions at around 90 to 110kHz to provide an alternative to GPS for Position, Navigation and Timing, or PNT. The response, which can be found on the RSGB’s Spectrum Forum webpages, focussed on the high levels of out-of-band emissions that would affect the weak signal 136kHz amateur allocation, as well as transparency on transmitter licensing. The consultation response can be viewed by visiting thersgb.org/go/sfpapers
The ARRL, the national association for amateur radio in the USA, has filed comments against a proposal that would introduce high-power digital communications to the shortwave spectrum that, in many instances, is immediately adjacent to the amateur HF bands. You can read the full story, which is titled ‘ARRL Files Comments Against “Seriously Flawed” HF Rules Petition’, via arrl.org/news
And now for details of rallies and events
Part 1 of the British Amateur Television Club’s Convention for Amateur TV 2023, or CAT 23, is taking place today, Sunday the 6th of August, at Midland Air Museum, Coventry. It is a meet-up, show-and-tell, test and fix-it, and bring-and-buy event from 10.30 am to 4 pm. There are full ATV and Microwave test facilities available for QO-100, 5.6GHz FM, Portsdown, MiniTiouner, Ryde, and power amplifiers and preamps.
King’s Lynn Amateur Radio Club’s 33rd Great Eastern Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 6th of August. The venue is Gaywood Community Centre, Gayton Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 4EL. The doors open to visitors at 9 am and admission is £2.50. The doors open to traders from 7 am. An outdoor pitch costs £8 and an indoor table costs £10. Car parking is free. There are trade stands and a bring-and-buy area. On-site catering is available. For more information email rally.klarc@gmail.com or visit klarc.org.uk
Cockenzie and Port Seton Amateur Radio Club’s 28th annual mini-rally night will take place on Friday the 11th of August. It will be held in the Community Centre, Main Hall, Port Seton from 6 pm to 9 pm. Tables will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. The entrance fee is £2 for everyone. Disabled access and food will be available. For more information email bob.gm4uyz@talktalk.net
The Flight Refuelling Amateur Radio Society Hamfest will be held on Sunday the 13th of August from 9 am to 4 pm. The venue will be Cobham Sports and Social Club Ground, Merley, near Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3DA. Admission is £5 and this includes parking. Talk-in will be on 145.550MHz. On-site catering, bar facilities and an RSGB Bookstall will be available. At the landowner’s request, no dogs, except guide dogs, are allowed on site. Indoor and field pitches are available and car-boot traders are welcome from 7 am. For more information, email tbaker@tiscali.co.uk, visit frars.co.uk or phone 07743 475 018.
 
Now the Special Event News
DR45HAAN is the special callsign for DARC's Ortsverband Haan to celebrate its 45th anniversary. The station will be active until the 30th of September. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau and direct cards via DL7ET.
Special callsign LX90RTL is in use to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Radio Luxembourg’s first long-wave broadcast. It will be used by various LX operators until the end of the year. Listen for the callsign on the HF bands on SSB, CW, digital modes and via satellite. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the DARC bureau. The logs will be uploaded to Club Log, Logbook of the World and eQSL on a regular basis. For more information see QRZ.com
9A66AA is the special callsign that Tom, 9A2AA will be using throughout 2023 to mark his 66th year in amateur radio. QSL via Tom’s home call.
9M8SOTA and 9M8BOTA are the special callsigns that 9M8HAZ and others will be using during 2023 while operating from various mountains and beaches in Sarawak, East Malaysia. QSL for both callsigns via 9M8HAZ directly, Logbook of the World and Club Log.
 
Now the DX news
Anton, RG0C will be active as RG0C/P from the Shantar Islands, AS-044, and surrounding area, until the 10th of August. He will operate low power CW on 20m. QSL via home call.
Mek, SP7VC and Kasia, SQ7OYL will be active as OY/SP7VC from Iceland until the 17th of August. Look for activity on the 20, 6, 4 and 2m bands.
Frans, DJ0TP will be active as TK/DJ0TP from the main island of Corsica, EU-014, until the 3rd of September. QSL via DJ0TP’s home call and Logbook the World.
 
Now the contest news
The UK Six Metre Group Summer Marathon ends its three-month run today, Sunday the 6th of August. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is your four-character locator.
Also today, Sunday the 6th, the 432MHz Low Power Contest runs from 0800 to 1200UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator. UK and Crown Dependency stations send the first two letters of their postcode.
On Tuesday, the 8th of August, the 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
This is followed by the 432MHz UK Activity Contest which runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 9th of August, the 432MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is report and four-character locator. Also on Wednesday the 9th of August, the 432MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.
On Thursday the 10th of August, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 3rd of August 2023
The Sun continued to be very active over the last week with a large number of sunspots, numerous C- and M-class flares, and a coronal mass ejection or two.
A coronal mass ejection is predicted to hit Earth this weekend, which could see the Kp index rise, but this is not expected to be too extensive.
Active region 3380 expanded in both size and magnetic complexity, firing off numerous solar flares. Luckily it is now rotating out of view so is no longer a threat.
The Solar Flux Index remained above 170 all week with a sunspot number of 135 on Thursday. Don’t forget that this doesn’t mean there were 135 sunspots, as each group counts ten towards the total. Three sunspots in three groups equals thirty plus three, or thirty-three.
Geomagnetic conditions were mixed with one period giving a Kp index of four, and many when it was over three.
The main DX being chased this week wasn’t actually too far away. The 1A0C station at the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, which confusingly is actually in Rome, gave amateurs plenty of opportunity to add to their band slot totals. The station was raising money for humanitarian charitable projects and was easy to work from the UK. 
Next week NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Centre thinks the Solar Flux Index will remain in the 165 to 170 region. The Kp index shouldn’t rise above three, although that rather depends on whether we have any coronal mass ejections.
There are also signs that we are starting to leave the Summer HF doldrums. MUFs over a 3,000km path have occasionally gone over 28MHz at times. But we are still a long way from Autumn HF conditions, despite the weather!
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The unsettled weather is here for a little longer, but there may be an end in sight as we move through the second half of next week. 
To begin, there will be areas of low pressure in control bringing rain or showers and more rain scatter on the GHz bands.
Midweek, the high edges in from the west and remains close to the southeast into the next weekend, but lows and weather fronts will probably return to the western areas by the end of the week. Nonetheless, this should be a period of Tropo for many areas, if only temporarily for western areas.
Meteor scatter could be good with a steady advance towards the peak of the Perseids on the 12th and 13th of August. It might even be warm enough to stand outside in the southeast and listen to the pings while watching the evening sky for meteor trails!
Aurora can’t be discounted either should the Kp index show higher values than, say, 5 and there have been a number of auroral contacts reported by Nordic stations over the last week.
In August there is still some Sporadic-E to be had as luckily the jet stream pattern is still quite busy giving ample triggers for Sporadic-E due to the turbulence they create. As often mentioned, a good time to check, if you are a busy person, is around teatime or late afternoon.
Moon declination goes positive on Saturday so Moon visibility windows will lengthen throughout the week. We are past perigee so path losses are rising again. 144MHz sky noise is low but rising, reaching moderate levels next weekend.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 30th July 2023

GB2RS NewsSunday the 30th of July 2023
The news headlines:• Tonight@8 events on the Ofcom amateur radio consultation• Bar-coded stamps• GB2RS in Morse code
The RSGB is holding two special live Tonight@8 events focused on the Ofcom amateur radio consultation, and it encourages all radio amateurs to take part. On Monday the 31st of July the session will look at contests, operating and callsign policy, in an event that might be of particular interest to Full licensees. On Monday the 7th of August, the focus will be on Foundation and Intermediate topics including callsign and exam changes, as well as the Consultation clauses that might lead to new opportunities for outreach activities for everyone. Instead of the usual webinar style, these events will be forums where, after a short introduction, a panel of RSGB experts will answer your questions. Questions can be submitted on the night of the event via live chat, or you can send in a question in advance. Advance questions can be by email or a short, clear video of you asking your question. In either case, please keep the question short and include your name and callsign. Send questions, by 12 noon on the Friday before the event, to comms@rsgb.org.uk and find out more about the events and the consultation on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/licencereview From tomorrow, the 31st of July, you should not apply non-bar-coded stamps with Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s image to any mail. In doing so the sender or recipient may have to pay a surcharge. This news is highlighted to radio amateurs who use stamped-addressed QSL card envelopes. Please ensure all stamped-addressed envelopes have valid bar-coded stamps on them. This only applies to stamps with Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s image on them and does not apply to stamps which have other pictures on them. These can continue to be used. Royal Mail will exchange all non-barcoded stamps with new bar-coded ones for free. To do this, download a form from the Royal Mail website, complete it and include it alongside the stamps that are being returned. For more information, and to download a form, visit royalmail.com/sending/barcoded-stampsGB2RS newsreader Graham, G4JBD has developed an online tool which plays Morse code based on the current GB2RS News script at a variety of different speeds. To help simulate a realistic HF-operating environment, the system can be set to include man-made band noise, or QRM, and/or natural band noise, or QRN. To try the system for yourself, visit thersgb.org/go/gb2rsmorseThe July 2023 edition of RadCom Basics is now available and includes more topics to inspire those who are new to amateur radio and those who want to refresh their skills and knowledge. This edition includes the stories of the winner and runner-up in the RSGB Construction Competition Beginners’ category; Part 2 of ‘Repairing circuit board tracks’; a design for a simple multi-band vertical HF antenna; Part 6 in the ‘Basic fault-finding series; and an account of Lee, G4EJB’s recent visit to the RSGB National Radio Centre at Bletchley Park. To view RadCom Basics visit rsgb.org/radcom-basicsThe RSGB is also pleased to announce that a new edition of RadCom Plus, Volume 8, Issue 1, is out now. RadCom Plus is the RSGB’s digital technical supplement and RSGB Members can read it in HTML5 flipbook, PDF and Epub formats. This issue includes an article on a compact broadband active antenna for VHF and UHF and another on operating on the 30THz band. RadCom Plus can be accessed via rsgb.org/radcom-plus
And now for details of rallies and events Wiltshire Radio and Car Boot Sale is taking place today, Sunday the 30th of July at Kington Langley Village Hall and Playing Field, Kington Langley, Wiltshire SN15 5NJ. The event starts at 9 am and finishes at 1 pm. There is a £3 entry fee. Indoor tables are sold out, but there is plenty of Car Boot space available. Admittance for car booters is £10, and for vans, it is £15. For further information please contact rally@chippenhamradio.clubPart 1 of the British Amateur Television Club’s Convention for Amateur TV 2023, or CAT 23, will take place on Sunday the 6th of August at Midland Air Museum, Coventry. It is a meet-up, show and tell, test and fix-it, and bring-and-buy event from 10.30 am to 4 pm. There will be full ATV and Microwave test facilities available for QO-100, 5.6GHz FM, Portsdown, MiniTiouner, Ryde, and power amplifiers and preamps.King’s Lynn Amateur Radio Club’s 33rd Great Eastern Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 6th of August. The venue will be Gaywood Community Centre, Gayton Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 4EL. The doors open to visitors at 9 am and admission is £2.50. The doors open to traders from 7 am. An outdoor pitch costs £8 and an indoor table costs £10. Car parking is free. There will be trade stands and a bring-and-buy area. On-site catering will be available. For more information email rally.klarc@gmail.com or visit klarc.org.ukNow the Special Event NewsDR45HAAN is the special callsign for DARC's Ortsverband Haan to celebrate its 45th anniversary. The station will be active until the 30th of September. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau and direct cards via DL7ET.Special callsign LX90RTL is in use to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Radio Luxembourg’s first long-wave broadcast. It will be used by various LX operators until the end of the year. Listen for the callsign on the HF bands on SSB, CW, digital modes and via satellite. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the DARC bureau. The logs will be uploaded to  Club Log, Logbook of the World and eQSL on a regular basis. For more information see QRZ.com
Now the DX newsToday is the last chance to contact Giuseppe, IK5WWA who is active as IM0C from San Pietro Island, EU-165. He is QRV on the 40 to 2m bands. QSL via his home call.The IP1X team is active from Gallinara Island, EU-083, today, the 30th. They are operating CW and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands in the IOTA Contest. QSL via IU1JCZ, direct or via the bureau. For more details and updates check QRZ.comMD1U is active in the IOTA Contest today, the 30th, as part of a DXpedition to Scarlett Point Tower on the Isle of Man. QSL via M0OXO’s OQRS page and Logbook of the World. For more information see QRZ.comSunny, VU2CUW, a member of the 42nd Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica, will be based at Maitri Station, Antarctica for around one year. In his spare time, he will be active as AT42I. QSL via VU2CRS. Ersoy, TA2OM has been active as 3C3CA from Bioko Island, AF-010, in Equatorial Guinea since October 2022. His current plans are to stay there until sometime in August. He uploads his log to Club Log and Logbook of the World on a regular basis.Now the contest newsThe RSGB IOTA, or Islands On The Air, Contest will end at 1200UTC today, the 30th of July, Using CW and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and IOTA reference.Today, the 30th of July, the UK Microwave Group 5.7 and 10GHz Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.On Tuesday the 1st of August, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.Also on Tuesday the 1st of August, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.On Wednesday the 2nd of August, the 144MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Also on Wednesday the 2nd of August, the 144MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.On Saturday the 5th of August, the EU HF Championship runs from 0000 to 2359UTC. Using CW and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, the exchange is a signal report and the last two digits of the year you were first licensed. On Saturday the 5th of August, the 4th 144MHz Backpackers Contest runs from 1400 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and two-letter postcode.Also on Saturday the 5th of August, the 144MHz Low Power Contest runs from 1400 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and two-letter postcode.The Worked all Britain 144MHz Low Power contest takes place on Saturday the 5th of August from 1400 to 1800UTC. Please note that the maximum power that can be used in this contest has been increased to 25W. The exchange is a report, serial number and Worked all Britain square, if applicable. Entries should be submitted to the contest manager by the 15th of August. For full details of the rules please see the Worked all Britain website.On Sunday the 6th of August, the 432MHz Low Power Contest runs from 0800 to 1200UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and two-letter postcode.The UK Six Metre Group Summer Marathon ends its three-month run on Sunday the 6th of August. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is your four-character locator.Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 27th of July 2023It was a mixed bag last week with periods of settled conditions, but two periods when the Kp index was above four. These unsettled geomagnetic conditions impacted HF, subduing signals and generally not helping at all.The cause was a coronal mass ejection, or CME, that passed Earth late on Tuesday the 25th of July. This triggered a minor G1 geomagnetic storm with the solar wind speed above 500km/s and the Bz component of the interplanetary magnetic field pointing south. By the early hours of Thursday morning, the Kp index was down to 2.33, but there was talk of another CME threatening to push it up again. We ‘dodged a bullet’ on the 24th of July when a large halo CME was observed leaving the Sun. It was so powerful that, despite taking place on the other side of the Sun, energetic proton levels streamed past Earth. By Wednesday lunchtime things were back to normal.By Thursday there were ten active regions visible on the Sun, with a solar flux of 167.Daytime HF conditions are still relatively poor, although the evenings are beginning to show an improvement. We probably won’t see a return to excellent HF conditions until September or October.Having said that, at 1230UTC on Thursday, there were openings on 15m FT8 to Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Puerto Rico, Cuba and Anguilla, despite the predicted MUF over 3,000km being around 19MHz. In other words, make sure you actually listen to the bands!Next week NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will be in the range of 155 to 170. The Kp index is forecast to be around two. There may be a blip on Wednesday the 3rd of August when it is forecast to rise to three. As always, this is likely to change if we get more solar flares and associated CMEs.And now the VHF and up propagation newsThe coming week is likely to continue its unsettled theme although, unlike last week, this time we may find a temporary ridge of high pressure building over southern England at the end of the week.  It’s some way off and much could change before we get there, but there is a hint of some Tropo next Friday, perhaps lasting into the Saturday afternoon for the 144MHz Low Power Contest. The rest of this week and much of next will, however, stay firmly in the unsettled pattern with just rain scatter to console us.The Sporadic-E season often provides activity on the 6m band into the first week of September, so plenty of time to look for those chance QSOs. Last week saw a huge opening to Japan and a smaller opening to North America so there is still plenty to look for. The current spell of unsettled weather is driven by a strong jet stream across the Atlantic into northern Europe and maybe a positive sign for Sporadic-E paths that cross it, say to Iberia, round through Italy to the Balkans.Other modes are relatively-low probability when compared with Sporadic-E, but the disturbed solar conditions could make Aurora a contender on those occasions when the Kp index is above five.Meteor scatter activity continues to increase as we head into the August Perseids, which peak around the 12th and 13th of August.The Moon reaches minimum declination on Sunday, becoming positive again late next Saturday so there will be short Moon windows early in the week. Perigee is on Wednesday so path losses are low. 144MHz sky noise is high this coming weekend turning low late Monday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS NewsBulletin for 23rd July 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 23rd of July 2023
The news headlines:
Tonight@8 events on Ofcom consultation
RSGB 2023 Convention
RSGB Region 3 District Representatives
 
The RSGB is holding two special Tonight@8 events focused on the Ofcom amateur radio consultation. On Monday the 31st of July it will look at contests, operating and callsign policy, in an event that might be of particular interest to Full licensees. On Monday the 7th of August the focus will be on Foundation and Intermediate topics including callsign and exam changes, as well as the Consultation clauses that might lead to new opportunities for outreach activities for everyone. Instead of the usual webinar style, these events will be forums where, after a short introduction, a panel of RSGB experts will answer your questions. We encourage radio amateurs to be part of these events. Questions can be submitted on the night via the live chat, or you can send in a question in advance. Advance questions can be by email or a short, clear video of you asking your question. In either case, please include your name and callsign as well as your question. Send questions to comms@rsgb.org.uk or for further information about the Consultation, the events and the panellists go to the RSGB website at rsgb.org/licencereview
The RSGB’s 2023 Convention will be held from the 13th to the 15th of October at Kents Hill Park Conference Centre in Milton Keynes. The Convention packs in a full weekend of the very best amateur radio lectures from around the world. With lecture streams, forums, special interest groups, presentations and all the usual activities, there is something for everyone. Join hundreds of others for what is also one of the best social events in amateur radio. Bookings are open now and you can take advantage of early bird pricing until the end of August. You’ll find the booking link and more information on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/convention
The RSGB is looking for members in Region 3, the North-West of England, to step forward as volunteer District Representatives. If you’d like to make a difference to other radio amateurs in this area, provide advice and support, represent the RSGB and its Members, and also attend local rallies, please email Region 3 Regional Representative, Martyn Bell, M0TEB at: rr3@rsgb.org.uk
The RSGB’s Examinations and Syllabus Review Group, or ESRG, has provided an additional set of four mock exam papers. These cover Foundation, Intermediate, Full and Direct to Full exams. You can find the papers on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/mock-exams
A reminder now that the popular British Inland Waterways on the Air event will take place between the 26th and 28th of August. The event is open to amateurs who use canals, towpaths, rivers, lakes or reservoirs for work or recreation. Registration for the event is now open. To sign up, visit Nunsfield House Amateur Radio Group’s website nharg.org.uk and follow the ‘BIWOTA 2023’ link.
Please send details of all your news and events to radcom@rsgb.org.uk The deadline for submissions is 10 am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week.
And now for details of rallies and events
The Finningley Amateur Radio Society Rally is taking place today, the 23rd, at the Society’s HQ at Belton Road, Sandtoft, Doncaster, DN8 5SX. The doors are open from 10 am and a food bar is available. For more information and directions visit g0ghk.com
Wiltshire Radio and Car Boot Sale will take place on Sunday the 30th of July at Kington Langley Village Hall and Playing Field, Kington Langley, Wiltshire SN15 5NJ. The event will start at 9 am and finish at 1 pm. There is a £3 entry fee. Indoor tables are sold out, but there is plenty of Car Boot space available. Admittance for car booters is £10, and for vans, it is £15. For further information please contact rally@chippenhamradio.club
Part 1 of the British Amateur Television Club’s Convention for Amateur TV 2023, or CAT 23, will take place on Sunday the 6th of August at Midland Air Museum, Coventry. It is a meet-up, show and tell, test and fix-it, and bring-and-buy event from 10.30 am to 4 pm. There will be full ATV and Microwave test facilities available for QO-100, 5.6GHz FM, Portsdown, MiniTiouner, Ryde, and power amplifiers and preamps.
King’s Lynn Amateur Radio Club’s 33rd Great Eastern Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 6th of August. The venue will be Gaywood Community Centre, Gayton Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 4EL. The doors open to visitors at 9 am and admission is £2.50. The doors open to traders from 7 am. An outdoor pitch costs £8 and an indoor table costs £10. Car parking is free. There will be trade stands and a bring-and-buy area. On-site catering will be available. For more information email rally.klarc@gmail.com or visit klarc.org.uk
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign DL0SOP is active until the 31st of July for the 65th edition of the Sea of Peace Award. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World, eQSL or direct to DL4SVA. For more information about the award visit dl0sop.darc.de
VX7NA is the special callsign in use by the Nanaimo Amateur Radio Association, until tomorrow the 24th of July, to celebrate its 75th anniversary. The Association is based on Vancouver Island, NA-036. QSL via VE7NA.
Now the DX news
The IP1X team will be active from Gallinara Island, EU-083, on the 29th and 30th of July. They will operate CW and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands and will be active for 24 hours during the IOTA Contest. QSL via IU1JCZ, direct or via the bureau. For more details and updates check QRZ.com
MD1U will be active during the IOTA Contest on the 29th and 30th of July during a Dxpedition to Scarlett Point Tower on the Isle of Man. QSL via M0OXO’s OQRS page and Logbook of the World. For more information see QRZ.com
Roland, F8EN is again active as TR8CR from Gabon until the 12th of August. He operates CW only. QSL via F6AJA, direct or via the bureau.
Ersoy, TA2OM has been active as 3C3CA from Bioko Island, AF-010, in Equatorial Guinea since October 2022. His current plans are to stay there until sometime in August. He uploads his log to Club Log and Logbook of the World on a regular basis.
Didier, F6BCW is active as FO/F6BCW from Huahine Island, OC-067, in French Polynesia until the 25th of October. He operates CW and SSB on the 80 to 6m bands. QSL via F6EXV, Club Log and Logbook of the World.
Now the contest news
On Tuesday the 25th of July, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1830 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on 2.3 to 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Thursday the 27th of July sees the data leg of the 80m Club Championships run from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using RTTY and PSK63, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
Next weekend is the RSGB IOTA, or Islands On The Air, Contest. It runs from 1200UTC on the 29th to 1200UTC on the 30th of July. Using CW and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and IOTA reference.
Please note that the Worked All Britain 144MHz Low Power Contest which was due to be held on Saturday the 29th of July has been moved to Saturday the 5th of August. A further announcement is expected next week.
Next Sunday, the 30th of July, the UK Microwave Group 5.7 and 10GHz Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 20th of July 2023
The Sun continues to be peppered with spots with a solar flux index of 189 on Thursday the 20th. However, sunspots can bring solar flares and Coronal Mass Ejections, or CMEs, which can be detrimental to good HF conditions.
We have been relatively lucky over the last week as the flares have mostly been minor C-class and a few M-class events. There have been no X-class flares, so ionospheric disturbances have been minor.
A large CME observed from active region 3363 is expected to mostly miss our planet. But the edge of the plasma cloud was still forecast to deliver a glancing blow to our geomagnetic field on Thursday the 20th of July.
A Polar Cap Absorption, or PCA, event was also in progress from the morning of Monday the 17th of July. This was caused by the proton flux rapidly increasing and affecting HF paths over the poles. The proton flux is gradually decreasing but may still have a detrimental effect for a while yet.
Region 3363, which was massive, has now disappeared behind the southwest limb and will no longer be a threat. That is, at least until its return in about two weeks’ time. It will be interesting to see how big it is on its return.
Other than the Kp index hitting 4.67 on the 16th and 17th, geomagnetic conditions have been quiet with the Kp index at one or two over the past few days, which means HF conditions have been quite good.
Daytime MUFs over a 3,000km path have been consistently above 18MHz and often above 21MHz at times. Nighttime MUFs over the same path have been higher than 14MHz, and often 18MHz, at least during the first part of the night.
This means that if you hear signals on 24 or 28MHz the likelihood is that they are due to Sporadic-E propagation.
Next week NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will remain at about 160 to 170. It is also predicting a Kp index of two all week. If that happens, we can probably expect good HF conditions for this time of year. However, with this many sunspots, there is always the strong risk of solar flares and CMEs. So, keep an eye on solarham.net for real-time conditions.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The continuing spell of unsettled weather will stay with us for the coming week, so any signs of Tropo will be very limited indeed. This means that rain scatter will once again be a predominant propagation mode for those equipped on the GHz bands to use it.
Higher temperatures in summer mean strong convective cells, like thunderstorms, and better reflectivity from the larger raindrops, which can be held aloft by the stronger updrafts in the storm clouds. The reflectivity depends upon the 6th power of the diameter of the raindrop and the number of drops in the beam, so even a small increase in drop size gives a big increase in reflectivity.
Sporadic-E remains in play for a good while yet, so stay alert to cluster reports and, in particular, 10m and 6m beacons. If time is limited, check 1600 to 1700UTC to gain maximum benefit.
The usual other modes are still possibilities, of course. Starting with Aurora, in view of the recently disturbed solar conditions, you should monitor the Kp index for large values above say Kp=5. 
Secondly, the Perseids meteor shower will peak between the 12th and 13th of August, but evidence of meteor material from the Perseids is already appearing.
Officially, the shower starts to appear from around the 17th of July. The 50MHz and 144MHz bands have already produced some very short-lived bursts of FT8 signals that may be due to meteors. 
The Delta Aquariids may also be responsible for these very sporadic bursts. As we move towards the Perseids peak you should expect an increasing number of bursts.
As the Moon begins its monthly descent towards minimum declination on the 29th, path loss will decrease. However, the Moon will be close to Sagittarius A on the 28th, leading to very high noise. This will be prevalent on the lower VHF bands.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.