GB2RS

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for March 17th 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 17th of March 2024
The news headlines:
The RSGB’s 2024 AGM is coming up
British Science Week is drawing to a close
Changes to examination fees are coming soon
This year’s RSGB AGM will take place at 10 am on Saturday the 13th of April and will be held online to ensure as many members as possible can watch and take part. The formal business of the meeting will include the results of members’ votes on the resolutions, including the endorsement of three Nominated Directors. The President will give a video review of 2023 and the Society will announce the recipients of its annual awards and trophies, as well as the winners of its construction competition. At the end of the meeting, there will be a recorded presentation on “Making amateur radio licensing fit for the future” by Ofcom Group Director, Spectrum, David Willis. This will be followed by a live Q&A on the new licence conditions, with four senior RSGB representatives answering your questions: President, John McCullagh, GI4BWM; Board Chair, Stewart Bryant, G3YSX; General Manager, Steve Thomas, M1ACB; and Spectrum Forum Chair, Murray Niman, G6JYB. You can find more information about the candidates, voting and how to ask the Board a question on the RSGB AGM web pages at rsgb.org/agm
British Science Week is drawing to a close and lots of exciting activities have been going on. Radio amateurs across the country have been encouraging young people to explore and understand our hobby and there have been some wonderful ways of incorporating the theme of “Time” into amateur radio activities. The RSGB would like to thank those who have shared ideas and resources, promoting the magic of radio communications with young people. There will be a report in the June issue of RadCom to showcase the activities that have happened and to inspire people to get involved next year! Perhaps you ran a construction day, set up and operated a radio station in a school or achieved a QSO with GB3RS at the RSGB National Radio Centre. Whatever you’ve been doing, please send your reports, with separate high-resolution photographs, to radcom@rsgb.org.uk by the 21st of April 2024. The RSGB would welcome feedback about what worked well, what you learned and how the Society could develop its British Science Week activities next year. Please email the RSGB British Science Week Coordinator Ian Neal, M0KEO at bsw@rsgb.org.uk to share your thoughts.
Early in February the RSGB announced that the fees for Foundation, Intermediate and Full level examinations would increase from the 1st of May 2024. You can now use the online booking system to book an exam before the 1st of May at the current price or select exam dates from the 1st of May at the new prices. Please ensure you make the correct date selection, as booking errors that need to be changed may incur an administration fee as outlined in the exam terms and conditions. To book an exam, go to the Student Information section of the RSGB website and choose the option to book and pay for your exam from the right hand menu.
The RadCom Contesting column has new editors! The RSGB Contest Committees will be overseeing the column and have planned a schedule of topics. Some will be written by members of the three contesting committees, and some by others who can share their experiences. As well as information about various aspects of contesting, the committees hope that the column will feature a contesting tip of the month, a featured UK contester, as well as a contest of the month. Once each issue is published, the column content will be shared on the RSGB website to provide a useful resource about contesting. You can see a list of the planned topics at rsgb.org/radcom-contesting  The committees are keen to hear from people who would like to be involved, so if you would like to suggest a missing topic or offer to write something for the column, please email ContestClub@rsgbcc.org
And now for details of rallies and events
Callington Radio and Electronics Rally is taking place today, the 17th. The rally is being held in the Town Hall, New Road, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7BD. The doors will be open from 10 am. Entry is £2 each and there is no charge for those under the age of 16. A comprehensive selection of traders, clubs and societies are present along with a bring-and-buy stall and the usual catering service. The venue has excellent disabled access and toilets, and there is ample car parking nearby. More details, including a list of items currently registered for sale at the huge bring-and-buy stand, are available at callingtonradiosociety.org.uk
Grantham Amateur Radio Club Radio and Electronics Rally is also taking place today, the 17th. The venue is Grantham West Community Centre, Trent Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire. The doors are open from 9 am to 1.30 pm and entry for buyers is £3. Those under the age of 16 will be admitted for free. Ample free parking is available. For more information visit garc.org.uk/rally
In Wales, the Pencoed and District Amateur Radio Club Rally is taking place today, the 17th. The event is being held at Sarn and Bryncwils Social Club, Sarn, Bridgend, CF32 9NY. The entrance fee is £2 but there is no charge for those under the age of 16. Doors open to the public at 10 am and refreshments are available. Disabled access is available via a chair lift. For more information contact Leuan Jones at 07791 709 691.
The Dover Amateur Radio Club Rally will take place on Sunday the 24th of March at Saint Radigunds Community Centre. The doors will be open from 10 am to 2 pm and the entrance fee will be £3. Tables cost £15 each with a maximum of two tables per vendor. For more information visit darc.online/rally
The Ripon Rally will also take place on Sunday the 24th of March. The venue will be Great Ouseburn Village Hall, Lightmire Lane, Great Ouseburn, York, YO26 9RL. Lots of parking will be available adjacent to the venue. Traders are welcome from 7 am and tables cost £10 each. The doors open for visitors from 10 am and entrance is £3 per person.
For more information visit radars-g4sjm.club
Now the Special Event News
HI180RD is on the air to celebrate the 180th anniversary of the Dominican Republic declaring its independence from Haiti in 1844. Listen for activity on all bands and modes until the 30th of April. Around 25 operators from five radio clubs will be part of the event. For details of an available certificate, visit QRZ.com
A special event call sign EI80MB is active until the 31st of May 2024 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the rescue of 168 German seamen who were rescued from the waters of the Bay of Biscay after a battle between British and German naval forces in 1943. The men were carried out by a small Irish coaster called ‘Kerlogue’ which had the callsign EIMB. The rescue took more than ten hours. QSL via Club Log's OQRS or via EI6AL.
Now the DX news
Nobby, G0VJG is active as 5H3VJG from Zanzibar Island, AF-032, in Tanzania until the 20th of March. He is operating mainly using SSB and with some CW and FT8. QSL via M0OXO's OQRS. QSOs will be uploaded to the Logbook of the World and Club Log.
Gerard, F2JD is active as HR5/F2JD from Copan, Honduras until the 21st of March. He is operating CW, SSB, FT8 and FT4 on the HF bands. QSL via F6AJA directly or via the Bureau.
Now the contest news
On Monday the 18th, the FT4 Series Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using FT4 on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is your report.
The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group HF RTTY Contest started at 0200UTC on Saturday the 16th and ends at 0200UTC on Monday the 18th. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and time.
On Tuesday the 19th, the 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using All modes on the 23cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Tuesday the 19th, the IRTS 80m Evening Counties Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using CW and SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and county code.
On Thursday the 21st, the 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. 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 March 2024
What a difference a month makes. We’ve gone from a solar flux index up to almost 200, to one that is down in the 120s.
Over the past week, we have had only two M-class solar flares, which means we have had limited coronal mass ejection activity and therefore low Kp indices.
Last weekend’s Commonwealth Contest saw UK amateurs making plenty of HF contacts, some with Australia, but everyone agreed that HF propagation was a little lacklustre.
There is a daily chance of moderate-class solar flares from AR 3607, the largest sunspot region, but all remaining spots remain mostly small and simple.
The solar wind speed has been quite high with sporadic periods of a south-pointing Bz field. This is what has pushed the Kp index to three, but this isn’t a big threat to HF. There is a slight chance of unsettled intervals caused by a weak coronal hole near the south centre of the solar disc coupled with the fast solar wind.
NOAA reports that active region 3590 has been detected on the far side of the Sun using helioseismology. This may mean that it will still be active and a threat when it returns in a week or so. This region was the source of the X6 solar flare on the 22nd of February – the largest so far in solar cycle 25.
Next week, commencing the 18th of March, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index will remain in the 120 to 130 range, although the US Air Force predicts it could reach 150. Geomagnetic conditions are likely to be mainly settled with a maximum Kp index of two or three. 
So, this is a reasonable forecast for HF propagation, which should remain open up to 28MHz during daylight hours. This is also a good time for north-south paths, such as the UK to South Africa, and the UK to South America.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
The continuing theme of unsettled weather will produce further spells of rain and heavy showers and once again provide some rain scatter options on the GHz bands.
Another thing to mention is that, as we move towards the latter part of the month, the intensity of showers becomes greater due to the additional warmth improving the effectiveness of the rain scatter process.
It is very hard to find any traditional Tropo until we get well into the coming week. It may occur on Thursday the 21st when a high will develop a ridge from Biscay across southern Britain and the near continent. This should provide a chance of Tropo for the final few days of the coming week. Unfortunately, this is not in time for the UK Activity Contest on 1.3GHz on Tuesday the 19th, but the 70MHz UK Activity Contest on Thursday the 21st may be luckier.
The north of Britain may start to see the next low bringing rain over that weekend, so although it has an early exit from any Tropo, at least being well north gives Scottish stations a head start for any aurora, which tends to favour the spring months.
Meteor scatter remains in the random territory – try just before sunrise for best results. But with the next major shower being the Lyrids in late April, we have a while to wait for an uptick in activity.
Lastly, a brief mention of Sporadic-E. It has popped up with some weak events on the Dourbes plots on Propquest, but the main season is still a little way off.
Maybe check next month for a heads-up on the lower bands like 28 and 50MHz. Of course, digital modes will get a head start, so best to check the clusters and chatrooms for signs of fleeting activity. Some UK stations reported 50MHz trans-equatorial propagation to Africa last week, so check for that.
For EME operators, Moon declination reaches a maximum on Sunday, but path losses are starting to increase again. 144MHz sky noise is moderate, falling to low on Wednesday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for March 10th 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 10th of March 2024
The news headlines:
New rules for HF contests are in place
Applications are open for this year’s YOTA camp
Listen out for operators taking part in British Science Week
 
The RSGB HF Contest Committee has introduced a couple of rules to address changes in licence conditions that came into effect on the 21st of February. It has also highlighted power changes to specific contests. The committee is introducing a section for Foundation licensees in some of its contests now that the power limit is increased to 25W. Before finalising the rules for 2025, the committee will consult widely on whether Regional Secondary Locators should remain mandatory in those contests for which the country in which the operator is situated has no bearing on the score. For more details see the RSGB Notices section on the RSGB website.
Are you aged between 18 and 25 and passionate about all things radio? Are you ready for exciting experiences, making new friends and shaping the future of amateur radio? Why not apply to be part of the RSGB YOTA team going to the YOTA Czechia summer camp this year? You can find out more on the RSGB website. Go to rsgb.org/yota and click on the ‘YOTA Summer camps’ link in the righthand menu. You’ll be able to read about the experiences of previous teams and download an application form for the Czechia event. The closing date for applications is the 15th of April for the Team Leader and the 22nd April for Team Members.
British Science Week started on Friday the 8th of March and continues until Friday the 17th of March. Please have a look at the list of times that participants will be on the air and try to respond to them. These will nearly all be students who will be making their very first QSOs working with local amateurs. Your contact will make their day and might lead to new radio amateurs! For those participating in British Science Week with stations, remember the offer for skeds from GB3RS at the RSGB National Radio Centre. To find out more, go to rsgb.org/bsw and choose the ‘List of events’ tab on that web page. If you’d like to show what you’re doing during the week, email comms@rsgb.org.uk and the RSGB Comms Team will share your photos on social media. Whether or not you’re involved with this year’s British Science Week, it’s time to think ahead to next year’s event! Make contact with your local school or youth group and use the activity suggestions and resources on the RSGB British Science Week web page.
The Edinburgh 23cm microwave beacon GB3EDN is back on the air after a move to a new location on the south side of Edinburgh. It has moved about 1.5km south from its previous site in the University of Edinburgh, King’s Buildings Campus. The operating frequency is 1296.990MHz. It sends its callsign and QRA locator in both FSK and JT4 once per minute. The new site is about 200m higher than the previous site and it is hoped that coverage is somewhat improved. It has a clear view from the northwest through to the east, giving good coverage up the east coast and across the North Sea to Scandinavia. It is also hoped that there will be better propagation to the south from the new site. More details are available via the ‘Beacons’ link on the Lothians Radio Society’s website at lothiansradiosociety.com
And now for details of rallies and events
The Hack Green Radio Surplus Hangar Sale is taking place today, the 10th. The venue is Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8AL. The event includes the sale of electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. For more information email coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk  or visit hackgreen.co.uk
Callington Radio and Electronics Rally will take place on Sunday the 17th of March. The rally will be held in the Town Hall, New Road, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7BD. The doors will be open from 10 am. Entry will be £2 each but there will be no charge for those under the age of 16. A comprehensive selection of traders, clubs and societies will be present along with a bring-and-buy stall and the usual catering service. The venue has excellent disabled access, toilets, and there is ample car parking nearby. More details, including a list of items currently registered for sale at the huge bring-and-buy stand, are available at callingtonradiosociety.org.uk
Grantham Amateur Radio Club Radio and Electronics Rally will be held on Sunday the 17th of March. The venue will be Grantham West Community Centre, Trent Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire. The doors will be open from 9 am to 1.30 pm and entry for buyers will be £3. Those under the age of 16 will be admitted for free. There is a cost of £5 per table for sellers. Traders must book and pay in advance. The event will feature an RSGB book stall, hot and cold refreshments and a prize raffle. Ample free parking will be available. To reserve tables, contact rally@garc.org.uk  For more information visit garc.org.uk/rally
Pencoed and District Amateur Radio Club Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 17th of March. The venue will be Sarn and Bryncwils Social Club, Sarn, Bridgend, CF32 9NY. Doors open for traders at 8 am and tables cost £15. The entrance fee will be £2 but there will be no charge for those under the age of 16. Doors open to the public at 10 am and refreshments will be available. Disabled access is available via a chair lift. To book your tables please contact Leuan Jones at 07791 709 691.
Now the Special Event News
In celebration of International Women’s Day, special callsign TM88YL will be active from France until the 15th of March and, simultaneously, DM88YLF will be operating from Germany. QSL via the Bureau. For more information, visit QRZ.com
Special callsign IY9MM is active until the 31st of March to commemorate the experiments conducted by Guglielmo Marconi from the ship 'Regina Elena' in the port of Augusta in 1914. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL, or direct to IT9MRM. The station was recently spotted on the 40m band using FT8.
Now the DX news
Eric, F6ICX is active as 5R8IC from Sainte Marie Island, AF-090, until the 31st of March. He operates mainly using CW on the 40 to 10m bands and via the QO-100 satellite. QSL via Logbook of the World or his home call.
Peter, DC0KK is active as 4S7KKG from Sri Lanka, AS-003, until the 30th of March. He operates FT8, FT4, RTTY and sometimes CW on the 20 to 6m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, Club Log's OQRS, or direct to his home call.
Now the contest news
The Commonwealth Contest started at 1000UTC on Saturday the 9th of March and ends at 1000UTC today, Sunday the 10th of March. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. HQ stations also send ‘HQ’.
On Tuesday the 12th, the 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs between 1900 to 1955UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 12th, the 432MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 13th, the 432MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Also on Wednesday the 13th, the 432MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.
On Wednesday the 13th, the 80m Club Championship Contest runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Thursday the 14th, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group HF RTTY Contest starts at 0200UTC on Saturday the 16th and ends at 0200UTC on Monday the 18th. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 7th of March 2024
As predicted, a coronal mass ejection, or CME for short, affected the ionosphere last weekend, the 2nd and 3rd of March, pushing maximum usable frequencies down and sparking auroral displays that were visible as far south as Cornwall.
The plasma hit the Earth around midday on Sunday the 3rd, eventually pushing the Kp index to more than 5 for nine hours. It eventually started to settle again, dropping to 4 for six hours, before then moving back to background levels by the morning of the 4th.
The solar wind speed was not that high, being around 350 kilometres per second, but the Bz component of the interplanetary magnetic field, or IMF, was pointing sharply south for a long period. This allowed the solar plasma to couple with the Earth’s magnetic field more easily, and it flooded in.
The maximum usable frequency was impacted, and it took until late morning on the 4th  before the 10m band was usable again over a 3,000km path. This probably impacted northerly paths the most with southerly paths being relatively unscathed.
The rest of the week was generally free from coronal mass ejection chaos with the Kp index remaining below 3.
Attention is now turning to active region 3599, which has expanded in size. It may therefore be a threat for an M-class solar flare and potential CME.
Next week, commencing Monday the 11th, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index will be around 135, but may then increase to 170 by the 15th.
We are heading towards the equinox, which means that geomagnetic disturbances are likely to be more common and harsher. They are almost twice as likely in spring and autumn versus the winter and summer.
If the Kp index stays low, though, this can be a good time for HF.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
This weekend, the 9th and 10th, a strengthening southeasterly wind will develop over the country as low pressure moves into Biscay and a strong high builds over Scandinavia. Unfortunately, this may not be useful for Tropo since the high is a long way to the northeast and stronger winds usually prohibit the development of a quality inversion.
All this changes again over this second weekend of March, the 9th and 10th, as low pressure pushes fronts into southern Britain. It won’t last long though and a weak ridge will cross the country on Tuesday the 12th, which may bring some Tropo support for southeastern Britain into the continent for the 432MHz UK Activity Contest on Tuesday evening.
On Wednesday, an Atlantic low will cross northern areas with rain and possible rain scatter options, but this will soon clear to leave a weak high over the country and it’s a return to Tropo conditions for the remainder of the week.
The upshot of all this is that Tropo will be an off-and-on affair, but worth a look. The other modes, not so much. Although, as we said in the HF section, spring is a good time of the year for auroral activity and, after the recent visible aurora, we should keep a watch for activity and a high Kp index.
There has been the odd fleeting pulse of Sporadic-E showing on the Propquest graphs recently. This has been noticeable on the LF bands sometimes but is not yet a big player for the usual Sporadic-E bands of 10m, 6m and beyond. However, on digital modes, UK stations have seen 50MHz trans-equatorial propagation, or TEP, to Africa last week – so check for that.
For EME operators, Moon declination is still negative but goes positive again on Monday. Path losses are approaching minimum with perigee today, Sunday the 10th. 144MHz sky noise is low all week except today, the 10th, when the Sun is close to the Moon and in the beamwidth of antennas.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for March 3rd 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 3rd of March 2024
The news headlines:
The Calling Notice for the RSGB’s 2024 AGM is now online
New HF beacon list released by the RSGB’s Propagation Studies Committee
The next RSGB Tonight@8 webinar is coming up
The Calling Notice for the RSGB’s 2024 AGM is now online. The Notice includes the resolutions and information about the three Nominated Directors who are being put forward for endorsement by RSGB members. You can also read the minutes of last year’s AGM. Voting opens on Wednesday the 13th of March. On that same day, you will be able to submit a question for the RSGB Board via a web form or register to ask a question via video on Zoom. For more information go to the Society’s website at rsgb.org/agm
The RSGB’s Propagation Studies Committee has released a new HF beacon list, with the 10m band listings completely revamped. The old list, which was started by Martin Harrison, G3USF Silent Key, had been added to over the years but was getting out of date. The only way to make it more accurate was to start again. The Propagation Studies Committee made use of the Reverse Beacon Network which wasn’t available when the list was originally created, plus listeners’ contributions from around the world. The new beacon list can be found at rsgb.org/beacons
Have you wondered what happens at a VHF National Field Day? Would you like to take part in one? In this month’s Tonight@8 webinar, on Monday the 4th of March, the RSGB offers two different perspectives. Firstly, RSGB VHF Contest Committee member Richard, G4HGI will talk about how the RSGB VHF Contest Committee uses the VHF Survey and other tools to formulate the rules and calendar for all VHF Contests, with specific emphasis on VHF National Field Day. Secondly, three members of the Lothians Radio Society, GM3HAM will explain how they organise and operate these hilltop events within the Scottish borders. The club has made a short, professional film capturing their 2023 VHF National Field Day weekend. They will show clips of that and of an old cinema film to show how this looked from a technical standpoint at much earlier club competition events in the 1970s. This will be a great evening so put it in your diary and be inspired! You can watch and ask questions live on the RSGB YouTube channel or a special BATC channel. Go to rsgb.org/webinars to find out more.
The RSGB has made two safeguarding announcements. Firstly, the Society’s safeguarding policy has been revised in line with modern practices and you can find it on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/policies  Secondly, if your club relies on the RSGB’s affiliated club insurance for activities that may have a safeguarding requirement, it is important that you are aware of the conditions in Section 10 of that insurance. You can find the insurance details in your club portal on the RSGB website.
The Radio Society of Harrow is running a one-day classroom-style Foundation course on Saturday the 23rd of March at its venue in Watford. If you know anyone who would like to join the course, please tell them to email Brian, G3YKB at g3ykb@yahoo.co.uk  There will be an optional extra session on the morning of the 24th.
Following complaints from some members, the RSGB has investigated a problem with the non-delivery of RadCom on Guernsey and the Isle of Man. It seems that following changes at Royal Mail, the labelling requirement for these copies was incorrectly applied by the printers and these copies didn’t go through the postal system correctly. The Society is sorry that this error has occurred and apologises for any inconvenience caused. It has, of course, asked its printers to ensure that there is no repetition of this problem, and the printer has paid for the two missing copies to be sent to each RSGB member in those areas. If your RadCom doesn’t arrive in future, please email the RSGB membership team via membership@rsgb.org.uk so they can send a replacement and track any wider problems.
Those who enjoy constructing and operating with low-power devices will be interested to know that a QRP conference is taking part in Rennes in the northwest of France on the 18th of May 2024. The event will include lectures and demonstrations and will be an ideal opportunity for the exchange of information between like-minded amateurs. The organisers are putting together a programme of speakers and are looking for contributors on every aspect of low-power design, construction and operation. To read more about attending and contributing to the event, visit tinyurl.com/QRPCONF You may need to set your web browser to translate the web page from French to English.
 And now for details of rallies and events
The Exeter Radio and Electronics Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 3rd of March from 10 am to 1 pm. The event is being held at America Hall, Pinhoe, EX4 8PX. For more information, contact Pete, G3ZVI on 07714 198 374 or email g3zvi@yahoo.co.uk
The Hack Green Radio Surplus Hangar Sale will take place on Sunday the 10th of March. The venue will be Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8AL. The event will include the sale of electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. For more information email coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk  or visit hackgreen.co.uk
Callington Radio and Electronics Rally will take place on Sunday the 17th of March. The rally will be held in the Town Hall, New Road, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7BD from 7.30 am until 2 pm. The doors will be open from 10 am. Entry will be £2 each but there will be no charge for those under the age of 16. A comprehensive selection of traders, clubs and societies will be present along with a bring-and-buy stall and the usual excellent catering service. The venue has excellent disabled access, toilets and ample car parking nearby. Tables are still available at £5 for the large size and £3 for the smaller ones. Booking is essential, so please contact Alastair, M0KRR via email at alastair.kerr1@btinternet.com or by phone at 01503 262755.
Grantham Amateur Radio Club Radio and Electronics Rally will be held on Sunday the 17th of March. The venue will be Grantham West Community Centre, Trent Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire. The doors will be open from 9 am to 1.30 pm and entry for buyers will be £3. Those under the age of 16 will be admitted for free. There is a cost of £5 per table for sellers. Traders must book and pay in advance. The event will feature an RSGB book stall, hot and cold refreshments and a prize raffle. Ample free parking will be available. To reserve tables, contact rally@garc.org.uk  For more information visit garc.org.uk/rally
Pencoed and District Amateur Radio Club Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 17th of March. The venue will be Sarn and Bryncwils Social Club, Sarn, Bridgend, CF32 9NY. Doors open for traders at 8 am and tables cost £15. The entrance fee will be £2 but there will be no charge for those under the age of 16. Doors open to the public at 10 am and refreshments will be available. Disabled access is available via a chair lift. To book your tables please contact Leuan Jones at 07791 709 691.
 Now the Special Event News
Members of the Newfoundland-based Grassroots Amateur Radio Club, VO1GRC are active as VO1TAP until the 18th of March. QSL via Logbook of the World and eQSL. The callsign commemorates the anniversary of the USS Truxtun and USS Pollux naval disaster that occurred off the coast of Newfoundland on the 18th of February 1942.
Members of the Zurich City Police Radio Amateur Club, HB9SP are active on the HF bands as HB20SP throughout 2024 to celebrate their club's 20th anniversary. QSOs will be uploaded to Logbook of the World, Club Log and QRZ.com  Please do not send any cards via the Bureau.
 Now the DX news
Uwe, DL8UD is active as V31KO from Belize, in Central America, until the 6th of March. He is operating using SSB, CW and FT8 on the 160 to 6m bands. QSL via DL8UD directly or via the Bureau.
A group of intrepid amateurs is active as part of the H40WA DXpedition to Temotu Province, OC-065, in the Solomon Islands until the 7th of March. Listen for activity, from up to six stations, on the 160 to 6m bands using CW, SSB and FT8. QSL via M0URX's OQRS page.
Now the contest news
The 144 and 432MHz Contest started at 1400UTC on Saturday the 2nd of March and ends at 1400UTC today, Sunday the 3rd of March. Using all modes on the 2m and 70cm bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Today, the 3rd, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000UTC to 1600UTC. Using all modes on the microwave bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Today, the 3rd, The Worked All Britain 80m Contest runs from 1800 to 2200UTC. Please note that this is an SSB-only contest, and the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain area. All entries need to be with the contest manager by the 13th of March. Full Contest rules are available on the Worked All Britain website at worked-all-britain.org.uk
The ARRL International DX Contest started at 0000UTC on Saturday the 2nd of March and ends at 2359UTC today, Sunday the 3rd of March. Using SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and transmitter power. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
On Monday the 4th, the 80m Club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using PSK63 and RTTY on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The Commonwealth Contest starts at 1000UTC on Saturday the 9th of March and ends at 1000UTC on Sunday the 10th of March. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. HQ stations also send ‘HQ’.
On Tuesday the 5th, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 1955UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 5th, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 6th, 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, 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.
Also on Wednesday the 6th, the UK and Ireland Contest Club Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 29th of February 2024
Active region 3590, which was the large sunspot group that threatened us with solar flares and coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, has now moved to the Sun’s limb and is no longer a threat. Region 3590 was potentially dangerous but ultimately wasn’t too bad.
Yes, we had flares, but they were only minor C-class and M-class events. Three recent CMEs, which will all probably miss Earth, but with a risk of some glancing influence, are most likely to have arrived by this weekend, ending the 3rd of March.
However, old active region 3576 will begin to turn into view off the southeast limb by the end of today, the 3rd.
The Kp index rose to 4.67 during one three-hour period on Tuesday the 27th of February, but the disturbance was short-lived and HF propagation wasn’t too badly affected.
Speaking of which, there have been some good HF openings to the Pacific area over the last week. Spotted have been 3D2AG in Fiji on the 17m band, VK on the 10m band, and the H40WA Temotu DXpedition to the Solomon Islands. This latter DXpedition has mostly been spotted on FT8 Fox and Hounds mode in the UK.
The maximum usable frequency, or MUF, over a 3,000km path still remains above 28MHz during daytime, with MUFs over 14 to 15MHz at night. So, as we head into March and towards the spring equinox, HF is still looking good.
Next week, NOAA predicts the solar flux index will be in the range of 165 to 170. The Kp index is predicted to be two all week, but that is suspect and dependent on coronal mass ejections – or a lack of them. At this point in the cycle, anything could happen. With six or seven active regions visible, the risk of a flare and CME remains relatively high.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
The overall weather pattern remains very unsettled with further active lows and weather fronts crossing the country. There will also be periods with stronger winds and it may be cold enough for some wintry weather, especially over northern hills. The upshot of all this is that Tropo will once again be a rarity, but rain scatter may offer some comfort to those on the GHz bands.
Later in the coming week, high pressure will strengthen over Norway and this will produce quite strong winds over the North Sea and eastern UK and perhaps encourage paths to the east, but it’s probably marginal at best in terms of Tropo.
The prospects for aurora and meteor scatter are not especially reliable, but it was encouraging to hear of some digital activity on the 6m band earlier in the week to South Africa and Lesotho. This was probably the result of Trans Equatorial Propagation or TEP, as suggested in last week’s news.
The spring period is a fairly good time to listen for TEP, timed between the decay of the southern hemisphere summer Sporadic-E season and the start of the northern hemisphere summer Sporadic-E season. It’s well worth checking for similar activity during March for paths to the southern hemisphere via TEP. Signals can be strong enough for SSB or CW modes, so it is not exclusively for digital modes.
For EME operators, Moon declination drops to a minimum on Tuesday. Path losses are past their peak now and falling until perigee on Sunday the 10th. 144MHz sky noise is moderate to high, reaching a peak of over 2,500 Kelvin on Tuesday the 12th.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for February 25th 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 25th of February 2024
The news headlines:
New amateur radio licence conditions are effective
Amateurs are reminded to carry out EMF assessments
The 2024 Band Plans have been published
Ofcom has released its final decisions following its consultation on the amateur radio licensing framework last year. Revised licence conditions became effective on Wednesday the 21st of February 2024. The changes to licence conditions include the optional use of Regional Secondary Locators, increased transmitter power levels and provide a greater opportunity to bring newcomers into amateur radio. There are approximately 100,000 amateur radio licences issued by Ofcom in the UK. Ofcom says that it will shortly be contacting all licensees to provide each with their new licence document. Ofcom is aiming to reissue all UK amateur radio licences by the autumn of 2024. To help this process run as efficiently as possible, please ensure that your contact details are up to date in the Ofcom licensing system. Further updates to the amateur radio licensing framework, including the issuing of M8 and M9 Intermediate callsigns, will be rolled out in two more phases later this year and in the 2024/25 year. A video entitled ‘Updating the amateur radio licensing framework: RSGB overview of key changes’ is available in the Ofcom playlist on the RSGB’s YouTube channel which you can find at youtube.com/theRSGB  In it, RSGB General Manager Steve Thomas, M1ACB and RSGB Spectrum Forum Chair Murray Niman, G6JYB discuss the impact of the new rules. They also describe how the RSGB worked with Ofcom before and during the consultation period to arrive at the best outcome for all UK amateurs. Steve, Murray, and many people across the RSGB have also worked hard to engage with individual amateurs, and amateur radio clubs and groups, to help them prepare for the licensing changes. The RSGB will continue to release information and support for radio amateurs as we all adapt to the new arrangements. You can read more details and guidance on the Ofcom website at tinyurl.com/ARFEB2024 or via the RSGB website at rsgb.org/licensing
Given that increased transmitter power limits are now available to UK licensees, all amateurs are reminded that they are required to carry out EMF assessments. To help you do this, advice and an online EMF calculator can be found at rsgb.org/emf
The RSGB Band Plans for 2024 were published in the March issue of RadCom. They are also available via the RSGB website at rsgb.org/bandplans  This year’s changes support the new Ofcom licensing framework and guidance, particularly in the VHF and UHF bands. All amateurs are reminded to consult the Band Plans before operating.
The list of amateur radio events taking place in British Science Week and the resource suggestions are growing. GB3RS, the radio station at the RSGB National Radio Centre at Bletchley Park could be available for QSOs with stations operating as part of British Science Week. Contact the RSGB’s BSW coordinator, Ian Neal, M0KEO at bsw@rsgb.org.uk and he will link you with the NRC Coordinator Martyn Baker, G0GMB to make your arrangements. Please continue to send to Ian the resources you’d like to share and details of British Science Week events you’re organising, including the times you’ll be on the air. The RSGB would like to inspire as many people and groups as possible to get involved! You can access all event and resource details on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/bsw
The RSGB has been trialling paper wrappers for RadCom as part of its plans to be more environmentally friendly. The Society has been collating feedback and is aware that there have been particular problems with the glueing of the RadCom wrappers this month. Please be assured that the RSGB is discussing this with its supplier to try to resolve the problem before the next issue.
During a year when the global landscape shifted once more, with conflicts across the world and economic difficulties touching the lives of individuals, the RSGB was pleased to see that the amateur radio community continues to thrive. It may have changed shape and adapted with the times, but the Society has been there not only to support its members but to defend the spectrum and provide information for all radio amateurs. In the March RadCom, there is a feature called ‘A year in numbers’ which shows some of the great things to celebrate, in which RSGB HQ staff have often led the way. There is an infographic and a short video with the highlights, and you can read the fuller story from page 40 in RadCom and on the website. Go to rsgb.org/strategy-updates and click on “2023 - a year in numbers”. The April RadCom will show in detail the work of the RSGB committees and other specialist volunteers.
The amateur radio licence exams will be updated in line with the new licence conditions decided by Ofcom this week. Further information about the timing of those changes can be found on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/syllabus2019
Registration is open for the Mills on the Air event which will take place on Saturday the 11th and Sunday the 12th of May. To read more about the event, register and view a list of stations that are taking part, visit ddars.net  and follow the “mills on the air” link.
And now for details of rallies and events
The British Vintage Wireless Society Biggleswade Swapmeet and AGM is taking place today, the 25th. The venue is The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8JH. A bring-and-buy stall is available with a 10% commission on sales going to the British Vintage Wireless and Television Museum. Stallholders can gain entry from 9 am. The doors open to the public at 9.30 am and admission is £8. For more information visit bvws.org.uk or email secretary@bvws.org.uk
The Red Rose Winter Rally is also taking place today, the 25th. The venue is St Joseph’s Hall, Mather Lane, Leigh, WN7 2PJ. Access for exhibitors is available from 8.30 am and the event will be open to the public from 10 am. Hot and cold refreshments are available. Further details can be found via West Manchester Radio Club’s website at wmrc.co.uk  Send enquiries to Les, G4HZJ via lesjackson@ntlworld.com or phone 07796 264 569.
The Exeter Radio and Electronics Rally will take place on Sunday the 3rd of March from 10 am to 1 pm. The event will be held at America Hall, Pinhoe, EX4 8PX. For more information, contact Pete, G3ZVI on 07714 198 374 or email g3zvi@yahoo.co.uk
 Now the Special Event News
In celebration of World Radio Day, and the 100th anniversary of the start of regular radio broadcasting in Spain, special callsign AO100RADIO will be active until the 29th of February. QSL requests should be sent via the Bureau to EA4URE.
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Radio Amateur Society of Thailand, RAST members are active as HS60RAST until the 10th of March. QSL via HS6MYW.
 Now the DX news
Bernhard, DL2GAC will be active as H44MS from Malaita, OC-047, in the Solomon Islands, until the 25th of April. He will be QRV daily, with activity on the 160 to 6m bands using SSB and some FT8. QSL via Bernard’s home call, directly or via the Bureau.  He will upload details of his contacts to Club Log and Logbook of the World.
Francis, F6BWJ is active as FM/F6BWJ from Martinique, NA-107, until roughly the middle of March. He is operating CW on the 80 to 10m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, or via the Bureau to his home call.
 Now the contest news
The French HF Championship, also known as the REF Contest, started at 0600UTC on Saturday the 24th and ends at 1800UTC today, Sunday the 25th. Using SSB on the HF bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. French stations send their department number or overseas territory prefix.
The CQ 160m DX Contest started at 2200UTC on Friday the 23rd and ends at 2200UTC today, the 25th. Using SSB on the 160m band, the exchange is signal report and CQ zone. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
On Monday the 26th, the FT4 Series Contest runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using FT4 on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is your report.
On Tuesday the 27th, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1930 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 13cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 28th, 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.
The 144 and 432MHz Contest starts at 1400UTC on Saturday the 2nd of March and ends at 1400UTC on Sunday the 3rd of March. Using all modes on the 2m and 70cm bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 3rd, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000UTC to 1600UTC. Using all modes on the microwave bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The Worked All Britain 80m Contest will take place on Sunday the 3rd of March from 1800 to 2200UTC. Please note that this is an SSB-only contest, and the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain area. All entries need to be with the contest manager by the 13th of March. Full Contest rules are available on the Worked All Britain website at worked-all-britain.org.uk
The ARRL International DX Contest starts at 0000UTC on Saturday the 2nd of March and ends at 2359UTC on Sunday the 3rd of March. Using SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and transmitter power. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
 Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 22nd of February 2024
We’ve had two X-class solar flares over the past few days. The first occurred at 2307UTC on the 21st of February, so didn’t affect the UK at all. The second erupted at 0632UTC on the 22nd of February and was too early to affect the ionosphere in this region. However, HF paths to the east may have been affected.
However, active region 3590 could cause more problems as it rotates into an Earth-facing position. Look out for more flares and potential coronal mass ejections as we head into the weekend.
Another problem is a coronal hole on the solar equator, which was Earth-facing on Friday the 23rd and could lead to an increased Kp index today, the 25th if its associated Bz magnetic field points south.
Although there are only two sunspot groups visible, the solar flux index is 170, showing just how potent these spots are.
Daytime MUFs over a 3,000km path are still exceeding 35MHz, while nighttime MUFs over a similar distance struggle to get above 10 to 11MHz.
With the daytime MUF so high, it is a good opportunity to check for low-power 10m beacons. The RSGB’s Propagation Studies Committee has just released a new 10m beacon list, which has been created from scratch using the reverse beacon network and help from amateurs around the world.
The new beacon list, which can be found under the Propagation section of the RSGB website at rsgb.org/beacons should be more useful than its predecessor as it is based on actual beacons that have been received. But if you hear any beacon that is not on the list, please inform Steve, G0KYA at psc.chairman@rsgb.org.uk
Next week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index may decline a little into the 160s. As for geomagnetic conditions, it all depends upon what happens with active region 3590. We could be in for a rough ride, or things could be fine – let’s wait and see.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
The current spell of unsettled weather continues, and this means that Tropo won’t be worth waiting for, other than any temporary short-lived early morning temperature inversions, especially if accompanied by misty low cloud or fog.
The main part of the story is again rain scatter, which will have plenty of opportunity to shine in the period to the end of the coming week. Summer thunderstorms are usually full of large raindrops, while winter systems are generally less intense but, in the absence of much else, it’s still worth considering for those on the GHz bands.
The other propagation modes of meteor scatter or aurora are even longer shots, but they may still crop up. The best time for random meteor scatter QSOs is around dawn.
Lastly, the doldrums for Sporadic-E propagation are still with us and don’t expect too much until we are well into April, even on the 10m band.
The high solar flux could see some trans-equatorial 50MHz openings if the Kp index remains low, especially for the far south and west of the UK.  
For EME operators, Moon declination starts the weekend positive but drops negative again on Monday. With apogee, when the Moon is at its furthest point from Earth, occurring yesterday, Saturday the 24th, path losses are at their highest for the month this weekend. 144MHz sky noise is low all week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 18th February 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 18th of February 2024
The news headlines:
Ask the RSGB Board a question during the Society’s 2024 AGM
Get involved with British Science Week
Registration is now open for Maritime Radio Day 2024
 
Over the last few years, the RSGB has been developing the way in which the Board can be asked questions at the Society’s online AGMs. Last year people were able to ask questions via the YouTube live chat as well as submitting written questions in advance. This year, in response to members’ feedback, there will be an opportunity to ask a question on video via Zoom. The RSGB Board will still take written questions in advance and will also answer as many questions on the day via the live chat as possible, depending on the time. The RSGB AGM will be held on Saturday the 13th of April and you can find more information about how to take part on the Q&A subpage of the RSGB AGM web section at rsgb.org/agm
The RSGB has a collection of resources to help you get involved with British Science Week, which runs from the 8th to the 17th of March this year and has the theme of ‘Time’. If you already have something planned, please let the RSGB know. This will be useful for others to see and might inspire them! There are already several events for British Science Week on the RSGB website. Some of these are open to everyone, so please show your support for them. If you’re going on the air, tell everyone when to listen out for you by sending the RSGB dates, times, bands and modes. The RSGB’s British Science Week coordinator is Ian Neal, M0KEO and you can contact him via bsw@rsgb.org.uk  Please send Ian the resources you’d like to share and your event details including the times you’ll be on the air. All details are on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/bsw
Registration is now open for Maritime Radio Day 2024 which takes place annually on the 14th and 15th of April. The event is held to commemorate the almost 100 years of wireless telegraphy service for seafarers which ended with the closure in the UK of Portishead Radio on the 30th of April 2000. Commencing at 1200UTC on the 14th of April, and finishing at 2300UTC on the 15th of April, this event is a great opportunity to have a QSO with ex-Marine Radio Officers and Coast Station professionals who exchange details of their previous ships and coast stations. The mode of operation is CW and all of the HF bands are used, including the WARC bands. A certificate of participation will be issued to everyone who submits results. Amateur licence holders are invited to register to take part in Friends of Maritime Radio Day. Shortwave listeners may also submit logs. For more information and to register, visit tinyurl.com/MRD24
There are less than two weeks to go until the deadline for the RSGB Construction Competition. There are six categories to enter this year: Antennas; Beginners; Most creative and/or elegant PCB Design; Construction Excellence; Innovation; and Software and Systems. To enable members from across the country, and even the world, to enter, entries will again be judged over the internet rather than in person. Special recognition will be given to entries submitted by radio amateurs under the age of 24, and to those who have just gained their Foundation licence. A cash prize will be awarded to the winner of each section, with a bonus for the overall winner, who will also be declared the winner of the Pat Hawker G3VA Award. You can find out more, including how to enter, on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/construction-competition  Don’t forget, the deadline for entries is the 1st of March 2024 so get your entry in before it’s too late.
Many amateur radio stations have been on the air this weekend, in conjunction with The Guide Association, to celebrate World Thinking Day on the Air. The aim of World Thinking Day on the Air is to encourage Guides to make friendships with members of other units, using amateur radio as the means of communication. If you, or your club or society, were on the air during the event don’t forget to send your pictures and stories to radcom@rsgb.org.uk  Please send your reports in by the 23rd of March.
And now for details of rallies and events
The British Vintage Wireless Society Biggleswade Swap meet and AGM will take place on Sunday the 25th of February. The venue will be The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8JH. A bring-and-buy stall will be available with a 10% commission on sales going to the British Vintage Wireless and Television Museum. Stallholders can gain entry from 9 am. The doors open to the public at 9.30 am and admission will be £8. For more information visit bvws.org.uk or email secretary@bvws.org.uk
The Red Rose Winter Rally will take place on Sunday the 25th of February. The venue will be St Joseph’s Hall, Mather Lane, Leigh, WN7 2PJ. Access for exhibitors will be available from 8.30 am and the event will be open to the public from 10 am. Hot and cold refreshments will be available. Further details can be found via West Manchester Radio Club’s website at wmrc.co.uk  Send enquiries to Les, G4HZJ via lesjackson@ntlworld.com or phone 07796 264 569.
The Exeter Radio and Electronics Rally will take place on Sunday the 3rd of March from 10 am to 1 pm. The event will be held at America Hall, Pinhoe, EX4 8PX. For more information contact Pete, G3ZVI on 07714 198 374 or email g3zvi@yahoo.co.uk
 Now the Special Event News
Today is the last chance to work Francois, F8DVD who is active as TM21AAW to promote the 21st Antarctic Activity Week. He is QRV from his home QTH in France. QSL via Logbook of the World, his home call or the Bureau.
Listen out for members of Radio Club Jean Bart, F6KMB who are active today, the 18th, as TM6C during the traditional Dunkirk Carnival. Operators will be working on the HF and VHF bands using CW, SSB and FT8. QSL via F6KMB.
Celebrating the Scandinavian CW Activity Group's 50th anniversary, special callsign SC50AG is active on the HF bands during February. All QSOs will be confirmed via the Bureau and Logbook of the World.
Now the DX news
Antonio, IK7WUL is active as TY2AA until Tuesday the 20th of February while on a humanitarian mission to Benin. In his spare time, he operates SSB on the HF bands. QSL via IZ8CCW and Logbook of the World.
Chuck, KG9N is active as V26CV from Antigua, NA-100, until Tuesday the 20th of February. He is operating mainly using CW and SSB on various bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, or his home call.
 Now the contest news
The ARRL International DX Contest started at 0000UTC on Saturday the 17th and ends at 2359UTC today, the 18th. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and transmitter power. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
On Tuesday the 20th, the 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 23cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Thursday the 22nd, the 80m Club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The CQ 160m DX Contest runs from 2200UTC on Friday the 23rd to 2200UTC on Sunday the 25th. Using SSB on the 160m band, the exchange is signal report and CQ zone. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
The French HF Championship, also known as the REF Contest, starts at 0600UTC on Saturday the 24th and ends at 1800UTC on Sunday the 25th. Using SSB on the HF bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. French stations send their department number or overseas territory prefix.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 15th of February 2024
We had an interesting week with the threat of a major coronal mass ejection at any time with so much sunspot activity. In the end, it pretty much amounted to nothing, with the highest Kp index only reaching 4.33 on February 11th.
That’s not to say we didn’t have solar activity. Far from it, as the solar flux index reached 208 on the 12th and has been consistently above 180 all week. We also had high proton levels as the positively charged particles streamed past Earth. This was the result of an eruption early on Monday morning from beyond the southwest limb. This may have affected HF signals going over the poles.
Otherwise, we had numerous low-level solar flares to contend with, but none of them were stronger than M-class and so of little consequence.
So where did this leave us in terms of HF propagation? All in all, not bad with maximum usable frequencies, or MUFs for short, over 3,000km consistently above 28MHz in daylight hours. Daytime MUFs were peaking above 33MHz according to the Dourbes ionosonde.
Looking further ahead, we are now heading towards the equinox period, so we can expect MUFs to fall from their winter highs. The good news is that we can expect north-south paths to improve. The equinox is traditionally a better time for auroral conditions.
If you want to work the USA on 28MHz you still have a couple of months left to do so, but expect transatlantic propagation conditions to decline by the time April arrives. The good news is that propagation to South Africa, South America and the Caribbean may improve.
Next week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index may reduce and be in the range of 155 to 165. Geomagnetic conditions are predicted to be quiet but, as always, keep an eye on solarham.net for a near real-time update as the risk of a coronal mass ejection, or CME, remains high. To recap, an Earth-facing CME could increase the Kp index, reduce MUFs and generally give poor HF propagation for up to a day.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
The basic weather pattern remains unsettled with a series of frontal systems crossing the country during the period. This leaves little room for any Tropo other than the occasional transient ridge of high pressure between successive weather systems. It does however give plenty of scope for rain-scatter enthusiasts to try their luck on the GHz bands.
The solar conditions continue to give hope for an increased geomagnetic Kp index, which would be a good signal for potential aurora if it goes above 5 as evidenced in visual displays over northern Britain last Tuesday night, the 13th and 14th of February.
As usual, the other propagation modes can still surprise us, even though this is not strictly the best time of year. The large number of satellites in operation means that QSOs can be guaranteed even with simple hand-held equipment. So, have a look at the AMSAT-UK pages and the RSGB website for details and give it a go!
Also, a reminder that the best time for random meteor scatter QSOs is around dawn and that the high solar flux could see some 50MHz openings if the Kp index remains low, especially for the far South and West of the UK.  
For EME operators, the moon reaches peak declination today, Sunday the 18th, so activity should be higher with high peak moon elevations and long moon windows. Path losses are moderate but rising and 144MHz sky noise is moderate, but falling after Monday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 11th February 2024

 
GB2RS News
Sunday the 11th of February 2024
The news headlines:
The outcome of the RSGB 2024 Board and Regional Team election process
RSGB challenge for British Science Week announced
RSGB Spectrum Forum updates
The RSGB has announced the outcome of its 2024 Board and Regional Team election process. These results come into force at the RSGB 2024 AGM and, until that time, the current Regional Representatives remain in their roles. The announcement also contains news of the Nominated Directors put forward for endorsement by the RSGB membership next month, as well as two co-options to the RSGB Board, effective until the AGM. For full details of the announcement and the candidates go to the RSGB AGM web page at rsgb.org/agm
The theme of British Science Week this year is Time. Both time and the closely related concept of frequency, are of vital importance to radio communications. The RSGB has announced a new challenge for British Science Week linked to this theme. The challenge has categories for every age group and the winner of each group will win a prize. The deadline for entries is the 1st of September and the results will be announced at the RSGB Convention in October. The challenge is as follows: “Using readily available components, material or other resources, provide a method of either measuring the frequency of a radio frequency source or signal or providing a time reference to a radio operator or radio system”. For more details about the challenge, as well as activities to inspire you and resources to help you take part in British Science Week, go to the RSGB website at rsgb.org/bsw
A busy year has seen several online Spectrum Forum meetings. Two meetings held in January considered the Ofcom notice period for ‘representations’ and areas where band plan adjustments would be needed, as well as more regular items such as annual group reports.
The RSGB website now has these details online. The RSGB’s reply to Ofcom has been added to its special focus page on the Ofcom licence review. Along with other recent representations, this will enable Ofcom to finalise the new licence later this month. The RSGB Spectrum Forum pages have also been updated with the January 2024 group reports and meeting notes, which included the discussions on the provisional changes. To read more, visit rsgb.org/spectrumforum
As previously announced by the RSGB Examinations Standards Committee Chair, Tony Kent, G8PBH, the amateur radio licence examinations will need to change to reflect the changes to the licence conditions announced by Ofcom. The scale of the licence changes will have a significant impact on Section 1 of the syllabus, ‘Licensing’, and a small impact on Section 7, ‘Operating’. Ofcom is currently reviewing representations and will publish its final decision, including the final version of the licence, before the 21st of February. The new licence will come into effect before work on the syllabus and examination question bank is completed. The RSGB Examinations Standards Committee has gained approval from Ofcom to continue to examine the current licence conditions for a period of six months following the publication of the new licence. This will allow trainers time to update their courses in line with the new syllabus, and allow candidates that have started their training under the current licence conditions to complete their courses and take the exam. It is expected that examinations of the new licence conditions will begin on the 1st of September 2024. For full details, see the exam announcements page on the RSGB website.
The first amateur radio station on the moon, JS1YMG, is now transmitting. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, landed its Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon on the 19th of January 2024. The JAXA Ham Radio Club, JQ1ZVI secured the JS1YMG callsign and has been transmitting Morse code on 437.41MHz since the 19th of January. The probe uses 1W to a UHF antenna, with circular polarisation, and is transmitting what is described as "matters related to amateur business." Radio amateurs have been busy analysing JS1YMG's signal. You can read more about this story on Daniel Estévez, EA4GPZ’s blog at destevez.net
The RadCom team is looking for authors who are interested in antennas. So, if you are passionate about the theory, design and construction of antennas, and would like to contribute to the magazine, please email radcom@rsgb.org.uk
And now for details of rallies and events
The MIDCARS Radioactive Rally is being held today, the 11th, at Nantwich Civic Hall, Market Street, Nantwich, CW5 5DG. The doors open at 10 am and admission is £5. There will be a wide variety of trader stalls covering every aspect of amateur radio. Raffles will be held throughout the Rally. Refreshments and snacks will be available in the hall, and parking is immediately adjacent to the venue.
The British Vintage Wireless Society Biggleswade Swapmeet and AGM will take place on Sunday the 25th of February. The venue will be The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8JH. A bring-and-buy stall will be available with a 10% commission on sales going to the British Vintage Wireless and Television Museum. Stallholders can gain entry from 9 am. The doors open to the public from 9.30 am and admission will be £8. For more information visit BVWS.org.uk or email secretary@bvws.org.uk
The Red Rose Winter Rally will take place on Sunday the 25th of February. The venue will be St Joseph’s Hall, Mather Lane, Leigh, WN7 2PJ. Access for exhibitors will be available from 8.30 am and the event will be open to the public from 10 am. Hot and cold refreshments will be available. Further details can be found via West Manchester Radio Club’s website at wmrc.co.uk  Send enquiries to Les, G4HZJ via lesjackson@ntlworld.com or phone 07796 264 569.
Now the Special Event News
In celebration of World Radio Day, a special callsign AO100RADIO will be on the air from Spain until the 29th of February. For more information see QRZ.com
The Royal Netherlands Army Signal Regiment is celebrating its 150th anniversary on the 14th and 15th of February. Cadets, servicemen, amateurs and veterans will be on the air for 36 hours with all kinds of historical and in-service radios. Operators will be using the callsign PI4VBD on all bands using SSB and CW.
Special event station OL80CLAY will be active from the 12th of February to the 30th of June 2024 from near Prague. Operation Clay took place 80 years ago and was a cover name for an operation executed during World War II in the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia by Czech paratroopers trained in England. Their task was to gather intelligence data from Northeast Moravia, send it to London by radio, and cooperate with the local resistance groups. The station will be active on all radio amateur bands. CW will be the main mode of operation, but there will also be activity on SSB, FM and possibly digital modes. Every first QSO will be answered by a special QSL card sent via the Bureau. SWL reports sent via the Bureau to OK2PXJ, or via email, will also be acknowledged. For more information see QRZ.com
Now the DX news
Francis, F6BWJ is active as FM/F6BWJ from Martinique, NA-107, until the 11th of March. He will operate CW on the 80 to 10m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World or via the Bureau to his home call.
Gerard, F2JD is active as HR5/F2JD from Copan, Honduras until the 21st of March 2024. He will operate CW, SSB, FT8 and FT4 on the HF bands. QSL via F6AJA, directly or via the Bureau.
Now the contest news
On Tuesday the 13th, the 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 1955UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also, on Tuesday the 13th, the 432MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 14th, the 80m Club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using PSK63 and RTTY on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Wednesday the 14th, the 432MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Also, on Wednesday the 14th, the 432MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.
On Thursday the 15th, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The CQ Worldwide WPX RTTY Contest started at 0000UTC on Saturday the 10th and ends at 2359UTC today, the 11th. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The PACC Contest started at 1200UTC on Saturday the 10th and ends at 1200UTC today, the 11th. Using CW and SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Dutch stations send their province.
The ARRL International DX Contest starts at 0000UTC on Saturday the 17th of February and ends at 2359UTC on Sunday the 18th of February. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and transmitter power. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 8th of February 2024
A large sunspot region has been turning into an Earth-facing position and now looks like it could be threatening. Active region 3576 has already emitted a couple of low-class solar flares but could be poised for even more.
An M5.1 solar flare was detected around region 3575 on the 7th of February as well. Updated imagery shows that an associated coronal mass ejection, or CME, was likely however, due to the location near the Sun’s south-west limb, it was directed mostly away from Earth.
The solar flux index remained high this week, hitting 190 on the 6th before dropping to 188 on the 8th. Geomagnetically, the Sun has been behaving itself with a maximum Kp index of only three on Sunday the 4th.
But all eyes will be on active region 3576 next week as it could upset the apple cart.
Meanwhile, daylight maximum usable frequencies over a 3,000km path remain more than 28MHz, which is good for HF.
Next week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index may decline to be in the range of 160 to 170. Geomagnetic conditions are also predicted to be settled with a low Kp index. However, as we said earlier, that could all change if we have a violent solar flare and associated coronal mass ejection from region 3576 or any of the many other sunspots.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
Unsettled weather describes the pattern for the coming week, including some colder weather mixed in to provide snowfall for some areas, particularly in northern areas. This characteristic weather type will mean little chance of Tropo during the period.
Other propagation modes of interest might be even harder to find unless you are thinking of rain scatter, which could be useful for a few suitably-equipped stations on the GHz bands. Other modes, such as meteor scatter or aurora, are also looking a bit thin. There is always the chance of some random activity, unlike Sporadic-E which is in its late winter lull that usually lasts until April for the 10 and 6m bands.
For EME operators, Moon declination is negative and rising, going positive on Monday the 12th. So there will be higher peak Moon elevations and longer Moon windows throughout the week. Path losses were at their lowest at perigee on Saturday the 10th.
144MHz Sky noise is moderate to low.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 4th February 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 4th of February 2024
The news headlines:
The RSGB is seeking resources for British Science Week
New RSGB Tonight@8 webinar coming up
RSGB District Representative opportunities in Region 5
The RSGB is collecting resources to help you get involved with British Science Week, which runs from the 8th to the 17th of March. The theme this year is ‘Time’. If you have any resources and are willing to share them, please send them in. The RSGB has provided some already, including an example risk assessment and some lesson plans. You can also get advice about how to contact your local school or college to offer help. The Society would like to add to its resource base, so please share your ideas. If you already have an event planned, please let the RSGB know. This will be useful for others to see. Let the RSGB know whatever you’re planning so it can be added to the web page. If you’re going on the air, tell everyone when to listen out for you by sending dates, times, bands and modes. Send your information to the RSGB British Science Week Coordinator Ian Neal, M0KEO at bsw@rsgb.org.uk and to see all the resources go to rsgb.org/bsw 
The RSGB’s next Tonight@8 live webinar is this Monday, the 5th of February. Gwyn Griffiths, G3ZIL will be giving a presentation called “Propagation at HF: What can we learn using digital modes WSPR and FST4W?” Gwyn is an associate member of the RSGB Propagation Studies Committee and will present some new and exciting research. You can watch and ask questions live on the RSGB YouTube channel and special BATC channel. For more information about the presentation go to the RSGB website at rsgb.org/webinars
Do you live in RSGB Region 5? Region 5 covers the West Midlands area of England, from Staffordshire to the Welsh borders and down to Gloucestershire. The RSGB is looking for three volunteers to take up the roles of DR52 for Central and East Birmingham; DR53 for Shropshire, North Worcestershire and West Birmingham; and DR54 for Gloucestershire, Hereford and South Worcestershire. If you live in one of those areas and would like to promote amateur radio and support the local amateur radio community, please get in touch with the Regional Representative Neil Yorke, M0NKE via rr5@rsgb.org.uk – he will be delighted to hear from you!
The RadCom team is looking for a VHF/UHF columnist. James Stevens, M0JCQ has recently retired from this role following the birth of another child. The RSGB thanks James for his work on the column and wishes him well for the future. If you are interested in this opportunity to contribute to RadCom, please email radcom@rsgb.org.uk
HamCation is one of the world’s largest annual gatherings of radio amateurs. This year it starts in Orlando, Florida on Friday the 9th and runs until Sunday the 11th of February. The event’s website contains lots of information including details of forums, speakers, prizes and a special event station. You can read all about it via hamcation.com
 And now for details of rallies and events
The Canvey Rally is being held today, Sunday the 4th of February, at Cornelius Vermuyden  School, Dinant Avenue, Canvey, Essex, SS8 9QS. For more information contact Richard Stanley at 07725 551 263 or email g7oed@icloud.com 
The MIDCARS Radioactive Rally will be held on Sunday the 11th of February at Nantwich Civic Hall, Market Street, Nantwich, CW5 5DG. The doors open at 10 am and admission is £5. There will be a wide variety of trader stalls covering every aspect of amateur radio. Raffles will be held throughout the Rally. Refreshments and snacks will be available in the hall, and parking is immediately adjacent to the venue.
The Red Rose Winter Rally will take place on Sunday the 25th of February. The venue will be St Joseph’s Hall, Mather Lane, Leigh, WN7 2PJ. Access for exhibitors will be from 8.30 am. The event will be open to the public from 10 am. Hot and cold refreshments will be available. Further details can be found via the West Manchester Radio Club’s website at wmrc.co.uk  Send enquiries to Les, G4HZJ via lesjackson@ntlworld.com or phone 07796 264 569.
 
Now the Special Event News
Today, the 4th, is the last chance to work the special call sign TM26PVJ. The station is active, on the HF bands, for the 26th festival celebrating the ‘Opening of the Yellow Wine’. This year, the festival is taking place at Arbois in the Jura region of France. QSL via F8GGZ.
VI100MB is the special call sign for the Manly-Warringah Radio Society, VK2MB, in Australia, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its formation. The station is active until the 25th of February. QSL via Logbook of the World and eQSL.
 Now the DX news
Keith, G3WRO is active as 8Q7WR from the Maldives, AS-013, until the 6th of February. He is operating SSB on the 40 to 10m bands, and possibly also on the 80m band. QSL via Keith’s home call. 
Michel, F5LRL is active as CN2DX from near Kenitra, Morocco until the 10th of February. He will operate CW and SSB on the 40 to 10m bands. He is also using FT8 on the 6m band. QSL via EA5GL.
 Now the contest news
Today, the 4th, the 432MHz Affiliated Societies Contest runs from 0900 to 1300UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Monday the 5th, the 80m Club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 6th, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 1955UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 6th, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 7th, 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 7th, 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 Wednesday the 7th, the UK and Ireland Contest Club 80m Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.
On Saturday the 10th, the First 1.8MHz Contest runs from 1900 to 2300UTC. Using CW on the 160m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
Also on Saturday the 10th, the Worked All Britain 1.8MHz Contest runs from 1900 to 2359UTC. Please note that this is an SSB-only contest, and all entries need to be with the contest manager by the 20th of February. See worked-all-britain.org.uk for full details of the rules.
The CQ Worldwide WPX RTTY Contest starts at 0000UTC on Saturday the 10th of February and ends at 2359UTC on Sunday the 11th of February. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The PACC Contest starts at 1200UTC on Saturday the 10th of February and ends at 1200UTC on Sunday the 11th of February. Using CW and SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Dutch stations send their province.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 1st of February 2024
We had another week of relatively calm geomagnetic conditions with a maximum Kp index of three. The solar flux index declined from 172 on the 24th to 135 on the 30th.
Nevertheless, that is still enough to support propagation on the 10m band, with the maximum usable frequency over a 3,000km path generally being between 29 and 36MHz during daylight.
Solar activity has been at low levels with only minor C-class flares and one M-class flare detected. Active region 3559 is now located behind the west limb of the Sun and out of direct view. New active region 3567 in the northeast quadrant is showing the most promise as it appears to be in a growth phase. There is currently a 25% chance of a moderate M-class flare, according to the latest NOAA and SWPC update.
Earlier in the week, we had a period of moderate S2-level radiation storming. Proton levels streaming past Earth, following a solar flare early on Monday morning, increased but this has now declined.
A minor coronal hole also became Earth-facing on the 2nd of February, so we may still expect some disruption today, Sunday the 4th.
The 10m band is still romping along, with beacons along the eastern seaboard of the USA coming alive in the afternoon. This weekend, the 3rd and 4th, sees the 10-10 International Winter SSB Contest, so there should be plenty of stations to work on 28MHz.
Next week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index may rise again, perhaps to 150 today Sunday 4th, and up to 165 a week later. We may have unsettled geomagnetic conditions on the 5th and 6th, with the Kp index predicted to rise to three.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
This week, ending the 4th of February, saw high pressure to the south of Britain and fronts over northern areas. For some stations in the southern half of the country, there could be useful Tropo conditions for the 432MHz Affiliated Societies Contest taking place today, the 4th.
Unfortunately, the frontal activity over the north will move south on Tuesday to remove any chance of these better conditions lasting into the 144MHz UK Activity Contest on Tuesday the 6th of February.
The period from mid-week onwards looks dominated by low pressure with rain or showers and generally flat VHF and UHF prospects unless you are set up for rain scatter. Other propagation modes like meteor scatter, aurora or Sporadic-E seem likely to remain in the background for the coming week.
For EME operators, moon declination is negative and falling to a minimum on Tuesday the 6th. Path losses are also decreasing since their maximum at apogee on Monday the 29th. But with the low peak moon elevations, only eight degrees on Tuesday, moon windows will be short.
144MHz sky noise is moderate to very high all week going over 3100 Kelvin on Tuesday the 6th. Friday and Saturday see the moon and sun very close together, so Sun noise in antenna beamwidths will be an issue.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 28th January 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 28th of January 2024
The news headlines:
The RSGB election deadline is coming up
RSGB Build a Radio workshop planned at Bletchley Park
Registration for SOS Radio Week is open
The deadline for nominations in the RSGB elections is next Wednesday, the 31st of January. If you would like to stand for the one elected Director role, or any of the eight Regional Representative vacancies, you will need to complete the nomination process by 2359UTC on Wednesday. Full details of the process are on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/election  The Society would encourage anyone with a passion for amateur radio, and a desire to support the amateur radio community, to look at the candidate information and consider stepping forward for one of these roles. You’ll find full information about the skills and experience needed in the candidate packs, and there is still time for an informal chat about the roles and responsibilities if you’d like one. But don’t delay as late applications won’t be accepted!
As part of its British Science Week activities, the RSGB is organising two build-a-radio workshops at Bletchley Park on Sunday the 17th of March. Funded by the Radio Communications Foundation, these fun workshops are a great way for young people to try a practical amateur radio activity. The sessions are for youngsters aged 11 to 18 who will build their own VHF FM broadcast receiver using simple tools. The workshops cost £11 for the participant, and if you are an adult accompanying a participant who is aged 16 or under, you will receive free admission to Bletchley Park. These workshops are always very popular so book now if you know a youngster who would like to take part. Go to the Bletchley Park website at bletchleypark.org.uk then choose the What’s On option from the top right-hand menu.
SOS Radio Week is an annual event that takes place throughout May to celebrate the work of the volunteers from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Independent Lifeboats and National Coastwatch Stations around the British Isles. Members of these organisations save many people who are in danger along, and around, the thousands of miles of coastline and further out to sea. This year is the 200th anniversary of the founding of the RNLI, so SOS Radio Week is being branded ‘SOS Radio Week 200’ for those operators who are supporting the RNLI during the event. Participants can operate from home, a public location, or a lifeboat or Coast watch station, with the appropriate authorisation from the station manager. A commemorative certificate will be available to all official stations that record their contacts on the website, together with awards for the top individual and club, or group, stations on each band from 160m to 70cm. Registration for individual and group operators is now open via sosradioweek.org.uk
The RSGB has released a further three presentations from its 2023 Convention. In the first, Professor Simon Watts, G3XXH gives a fascinating presentation about VHF airborne radar and the design and performance of these early systems in World War II. The other two presentations focus on the World Radiosport Team Championship which the UK will be hosting in 2026. The WRTC is held every four years and is considered to be the Olympic Games of radio contesting. At the RSGB Convention, WRTC Chair Mark Haynes, M0DXR gave an overview of what is being planned and how people can get involved either as a spectator, volunteer, competitor or referee. John Warburton, G4IRN gave his perspective on what it is like to be a WRTC referee. The full WRTC planning team also gave an update recently on an RSGB Tonight@8 live webinar. You can see all of these presentations on the RSGB YouTube channel at youtube.com/theRSGB
RadCom Basics aims to help newcomers to amateur radio develop their knowledge and experience. Others enjoy reading it as it helps remind them of things they have forgotten or practise a skill they have not used for a while. The January 2024 issue of RadCom Basics is now available. It contains articles that provide advice on getting started with Bunkers on the Air, working on the 160 and 80m bands, constructing a multi-band vertical antenna, and more. You can find RadCom Basics at rsgb.org/radcom-basics
The latest issue of RadCom Plus, the online magazine for the more technically-minded radio amateur, was published this week. The first article, by Tom Alldread, VA7TA, is about how to make a protection filter for an SDR or VNA. Following this is a contribution from Sheldon Hutchison, N6JJA who discusses how to make an effective antenna noise canceller. You may recall the article by Andy, G0FVI in October’s RadCom which discussed the principles of antenna noise cancellation. Sheldon investigates exactly how the canceller should work, and his investigations have resulted in his superior design which you can construct for yourself. The third article, by Michael Toia, K3MT, is all about understanding the relationship between a train of square pulses and the harmonic content of its frequency spectrum, not with complicated mathematics, but by using an entirely diagrammatic approach. Those less familiar with mathematics might especially find this article helpful. This issue of RadCom Plus ends with Andy Nehan, G4HUE discussing the design of analogue power supplies. Members of the RSGB can access RadCom Plus via rsgb.org/radcom-plus
 And now for details of rallies and events
The Lincoln Short Wave Club Winter Radio Rally is taking place today, the 28th, at The Festival Hall, Caistor Road, Market Rasen, LN8 3HT. The doors are open from 9 am and admission is £2. Ample free car parking and hot refreshments are available. The tables cost £10 each. At 2 pm, after the Rally, there will be a used equipment auction. Items for the auction will be booked in from 1 pm. Contact Steve, M5ZZZ for tables and details via m5zzz@outlook.com or 07777 699 069.
The Canvey Rally will be held on Sunday the 4th of February at Cornelius Vermuyden School, Dinant Avenue, Canvey, Essex, SS8 9QS. The Rally is expected to be the usual hive of activity with plenty of traders on site. For more information contact Richard Stanley at 07725 551 263 or email g7oed@icloud.com 
The MIDCARS Radioactive Rally will be held on Sunday the 11th of February at Nantwich Civic Hall, Market Street, Nantwich, CW5 5DG. The doors open at 10 am and admission is £5. There will be a wide variety of trader stalls covering every aspect of amateur radio. Raffles will be held throughout the Rally. Refreshments and snacks will be available in the hall, and parking is immediately adjacent to the venue.
 Now the Special Event News
The Radio Club of Haïti is on the air until the 31st of January with special callsign HH220Y. The station is active to celebrate Haïti’s 220th anniversary of independence. Operators are active on the 160 to 10m bands using CW, FT8 and SSB. QSL via N2OO.
Listen out for special event station TM21AAW which will be on the air from the 4th to the 18th of February 2024. The station is active to celebrate the 21st Antarctic Activity Week. Activity will be on the 40 to 10m bands. QSL via F8DVD, directly or via the Bureau. For more information about Antarctic Activity Week, visit waponline.it  
 Now the DX news
Mathias, DL4MM will be active as P4/DL4MM and P40AA from Aruba, SA-036, until Wednesday the 31st of January. He will operate CW, SSB and digital modes on the 160 to 10m bands. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World, or via DL4MM.
Elvira, IV3FSG is active as ZD7Z from St. Helena, AF-022, until the 4th of February. She is operating SSB, CW, RTTY, FT8 and FT4 on the 160 to 6m bands. QSL via Club Log's OQRS. Paper cards can be sent directly to IK2DUW
 Now the contest news
The CQ 160m DX Contest started at 2200UTC on Friday the 26th and ends at 2200UTC today, the 28th. Using CW on the 160m band, the exchange is signal report and CQ zone. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group RTTY Sprint started at 1200UTC on Saturday the 27th and ends at 1200UTC today, the 28th. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number.
On Wednesday the 31st, 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.
The UK Six Metre Group Winter Marathon began on Friday the 1st of December 2023. The contest will run until the 31st of January 2024. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report and locator.
On Sunday the 4th of February, the 432MHz Affiliated Societies Contest runs from 0900 to 1300UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 25th of January 2024
We dodged a bullet last week when a coronal mass ejection, or CME, was predicted to be heading our way. In the end, it came to nothing.
The CME observed on the 20th of January was expected to pass Earth and deliver possible G2 storm conditions. But a solar wind enhancement, possibly associated with the plasma cloud passing near Earth, saw the Kp index rise to only 3.67 on Wednesday the 24th.
The many solar flares, and associated coronal mass ejections, over the past few days make it difficult to give a reliable geomagnetic forecast. Over the past seven days, there have been more than 60 C-class and 18 M-class flares, typical for this point in the solar cycle. Sunspot-wise, the solar flux index has remained high, being more than 170 all week.
Critical frequencies have often exceeded 11MHz during daylight hours, which means the 30m band, as well as the 40m band, should be open around the UK. However, nighttime critical frequencies have fallen below 4MHz, meaning that even the 80m band struggles at times.
We mentioned last week that the NCDXF beacon VK6RBP in Australia had been heard on 28.200MHz. If you’ve copied VK6RBP you might be interested in trying for some other lower-power Australian beacons on the 10m band. Try listening for the 8W VK4LA/B on 28.206MHz in Brisbane, or perhaps the 10W VK4RST, which is 550km north-west of Brisbane, on 28.266MHz.
Next week, NOAA predicts the solar flux index will be in the range of 155 to 175. Geomagnetic conditions are forecast to be quiet, other than on the 29th of January when the Kp index is predicted to rise to three. But, as always, keep an eye on solarham.net for a near real-time report.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
Today, the 28th, sees the UK recovering from the two named storms and just getting settled into moving high pressure across northern France, with a second centre crossing central Britain early next week. This offers a chance of Tropo, especially in the south, while fronts continue to affect Scotland.
After the middle of the coming week, a more unsettled pattern returns with fronts crossing the country, which might bring some rain scatter for the GHz bands. But, in general, the picture remains unsettled into the end of the week and doesn’t look too exciting for the 432MHz Affiliated Societies Contest on Sunday the 4th of February.
Other propagation modes that are worth considering are all relatively low-key in the transition into February. This means that meteor scatter is best looked for in the early pre-dawn period when random meteor activity peaks.
The other chance might be aurora, and this is simply about checking the behaviour of the Kp index, which measures the disturbance of the earth’s magnetic field by solar activity. Kp indices higher than six are a good sign for aurora. 
It looks like we are in a quiet period for Sporadic-E propagation.
For EME operators, Moon declination is positive and falling, going negative again on the 30th. Path losses reach their maximum at apogee on Monday the 29th, then start to fall again. 144MHz sky noise is low all week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 21st January 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 21st of January 2024
The news headlines:
British Science Week is approaching
Updates on the RSGB’s Strategic Priorities
RSGB election deadline reminder
 
This year’s British Science Week runs from the 8th to the 17th of March with the theme of Time. This event is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of amateur radio in your local area. The RSGB has some great activity ideas you could try at your local school, Scout or Guiding group or local youth club. Go to the web page at rsgb.org/bsw and click on the activity titles to find everything you need to know to be able to run that activity. Several radio clubs from across the UK have already planned outreach activities for British Science Week and the RSGB hopes its resources will inspire you to get involved too! RSGB volunteer John Hislop, G7OHO has provided these ideas but the Society would love to add other activities to enthuse young people about wireless communication. If you have an amateur radio activity on the theme of Time that you’d like to share, or if you’d like to get involved but aren’t sure how to start, please direct enquiries to the RSGB British Science Week contact, Ian Neal, M0KEO. Ian’s contact details will soon be available at rsgb.org/bsw
At the Discussion with the Board session at the RSGB 2023 Convention, the RSGB President, John McCullagh, GI4BWM confirmed that the Board would keep members updated regularly on progress with the new strategic priorities. Two updates have now appeared in the January and February issues of RadCom and they are also available to read on the RSGB website. These updates highlight some important activities and achievements as well as new plans, so the Society encourages every member to take the time to read them. Go to rsgb.org/strategy and choose the ‘Strategy priorities updates’ option from the righthand list. Further updates are being prepared so do check back regularly or look out for them in each RadCom. You can also watch the Discussion with the Board Convention session on the RSGB’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/theRSGB
The deadline for applications for the one elected RSGB Board Director position and eight Regional Representative roles is Wednesday the 31st of January. Amateur radio needs a strong and active national society so don’t leave it to everyone else, step forward for one of these roles and play your part in the future of the RSGB. You'll find guidance and candidate forms on the RSGB elections web page at rsgb.org/election as well as contact details if you want an informal chat before standing for election.
A reminder that the RSGB is looking for four licensed radio amateurs to help raise the profile of wireless communication amongst young people across the UK. We have had a good response, but we’d still like to hear from prospective volunteers in Northern Ireland and Wales. These volunteer Youth Country Representatives will represent the RSGB at externally organised events and will plan and deliver outreach activities. If you have plenty of ideas, a passion for getting young people involved in amateur radio and experience of running small-scale events, we would be very keen to hear from you. The deadline is Friday the 16th of February. For full details, see rsgb.org/volunteers and for an informal discussion, please email RSGB Board Director, Ben Lloyd, GW4BML at gw4bml@rsgb.org.uk
GB2RS began broadcasting via the Es’hail-2 amateur satellite in May 2021. Every Sunday at 0800UTC you can hear the latest RSGB news on the dedicated narrow-band QO-100 transponder frequency of 10489.855MHz. This has proved so popular that, by the kind permission of AMSAT-DL, from the 4th of February 2024 we’re introducing a second reading at 2100UTC. This will suit our international audience in the western lobe of the footprint. The existing team of three Newsreaders is looking for another volunteer to join them. If you are an RSGB member with a good QO-100 facility and would be interested in broadcasting the news, please contact the GB2RS Manager, Steve, G4HPE at gb2rs.manager@rsgb.org.uk for further details.
During February, the RSGB’s Photo Friday focus on social media is all about clubs. If you’d like your club to be included, let the RSGB comms team know what you've been up to and who's been involved and share all the brilliant things you've been doing. Email comms@rsgb.org.uk by the 31st of January with a brief summary of the activity and some photos, and please make sure that everyone in the photo is happy to have their face on social media!
Chris Deacon, G4IFX has been awarded a PhD from the University of Bath after completing research on propagation. His thesis was entitled: “Radio propagation through ionospheric Sporadic-E”. This part-time work over many years involved looking at Sporadic-E on the 6m band, including making novel measurements of signal amplitude, phase, derived Doppler, polarisation and potential time delay to discover the nature of sporadic-E propagation at VHF frequencies. The RSGB Propagation Studies Committee congratulates Chris on this fantastic achievement. You can find out more by searching for Chris’ name on the University of Bath research portal at researchportal.bath.ac.uk  Chris has done a number of presentations about propagation at RSGB Conventions over the years, which you can see on the RSGB YouTube channel at youtube.com/theRSGB
And now for details of rallies and events
The Lincoln Short Wave Club Winter Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 28th of January at The Festival Hall, Caistor Road, Market Rasen, LN8 3HT. The doors will be open from 9 am and admission is £2. Ample free car parking and hot refreshments will be available. The tables cost £10 each. At 2 pm, after the Rally, there will be a used equipment auction. Items for the auction will be booked from 1 pm. Contact Steve, M5ZZZ for tables and details via m5zzz@outlook.com or 07777 699 069.
The Canvey Rally will be held on Sunday the 4th of February at Cornelius Vermuyden School, Dinant Avenue, Canvey, Essex, SS8 9QS. The Rally is expected to be the usual hive of activity with plenty of traders on site. For more information contact Richard Stanley at 07725 551 263 or email g7oed@icloud.com 
The MIDCARS Radioactive Rally will be held on Sunday the 11th of February at Nantwich Civic Hall, Market Street, Nantwich, CW5 5DG. The doors open at 10 am and admission is £5. There will be a wide variety of trader stalls covering every aspect of amateur radio. Raffles will be held throughout the Rally. Refreshments and snacks will be available in the hall and parking is immediately adjacent to the venue.
Now the Special Event News
A team of German amateurs is operating a special event call sign DM24EHF until the 28th of January. The EHF suffix stands for European Handball Federation. The 16th edition of the European Men's Handball Championship is being hosted in Germany from the 10th to the 28th of January. QSL via the bureau, or directly to DL2VFR.
The Straight Key Century Club's Straight Key Month is currently underway. The annual on-air event commemorates the Club's founding in 2006 and celebrates the original instruments of early radiotelegraphy including straight keys, bugs and ‘cootie’ keys. Listen out for the K3Y callsign which is being aired from the ten US call areas. Information on the event and QSL instructions can be found at skccgroup.com/k3y
“Discovering Marconi” is an international amateur radio diploma organised by the ARI Radio Club of Fidenza in Italy. Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the birth of the great Italian scientist in 1874, this award aims to delve deeper into the thought, vision, capacity and character of Guglielmo Marconi. More details of special callsigns and award rules can be found at arifidenza.itNow the DX news
Chris, WA7RAR will be active as 8P9CB from Barbados, NA-021, until the 25th of January. Most of his operations will be portable at various locations, especially Parks on the Air sites. He will be QRV on the 20 to 10m bands using CW and SSB. QSL via Logbook of the World, or directly to WA7RAR.
Listen out for Bob, V4/N4RF who is active from Saint Kitts, NA-104, until the 25th of January. He will operate mainly CW, with some FT8 and SSB. QSL via Logbook of the World is preferred but is also available directly via his home call.
Now the contest news
On Tuesday the 23rd, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1930 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 13cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The CQ 160m DX Contest starts at 2200UTC on Friday the 26th and ends at 2200UTC on Sunday the 28th. Using CW on the 160m band, the exchange is signal report and CQ zone. American stations send their state and Canadian stations send their province.
The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group RTTY Sprint starts at 1200UTC on Saturday the 27th and ends at 1200UTC on Sunday the 28th. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is a serial number.
The UK Six Metre Group Winter Marathon began on Friday the 1st of December 2023. The contest will run until the 31st of January 2024. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report and locator.
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 18th of January 2024
We had yet another week with good solar conditions which, at this point in the cycle, is good news. The solar flux index remained in the 170s to 180s range and the Sun is currently peppered with spots.
The Kp index never got above 3.33 and that was only for one three-hour period on January the 16th.
We were also lucky with solar flares in that we only had minor C-class flares to contend with. An eruption was observed beyond the west limb on January 14th. The event generated a fast-moving coronal mass ejection or CME, but it was directed away from our planet.
Daytime MUFs over 3,000km remain high at more than 28MHz. At night this reduces to around 6.9 to 9.5MHz, meaning only the 40m band is mainly open to DX, if at all.
HF-wise, this is the best time for low-band DXing, such as 40m band contacts with New Zealand around sunrise, and overnight QSOs on the 80m band with the USA.
Other DX being worked by members of CDXC includes XU7AKU in Cambodia on 40m CW in the early evening; V31XX in Belize, VP9KF in Bermuda, on 30m CW around 1000UTC; and E20AX in Thailand on 40m CW around 0930UTC.
Next week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index may remain in the 160 to 170 range with a maximum Kp index of 2. As always, take that Kp prediction with a pinch of salt as a single Earth-facing coronal mass ejection could send it sky-high with an accompanying lowering of the MUF and generally poor conditions.
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
The main theme of the VHF and up propagation options is that we have three distinct phases coming up.
The first phase is set to end today, the 21st. This will be the final blast of the cold northerly wind, which may produce some rain scatter near coasts from snow showers. It is probably not especially useful for Tropo, even inland, except perhaps for local overnight temporary short-distance enhancements due to surface cooling and night frosts.
Phase two is the transition to very unsettled, wet and windy weather, which starts to arrive during this weekend, ending the 21st, and generally sets the pattern for much of the coming week. Maybe it will be a rain scatter option for the GHz bands, but the main radio consideration will be wind potentially damaging antennas, particularly in the south.
Phase three will be the introduction of a weak ridge of high pressure over southern Britain in the second half of the coming week and the following weekend. This could bring some more productive Tropo to southern parts of the UK, especially into the last weekend of the month.
Other propagation modes are available but don’t seem to be elevated beyond chance occurrences for meteor scatter or aurora. There is a vanishingly small chance of Sporadic-E, as we are in the minimum period for this sort of propagation until after Easter.
For EME operators, Moon declination is positive and rising, reaching a maximum on the 23rd. Path losses increase all week until apogee on Monday the 29th. 144MHz sky noise is low to moderate this coming week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for 14th January 2024

GB2RS News
Sunday the 14th of January 2024
The news headlines:
RSGB releases new video about changes to amateur radio licensing
WRTC 2026 team to appear in an RSGB Tonight@8 webinar
Paul Athersmith, M0PLA achieves Mountain Goat award
 
Following Ofcom’s consultation on the amateur radio licence last year, it released a statement in December 2023. The statement outlined its decision to update the amateur radio licensing framework to ensure the policies and licences meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s radio amateurs while streamlining the licensing process. It also published a General Notice, giving notice of its proposal to vary all amateur radio licences. The RSGB has just released a video in which RSGB General Manager Steve Thomas, M1ACB chats to RSGB Spectrum Forum Chair Murray Niman, G6JYB. Murray recaps some of the headline results of the Ofcom consultation, including where changes have occurred to Ofcom’s proposals. They also talk about what this could mean for radio amateurs in the future. This is a great example of how the RSGB is working not only to defend the spectrum but also to support all radio amateurs to understand and make use of the privileges they enjoy through their amateur radio licence. You can watch this video on the RSGB’s YouTube channel or via the Society’s licence review updates page at rsgb.org/licencereview
On Monday the 15th of January, join the RSGB’s first Tonight@8 live webinar of 2024. Led by Chairman and Project Manager Mark Haynes, M0DXR, the WRTC 2026 team will be presenting and answering questions live on the RSGB YouTube channel and BATC channel. The presentation will explain what WRTC is about and provide an overview of what the UK’s Organising Committee is planning for the 2026 event. Find out how you can be part of this once-in-a-lifetime event, either as a spectator, volunteer, competitor or referee. Following Mark’s presentation at the RSGB 2023 Convention, this Tonight@8 webinar will bring you up to date with everything that has been happening since. To find out more go to the RSGB website at rsgb.org/webinars
Paul Athersmith, M0PLA of Telford, Shropshire, has achieved the coveted Mountain Goat award for gaining 1,000 activator points in the Summits on the Air scheme. Paul completed his mission on the summit of Pole Bank, on the Long Mynd in Shropshire. The feat took Paul just over seven years, following his debut activation in December 2016. For more information about SOTA, visit sota.org.uk 
The deadline for nominations in the RSGB elections is Wednesday the 31st of January. You still have time to stand for the one Elected Board Director vacancy or for one of the eight Regional Representative vacancies. Do you want to support your local radio amateurs? Are you passionate about seeing the amateur radio community grow and attract new people of all ages? Do you understand the RSGB’s importance in helping to protect the spectrum and the licence privileges all radio amateurs enjoy? If so, this is the time to step forward! If you don’t feel you can volunteer at this time, do you know someone who would be great in one of these roles? Go to the RSGB website at rsgb.org/election to find out how to get involved before the nomination period closes.
RSGB National Radio Centre Coordinator Martyn Baker, G0GMB is a name many will know from visits to the National Radio Centre at Bletchley Park. Others will know him from contacts they may have made with him on the radio over the many years that Martyn has been an amateur radio licensee. You can learn more about Martyn, and his love for the hobby, in "The Face Behind the Call" in January's Practical Wireless magazine. Journalist Roger Dowling, G3NKH discovers how Martyn came into the hobby and takes a look at his extensive shack. They also talk about volunteering at the RSGB National Radio Centre and the impressive equipment that makes up the GB3RS station. Read more at rsgb.org/nrc
The deadline for submissions to the RSGB Construction Competition is the 1st of March 2024. To enable members across the country, and even the world, to take part, entries will again be judged over the internet rather than in person. This year two new categories have been introduced so there are six categories you can enter: Antennas; Beginners; Most creative and/or elegant PCB Design; Construction Excellence; Innovation; and Software and Systems. Special recognition will be given to entries submitted by radio amateurs under the age of 24, and to those who have just gained their Foundation licence. A cash prize will be awarded to the winner of each section, with a bonus for the overall winner, who will also be given the Pat Hawker G3VA Award. You can watch an RSGB Tonight@8 presentation featuring winners from previous years, and find out how to enter this year, on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/construction-competition
And now for details of rallies and events
The Lincoln Short Wave Club Winter Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 28th of January at The Festival Hall, Caistor Road, Market Rasen, LN8 3HT. The doors will be open from 9 am and admission is £2. Ample free car parking and hot refreshments will be available. The tables cost £10 each. At 2 pm, after the Rally, there will be a used equipment auction. Items for the auction will be booked from 1 pm. Contact Steve, M5ZZZ for tables and details via m5zzz@outlook.com or 07777 699 069.
The Canvey Rally will be held on Sunday the 4th of February at Cornelius Vermuyden School, Dinant Avenue, Canvey, Essex, SS8 9QS. The Rally is expected to be the usual hive of activity with plenty of traders on site. For more information contact Richard Stanley at 07725 551 263 or email g7oed@icloud.com 
The MIDCARS Radioactive Rally will be held on Sunday the 11th of February at Nantwich Civic Hall, Market Street, Nantwich, CW5 5DG. The doors open at 10 am and admission is £5. There will be a wide variety of trader stalls covering every aspect of amateur radio. Raffles will be held throughout the Rally. Refreshments and snacks will be available in the hall and parking is immediately adjacent to the venue.
 
Now the Special Event News
The World Wide Award 2024 has been running since the 1st of January and will finish on the 31st of January. The event is being held in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the birth of Guglielmo Marconi. The World Wide Award combines CW, SSB and digital mode activity from special event stations around the world. Real-time award tracking for chasers is available at hamaward.cloud/wwa
VI100MB is the special callsign for the Manly-Warringah Radio Society, VK2MB to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its formation. The station will be active until the 25th of February 2024. QSL via Logbook of the World and eQSL.
 
Now the DX news
Pierre-Jean, F4GPK will be active as TO2FY from French Guiana until the 16th of January. He will operate SSB only from the facilities at the local radio club, FY5KE. QSL via eQSL, or direct to his home call. He does not use Logbook of the World or Club Log.
Yannick, F6FYD will be active as CN2YD from Marrakech, Morocco until the 15th of March 2024. He plans to operate as CN2YD/P from IOTA group AF-065 sometime during his stay. QSL via F6FYD.
Now the contest news
Today, the 14th, the RSGB Affiliated Societies 80 and 40m Data modes Contest runs from 1300 to 1700UTC. Using PSK63 and RTTY, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 16th, the 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 23cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Thursday the 18th, the 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Saturday the 20th, the Affiliated Societies 80 and 40m SSB Contest runs from 1300 to 1700UTC. Using SSB only on the 80 and 40m bands, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The UK Six Metre Group Winter Marathon began on Friday the 1st of December 2023. The contest will run until the 31st of January 2024. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report and locator.
 Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 11th of January 2024
We couldn't have asked for better solar conditions last week. We had a low Kp index that never got any higher than 2.67, and a solar flux index that started the week at 167 and then rose to 186 by Wednesday.
So, at first glance, this looks like ideal conditions for HF. However, we are in the middle of winter and therefore the ionosphere is not at its best. The low bands are also being affected by the higher solar flux and, on the whole, the 14MHz band and above are closing as the night draws in.
Daytime critical frequencies remain around 9 to 10MHz, so the 40m band should remain useful for inter-UK work. Nighttime critical frequencies are currently falling to 3.5 to 4.5MHz, which means the 40m band is only open to long skip, if at all.
 
The critical frequency is the highest that still returns a signal from the ionosphere if sent straight up, and is a good guide as to which bands are open to near vertical incidence skywave or NVIS signals around the UK.
On the brighter side, 14MHz has been showing signs of DX. The VK6RBP beacon has been heard on 14.100MHz in the afternoon via the short path and 28.200MHz in the morning via the long path.
The 12m band has shown international beacons RR90 in Siberia, OH2B in Finland, LU4AA in Argentina and YV5B in Venezuela, on 24.930MHz in the morning. While the 10m band also highlighted YV5B in Venezuela during mid-morning.
Not a massive catch, but better than we were getting two years ago!
For the coming week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index may fall into the range of 150 to 165. Geomagnetic conditions are predicted to remain settled with a maximum Kp index of 2.
As always, this could easily change if we have a coronal mass ejection, so keep an eye on solarham.net for near real-time solar conditions.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO
The area of high pressure has been working well for some parts of the country, with Tropo conditions lasting into the start of this weekend, but as a cold front moves South on Saturday the 13th, all will change as the high becomes displaced to the Atlantic.
Therefore, there is no significant Tropo for the coming week, but there may be some rain scatter from showers, especially around the coasts.
We seem to have passed the period of unusual winter Sporadic-E propagation without much evidence of activity so that just leaves meteor scatter. After the Quadrantids last week, we entered a period of low meteor shower activity, leaving just random meteors until the next major shower, the Lyrids in April.
For random meteor scatter, the pre-dawn period works best. The solar conditions can still be instrumental in producing extra propagation treats with chance aurora. Probably the best operating policy is to monitor the geomagnetic Kp-index with high values greater than 6 being a good sign for VHF.
For EME operators, this week starts with very low Moon declination, low peak Moon elevation and short Moon windows, but declination is rising and goes positive again on Tuesday. Path losses are still low and reached minimum at perigee on Saturday the 13th. 144MHz sky noise is low for all of the coming week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.