GB2RS

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for June 4th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 4th of June 2023
The news headlines:
Volunteers’ Week
New edition of RadCom Basics
RSGB Emerging Technology Co-ordinating Committee
 
The RSGB is in the middle of celebrating Volunteers’ Week which runs from the 1st to the 7th of June. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Society and the RSGB wants to thank everyone who gives their time and expertise to support it, and amateur radio, across such a wide range of roles. Head over to the special web page at rsgb.org/volunteers-week to hear from just some of the RSGB’s volunteers, keep an eye on the RSGB’s social media channels and look out for the special feature in the July issue of RadCom.
The new edition of RSGB’s RadCom Basics is out now. It includes articles about using FT8 and the Reverse Beacons to gauge HF propagation; repairing circuit board tracks; a compact 160m vertical; basic fault-finding; and the doublet antenna. If you’re an RSGB member go to the website at rsgb.org/radcom-basics to read this issue. If you’d like to receive an email as soon as the latest RadCom Basics is available, log in to the RSGB Membership Services portal and go to the Manage Preferences section.
The Society is looking for a volunteer to join the RSGB Emerging Technology Co-ordinating Committee, or ETCC, to act as Regional Representative for the Central England region. The function of the ETCC is to assist radio amateurs seeking an NoV to operate repeaters, gateways or beacons within the UK. The successful applicant will have broad experience of radio system engineering, analogue and digital modes, local topography and propagation theory. If you’re interested in this role, email ETCC Chair Andrew Barrett, G8DOR by the 9th of July via etcc.chairman@rsgb.org.uk 
The RSGB National Radio Centre welcomes thousands of people through its doors each month and needs to expand its team of volunteers. If you are interested in becoming an NRC volunteer, you should enjoy meeting people and be prepared to work a minimum of one – preferably two – days per month. The team is particularly interested in recruiting new volunteers who are able to work at the weekend. The National Radio Centre has a fabulous set-up and full training on using the GB3RS radio station will be given. You will be joining a friendly and dedicated team. NRC volunteers also enjoy numerous benefits associated with volunteering at Bletchley Park. For more information about volunteering, please email NRC Coordinator Martyn Baker, G0GMB via nrc.support@rsgb.org.uk
Don’t forget to join the RSGB’s live Tonight@8 webinar this Monday, the 5th of June, when Mike Richards, G4WNC will be giving a live presentation on Node-RED for radio amateurs. Node-RED is a visual programming language that is very powerful but surprisingly easy to use. The language has matured over recent years and has the potential to be a valuable tool for radio amateurs. Watch and ask questions live on the RSGB YouTube channel or special BATC channel. For more information see the RSGB website at rsgb.org/webinars
The Worked All Britain group will be holding its AGM on Sunday the 11th of June at 12 pm. The venue will be the meeting room of Alfreton Leisure Centre Bowls Hall, Church Street, Alfreton, DE55 7BD. For further information contact Paul, M1AIB via: m1aib@worked-all-britain.org.uk or visit the Worked All Britain website.
 
And now for details of rallies and events
Spalding Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 4th of June. The venue is Holbeach United Youth Football Club, Pennyhill Road, Holbeach, Lincolnshire, PE12 7PR. The doors open at 10 am. Disabled access is available from 9.30 am. Admittance is £3. The event will feature a car boot area, catering, a flea market and trade stands. For more information Contact Graham, G8NWC on 07754 619 701, email rally2023@sdars.org.uk or visit: sdars.org.uk/spaldingrally
The Rochdale and District Amateur Radio Summer Rally will take place on Saturday the 10th of June. The venue will be Saint Vincent de Paul’s Hall, Norden, Rochdale, OL12 7QR. Doors open at 10 am and entry is £3. Refreshments and plenty of free parking are available. For further information, or to book a stall, contact either Roz Worrall via rozallin@gmail.com, or Dave Carden via dave@cardens.me.uk
The Mendips Rally will take place on Sunday the 11th of June. The venue will be Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall, Church Lane, Farrington Gurney, Somerset, BS39 6TY. The entrance fee is £2. The doors open at 7.30 am for traders and 9.30 am for visitors. For bookings and enquiries please contact Luke on 07870 168 197 or email mendipsrally@hotmail.com
The Junction 28 Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 11th of June. The venue will be Alfreton Leisure Centre Bowls Hall, Church Street, Alfreton, DE55 7BD. The doors open at 10.15 am and admission is £4. There is a fee of £12 to book a table in advance. A bar and refreshments will be available on-site. For more information, directions, and the booking form, visit snadarc.com Alternatively, email secretary@snadarc.com
 
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign DR100XRAY is active until the 30th of June. The station is operating to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of physicist Wilhelm C Roentgen. His discovery of X-rays in 1895 earned him the inaugural Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901 and revolutionised diagnostic medicine. QSL via the bureau or directly to DJ6SI.
Ninety-five years ago, on the 25th of May 1928, the airship 'Italia' crashed on the ice on its way back from the North Pole. A small tent dyed red for maximum visibility was the only shelter for the survivors. Commemorating the role of radio, and amateur radio, in rescuing the survivors, special callsign II1ITR will be active on the 80, 40, 20, 15 and 10m bands using SSB and CW until the 12th of July. QSL via IZ1ETD. See QRZ.com for more information.
 
Now the DX news
John, W5JON will be active as V47JA from Saint Kitts, NA-104, until Wednesday the 7th of June. He will operate SSB and FT8 on the HF and 6m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, or directly to W5JON.
Lars, SM6CUK will be active from Ven Island, EU-137, until Sunday the 11th of June 2023 as SA6G/7. He will operate on the 40 to 10m bands using CW. QSL via his home call, Logbook of the World and ClubLog’s OQRS.
T88PB will be active again from Koror Island, OC-009, until Monday the 19th of June. He will operate on the HF Bands. QSL via JA0JHQ directly.
 
Now the contest news
The ARRL International Digital Contest ends at 2359UTC today, Sunday the 4th. Using Digital modes on the 160 to 6m bands, the exchange is your four-character locator.
National Field Day ends at 1500UTC today, Sunday the 4th. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
Today, the 4th, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000 to 1600UTC. Using all modes on 1.3, 2.3 and 3.4GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Today, the 4th, the UK Six Metre Group Summer Contest ends at 1300UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and member number.
On Monday the 5th of June, the 80m Club Championship Data Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using RTTY and PSK63 on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 6th of June, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report serial number.
On Tuesday the 6th of June, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
and locator.
On Wednesday the 7th of June, the 144MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100 UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Also, on Wednesday the 7th of June, the 144MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100 UTC. 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 Thursday the 8th of June, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 11th of June, the 2nd 144MHz Backpackers Contest runs from 0900 to 1300UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The IARU ATV Contest starts on Saturday the 10th of June at 1200UTC and ends on Sunday the 11th of June at 1800UTC. Using TV on 432MHz and up frequencies, the exchange is a serial number, four-digit code and locator.
On Sunday the 11th of June, the Practical Wireless 2m QRP Contest runs from 0900 to 1600UTC. Using a phone mode and a maximum of 5W on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 1st of June 2023
We had a relatively calm period last week with the Kp index remaining below three and plenty of sunspots. Although we started the week with the Solar Flux Index in the low 150s, it quickly picked up to reach 161 by Thursday.
As a result, there was DX to be had, although most of the attention was on 6m where some outstanding multi-hop DX contacts were being made.
But back on HF and people have been chasing T31TT on the Central Kiribati Islands. Some have made it, but it's a difficult path.
Closer to home, Nobby Styles, G0VJG and Emil, DL8JJ have been active on Rockall, which is IOTA EU-189, using the callsign MM0UKI.
Rockall is an uninhabitable granite islet situated in the North Atlantic. The nearest permanently inhabited place is North Uist, an island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, 200 nautical miles to the east.
They have been worked from the UK mainland on 30m and 20m and heard in the east of England on 15m, possibly via Sporadic-E. They may have been a little too close to northern areas for 20m as you may have been inside their skip zone.
One of their aims is to raise as much as possible for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and ABF, The Soldiers’ Charity, so please support them if you can.
This weekend we may have unsettled geomagnetic conditions partly due to an Earth-facing coronal hole with the Kp index peaking at five.
But after the weekend things may settle with a maximum Kp index of two. The solar flux index is predicted to be around 150, declining to 130 as the week goes on, so HF conditions may be down a little on last week.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The weather pattern seems stuck in its typical late spring/early summer state with cold north-easterly winds in eastern areas. There are good prospects for western Britain to shine but leaving eastern areas struggling.
The root cause is a large area of high pressure that is over northern Britain, and currently trying to transfer to the east, which could improve things. Either way, it does mean that Tropo was doing a lot of the propagation work last week and will do so for much of next week too.
As the high edges east, or splits into one to the west and one to the east of the UK, it could leave room for isolated thundery showers to encroach into southern and southwestern areas and give a chance of rain scatter on the GHz bands.
The main mode of interest will probably be Sporadic-E and there have been a few examples in the last week, both single-hop within Europe and multi-hop paths to the States, the Far East and Australia.
The first week of June is typically a prime period for Sporadic-E and although the jet stream position suggests mainly paths northeast to Scandinavia and Baltic regions will be best, other multi-hop options farther afield are worth exploring too.
Monitor the clusters and band maps to see where the activity is happening. If you hear this in time, you might want to check out the 24-hour UK Six Metre Group Summer Sporadic-E contest which ends at 1300UTC today, the 4th. There should be plenty of activity.
Other modes may also pop into view, such as aurora and meteor scatter, so we may be spoilt for choice.
Moon declination is negative all week and still falling until Tuesday. We are past apogee so path losses will fall as the week goes on. So we will also have short Moon windows with falling path losses until perigee late Tuesday. 144MHz sky noise is high, reaching a peak of 2700K on Monday and only going below 300K by Friday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for May 28th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 28th of May 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Tonight@8 webinar
RSGB Beaconnect loop experiments
RSGB School Zone web page
 
On Monday the 5th of June, the RSGB’s Tonight@8 live webinar will feature Mike Richards, G4WNC who will give a presentation on Node-RED for radio amateurs. Node-RED is a visual programming language that is very powerful but surprisingly easy to use. The language has matured over recent years and has the potential to be a valuable tool for radio amateurs. In this talk, Mike will provide an introduction to Node-RED programming techniques. He will conclude with a live demonstration to show just how easy it can be to add extra facilities to your rig. Watch and ask questions live on the RSGB YouTube channel or special BATC channel. For more information see the RSGB website at rsgb.org/webinars
Three weekends have been identified for some RSGB Beaconnect loop experiments. On the 3rd and 4th of June, there will be some regional loops and nets. On the 10th and 11th of June, there will be an England-only loop and net based round the activators who have registered for Beaconnect callsigns so far, but the Society would welcome new activators in the West of England and East Anglia. Finally, on the 24th and 25th of June there will be an attempt at a multiple nations loop, although to do so the Society will need activators in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you want to join in with these activities, register for a Beaconnect callsign via the RSGB website. Go to rsgb.org/coronation and choose the Beaconnect information page.
The RSGB’s School Zone web page brings together radio amateurs in schools and colleges. The Society wants to help people to share their experience and expertise in establishing and running a radio club for young people. The RSGB has just launched a new page as part of this section called ‘School Zone stories’ where it is highlighting some of the great amateur radio activities that are happening in these, and other, schools. If you’re a school with an amateur radio club and want to be added to the list, or a radio amateur or club that is linking with local schools, the RSGB would love to add your information and stories to School Zone. Go to rsgb.org/school-zone to find out more, or send your stories and photos to comms@rsgb.org.uk
Have you seen the RSGB Live News web page? It brings together the Society’s social media feeds, latest YouTube videos and front-page news in one place. Launched a few years ago, people found it very useful, so the RSGB is highlighting it again now for those who have become radio amateurs or returned to amateur radio more recently. Take a look at rsgb.org/live for a taster and then go to the individual comms channels to find out more.
The Worked All Britain group will be holding its AGM on Sunday the 11th of June at 12pm. The venue will be the meeting room of Alfreton Leisure Centre Bowls Hall, Church Street, Alfreton, DE55 7BD. For further information contact Paul, M1AIB via: m1aib@worked-all-britain.org.uk or visit the Worked All Britain website.
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Durham and District Amateur Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 28th of May. The venue is Bowburn Community Centre, Bowburn, County Durham, DH6 5AT. The doors are open from 10.10 am to 2.30 pm with disabled visitors gaining access at 10 am. Admittance is £2. There is a bring-and-buy sale, trade stands, special interest groups and an RSGB bookstall. Catering and a licensed bar are available on-site. For more information, contact Michael Wright, G7TWX on 07826 924 192, or on email via dadars@gmx.com
Spalding Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 4th of June. The venue will be Holbeach United Youth Football Club, Pennyhill Road, Holbeach, Lincolnshire, PE12 7PR. The doors open at 10 am. Disabled access is available from 9.30 am. Admittance is £3. The event will feature a car boot area, catering, a flea market and trade stands. For more information Contact Graham, G8NWC on 07754 619 701, email rally2023@sdars.org.uk or visit: sdars.org.uk/spaldingrally
The Rochdale and District Amateur Radio Summer Rally will take place on Saturday the 10th of June. The venue will be Saint Vincent de Paul’s Hall, Norden, Rochdale, OL12 7QR. Doors open at 10 am and entry is £3. Refreshments and plenty of free parking are available. For further information, or to book a stall, contact either Roz Worrall via rozallin@gmail.com, or Dave Carden via dave@cardens.me.uk
The Mendips Rally will take place on Sunday the 11th of June. The venue will be Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall, Church Lane, Farrington Gurney, Somerset, BS39 6TY. Entrance is £2. The doors open at 7.30 am for traders and 9.30 am for visitors. For bookings and enquiries please contact Luke on 07870 168 197 or email mendipsrally@hotmail.com
The Junction 28 Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 11th of June. The venue will be Alfreton Leisure Centre Bowls Hall, Church Street, Alfreton, DE55 7BD. The doors open at 10.15 am and admission is £4. There is a fee of £12 to book a table in advance. A bar and refreshments will be available on-site. For more information, directions, and the booking form, visit snadarc.com Alternatively, email secretary@snadarc.com
 
Now the Special Event News
OL100RADIO, OL100RJ, OL23RADIO and OL23RJ are the special callsigns for the Czech Radio Club to mark 100 years of broadcasting in Czechoslovakia. Look for activity on all bands and modes until the 18th of June. A certificate will be available. For more information visit the QRZ.com pages associated with each of the special callsigns.
Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first Trans-Tasman amateur radio contact,  members of the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters will be operating special callsign ZL100 until the 25th of July.
North Bristol Amateur Radio Club, in partnership with South Bristol Amateur Radio Club, is holding a special event to commemorate the loss of flight 777a on the 1st of June 1943. The flight was en route from Portugal to Whitchurch Airport, now defunct, in Bristol. The event has been granted the rare callsign GB80AGBB. The station will be active from 10 am until 5 pm from the 30th of May to the 3rd of June on the 20 and 40m bands and on the Southwest DMR Cluster Talk Group 950. Contact can also be made via the FreeDMR Network on Talk Group 777. For more information, visit the GB80AGBB page on QRZ.com or email gb80agbb@gb7bs.com
 
Now the DX news
To raise money for charity, a team of three amateurs is visiting Rockall Island, EU-189, in the North Atlantic Ocean almost 200 miles west of Scotland. The team will be operating using the callsign MM0UKI and plans to be QRV between Monday the 29th of May and Friday the 2nd of June. The team is expecting to be active on the 40 to 10m bands using CW, FT8 and SSB. The QSL manager for the DXpedition is Charles, M0OXO. For more information visit rockallexped.com
Jack, M0PLX will be active from Unst and six other islands in the Shetlands, EU-012, until Friday the 2nd of June. He will operate using SSB on the HF bands and will also monitor the 6m band. Updates will be posted to M0PLX’s Facebook page.
Vincent, HB9VCJ will be active as 8Q7VJ from the Maldives, AS-013, until Sunday the 4th of June. He will operate QRP SSB, and various digital modes, on the 40 to 6m bands, and also FM on the 10m band. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL or via his home call.
Didier, F6BCW is active as FO/F6BCW from Huahine Island, OC-067, French Polynesia until the 25th of October. He operates CW and SSB on the 80 to 6m bands. QSL via F6EXV, Club Log and Logbook of the World.
 
Now the contest news
Today, the 28th, the UK Microwave Group High Band Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on 5.7 and 10GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Today, the 28th, the CQ Worldwide WPX CW Contest ends its 48-hour run at 2359UTC. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
National Field Day will start at 1500UTC on Saturday the 3rd of June and end at 1500UTC on Sunday the 4th of June. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
The UK Six Metre Group Summer Contest starts at 1300UTC on Saturday the 3rd of June and ends at 1300UTC on Sunday the 4th of June. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and member number.
The ARRL International Digital Contest starts at 1800UTC on Saturday the 3rd of June and ends at 2359UTC on Sunday the 4th of June. Using digital modes on the 160 to 6m bands, the exchange is your four-character locator.
On Sunday the 4th of June, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000 to 1600UTC. Using all modes on 1.3, 2.3 and 3.4GHz frequencies, 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 May 2023
The Sun currently has an equal number of spots in both its Northern and Southern hemispheres.
The Solar Flux Index was consistently in the 150 to 160s range last week, with a total of eight M-class flares. We had unsettled geomagnetic conditions on the 21st and 22nd when the Kp index hit six, but things then settled down again to a more manageable two to three.
There are times when the F-layer critical frequency is lower than the E-layer critical frequency due to Sporadic-E. This means that HF signals can’t reach the F2-layer, basically blocking off DX, but leaving Sporadic-E short skip available. So, make the most of these short-skip contacts to the continent and multi-hop Sporadic-E skips to further afield. Conditions in the F2-layer will improve in the autumn, so don’t worry!
There is still HF DX to be had, but you may have to hunt for it. Recently, Laurie, G3UML worked BD4VGZ in China on the 15m band using CW and Stuart, M1SMH worked YG2ALQ in Indonesia as well as A71UN in Qatar, on the 10m band using FT8. Meanwhile, Andy, M0NKR worked VK on the 15m band using SSB long path. Namibia, Malawi and Equatorial Guinea have all been workable from the UK using FT8 on the 10m band during late morning.
Next week NOAA predicts that the Solar Flux Index will remain in the same range. That is, in the 150 to 160s. Unsettled geomagnetic conditions are forecast from the 2nd to the 4th of June when the Kp index might reach four. Otherwise, it suggests that conditions will be mainly settled with the Kp index around two to three.
So, make the most of the elusive HF F2-layer openings and the various opportunities available during this peak time for Sporadic-E propagation.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The broad scale pattern is still dominated by a large area of high pressure over the country with its centre mostly to the northwest of the British Isles.
The whole period through to the end of the coming week should offer some good tropo prospects, so why not try using CW or SSB to add some extra squares to your log? Under lift conditions, even a halo antenna can be surprisingly effective.
The weather variety will remain until the end of next week when low pressure over France tries to push some thundery showers northwards into southern Britain after midweek, and perhaps then northwards as far as western Scotland. This brings a chance of rain scatter on the GHz bands.
There is, as usual, always a chance of aurora and meteor scatter to bring additional options, but the main mode of interest this week will be Sporadic-E as we head into the peak of the season.
With tropo also in play, it’s worth a quick note for those not used to working Sporadic-E; Tropo tends to be long-lasting and usually better on the higher bands. That is to say, the 70cm band is often better than the 2m band whereas Sporadic-E is usually brief and better at lower frequency bands. So, the 10m band is better than the 6m band.
This time of the year it can reach up to 2m on rare occasions. If you do nothing else, simply check the bands and clusters at the end of the afternoon to maximise your Sporadic-E chances.
Moon declination is positive but falling this weekend, going negative on Tuesday. We are past apogee so path losses will fall as the week goes on. We’ll see shortening Moon windows with falling path losses. 144MHz sky noise is low all week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for May 21st 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 21st of May 2023
The news headlines:
Youngsters on the Air camp
RSGB Board appointment
RadCom Basics Editor
 
The RSGB has announced the team of young members who will be representing the Society and the UK at this summer’s Youngsters on the Air camp. The event, hosted by the Hungarian Radio Amateur Society MRASZ, will take place in Gyor, Hungary between the 5th  and the 12th of August. The team is made up of team leader Alexander, 2E0FMZ and members Henry-James, M7HJR; Hannah, M7YYQ and Jake, M7JNS. You can read more about the camp and the team on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/yota-hungary
The RSGB Board has decided to co-opt Ian Shepherd, G4EVK as a Board Director until the 2024 AGM. Please see the Board’s explanation of this appointment on the Society’s website at thersgb.org/go/boardcoopt
The RSGB is sad to report that RadCom Basics Editor Lee Aldridge, G4EJB wishes to retire later this year. The RSGB thanks Lee for all his hard work and effort in the making of RadCom Basics. If you are interested in taking on the role of RadCom Basics Editor, please email radcom@rsgb.org.uk
Last year, the RSGB was approached by the BBC to find experts to contribute to its planned series ‘The Secret Genius of Modern Life’. For episode one, which takes a look at the bank card, Neil Smith, G4DBN re-created the Great Seal Bug – a wooden seal, gifted to the US embassy in Moscow in 1945, and which contained a covert listening device. The technology developed for the bug was an early example of RFID, which is what allows contactless card payments to work. Neil has now released a series of fascinating videos on his YouTube channel which explain the history of the Bug as well as the mechanical design and machining needed to re-create it. You can find the videos in Neil’s playlist on ‘Machining and Microwaves’ and you can watch the original BBC Two programme on BBC Sounds – this episode is available for a further seven months.
The RSGB National Radio Centre welcomes thousands of people through its doors each month and needs to expand its team of volunteers. If you are interested in becoming an NRC volunteer, you should enjoy meeting people and be prepared to work a minimum of one – preferably two – days per month. The team is particularly interested in recruiting new volunteers who are able to work at the weekend. The National Radio Centre has a fabulous set-up and full training on using the GB3RS radio station will be given. You will be joining a friendly and dedicated team. NRC volunteers also enjoy numerous benefits associated with volunteering at Bletchley Park. For more information about volunteering, please email NRC Coordinator Martyn Baker, G0GMB via nrc.support@rsgb.org.uk
Interest in QRP activity is as strong as ever in the worldwide amateur radio community. QRP activity showcases the ability of radio amateurs to communicate using low power and helps to reduce QRM on amateur bands. This year, QRP Day will be held on the 17th of June. More information is available via the IARU website: iaru.org
 
And now for details of rallies and events
RetrotechUK, hosted by the British Vintage Wireless Society, is taking place today, the 21st of May. The venue is Sports Connexion, Leamington Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry, CV8 3FL. This large annual vintage technology fair features around 200 indoor stalls. Private sellers, clubs and dealers are offering vintage items, including radio, television, hi-fi, vinyl, 78s, gramophones, telephones, communications equipment, spare parts, and much more. There is also a bring-and-buy area and free parking available. The event is open to everyone and general admission from 10.30 am is £10. Early entry from 9 am costs £25. For more details contact Jeremy, G8MLK via email at jezzer3@hotmail.com, by phone at 07799 110 080, or visit retrotechuk.com
The Dunstable Downs Radio Club Annual National Amateur Radio Car Boot Sale is also taking place today, the 21st of May. The venue is Stockwood Park in Luton. All the usual facilities are available. For more information visit ddrcbootsale.org
The Barry Amateur Radio Society Rally will take place on Saturday the 27th of May. The venue will be Sully Sports and Social Club, South Road, Sully, CF64 5SP. Doors open from 9.30 am for the public and 7.30 am for traders. Free parking is available on-site. For more information contact Steve on 07368 140 795.
The Durham and District Amateur Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 28th of May. The venue will be Bowburn Community Centre, Bowburn, Co Durham, DH6 5AT. The doors will be open from 10.10 am to 2.30 pm with disabled visitors gaining access at 10 am. Admittance is £2. There will be a bring-and-buy sale, trade stands, special interest groups and an RSGB bookstall. Catering and a licensed bar are available on-site. For more information, contact Michael Wright, G7TWX on 07826 924 192, or on email via dadars@gmx.com
 
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign GB4VLB is active this weekend from the Volunteer Life Brigade Watch House in Tynemouth. The station is operating as part of SOS Radio Week in support of the Volunteer Life Brigade, RNLI and National Coast Watch Institution. For more information visit the GB4VLB QRZ page. QSL via Logbook of the World.
Look out for the special callsign AU40NRO which is active until the 30th of June to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the National Institute of Amateur Radio in India. QSL via VU2NRO.
North West Group Amateur Radio Club in Northern Ireland is running a special event station GB0AEL until the 26th of May to commemorate the anniversary of Amelia Earhart's transatlantic flight. On the 20th and 21st of May 1932, Earhart became the first woman to fly nonstop and alone across the Atlantic, leaving Harbor Grace in Newfoundland, Canada, and landing 15 hours later in Northern Ireland. QSL via MI0HOZ, directly or via the bureau.
Members of ARI Novara will be active as II1CAI until the 30th of June. The special callsign marks the 100th anniversary of the local section of the Italian Alpine Club, founded in 1863. QSL via IQ1NO.
 
Now the DX news
Today is the last chance to work Pete, M1PTR, Tom, M0DCG and Kieron, M5KJM / EI6KP from Stockport Radio Society who are operating as EJ6KP from Great Blasket Island, EU-007. The team is active on the 40, 20 and possibly 15m bands using SSB. QSL via the bureau or OQRS.
Bob, N7XR is active as V7/N7XR from Kwajalein Atoll, OC-028, in the Marshall Islands until late June or early July. He operates CW, RTTY and FT8 on the 160 to 10m bands. QSL via Club Log's OQRS.
James, KI7MGY will be stationed in Djibouti until June and plans to be QRV as J28HJ on the 80, 40, 20, 17, 15 and 10m bands using SSB and FT8. QSL via Logbook of the World.
Giorgio, IU5HWS will be active as 5UA99WS from Niamey, Niger until the 15th of June. In his spare time, he will be QRV on the 40 to 10m bands using FT8 and SSB. QSL via Logbook of the World, or via EA5GL.
 
Now the contest news
Today, the 21st of May, the 1st 144MHz Backpackers Contest runs from 1100 to 1500UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. UK and Crown Dependency stations also send the first two letters of their postcode.
Today, the 21st of May, the 144MHz May Contest ends its 24-hour run at 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. UK and Crown Dependency stations also send the first two letters of their postcode.
On Monday the 22nd of May, the FT4 Series Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using FT4 on the 80, 40 and 20m bands, the exchange is your report.
On Tuesday the 23rd of May, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1830 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2.3GHz and up bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Thursday the 25th of May, the 80m Club Championship runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Saturday the 27th of May, the CQ Worldwide WPX CW Contest starts its 24-hour run at 0000UTC. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Sunday the 28th of May, the UK Microwave Group High Band Contest runs from 0600 to 1800UTC. Using all modes on the 5.7 and 10GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 18th of May 2023
After last week’s NOAA prediction that we would have settled geomagnetic conditions all week, it seems they were right! The Kp index never got above three – a miracle given the recent disruption due to coronal mass ejections and coronal holes.
The proton flux from the Sun has declined as well. However, an M9 solar flare on Tuesday from active region 3310, and numerous C-class flares, maybe a precursor to more flare activity next week.
With a solar flux index in the 130s and 140s, HF conditions have been quite good. Daytime maximum usable frequencies over a 3,000km path have usually exceeded 21MHz, with 24MHz seeing occasional F2-layer openings, as well as sporadic E propagation.
At the moment, the 10m band is mainly open to Sporadic-E propagation with more DX paths now locked out until the Autumn. This is in line with predictions, as the ionosphere changes in the Northern Hemisphere summer with a change to more diatomic elements, which are harder to ionise.
So, will our luck hold out next week?
The Space Weather Prediction Centre forecasts that the Solar Flux Index, or SFI, will decline slightly to the 120s and this weekend should be geomagnetically settled. However, it is predicting that the Kp index will rise again from the 23rd of May. It suggests that the Kp index may hit four or even five for a few days before becoming more settled again from the 30th.
The US Air Force disagrees and thinks the SFI will be higher, perhaps hitting 145 and even 155 by the 28th. It agrees that we are in for more unsettled geomagnetic conditions from the 24th to the 28th, possibly due to a coronal hole rotating into an Earth-facing position.
So, expect MUFs to decline if the Kp index goes up, with poor overall HF conditions.
It is certainly looking like this weekend may see the best conditions for HF, so we suggest you get your DXing in right now, with 14 to 21MHz offering the best prospects.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The upcoming weather week will be predominantly high-pressure driven, with an elongated region of high pressure from the Azores to Scandinavia.
However, there is still scope for a few blemishes and as we end the current week it comes as isolated showers, especially in the south and weakening fronts over north-western Britain. Early next week, a brief period with low pressure over the near continent will threaten some heavier rain for south-eastern areas.
Concentrating on the high-pressure part of the story, this means Tropo is a strong player and will hopefully be in attendance for the 144MHz May Contest and 144MHz Backpackers Contest this weekend. 
Remember that, in the summer months, Tropo becomes much weaker over the land during the stronger heating of the daytime sunshine but can become quite widespread overnight and around coasts.
The rainfall component can lead to good rain scatter options, especially as the summer usually produces more intense rainfall, so performs better as a scatterer on the GHz bands.
The other primary propagation mode is going to be Sporadic-E as we move into the peak summer months. Follow the position of jet streams on the upper air charts, shown on propquest.co.uk and described in a daily blog.
Don’t forget there are always modes like aurora and meteor scatter, which can add to the excitement, but will need to be checked each day.
Moon declination is at its highest this weekend for the Dubus EME 10GHz and up SSB/CW contest, peaking on Monday. With apogee next Friday, path losses will continue to increase.
144MHz sky noise is moderate early next week becoming low by Thursday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for May 14th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 14th of May 2023
The news headlines:
Coronation activities
RSGB Trophy Manager
Women in Engineering Day
 
Although the Coronation itself has taken place, the RSGB’s Coronation activities run until the end of June. After the successful Special Special Event Station run by Cray Valley Amateur Radio Society, the GB23C callsign is now open for individual radio amateurs and clubs to use. You can find out how to register via the GB23C web page on the RSGB website. You can also get involved in Beaconnect using one of the hundreds of callsigns that Ofcom has made available for this activity. RSGB District Representative Martyn, M0TEB activated GB23BIR with Furness Amateur Radio Society and said the callsign attracted a lot of interest, so they would encourage others to get involved too! You can also download a special Coronation QSL card and work towards three different RSGB Coronation awards. Details of all of these activities are on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/coronation
After serving for nine years, the RSGB Trophy Manager is retiring and the Society is looking for a new volunteer for this role. The position is part of the RSGB Volunteer Leadership Team, reporting to the Board. Working in close relationship with the three Contest Committees and the RSGB General Manager, the Trophy Manager looks after the RSGB’s trophies arranges for their engraving and presentation to recipients and maintains the trophies’ history. If you are interested in applying for the role or would like to find out more, please email gm.dept@rsgb.org.uk
We know that amateur radio is a great foundation for STEM careers. With that in mind, why not help the RSGB celebrate International Women in Engineering Day this June? The Society would love to share your stories of women in engineering roles to inspire future generations. If you, or a girl or woman you know, aspire to work in engineering, are currently working as an engineer or are retired from the profession, do get in touch with the RSGB comms team. Please send a photo and a brief story to comms@rsgb.org.uk by Monday 22 May.
Don’t forget that the RSGB’s May Tonight@8 webinar will be live tomorrow, Monday the 15th of May. Watch the live stream and ask questions as Jack Purdum, W8TEE and Al Peter, AC8GY talk about the T41-EP ALPS: A High-Performance CW Decoder.
This a reminder now that Mills on the Air is taking place this weekend. There are plenty of stations on the air, so why not give them a call? For more information, visit the www.ddars.net website or contact millsontheair@gmail.com
Pubs and Clubs on the Air is also taking place this weekend. Today is the last chance to work stations from all over the UK that are active for the event. For more information, email g1puv@yahoo.co.uk or visit the g6tw.co.uk website.
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Braehead Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 14th of May. The venue is Braehead Arena Foyer, 150 Kings Inch Road, Renfrew G51 4BN. Free parking will be available. The doors open for everyone at 10 am and admission is £4. The event will feature Bring and Buy and the Central Scotland Repeater Group AGM. For more information and contact details visit www.braeheadradiorally.com
RetrotechUK, hosted by the British Vintage Wireless Society, will take place on Sunday the 21st of May. The venue will be Sports Connexion, Leamington Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry, CV8 3FL. This large annual vintage technology fair will feature up to 200 indoor stalls. Private sellers, clubs and dealers will offer vintage items, including radio, television, hi-fi, vinyl, 78s, gramophones, telephones, communications equipment, spare parts, and much more. There will also be a bring-and-buy area and free parking available. The event is open to everyone and general admission from 10.30 am is £10. Early entry from 9 am costs £25. For more details contact Jeremy, G8MLK via email on jezzer3@hotmail.com, by phone on 07799 110 080, or visit www.retrotechuk.com
The Dunstable Downs Radio Club Annual National Amateur Radio Car Boot Sale will be taking place on Sunday the 21st of May. The venue will be Stockwood Park in Luton. All the usual facilities will be there. For more information visit www.ddrcbootsale.org
The Barry Amateur Radio Society Rally will take place on Saturday the 27th of May. The venue will be Sully Sports and Social Club, South Road, Sully, CF64 5SP. Doors open from 9.30 am for the public and 7.30 am for traders. Free parking is available on-site. For more information contact Steve on 07368 140 795.
Now the Special Event News
VI2023HRH is the special callsign for members of the Wireless Institute of Australia to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III. The callsign will be active until the 31st of May. QSL via operator's instructions.
Look for the special callsign AU40NRO which is active until the 30th of June to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the National Institute of Amateur Radio in India. QSL via VU2NRO.
Members of UBA Mechelen will be operating special event station OS23SOM until the 31st of May in celebration of Special Olympics Belgium's annual National Games, this year to be held in Mechelen, between the 17th and 20th of May. A certificate will be available and details of how to download it will be published via the OS23SOM QRZ.com web page.
 
Now the DX news
Harold, DF2WO will be active again as 9X2AW from Rwanda until tomorrow, the 15th of May. He will operate using CW, SSB and digital modes on the HF and 6m bands. QSL via M0OXO's OQRS page.
Giorgio, IU5HWS will be active as 5UA99WS from Niamey, Niger until the 15th of June. In his spare time, he will be QRV on the 40 to 10m bands using FT8 and SSB. QSL via Logbook of the World, or via EA5GL.
James, KI7MGY will be stationed in Djibouti until June and plans to be QRV as J28HJ on the 80, 40, 20, 17, 15 and 10m bands using SSB and FT8. QSL via Logbook of the World.
Pete, M1PTR, Tom, M0DCG and Kieron, M5KJM / EI6KP from Stockport Radio Society are planning to operate as EJ6KP from Great Blasket Island, EU-007, on the 16th, 17th and 18th of May. Operating during daylight hours, they will be active on the 40, 20 and possibly 15m bands using SSB. QSL via the bureau or OQRS.
 
Now the contest news
Today, the 14th of May, the 70MHz CW Contest runs from 0900 to 1200UTC. Using CW on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. UK and Crown Dependency stations also send the first two letters of their postcode.
Also today, the 14th of May, the UK Microwave Group Millimetre-Wave Contest runs from 0900 to 1700UTC. Using all modes on the 24, 47 and 76GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Tuesday the 16th of May, the 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 1.3GHz band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 17th of May, the 80m Club Championship runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using data modes on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Thursday the 18th of May, the 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Saturday the 20th of May, the 144MHz May Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. UK and Crown Dependency stations also send the first two letters of their postcode.
On Sunday the 21st of May, the 1st 144MHz Backpackers Contest runs from 1100 to 1500UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. UK and Crown Dependency stations also send the first two letters of their postcode.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 11th of May 2023
Our topsy-turvy world of HF propagation continued last week with geomagnetic storms, solar flares, coronal mass ejections, proton events and more.
The good news is that the solar flux index was at 170 by Thursday, but the bad news was that we had two episodes where the Kp index hit five and there were at least five M-class flares. 
At least one of these flares was responsible for a coronal mass ejection, or CME, which swept past the Earth on the 10th of May with a solar wind speed close to 700km/s. Although it was fierce, it was relatively short-lived and the Kp index was back to three on Thursday the 11th.
The CME caused the maximum usable frequency over 3,000km to decline to around 21MHz at times on Wednesday, but by Thursday morning it was back up to nearly 28MHz.
The high proton flux also caused problems on the 10th of May. The protons, mainly from CMEs, move down the Earth’s magnetic field lines into the polar regions and cause massive ionisation of the polar D region leading to increased, or total, absorption of HF waves.
This effect may last for as long as ten days and is called a Polar Cap Absorption event, or PCA. This affects signals going over the poles, such as the UK to the west coast of Canada and the USA, or to Japan and the far east.
Meanwhile, we are now underway with the Sporadic-E season, so make the most of the short skip and potential multi-hop Sporadic-E DX on 14 to 28MHz.
Next week, the Space Weather Prediction Centre has the Solar Flux Index declining slightly into the 150s. This is still more than enough to maintain DX on 21MHz and higher at times. It also predicts that the Kp index will be no higher than a stable 2 all week.
However, that is hard to believe, with the level of solar activity at the moment, and we could reasonably expect the Earth to be hit with a CME or two at some stage. This could see the Kp index rising with the potential of reduced MUFs at times.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
After a very unsettled end to the week, with lots of rain scatter reported, it will soon quieten down as a ridge of high pressure builds across the country to give some limited Tropo opportunities for the start of the weekend.
This will not last long and by this evening, it will be heading back to unsettled with low pressure, heavy rain and rain scatter. This unsettled theme will last through the first half of the new week together with strong north-easterly winds. Thereafter, high pressure will build again for the second half of the week, providing further Tropo options.
Keep a watch for Aurora, especially in view of the current unsettled solar state. CMEs will mean a very unsteady Kp index and anything higher than five should get your attention for auroral propagation. No significant meteor showers are expected this week, but QSOs using random meteors are always a possibility in the dawn hours.
Likely to be of interest in the summer months ahead, there have already been Sporadic-E openings on 6m CW and FT8 into Europe. Early evening trans-equatorial 6m FT8 QSOs to South America, the Indian Ocean and the South Atlantic were reported from the UK last week.
Check Propquest.co.uk for daily blogs and make use of the DX cluster and map plots to see where the actual centres of activity are located.
Timings can be a bit random early in the season, but there tend to be two ‘openings’ per day – one in the morning and a second during the late afternoon or early evening.
Moon declination is rising, going positive again next Tuesday. But last Thursday’s perigee means path losses are on the increase. 144MHz sky noise is low until Friday when the Sun and Moon are close in the sky for the whole Moon window. Things return to normal early on Saturday and sky noise is moderate.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for May 7th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 7th of May 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Coronation activities
RSGB insurance
Tonight@8 webinar
 
The RSGB has released some updates about its planned Coronation activities. Firstly, a personalised RSGB Coronation QSL card is now available on the Coronation web pages. You can simply enter your callsign and print it off. Following the recent issue of GB23BAA to BZZ by Ofcom, the Beaconnect activity registration is now open. If you go to the Beaconnect web page you will find the registration section which will guide you through the process. Finally, it is now possible for individual radio amateurs and clubs to register to use the GB23C callsign between the 10th of May to the 30th of June. Details can be found on the GB23C web page. For further information on these and all the other Coronation activities being led by the RSGB, go to rsgb.org/coronation
RSGB club insurance, and beacon and repeater insurance, have now been renewed for the year to April 2024. Club insurance certificates can be downloaded from the RSGB website. You will need to log in to obtain your certificate. Beacon and repeater insurance certificates are available for an admin fee of £12 from the RSGB shop. Please allow a couple of days after renewal for your certificate to be dispatched.
The RSGB’s May Tonight@8 webinar is not in its usual slot on the first Monday of the month. To accommodate the two Bank Holidays, the live webinar will be on Monday the 15th of May instead. Put the date in your diary for an interesting presentation by Jack Purdum, W8TEE and Al Peter, AC8GY on the T41-EP ALPS: A High Performance CW Decoder.
Matthew, M0MZB from Calder Bridge in Cumbria, has become a SOTA Mountain Goat in impressive style. He reached the 1,000 activation point threshold with an overnight activation of High Stile G/LD-012 in the English Lake District. Matthew set up overnight camp on the summit of the long ridge above the western shore of Lake Buttermere. He operated both on VHF and HF and made a summit-to-summit contact with Alex Hill, G7KSE who was on the Dent summit, G/LD-045. Since getting involved in Summits on the Air, Matthew's expeditions have left many radio amateurs in awe. He has conducted many multi-summit expeditions without motorised transport, traversing between summits entirely on foot or by bicycle. Upon reaching the coveted Mountain Goat status, Matthew commented: "SOTA has given me new ideas for my little expeditions and has put me in touch with lots of new friends. The challenge of Mountain Goat has included many facets, from learning CW to antenna building, from battery technology to fishing poles." For more information about Summits on the Air visit www.sota.org.uk 
Pubs and Clubs on the Air is taking place on the 12th, 13th and 14th of May. If you or your radio club or society is interested in taking part and operating a station, please email g1puv@yahoo.co.uk or visit the g6tw.co.uk website.
Mills on the Air Weekend will take place on Saturday the 13th and Sunday the 14th of May. For more information, or to register to take part, visit www.ddars.net or contact millsontheair@gmail.com
 
And now for details of rallies and events
Thorpe Camp Hamfest Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 7th of May. The venue is Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre and the entrance fee is £4 per person. The rally is taking place from 9 am to 1 pm. Hot food and drinks will be available on-site. For more information phone Sylvia or Anthony at 07956 654 481.
Dartmoor Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 7th of May at Yelverton War Memorial Hall, Meavy Lane, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AL. The usual bring-and-buy, trader stands, refreshments and free parking are available. Doors open at 10 am and admission is £2.50. For more information contact Roger by phone at 07854 088 882, or email via 2e0rph@gmail.com
The Braehead Rally will take place on Sunday the 14th of May. The venue will be Braehead Arena Foyer, 150 Kings Inch Road, Renfrew G51 4BN. Free parking will be available. The doors open for everyone at 10 am and admission is £4. The event will feature bring-and-buy and the Central Scotland Repeater Group AGM. For more information and contact details visit www.braeheadradiorally.com
RetrotechUK, hosted by the British Vintage Wireless Society, will take place on Sunday the 21st of May. The venue will be Sports Connexion, Leamington Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry, CV8 3FL. This large annual vintage technology fair will feature up to 200 indoor stalls. Private sellers, clubs and dealers will offer vintage items, including radio, television, hi-fi, vinyl, 78s, gramophones, telephones, communications equipment, spare parts, and much more. There will also be a bring-and-buy area and free parking available. The event is open to everyone and general admission from 10.30 am is £10. Early entry from 9 am costs £25. For more details contact Jeremy, G8MLK via email on jezzer3@hotmail.com, by phone on 07799 110 080, or visit www.retrotechuk.com
The Barry Amateur Radio Society Rally will take place on Saturday the 27th of May. The venue will be Sully Sports and Social Club, South Road, Sully, CF64 5SP. Doors open from 9.30 am for the public and 7.30 am for traders. Free parking is available on-site. For more information contact Steve on 07368 140 795.
 
Now the Special Event News
Today is the last chance to work special callsign 5F15SIA which is active to promote Morocco's International Exhibition of Agriculture. QSL via Logbook of the World, or direct to CN8WW.
OT2023EPIC is the special callsign for the Pajottenlandse Radio Amateur Club in Belgium to promote the sixth Antwerp Port Epic cycling race. Look out for activity until the 21st of May.
Special callsign GB4VLB will be active on the 20th and 21st of May from the Volunteer Life Brigade Watch House in Tynemouth as part of SOS Radio Week. The station will be operating in support of the Volunteer Life Brigade, RNLI and National Coast Watch Institution. For more information visit qrz.com. QSL via Logbook of the World.
 
Now the DX news
Today is the last chance to work Kasimir, DL2SBY who is active as 8Q7KB in the Maldives. He is operating CW, SSB and FT8 and FT4 with a focus on the 30, 17, 12, 10 and 6m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, Club Log's OQRS or direct to his home call.
Pista, HA5AO will be active as 5X2I from the shores of Lake Victoria, Uganda until Wednesday the 10th of May. He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 on the 40 to 10m bands.  QSL via HA5AO's OQRS page is preferred.
JE1HXZ/6 is active from Kuroshima, AS-024, until Monday the 8th of May. He will operate CW, SSB, RTTY, FT8 and FT4 on the HF and 6m bands. QSL via the Bureau and Logbook of the World.
 
Now the contest news
Today, the 7th, the Worked All Britain 7MHz Phone Contest runs from 1000 to 1400UTC. Using phone mode on the 40m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
Today, the 7th, the ARI International DX Contest ends its 24-hour run at 1200UTC. Using CW, RTTY and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Italian stations give their province code.
Today, the 7th, the 10GHz Trophy Contest runs from 0800 to 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 10GHz band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Today, the 7th, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 0800 to 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 1.3 to 3.4GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also today, the 7th, the 432MHz to 245GHz Contest ends its 24-hour run at 1400UTC. Using all modes, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Tuesday the 9th of May, the 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 9th of May, the 432MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 10th of May, 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 10th of May, 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 11th of May, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 14th of May, the 70MHz CW Contest takes place from 0900 to 1200UTC. Using CW on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Sunday the 14th of May, the UK Microwave Group Millimetre-Wave Contest runs from 0900 to 1700UTC. Using all modes on the 24, 47 and 76GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 4th of May 2023
Next week will see the Sun presenting with four large sunspots groups that are rotating to be Earth-facing, so look out for trouble. Just as the UK weather takes a turn for the worse, we expect the space weather to be unpredictable too!
Active regions 3293, 3294, 3296 and 3297 look dark and are looming large on the Sun’s face. Region 3293 emitted an M7.2 class solar flare on the 3rd of May, which the Space Weather Prediction Centre reported was likely due to an intensification of the magnetic field within the spot group.
The flare caused some degradation of the ionosphere, but nothing too serious. However, the Space Weather Prediction Centre now predicts that further flares could follow, perhaps even a strong X-class flare, which could have more serious effects.
If an X-class flare occurs in daylight over the UK, we can expect the HF bands to be affected in what is known as a sudden ionospheric disturbance or Dellinger fadeout. This could see the lower HF bands shut down due to extreme ionisation in the D-layer, only for the band to return to normal over a period of minutes to an hour.
More worrying is the fact that the flare could spark a coronal mass ejection, or CME, which, if Earth-directed, could cause the Kp index to rise, MUFs to drop and bring auroral activity a few days after the CME. So, keep an eye on solarham.net for updates.
Meanwhile, the solar flux index, or SFI, remains in the 150s and this looks set to continue. The US Air Force predicts the SFI will start the week at 152, then dip slightly, before reaching 170 by the 12th of May.
It also predicts that geomagnetic conditions will be settled once we get past this weekend, which could see the Kp index rise to four. These unsettled conditions may be due to a coronal hole, which became Earth-facing on Thursday.
Propagation-wise, F2-layer maximum usable frequencies over a 3,000km path has struggled to exceed 21 to 24MHz during daylight hours as we head towards summer.
The season is characterised as having lower MUFs during the day, but these tend to be maintained into the hours of darkness. Meanwhile, Sporadic-E might spring some surprises for paths over 800 to 2,200km on 14 to 28MHz, with very strong signals and rapid fading.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The weather pattern is taking a change to unsettled as we move through this first May weekend, with low pressure dominating the charts and throwing active weather fronts across the country.
This will produce some quite heavy rain at times and perhaps even some thundery activity. This bodes well for rain scatter on the GHz bands.
This pattern extends well into next week, eventually changing from a south-westerly to a north-westerly followed by a building ridge of high pressure to bring a temporary hint of Tropo to end the week.
This opens the more exotic modes to consider, such as meteor scatter and possible aurora, but these are very much outliers to the main interest at this time of year, which is Sporadic-E. The season has nominally started, and daily blogs are being added to the website Propquest.co.uk, which describe the more likely regions to find Sporadic-E opportunities.
This unsettled weather pattern brings a useful bonus in that it is often associated with jet stream activity. The whole period offers several jet streams across Europe, a positive for the start of the new Sporadic-E season since jet streams are often associated with the location of Sporadic-E activity.
Moon declination is low and falling, reaching minimum next Tuesday. EME Moon windows will be short. Perigee is Thursday, so when you do have a view of the Moon, path losses will be low. 144MHz sky noise is high, reaching over 3200K late on Monday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for April 30th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 30th of April 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Coronation activities
RSGB Membership portal
High-altitude balloon launch
 
As the Coronation weekend approaches, don’t forget all the amateur radio activities that are being organised by the RSGB to mark this special event. Ofcom has kindly agreed that UK and Crown Dependency radio amateurs may use the “R” prefix in their callsigns during May and June 2023 – just apply for the Notice of Variation via the RSGB website. The RSGB has also created three new awards you can achieve for taking part in Coronation activities. In addition, the callsign GB23C can be used by individuals and clubs from the 10th of May until the end of June, and there is a special Beaconnect activity throughout May and June. Details of how to get involved with either of these will be announced soon on the RSGB website. Finally, there are ideas for outreach activities for use with people of all ages. Go to rsgb.org/coronation for more information.
Are you an RSGB member? Have you logged into your online membership portal recently? It is important to check your personal information and ensure your preferences are up to date. You can also opt into receiving a number of direct benefits such as the weekly email GB2RS newsletter and notifications about RadCom Plus and RadCom Basics. A new option is to receive emails about the RSGB’s online events click on that and make sure you don’t miss out! Log into the RSGB membership portal via rsgb.org/members or email membership@rsgb.org.uk if you have any questions.
hi-impact, based on the Wirral, is planning another high-altitude balloon launch. This one will feature on the team’s live-stream platform and be viewed by a number of schools across the UK and beyond. The team is planning to launch two high-altitude balloons. One will be running with a HABDuino and the other with some help from AmbaSat, using LoRA. The HABDuino side will be running on the standard setup – 434.650MHz USB, 50 Baud RTTY, 450Hz Shift, 7N1 data format and with the callsign ‘hi-impact’. If you're planning to upload telemetry to SondeHub, you'll need Dave Akerman's HABBase software and Fldigi. The launch, from Cilcewydd in Wales, will be between 11 and 11.15 am on Wednesday the 3rd of May. More information can be found on hi-impact’s Facebook page and on Twitter via @hiimpactconsult
The RSGB is seeking to recruit a new Technical Editor for RadCom. Reporting to the Managing Editor, the successful candidate will need a wide range of radio and electronic knowledge, including amateur radio. The RSGB is looking for someone who is positive, enthusiastic about technology, has an excellent command of English and has a good eye for detail. For more information about the role and how to apply, see rsgb.org/careers
 
And now for details of rallies and events
Ripon Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 30th of April, at Hugh Ripley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 2PT. Traders can gain access from 7 am and tables are £12 each. Doors open to the public from 10 am and entrance is £3 per person. For more information and directions visit g4sjm.co.uk
Thorpe Camp Hamfest Rally will take place on Sunday the 7th of May. The venue will be Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre and the entrance fee will be £4 per person. Traders should arrive from 7 am. The rally will take place from 9 am to 1 pm. Hot food and drinks will be available on-site. For more information phone Sylvia or Anthony at 07956 654 481.
Dartmoor Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 7th of May at Yelverton War Memorial Hall, Meavy Lane, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AL. There will be the usual bring and buy, trader stands, refreshments and free parking available. Doors open at 10 am and admission is £2.50. For more information contact Roger by phone on 07854 088 882, or email via 2e0rph@gmail.com
The Braehead Rally will take place on Sunday the 14th of May. The venue will be Braehead Arena Foyer, 150 Kings Inch Road, Renfrew G51 4BN. Free parking will be available. The doors open for everyone at 10 am and admission is £4. The event will feature Bring and Buy and the Central Scotland Repeater Group AGM. For more information and contact details visit www.braeheadradiorally.com
 
Now the Special Event News
Special callsigns PA100PCG, PA100M and PA100K will be active on the 5th, 6th and 7th of May to celebrate 100 years of communication history between Indonesia and The Netherlands. For more information visit QRZ.com. QSL via the bureau.
Look out for special event station AU40NRO which is active until the 30th of June. The station is operating to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the founding of the National Institute of Amateur Radio in India. QSL via VU2NRO.
A special event callsign DM23BUGA will be active until the 8th of October. The callsign's suffix stands for 'Bundesgartenschau'. This is a biennial horticulture show and festival taking place in Mannheim this year. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau, and direct cards via DL2VFR.
Celebrating 100 years of broadcasting in Germany, special callsign DB100RDF will be in use until the 31st of December. The first official radio entertainment programme in Germany was broadcast on the 29th of October 1923. QSL via the bureau, or direct to DO2PZ.
 
Now the DX news
Sands, VK4WXW has been on Willis Island, OC-007, since October and today is the last chance to work him. He works at the Australian Bureau of Meteorology's weather monitoring station on the island. In his spare time, he is QRV as VK9WX.
The T30UN operation from West Kiribati, OC-017, is expected to be active until the second week of May. Operators plan to be available on the 160 to 6m bands with one CW station, one SSB station and seven FT8 stations. It will be possible to see two FT8 stations on the same band, at the same time, on different frequencies. QSL via Club Log's OQRS.
 
Now the contest news
Today, the 30th, the UK and Ireland Contest Club DX CW Contest ends its 24-hour run at 1200UTC. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. UK and Ireland stations also send their district code.
On Tuesday the 2nd of May, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 2nd of May, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 3rd of May, 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 3rd of May, 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.
Next weekend, the ARI International DX Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1200UTC on Saturday the 6th of May. Using CW, RTTY and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Italian stations give their province code.
On Saturday the 6th of May, the 432MHz to 245GHz Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1400UTC. Using all modes, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also, on Saturday the 6th of May, the 432MHz Trophy Contest runs from 1400 to 2200UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Saturday the 6th of May also sees the start of the UK Six Metre Group Summer Marathon. The event will run until Sunday the 6th of August. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is your four-character locator.
On Sunday the 7th of May the 10GHz Trophy Contest runs from 0800 to 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 10GHz band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Sunday the 7th of May, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 0800 to 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 1.3 to 3.4GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Sunday the 7th of May also sees the Worked All Britain 7MHz Phone Contest run from 1000 to 1400UTC. Using AM and SSB on the 40m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 27th of April 2023
What a busy week we’ve just had! It started with a massive G4 geomagnetic storm that saw the Kp index rise to eight with aurora visible as far south as Cornwall and the Channel Islands. This was due to a coronal mass ejection from a filament eruption on the 21st of April.
The 6m band came to life during the early stage of the storm with distorted aurora signals throughout the SSB and CW sections. However, the HF bands suffered, with MUFs down on the morning of the 24th. The 25th wasn’t much better with MUFs over a 3,000km path barely reaching 18MHz all day.
By Thursday the 27th the Kp index was still at four.
However, there were surprises to be had. Phil, GU0SUP reported that at 1300UTC on Monday the 24th, he was amazed to work Yuris, VU7W on the Lakshadweep Islands on 10m FT8, with good signals both ways. He says the Kp index was at six and the regular FT8 frequencies on both the 10m and 12m bands were pretty much dead.
On Wednesday the 26th, Peter, G8BCG reported, on the CDXC reflector, that 15m FT8 was open all night via the long path to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.
It is always worth checking the HF bands during a major geomagnetic storm as there may be surprises to be had.
Next week the Space Weather Prediction Centre thinks that the Solar Flux Index will remain in the range of 135 to 140. The Kp index may remain around two to three. However, as last week showed, we are now really into uncharted territory, in terms of solar activity, with daily multiple solar flares and associated coronal mass ejections.
So, don’t be surprised if we have another major geomagnetic disturbance with an elevated Kp index.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The weather pattern in late spring often settles into a period of south-easterly winds from a rapidly-warming Europe and the signs are there for just such a flow during the coming week.
The sequence starts with unsettled weather and possible rain scatter from heavy April showers into the first weekend but, thereafter, a weak ridge of high pressure will move in to bring a chance of Tropo for next week. Paths along the east coast should do well, especially if there are large areas of sea fog and misty low clouds over the North Sea.
At longer timescales, the period towards the following weekend will see eyes looking towards a low to the southwest of the British Isles that could push some thundery rain into southern areas by the end of the week and again bring a chance of rain scatter on the GHz bands.
The jet stream pattern remains complex with several potentially useful flows that might be instrumental in prompting some early-season Sporadic-E propagation.
Last week, the Portuguese CS5BALG beacon on 50.036MHz in IM67, and CS5BLA on 50.0760MHz, made a welcome return. Sporadic-E can be very fleeting early in the season, but keeping a regular check on the usual beacons should give you a chance of being there at the right time.
The daily Sporadic-E blogs start on the 1st of May on www.propquest.co.uk and should give some clues as to any early-season options.
Lastly, the Sun has kept everyone busy recently with visible and radio auroras, so check the Kp index for aurora potential. And we are in a period when increasing meteor input is starting to help provide better meteor scatter prospects, as well as fuel for Sporadic-E. The Eta Aquariids has a broad peak zenithal hourly rate of around 50 next weekend on the 6th of May.
Moon declination is high and falling, meaning shortening EME Moon windows and peak elevations. We passed apogee on Friday so path losses will fall throughout the week. 144MHz sky noise is low to moderate.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for April 24th 2023

 
GB2RS News
Sunday the 23rd of April 2023
The news headlines:
RSGB Coronation activities
RSGB AGM announcements and videos
RSGB Board Chair
 
The RSGB is delighted that Ofcom has confirmed that the callsign GB23C can be used for the RSGB’s Coronation Special Special Event Station. Cray Valley Radio Society members led by Bob, M0MCV and Dave, G4BUO are organising the flagship amateur radio station that will use this callsign from the 3rd to the 8th of May. The Special Special Event Station will be on the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, along the riverside in Greenwich. From the 10th of May onwards, the callsign will be available for individuals and clubs to use until the end of June 2023, and further details about this will be announced shortly. Ofcom has also kindly agreed to a block of 676 Special Special Event Station callsigns for the RSGB’s Be a Connect activity for the Coronation. These are GB23BAA to BZZ, which will be available throughout May and June. More details on how to obtain one of these will be given next week, but meanwhile, you may wish to find a beacon site you could activate one or more times for this event. Finally, if you are planning outreach activities with local clubs and groups, take a look at the paper circuit template the RSGB has just shared on its website – go to rsgb.org/coronation and choose the coronation activity ideas tab in the right-hand menu.
The RSGB’s AGM was held online last Saturday, the 15th of April. If you missed the live event, you can see the results of the elections and follow links to the trophy awards and the construction competition winners on the RSGB website via rsgb.org/agm. You can also catch up on the full live stream or watch individual sections on the Society’s YouTube channel. The RSGB has released separate videos of the outgoing President’s review of 2022, its new short Convention promo, and the interesting presentation about preparing the GB2RS propagation reports by the RSGB Propagation Studies Committee Chair, Steve Nichols, G0KYA. You can see them all in the RSGB 2023 AGM playlist on YouTube via youtube.com/theRSGB  
Following the RSGB AGM on Saturday the 15th of April, a brief Board meeting was held to consider necessary appointments. The Board was aware that Stewart Bryant, G3YSX, who had been in a dual role since the recent resignation of Richard Horton, G4AOJ, had expressed a willingness to continue as Chair if required. It was agreed that Stewart should be co-opted to the Board under the terms of Article 37 and was asked to join the meeting. Stewart was then elected unanimously to serve as RSGB Board Chair until the 2024 AGM.
This a reminder now that SOS Radio Week 2023 starts at midnight on the 1st of May and concludes at midnight on the 31st of May. It is an opportunity to support the many voluntary organisations in the British Isles whose members volunteer to save the lives of others at risk around the many miles of its coastline, and out at sea. These organisations include the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the National Coastwatch Association and numerous independent lifeboat and coastal rescue groups. Individual amateur radio operators and clubs are invited to register to become an official SOS Radio Week station and operate under their own callsign, their club’s or a special event callsign to raise awareness of the great work these volunteers perform. Awards are available for registered stations that make the most contacts on each of the 160m to 70cm bands and using various modes. Registration is now open and further details can be found at sosradioweek.org.uk
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Northern Amateur Radio Societies Association Rally, also known as both the ‘NARSA Rally’ and the ‘Blackpool Rally’, is taking place today, Sunday the 23rd. The venue is Norbreck Castle Exhibition Centre, Blackpool FY2 9AA. For more details contact Dave, M0OBW on 01270 761 608, email dwilson@btinternet.com or visit narsa.org.uk
Ripon Radio Rally will take place next Sunday, the 30th of April. The venue will be Hugh Ripley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 2PT. Traders can gain access from 7 am and tables are £12 each. Doors open to the public from 10 am and entrance is £3 per person. For more information and directions visit: g4sjm.co.uk
Thorpe Camp Hamfest will take place on Sunday the 7th of May. The venue will be Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre and the entrance fee will be £4 per person. Traders should arrive from 7 am. The rally will take place from 9 am to 1 pm. Hot food and drinks will be available on-site. For more information phone Sylvia or Anthony at 07956 654 481.
Dartmoor Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 7th of May at Yelverton War Memorial Hall, Meavy Lane, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AL. There will be the usual bring and buy, trader stands, refreshments and free parking available. Doors open at 10 am and admission is £2.50. For more information contact Roger by phone at 07854 088 882 or email via 2e0rph@gmail.com
 
Now the Special Event News
Special callsign 5P0WARD will be active from Denmark until Tuesday the 25th of April in celebration of World Amateur Radio Day. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World, eQSL, or via OZ1ACB.
Also celebrating World Amateur Radio Day, special event station OT23WARD will be active from various locations in Belgium until the 30th of April. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World and eQSL. A certificate will be available. For more information visit QRZ.com
Polydoros, SV1AHH is using special callsign SX50AHH to mark 50 years of being involved with amateur radio. Operating from Greece, the callsign will be active until Friday the 28th of April. He will be active on the 160 to 10m bands using CW, SSB, FT8, FT4 and RTTY. His logs will be uploaded to eQSL, Logbook of the World and Club Log. Paper cards will not be available.
Special callsign 3A8AB is operating from Monaco until Sunday the 30th of April. The station is active to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first transatlantic amateur two-way contact between Leon Deloy, F8AB and Fred Schnell, 1MO in 1923. QSL via Logbook of the World.
 
Now the DX news
Look out for Paul, VP9KF who is active from Baileys Bay, Bermuda, NA-005, until Wednesday the 26th of April. He operates CW only. QSL direct to Paul's address which you can view via his QRZ.com page.
Sands, VK4WXW has been on Willis Island, OC-007, since October, and will remain there until the end of April 2023. He works at the Australian Bureau of Meteorology's weather monitoring station on the island, and in his spare time, he is QRV as VK9WX.
The T30UN operation from West Kiribati, OC-017, is expected to be active until the second week of May. Operators plan to be available on the 160 to 6m bands with one CW station, one SSB station and seven FT8 stations. It will be possible to see two FT8 stations on the same band, at the same time, on different frequencies. QSL via Club Log's OQRS.
 
Now the contest news
The SP DX RTTY Contest ends its 24-hour run at 1200UTC today, Sunday the 23rd of April. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Polish stations send their province code.
Today, Sunday the 23rd of April, The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group Sprint 75 Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using 75 Baud RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is serial number.
On Monday the 24th of April, the FT4 Series Contest runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using FT4 on the 80, 40 and 20m bands, the exchange is your report.
On Tuesday the 25th of April, the SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1830 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2.3GHz band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 26th of April, the UK and Ireland Contest Club 80m Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.
On Thursday the 27th of April, the 80m Club Championship runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using PSK63 and RTTY on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
Next Saturday, the 29th, the UK and Ireland Contest Club DX CW Contest begins at 1200UTC and runs for 24 hours. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. UK and Ireland stations also send their District Code.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 20th of April 2023
We had a surge in sunspot activity over the last week, pushing the solar flux index up to a maximum of 178, although it subsequently declined to 147.
Solar flare activity was quite subdued after a frantic period from the 13th to the 15th that saw 40 C-class flares and two M-class flares erupt.
This activity was mostly centred around active region 3282 in the northwest quadrant.
Geomagnetic conditions were unsettled for a time around the 18th and 19th with the Kp index hitting a maximum of 4.3. This appears to have been due to enhanced activity from a coronal mass ejection and continuing coronal hole activity that saw the solar wind speed hit more than 600km/s and the Bz swing south.
The critical frequency was down below 7MHz on the morning of Wednesday the 19th, which impacted near-vertical incidence skywave signals around the UK.
This impacted maximum useable frequencies, which struggled to exceed 21MHz over a 3,000km path on Wednesday, although by Thursday they were back over 28MHz again. A critical frequency of more than 10MHz meant the 40m band was once again suitable for close-in contacts around the UK.
There were many reports of DX being worked later on during the week, with Australia and New Zealand topping the bill on 18MHz and 28MHz.
Next week NOAA has put a more positive spin on sunspot activity. The Solar Flux Index is predicted to be in the range of 168 to 172 for the first half of the week, falling to around 160 in the second half.
But we could be in for a bumpy ride geomagnetically, with the Kp index predicted to hit five on Wednesday the 26th of April through to Monday the 1st of May. This may be due to the return of solar phenomena that occurred 27 days ago and saw the Kp index get up to 4.67.
Meanwhile, a very large solar coronal hole, albeit positioned very south on the Sun’s surface, and a much smaller one on its equator, threaten HF conditions this weekend.
Keep an eye on the real-time solar wind from the ACE spacecraft for signs of a rise in speed and a southward-pointing Bz interplanetary magnetic field on solarham.net.  This could push to Kp index higher, perhaps to four.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The Sporadic-E season is nearly upon us. Remember it will usually activate on 28MHz and then higher bands will follow if the event intensifies. There have been some 50MHz FT8 paths flagged up on DXmaps.com, although some may have been tropo.
The recent large high pressure centred over Scandinavia has been a bit subdued as regards Tropo. Much of the time, the air nearer the surface has been fairly dry with little sign of banks of sea fog over the North Sea, which would suggest better ducting potential.
 
We are now entering a phase with low pressure on the charts, initially over the south of Britain, but edging north for a time before drifting out across the North Sea. 
This could produce some rain scatter on the GHz bands, especially should any heavy April showers develop.
Early next week a ridge will edge south across the UK in a colder northerly weather pattern, so although high-pressure returns, it may not be especially good for tropo.
The third changeover comes after midweek when a milder south-westerly returns with active fronts bringing rain and unsettled weather, especially to the north and west. This could mean further opportunities for rain scatter on the GHz bands and perhaps a hint of tropo in the Southeast towards the continent.
Aurora and meteor scatter are well worth considering, and the Lyrids shower peaks on Sunday the 23rd. The message is to monitor meteor scatter frequencies and the clusters for signs of activity and, of course, try putting out a CQ call!
Moon declination is positive and rising, meaning increasing Moon time and increasing peak elevation until peak declination on Tuesday. Moon apogee is next Friday so path losses increase all week.
144MHz sky noise is moderate to low.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for April 16th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 16th of April 2023
The news headlines:
Nominated Board Director Vacancy
Regional Forum Facebook pages
SOS Radio Week
 
If you are an RSGB Member you still have time to apply for the RSGB Nominated Board Director vacancy. The RSGB needs a strong and effective Board and this could be your opportunity to be part of that. The deadline for applications is Monday the 17th of April. To find out more, go to the volunteer vacancies section of the RSGB website at rsgb.org/volunteers or, for an informal discussion, please email Nominations Committee Chair Stephen Purser, GW4SHF at nominations.chair@rsgb.org.uk
The RSGB Regional Forum has created Facebook pages for each of the 13 regions. These pages focus on regional amateur radio communities and are moderated by members of the RSGB Regional Team. Whilst the pages share a similar style, they are very different in content. Selected posts are created by the RSGB moderators to maintain some news content from the RSGB, but the main content comes from clubs, individual licensees and also event organisers in those regions. The pages also provide a forum where anyone can ask for help with any part of the hobby. Clubs are positively encouraged to post news and events on the pages. You can find them on Facebook by searching for ‘RSGB Region’ and the number of your local region, for example, ‘RSGB Region 1’.
SOS Radio Week 2023 starts at midnight on the 1st of May and concludes at midnight on the 31st of May. It is an opportunity to support the many voluntary organisations in the British Isles whose members volunteer to save the lives of others at risk around the many miles of its coastline, and out at sea. These organisations include the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the National Coastwatch Association and numerous independent lifeboat and coastal rescue groups. Individual amateur radio operators and clubs are invited to register to become an official SOS Radio Week station and operate under their own callsign, their club’s or a special event callsign to raise awareness of the great work these volunteers perform. Awards are available for registered stations that make the most contacts on each of the 160m to 70cm bands and using various modes. Registration is now open and further details can be found at sosradioweek.org.uk
The outgoing RSGB President Stewart Bryant, G3YSX and the incoming RGSB President John McCullagh, GI4BWM will be at the NARSA rally in Blackpool on Sunday the 23rd of April. This is a great opportunity to meet John, have a chat and welcome him to his role. There will also be an official handover of the presidential chain on the stage area at the Norbreck Hotel. Find out more about the rally via the event website at narsa.org.uk
Tuesday the 18th of April is World Amateur Radio Day. The IARU is excited to mark the occasion, and the 98th anniversary of its founding, with an event to promote the United Nations Human Security for All initiative, also known as ‘HS4A’. Special event stations have been operating since the 11th of April and will be available to work until the last week of April. For more information visit iaru.org and choose ‘On the Air’ from the menu options.
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Cambridgeshire Repeater Group Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 16th of April. The venue is Foxton Village Hall, Hardman Road, Foxton, Cambridge CB22 6RN. Doors opened at 7.30 am for traders and 9.30 am for visitors. Admission is £3. The rally features a talk-in, trade stands, bring and buy, an RSGB Bookstall and free car parking. For more information contact Lawrence, M0LCM on 07941 972 724, email rally2023@cambridgerepeaters.net and see the cambridgerepeaters.net website.
The Holsworthy Spring Rally and Boot Sale is taking place today, Sunday the 16th of April. The venue is Holsworthy Livestock Market, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 7FA. There is plenty of parking, wheelchair access and full catering available. The doors opened to the public at 10 am. For more details contact the club secretary Ken, G7VJA via email at m0omc@m0omc.co.uk and visit the m0omc.co.uk website.
The Northern Amateur Radio Societies Association Rally, also known as both the ‘NARSA Rally’ and the ‘Blackpool Rally’, will take place on Sunday the 23rd of April. The venue will be Norbreck Castle Exhibition Centre, Blackpool FY2 9AA. For more details contact Dave, M0OBW on 01270 761 608, email dwilson@btinternet.com or visit narsa.org.uk
Ripon Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 30th of April. The venue will be Hugh Ripley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 2PT. Traders can gain access from 7 am and tables are £12 each. Doors open to the public from 10 am and entrance is £3 per person. For more information and directions visit: g4sjm.co.uk
Now the Special Event News
With the kind permission of the National Trust, Weston-super-Mare Radio Society will be operating special callsign GB0IMD from the Old Fort on Brean Down on Saturday the 22nd of April, as part of the International Marconi Day celebrations.
Special callsign DR0LIMES will be active until the 30th of June for this year's German World Heritage Day. The 'limes' was the borderline of the Roman Empire to its greatest extent. In 2005, the remnants of the Upper German-Raetian Limes were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as 'Frontiers of the Roman Empire'.
Celebrating World Amateur Radio Day, DARC special event callsign DA23WARD will be active until Tuesday the 18th of April. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau. Direct cards will be managed via DL2VFR.
Also celebrating World Amateur Radio Day, special event station OT23WARD will be active from various locations in Belgium until the 30th of April. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, Logbook of the World and eQSL. A certificate will be available. For information visit QRZ.com
Now the DX news
Bernhard, DL2GAC will be active in the Solomon Islands until the end of May. He plans to be QRV as H44MS from Malaita OC-047, daily until the end of April, with activity on the 80 to 6m bands using SSB and some FT8. QSL via his home call, direct or via the bureau. He will upload his log to Club Log and Logbook of the World when he returns home.
James, KI7MGY will be in Djibouti until June and plans to operate as J28HJ on the 80, 40, 20, 17, 15 and 10m bands using SSB and FT8. QSL via Logbook of the World.
HH75RCH is the special callsign for the Haiti Radio Club, established on the 29th of March 1948 to celebrate its 75th anniversary. The station will be active until the 1st of May. QSL via Club Log's OQRS, or via N2OO.
 
Now the contest news
On Tuesday the 18th of April, the 1.3GHz UK Activity contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 1.3GHz band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 19th of April, the 80m Club Championship runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Thursday the 20th of April, the 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The Machine Generated Mode Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1400UTC next Saturday, the 22nd of April. Using machine-generated modes on the 6m and 2m bands, the exchange is a report and your four-character locator.
The SP DX RTTY Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1200UTC on Saturday the 22nd of April. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Polish stations send their province code.
The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group Sprint 75 Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC on Sunday the 23rd of April. Using 75 Baud RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is a serial number.
 
Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 13th of April 2023
A news item this week suggested that the peak of solar cycle 25 could be coming earlier than expected. According to a paper in Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences, by solar scientist Dr Scott Macintosh, the solar maximum may now be coming between late 2023 and mid-2024. So, make the most of the higher Solar Flux Index now!
Solar activity picked up nicely over the past week. The solar flux index rose to 154 and there were eight active regions on the Sun’s visible face by Thursday the 13th. Nevertheless, daytime maximum usable frequencies, or MUFs, remain down a little, which has probably more to do with seasonal ionospheric changes than reduced sunspot activity.
As we head towards Summer we will see the daytime F2-layer MUF decline further before it picks up again in the Autumn.
We also saw some M- and C-class solar flare action this week, but this was not really enough to cause serious problems to the ionosphere.
Next week NOAA predicts the Solar Flux Index will continue to increase, perhaps peaking at 160 around the 16th to 18th of April. Unsettled geomagnetic conditions are forecast for the 18th, perhaps with the Kp index rising to four.
The forecast for International Marconi Day on the 22nd of April is for a Solar Flux Index of 155 and a declining Kp index of three, which bodes quite well for the event.
In all, the Solar Flux Index is expected to be in the range of 140 to 160 for the rest of the month.
 
And now the VHF and up propagation news
A big contrast is coming next week, so it’s time to dust off the VHF gear again!
The unsettled weather of this last week will make a complete swap over to more settled high-pressure systems next week. 
Initially, on Sunday this will appear as a ridge over the North Sea from a large high over Scandinavia. This will then gradually extend across the country and will eventually be joined by a second high west of Britain. 
The end result will be enhanced Tropo prospects in the coming week and potentially good conditions for the 23cm UK Activity Contest on Tuesday the 18th and the 4m UK Activity on Thursday the 20th.
Those who enjoy rain scatter propagation in this current showery weather will have to look for other modes by Sunday, once the high pressure builds.
As we are coming out of the Winter lull in meteor shower activity, with the medium-rate Lyrids peaking on the 23rd of April at 0100UTC with a Zenithal Hourly Rate, or ZHR, in the 20s, it's well worth a look for meteor scatter contacts.
The end of April normally prompts a return of isolated Sporadic-E reports on the 10m band and perhaps even with data modes on 6m. The upper troposphere jet stream charts suggest it’s got some potential, especially between Mediterranean countries although not quite so positive for paths nearer to home.
The solar conditions may continue to offer a random chance of some aurora, so remember to keep an eye on the Kp index if it goes above five.  
For EME operators, the Moon perigee is on Sunday so path losses are at their lowest. Moon declination is rising, going positive on Tuesday meaning increasing Moon time and increasing peak elevation passes.
144MHz sky noise is low, but the Moon is close to the Sun on Wednesday and Thursday meaning high Sun noise for those days.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for April 9th 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 9th of April 2023
The news headlines:
The RSGB’s Annual General Meeting
RSGB Convention Presentations
Ofcom Plan of Work for the 2023-24 year
The RSGB’s Annual General Meeting will be held online on Saturday the 15th of April. As well as the formal business of the meeting, there will be an announcement of the results of the Board Director elections. The President will give a video review of 2022 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 live presentation by RSGB Propagation Studies Committee Chair Steve Nichols, G0KYA who will look at the methods used to create the propagation report for GB2RS, including HF, VHF and Moon bounce. This year you will be able to ask questions at the AGM via the live chat on YouTube but if you have a question about the formal business, you must submit this in advance. If you are an RSGB member, don’t forget to vote for the two candidates that you would like to see as Board Directors for the next two years. You can find out more about each of them on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/candidates and then there is a link at the top and the bottom of the page to cast your vote. Read their personal statements, watch the videos and see if their background, skills and aspirations match your view of what the Society needs. The decision concerning who to vote for is entirely yours, but please do vote – it only takes a few minutes and will help to ensure that the RSGB Board reflects your views. You can find full details about the AGM on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/agm
Over the Easter weekend, the RSGB will release two more presentations from its 2022 Convention. David Stansfield, G0EVV talks about the challenge and thrill of operating portable from mountain summits, whilst Olof Lundberg, G0CKV shares experiences from his DXpeditions to 3B8. Subscribe to the RSGB YouTube channel so you will be alerted when each presentation is available – go to youtube.com/theRSGB and subscribe!
Ofcom has published a Statement on its proposed Plan of Work for the 2023 to 2024 year. The Statement describes plans for a review of amateur licensing arrangements. According to the document, consultation on the work is planned for the first quarter of the year. A subsequent statement is scheduled for the fourth quarter of the year. Once more details are available, the RSGB will review the consultation and provide guidance to UK amateurs on how to respond to Ofcom. To read the Statement in full visit www.ofcom.org.uk and choose the ‘Latest news’ option from the ‘News centre’ tab at the top of the page.
The RSGB National Radio Centre at Bletchley Park will be closed on Monday the 17th of April for an essential upgrade to the radio equipment. We apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause.
And now for details of rallies and events
Yeovil Amateur Radio Club’s 37th QRP Convention will take place on Saturday the 15th of April at The Digby Hall, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AA. Doors open from 9.30 am to 1.30 pm and admission is £3. The Convention will feature talks, traders, bring and buy, club stalls and a café. For more information visit yeovil-arc.com or contact qrp@yeovil-arc.com
The Cambridgeshire Repeater Group Rally will take place on Sunday the 16th of April. The venue will be Foxton Village Hall, Hardman Road, Foxton, Cambridge CB22 6RN. Doors open at 7.30 am for traders and 9.30 am for visitors. Admission is £3. The rally will feature talk-in, trade stands, bring and buy, an RSGB Bookstall and free car parking. For more information contact Lawrence, M0LCM on 07941 972 724, email rally2023@cambridgerepeaters.net and see the cambridgerepeaters.net website.
The Holsworthy Spring Rally and Boot Sale will also take place on Sunday the 16th of April. The venue will be Holsworthy Livestock Market, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 7FA. There will be plenty of parking, wheelchair access and full catering available. The doors open to the public from 10 am. For more details contact the club secretary Ken, G7VJA via email at m0omc@m0omc.co.uk and visit the m0omc.co.uk website.
The Northern Amateur Radio Societies Association Rally, also known as both the ‘NARSA Rally’ and the ‘Blackpool Rally’, will take place on Sunday the 23rd of April. The venue will be Norbreck Castle Exhibition Centre, Blackpool FY2 9AA. For more details contact Dave, M0OBW on 01270 761 608, email dwilson@btinternet.com or visit www.narsa.org.uk
 Now the Special Event News
Celebrating World Amateur Radio Day, DARC special event callsign DA23WARD will be active until the 18th of April. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau. Direct cards will be managed via DL2VFR.
Celebrating 100 years of broadcasting in Germany, special callsign DB100RDF will be in use until the 31st of December. QSL via the bureau, or direct to DO2PZ.
LA100K is the special callsign for the Akademisk Radio Club, LA1K to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its foundation. Based in Trondheim, it is the oldest amateur radio club in Norway. The special callsign will be in use until the 31st of December. QSL via the bureau, or direct.
VI10VKFF is the special callsign celebrating the 10th anniversary of the World Wide Flora and Fauna programme in Australia. It will be used from Australian parks until the end of 2023. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL or via VK5PAS.
 Now the DX news
James, KI7MGY will be in Djibouti until June and plans to operate as J28HJ on the 80, 40, 20, 17, 15 and 10m bands using SSB and FT8. QSL via Logbook of the World.
Sunny, VU2CUW is a member of the 42nd Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica. He will be based at Maitri Station, Antarctica, AN-016, until November. In his spare time, he will be active as AT42I. QSL via VU2CRS.
Diya, YI1DZ has been in Juba, South Sudan since the 13th of March and expects to remain there until the 22nd of April. He operates SSB and FT8 as Z81D in his spare time. QSL via Club Log's OQRS and Logbook of the World, or via OM3JW.
Now the contest news
Today, the 9th of April, the Worked All Britain Data Contest runs from 1000 to 1400UTC and from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using data modes on the 80 to 20m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
On Monday the 10th of April, the Irish Radio Transmitters Society 70cm Counties Contest runs from 1300 to 1330UTC. Using FM and SSB on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report and serial number. EI and GI stations also send their County code.
Also on Monday the 10th of April, the Irish Radio Transmitters Society 2m Counties Contest runs from 1330 to 1500UTC. Using FM and SSB on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number. EI and GI stations also send their County code.
On Tuesday the 11th of April, the 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also on Tuesday the 11th of April, the 432MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 12th of April, 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 12th of April, 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 13th of April, the 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
 Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 6th of April 2023
Solar activity declined this past week with the Sun looking distinctly spotless, other than active region 3270.
In fact, this has even prompted some amateurs to question whether we are now past solar maximum for this cycle. Rest assured, we shouldn’t be, as it is pretty common for cycles to ebb and flow as they develop.
Having said that, half of the Sun’s face is currently spotless, and NOAA predicts that the solar flux index will be in the range of 110 to 130 next week.
Geomagnetically, things have been reasonably settled with the Kp index reaching a maximum of 4.67 over the past seven days. NOAA predicts that it could rise to four on the 10th and 11th of April but will otherwise stay pretty much as it is in the range of two to three. This may be due to a coronal hole that is currently making its way across the Sun’s face in a near-equatorial position.
However, we may not have seen the last of the activity from active region 3270, which has increased in both size and magnetic complexity during the past 48 hours and could soon produce a moderate M-Flare. But, if you are reading or hearing this on Sunday, the region will be moving out of sight and is therefore no longer a threat.
Daytime F2 critical frequencies at midday remain around 9 to 10MHz giving a maximum useable frequency, over a 3,000km path, of just over 28MHz.
If 10m isn’t doing it for you we suggest moving down to 12 or 15m. Night-time F-layer critical frequencies are around 3 to 5MHz meaning MUFs over 3,000km are below 14MHz, leaving 3.5, 7 and 10MHz as the best bets for nocturnal DX.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
The current spell of high-pressure weather with enhanced Tropo, which turned up in time for the 2m UK Activity Contest on the 4th of April, is looking a bit vulnerable as active weather fronts come in from the Atlantic. 
We are likely to have a brief change to unsettled conditions weather-wise before the start of the Easter weekend and again see some rain scatter opportunities on the GHz bands.
Scandinavian highs are often long-lasting at this time of the year and this high will regain control by Good Friday and should dominate over the UK during the Easter weekend to give some useful tropo possibilities again.
However, quite early next week a new powerful Atlantic jet stream pushes into northern France and will bring a return of unsettled weather and perhaps more rain scatter.
The Sporadic-E season is approaching and the higher HF bands like 10m can show good examples of Es, even during the second half of April, so a good chance to get into the habit of checking your ‘go to’ list of 10m beacons as recently updated by Steve, G0KYA, on the propagation section of the RSGB website.
The other defaults of auroral propagation have had a good run recently and random meteor scatter could also prove fruitful as we are soon ending the early year ‘drought’ of meteor showers with the arrival of the Lyrids later this month.
For EME operators, Moon declination is negative and falling, reaching its minimum next Wednesday. Moon time will be limited to low-elevation passes, but with low path losses as we approach perigee on the 16th.
144MHz sky noise is increasing to a high of more than 2,000 Kelvin next Wednesday before falling back to the mid-200s the following Sunday.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

RSGB GB2RS News Bulletin for April 2nd 2023

GB2RS News
Sunday the 2nd of April 2023
The news headlines:
March 2023 edition of RadCom Basics
Coronation activities
Nominated Director vacancy
 
The March 2023 edition of RadCom Basics is now available on the RSGB website for Members to read. It is for new licensees or anyone who wants an introduction to a different aspect of amateur radio. This edition features articles which cover: QRP operating, an introduction to Andy’s Ham Radio Linux software, basic fault finding and how to have fun on the 10m band. To read RadCom Basics visit rsgb.org/radcom-basics
The RSGB has just published a new section on its website with further details of its Coronation celebration activities. More information will be added over the coming weeks so do check back for updates. Go to rsgb.org/coronation to find out more.
The resignation of Richard Horton, G4AOJ has left an RSGB Board vacancy for a Nominated Director. The Society needs to embrace new methods of working to help meet the changing needs of the amateur community. Candidates with experience in change management, for example, would be welcomed. The RSGB needs a strong and effective Board; this could be your opportunity to be part of that. To find out more, go to the volunteer vacancies section of the RSGB website at rsgb.org/volunteers or, for an informal discussion, please email Nominations Committee Chair Stephen Purser, GW4SHF at nominations.chair@rsgb.org.uk
The RSGB’s Tonight@8 live webinar series continues this Monday the 3rd of April with a presentation called “Sheep Worrier: A High Altitude Balloon Flight and Recovery System” by Heather Nickalls, M0HMO. Heather will cover an introduction to flying High Altitude Balloons, the radio systems involved, some science experiments she did on her flights, the recovery system developed to help find the payload when it lands and, of course, lots of pictures from ‘almost’ the edge of space. You can ask questions live during the presentation via the RSGB YouTube channel or the special BATC channel. Find out more about this and other webinars on the RSGB website at rsgb.org/webinars
Matthew Smith, M0VWS is moving on from his role as RadCom Technical Editor to pursue other opportunities. The RSGB thanks Matthew for all his work and wishes him well for the future. The RSGB is now seeking to recruit a new Technical Editor for RadCom. Reporting to the Managing Editor, the successful candidate will need a wide range of radio and electronic knowledge, including amateur radio. The RSGB is looking for someone positive, enthusiastic about technology, has an excellent command of English and has a good eye for detail. For more information about the role and how to apply, see rsgb.org/careers
 
And now for details of rallies and events
The Hack Green Military Surplus and Military Radio Hanger Sale is taking place today, Sunday the 2nd of April. The venue is Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 8AL. The sale includes electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. For more information email coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk or visit www.hackgreen.co.uk
Yeovil Amateur Radio Club’s 37th QRP Convention will take place on Saturday the 15th of April at The Digby Hall, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AA. Doors open from 9.30 am to 1.30 pm and admission is £3. The Convention will feature talks, traders, bring and buy, club stalls and a café. For more information visit yeovil-arc.com or contact qrp@yeovil-arc.com
The Cambridgeshire Repeater Group Rally will take place on Sunday the 16th of April. The venue will be Foxton Village Hall, Hardman Road, Foxton, Cambridge CB22 6RN. Doors open at 7.30 am for traders and 9.30 am for visitors. Admission is £3. The rally will feature a talk-in, trade stands, bring and buy, an RSGB Bookstall and free car parking. For more information contact Lawrence, M0LCM on 07941 972 724, email rally2023@cambridgerepeaters.net and see the cambridgerepeaters.net website.
The Holsworthy Spring Rally and Boot Sale will also take place on Sunday the 16th of April. The venue will be Holsworthy Livestock Market, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 7FA. There will be plenty of parking, wheelchair access and full catering available. The doors open to the public from 10 am. For more details contact the club secretary Ken, G7VJA via email at m0omc@m0omc.co.uk and visit the m0omc.co.uk website.
Now the Special Event News
Celebrating World Amateur Radio Day, DARC special event callsign DA23WARD will be active until the 18th of April. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau. Direct cards will be managed via DL2VFR.
Special callsign II1CAI will be active until the 30th of June. The callsign celebrates the 100th anniversary of the local section of the Italian Alpine Club, founded in 1863. QSL via IQ1NO.
9M8SOTA and 9M8BOTA are the special callsigns that 9M8HAZ and others will be using during 2023 while operating from various mountains and beaches in Sarawak, East Malaysia. QSL for both callsigns via 9M8HAZ directly or, via Logbook of the World and Club Log.
OE40XTU is the special callsign being used by OE1XTU, the Amateur Radio Club at the Vienna University of Technology during 2023 to celebrate its 40th anniversary. QSL via eQSL is preferred. QSL via Logbook of the World is also accepted. Paper cards requested via Club Log's OQRS will be issued in early 2024.
 Now the DX news
Luca, HB9OBD will be active as D44KIT from Sal Island, Cape Verde, AF-086, until the 5th of April. He will operate SSB and FT8 on the 40, 20, 15 and 10m bands. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL, or via EB7DX.
Pierre, VK3KTB will be active as VY0ERC from the Eureka Amateur Radio Club station on Ellesmere Island, NA-008, until the 12th of April. He will be operating using SSB, FT8 and CW on the 20, 17, 15, 12 and 10m bands. QSL via M0OXO's OQRS page.
Diya, YI1DZ has been in Juba, South Sudan since the 13th of March and expects to remain there until the 22nd of April. He operates SSB and FT8 as Z81D in his spare time. QSL via Club Log's OQRS and Logbook of the World, or via OM3JW.
Bernhard, DL2GAC will be active in the Solomon Islands until the end of April. He plans to operate as H44MS from Malaita, OC-047, on a daily basis. He will be operating on the 80 to 6m bands using SSB and some FT8. QSL via his home call, direct or via the bureau. He will upload his log to Club Log and Logbook of the World when he returns home.
 
Now the contest news
Today, Sunday the 2nd of April, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000 to 1600UTC. Using All modes on the 1.3 to 3.4GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The SP DX Contest began yesterday, Saturday the 1st of April, at 1500UTC. The contest ends today, Sunday the 2nd of April at 1500UTC. Using CW and SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Polish stations send their province code.
On Monday the 3rd of April, the 80m Club Championship runs from 1900 to 2030UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.
On Tuesday the 4th of April, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Also, on Tuesday the 4th of April, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
On Wednesday the 5th of April, 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 5th of April, 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.
Also, on Wednesday the 5th of April, 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.
Next Sunday, the 9th of April, the Worked All Britain Data Contest runs from 1000 to 1400UTC and from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using data modes on the 80 to 20m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.
 Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 30th of March 2023
We were right in our prediction about the effects of the large solar coronal hole last week, which saw the Kp index peak at 7.67 with widespread aurora visible from the UK, even in the south.
This was probably the most significant geomagnetic event we have had so far in this solar cycle.
Last week saw another X1.2 solar flare erupt on the Sun. This one erupted from active region 3256 on the 29th of March at 0233UTC. It didn’t impact the ionosphere over the UK, but a fadeout was observed over the Pacific region.
This was the seventh major solar flare since 2023 began. The Sun has now matched 2022’s total –and it's only March!
The associated CME off the southwestern limb of the Sun was modelled and determined to be well ahead of the Earth’s orbit. This means that we are unlikely to see the Kp index rise as a result of this event.
This region also produced an M1.2 flare that peaked around 1407UTC and an M1.1 flare at 2347UTC. The earlier flare didn’t seem to affect the ionosphere too much according to the ionosonde data.
A minor solar wind stream is heading for Earth and is due on Saturday the 1st of April. The material is flowing from a relatively small coronal hole in the Sun's atmosphere, but it is on the equator and very Earth-centric. Expect Arctic auroras and an elevated Kp index when the solar wind arrives this weekend.
The SFI remained fairly static, around 160, earlier in the week but then declined to 148 on Thursday the 30th. NOAA predicts that this decline will continue next week, perhaps down to the low 130s. Once the weekend’s geomagnetic conditions recover, NOAA predicts that the rest of the week should be quite settled.
This is good news for HF propagation, although do continue to watch out for solar flares and CME activity which could affect conditions and MUFs.
And now the VHF and up propagation news
We have three phases of weather to consider over the next week. Forecasts predicted an unsettled weekend with rain and strong winds, so should have provided a focus for rain scatter on the GHz bands.
The weekend ends with developing high pressure which lasts into early next week. There is good potential for some tropo from Sunday afternoon until about Tuesday lunchtime.
At the time of writing, the best paths are likely to be from southern England into the near continent, also via Biscay to northern Spain and across the southern North Sea to Denmark.
The third phase occurs when the high moves to the south to allow fronts to move in from the Atlantic across northern Britain, but possibly still leaving tropo into France and across Biscay. Later in the week, the high pressure may head back north again to reintroduce tropo to northern areas.
The Sporadic-E season is fast approaching, typically from mid-April on 10m. If anything does happen before then, check the propquest.co.uk website for the Es blog tab, which shows the current day’s jet streams and will maybe provide a clue for which direction to beam.
Remember to look for aurora if the Kp index reaches five or more and, of course, meteor scatter around dawn for those random meteor QSOs. 
For EME operators, Moon declination is positive until Wednesday, so still plenty of Moon time to get some QSOs in. Perigee was last Thursday, so path losses are now falling. 144MHz sky noise is low, rising slowly throughout the week.
And that’s all from the propagation team this week.