GB2RS

GB2RS News

Sunday, the 15th of March 2026

The news headlines:

New Microwave capabilities for the RSGB National Radio Centre

Submit your British Science Week reports

Exam availability over Easter

ICOM UK has announced that it has equipped the RSGB National Radio Centre with the IC-905 All-Mode Transceiver as part of its ongoing support for the RSGB and the amateur radio community. This latest addition ensures that volunteers and visitors to the NRC have access to the latest VHF, UHF and SHF technology. The IC-905 is an industry first providing seamless multimode coverage across the 144, 430, 1200, 2400, 5600MHz and 10GHz bands. The arrival of the IC-905 opens up new avenues for the NRC, from linking local repeaters to monitoring radio beacons for the study of microwave propagation. The IC-905 was officially handed over to RSGB General Manager, Steve Thomas, M1ACB, at the Martin Lynch and Sons Open Day earlier this year and has now found its home on the radio bench at the NRC. Read more about the transceiver and the NRC by going to rsgb.org/nrc  and scrolling to the news section at the bottom of the page.

British Science Week 2026 draws to a close today, the 15th of March, and the RSGB is delighted to have seen so many clubs, societies, schools, youth groups and individuals taking part. This year’s British Science Week campaign has been the biggest for amateur radio yet. The Society would like to thank everyone who got involved and for sharing your love and passion for the hobby with others. Highlights from the event will be featured in the June and July editions of RadCom. Whether your club held an open day, arranged a sked, operated a special event station, supported a school, or held any other type of event, the RSGB would love to hear from you. To be included, send your report, with separate high-resolution photographs or videos, to [email protected]  by the 31st of March. If you were one of the lucky groups to have been given free FM radio receiver kits and Morse code tutor kits to build, you would have been emailed separate instructions on how to submit reports for this activity.

The RSGB remote invigilation team will be taking a break over the Easter weekend. You will not be able to book an exam from Friday, the 3rd to Monday, the 6th of April 2026. Exam bookings will resume as normal from Tuesday, the 7th of April 2026. Book your exam by going to rsgb.org/exams

If you have not secured your spot on the RSGB members-only Direct Digital Synthesiser programming workshop, taking place in Blackpool on Saturday, the 11th of April, now is the time. Booking closes on Wednesday, the 18th of March. Visit rsgb.org/practical-events 

Please send details of all your news and events to [email protected]  The deadline for submissions is 10am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week. 

And now for details of rallies and events

Today, the 15th of March, the Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society Rally is taking place at Great Ouseburn Village Hall, Lightmire Lane, Great Ouseburn, York YO26 9RL. The doors are open to the public from 10 am, and admission costs £5. Refreshments and free parking are available on site. For more information, email [email protected]

On Sunday, the 22nd of March, Callington Radio and Electronics Rally will be held in the Town Hall, New Road, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7BE. The doors will be open to the public from 10 am until 1 pm. Entry is £2 each with no charge for those under the age of 16. A comprehensive selection of traders, clubs and societies from the Southwest will be present. There will also be a bring-and-buy area, catering service, disabled access, toilet facilities and ample parking. Pre-booking is essential so please contact Alastair, M0KRR, on 01503 262 755 as soon as possible. For more information, visit callingtonradiosociety.org.uk

Also on Sunday, the 22nd of March, the Dover Amateur Radio Club Rally is taking place at Eastry Village Hall, High Street, Eastry, Kent, CT13 0QB. The doors will be open from 10 am to 2 pm, and the entrance fee is £3. Refreshments will be available on site. Tables are £15 each, with a maximum of two tables per vendor. To book your table, contact the Club via darc.online

Now the Special Event news

The Radio Amateur Association of Western Greece, SZ1A, is active with special callsign SZ40A to celebrate 40 years of continuous presence, service, and contribution to amateur radio. Look for activity across multiple HF bands and modes until the 31st of May. QSL via ON3UN. Visit awards.sz1a.org  to access awards that are available for working the station.

Special callsign GB0OH will be active from the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides for around six days from the 11th of April. This is an opportunity for award chasers to log IOTA reference EU-010 and Worked All Britain square NB53. The station will be operating on several bands from 40 to 10m, mainly using SSB, but there may also be some FT8 activity. QSL via QRZ.com

Now the DX news

The 3Y0K team is operating from Bouvet Island on multiple bands. Depending on conditions, the station expects to be available until around the 18th to the 20th of March. QSL via OQRS and Club Log. For more information, visit 3y0k.com

Yannick, F6FYD, is active as CN2YD from Marrakech in Morocco until the 31st of March. He is operating using SSB on the 20 to 10m bands. QSL to F6FYD directly or via the Bureau.

Now the contest news

Today, the 15th of March, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000 to 1500UTC. Using all modes on 1.3 to 3.4GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

Tomorrow, the 16th of March, the RSGB FT4 Series Contest runs from 2000 to 2200UTC. Using FT4 on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is your report.

On Tuesday, the 17th of March, the RSGB 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 23cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

On Wednesday, the 18th of March, the IRTS 80m Evening Counties Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using CW and SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and county code.

On Thursday, the 19th of March, the RSGB 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

The British Amateur Radio Teledata Group HF RTTY Contest starts at 0200UTC on Saturday, the 21st, and runs until 0200UTC on Monday, the 23rd of March. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report, serial number and time.

 Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA and G4BAO on Thursday, the 12th of March 2026.

There has been plenty to work on the HF bands this past week. 3Y0K on Bouvet Island is still attracting a lot of radio amateurs, but there is also 8Q7ZW on the Maldives and German group J51A on Guinea-Bissau to get your attention.

DXpeditions to look out for next week include TX5EU from the Austral Islands, YJ1JXZ in Vanuatu, the tail-end of operations at T80K in Palau and VP2EAD, VP2ELX and VP2EWE on Anguilla.

HF propagation has been reasonable, rather than outstanding, with a solar flux index in the 140s, declining to the 120s as the week progressed. There have been a few C-class solar flares, but nothing stronger.

Geomagnetic conditions have also been reasonable with the Kp index mostly in the twos and threes. There was one excursion where the planetary Kp index hit 4 around the 7th and 8th of March, but otherwise it has been relatively calm.

The maximum usable frequency, or MUF, over a 3,000km path has exceeded 28MHz on most days. 14MHz was open to the Maldives via FT8 as late as 2200UTC on Tuesday, the 10th of March.

Next week, the standout item is a large, but relatively thin, coronal hole on the Sun, and the high-speed solar wind stream from this reached the Earth on Friday, the 13th of March. Expect the Kp index to rise and HF propagation, especially on northerly paths, to suffer.

The Space Weather Prediction Centre forecasts that the solar flux index will decline further to around 110 in the coming week. After this weekend’s geomagnetic disturbance due to the coronal hole, the Kp index is forecast to be more settled with a predicted maximum Kp of 3. Things may heat up later in the week with a predicted Kp of 4, rising to 6 on the 21st of March. Expect reduced maximum usable frequencies and poorer HF propagation, particularly on polar paths.

And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO

The current spell of changeable weather is likely to stay with us through the bulk of the coming week, but there is a glimmer of hope for better conditions after mid-week, with a suggestion of high pressure over northern Britain.

To begin with, this means that rain scatter, including snow in places, will be worth checking out on the GHz bands, but strong winds may test antennas at times. The transition to high pressure should lift conditions a little, but since it's forming in a cold polar air mass, it may not be as good as it could be. 

The 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest on Tuesday, the 17th of March, will probably still be in the wet and windy period, so there may be a rain scatter bonus if the rain is heavy enough to affect such a low GHz band. Aircraft scatter will always be the best option for this band when tropo is poor. The 70MHz UK Activity Contest on Thursday, the 19th of March, may fare better for tropo in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Meteor scatter will offer up meagre rations as we remain between major showers. The April Lyrids are still a long way away. Aurora is still in the frame around the spring equinox, so as usual, check for the Kp index moving up to 5 or higher.

Sporadic-E is not usually part of the story at this time of the year in these latitudes. If anything does get triggered, then look to explore the path on digital modes first to see which directions are being favoured. 

For EME, the conditions are poor for the coming week with Moon declination negative but rising, not going positive until next Thursday. We continue with short Moon windows and low peak elevation, but with falling path losses. While 144MHz sky noise is moderate to low in the coming week, Wednesday and Thursday see the Sun and Moon close in the sky, meaning high noise on the lower bands due to wider antenna beamwidths.

And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

GB2RS News

Sunday, the 8th of March 2026

 

The news headlines:

RSGB members – secure your place on the Direct Digital Synthesiser programming workshop

The latest edition of RadCom Plus has been published

Listen out for groups that are active for British Science Week

There’s still time for RSGB members to book their place on the Direct Digital Synthesizer programming workshop, taking place in Blackpool on Saturday the 11th of April. If you would like a flavour of the workshop, watch our short video recorded at last year’s RSGB Convention. You can hear from participants who enjoyed exploring new opportunities with Arduino and appreciated having a full six hours to see the project through from start to finish. Find the video on our YouTube channel and Facebook profile, and book the workshop via rsgb.org/practical-events

The Winter 2025 / Spring 2026 edition of the RSGB’s digital technical supplement, RadCom Plus, is now available via the RSGB app for mobile and web. RSGB members can enjoy four technical articles, including part five in the ‘Operating on the 30THz band’ series and ‘Understanding Coded Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing’. You’ll also find articles on ‘Taming the end-fed half-wave antenna’ and on the construction and use of a 4m solid state linear amplifier. Don’t forget you can save articles in the app by bookmarking them. Within the mobile app, you can also download the edition to read whilst you’re on the go. Members can also browse all the back issues of RadCom Plus, dating back to 2015, within the app. If you’re not a member yet, you can read a sample edition of RadCom Plus. Go to rsgb.org/radcom  to get started.

British Science Week 2026 began last Friday, and a wide variety of amateur radio activity is taking place throughout the ten days. From kit building to Morse-a-thons, from skeds to radio direction finding, this is a fantastic showcase of amateur radio to wider audiences. There is still time to get involved in this national event that celebrates science, technology, engineering and maths by listening out for operators on the amateur bands. A number of groups will be active throughout the week, including the Royal Signals Museum Outreach team, who will be active on Wednesday, the 11th of March, as GB100RSM. The team will be running a day full of activities for 60 pupils from Milldown Academy in Blandford Forum, so listen out for them and exchange greetings. You can find details of other groups that will be on the air by going to rsgb.org/bsw  and selecting ‘Events happening near you’ from the right-hand menu.

The Full and Direct-to-Full Exam Handouts, references EX309 and EX320, have been updated with immediate effect, so their 5MHz band plans now align with the main RSGB band plan, which was updated in January 2026. The new editions can be found at rsgb.org/exam-forms. The changes highlight that caution must be exercised to avoid out-of-band operation, as well as the fact that the band is for Full Licensees only. This follows Ofcom monitoring and warnings to errant operators.

To encourage activity on the 2m band, the 145 Alive team has introduced 145 Alive 50. The trial period for this initiative runs until the 18th of April. The rules are simple. Call CQ on the calling channel and have at least one QSO per day on the 2m band. Record your contacts and send your log for 50 or more days, in ADIF format, to [email protected]. Electronic certificates will be supplied by the 145 Alive team to successful applicants.

145 Alive needs net controllers for its next event on Saturday, the 18th of April. Stations will be on the air from 12 am to 3 pm. The event predominantly features FM, but some SSB stations will also be operating. If you or your group would like to run a net, email [email protected]. Remember to include your name, callsign, location and Maidenhead locator.

Today, the 8th, the Vintage and Military Amateur Radio Society is attending the Audiojumble event at K2 Crawley, Pease Pottage Hill, Crawley, RH11 9BQ. The Society’s display and information stand will be of interest to those who enjoy historic equipment, including vacuum tubes. Everyone is welcome to drop by and will be made very welcome.

Please send details of all your news and events to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is 10 am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week. 

And now for details of rallies and events

Today, the 8th, the Hack Green Military Surplus and Military Radio Hangar Sale is taking place at Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 8AL. The sale includes electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. For more information, visit hackgreen.co.uk

On Sunday, the 15th of March, Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society Rally will take place at Great Ouseburn Village Hall, Lightmire Lane, Great Ouseburn, York YO26 9RL. The doors open for traders at 7.30 am and for the public at 10 am. Admission costs £5. Free parking and refreshments will be available. Tables are available at a cost of £10 each. Early booking is advised. For more information, email [email protected]

Now the Special Event news

To celebrate the centenary of the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters, which was formed on the 16th of August 1926, special callsign ZL100C will be active until August. QSL via the Bureau and Logbook of the World.

Special callsign DB100FT is active throughout 2026 to celebrate the centenary of the Berlin Radio Tower. The 150m-high steel structure is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and has a prominent place in German radio broadcasting. Recently, the station was spotted on the HF bands using FT4 and FT8. QSL via the Bureau, or directly to DO2PZ.

Now the DX news

Jozef, ON6HX, is active again as YB9/ON6HX from Mataram on Lombok Island, OC-150, until Wednesday the 11th of March. The station is operating using CW, SSB, RTTY, FT8 and FT4. QSL via Logbook of the World, eQSL, or via Jozef’s home call.

Gerard, F2JD is active as HR5/F2JD from Copan, Honduras until Thursday, the 12th of March. He is operating using CW, SSB, FT8 and FT4 on the HF bands. QSL to F6AJA directly or via the Bureau.

Now the contest news

The RSGB March 144 and 432MHz Contest started at 1400UTC yesterday, the 7th, and runs until 1400UTC today, Sunday the 8th of March. Using all modes on the 2m and 70cm bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

The ARRL International DX Contest started at 0000UTC yesterday, the 7th, and runs until 2359UTC today, Sunday, the 8th of March. Using SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is RST and transmit power. American stations also send their state, and Canadian stations send their province.

On Tuesday, the 10th of March, the RSGB 432MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 1955UTC. Using FM on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

Also on Tuesday the 10th, the RSGB 432MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

On Wednesday, the 11th of March, the RSGB 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 11th, the RSGB 432MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 70cm band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.

On Wednesday, the 11th of March, the RSGB 80m Club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.

On Thursday, the 12th of March, the RSGB 50MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

The Commonwealth Contest starts at 1000UTC on Saturday, the 14th of March and ends at 1000UTC on Sunday, the 15th of March. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.

On Sunday, the 15th of March, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 1000 to 1500UTC. Using all modes on 1.3 to 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 5th of March 2026.

What a difference a week makes! In our last report, we mentioned that there were zero sunspots and a solar flux index of 130. This week has seen a turnaround with five active sunspot regions and a solar flux index of 144.

HF propagation has been reasonable with openings up to 10m to various parts of the world. We have only seen M-class solar flares, although there have been around 40 of them in the past five days.

We had a brief excursion in the Kp index when it went to 5 during one three-hour period, late on the 3rd of March. However, it soon recovered and has been at 2 or lower for the past two days at the time of writing.

The effects of a small Earth-facing coronal hole started coming past the Earth on Friday, the 6th of March and is expected to be the source of a solar wind stream. According to NOAA and the Space Weather Prediction Centre, Active to Minor G1 geomagnetic storming will be possible today, the 8th of March.

We have now seen the start of the 3Y0K Bouvet Island DXpedition, which is due to run until around the 17th of March. It has already been worked from the UK on bands from 40 to 12m. Bouvet is virtually due south from the UK, and the higher bands should be open from around 0700 to around 1900UTC. The 40 and 30m bands should open from around 2000 to 0400UTC. So, there are plenty of opportunities to work the station.

Next week, the Space Weather Prediction Centre in the US forecasts that the solar flux index may be around 156 today, the 8th, but will then decline to be in the 120s or even 110s later in the week.

We may have slightly unsettled geomagnetic conditions around the 10th to the 12th of March and again on the 14th and 15th of March, with an estimated Kp index of 4.

In summary, HF conditions are not bad. Keep an eye on solarham.com  for daily updates.

And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO

The recent change of weather to introduce high pressure onto the scene provided some welcome enhanced tropo conditions in the last week.

The March RSGB 144 and 432MHz Championship should still be able to benefit, except perhaps for the northwestern fringe of the UK, where the next Atlantic fronts will be making an intervention. It looks a little more problematic for the 432MHz UK Activity Contest on Tuesday, the 10th of March. The same is true for the RSGB 50MHz UK Activity Contest on Thursday, the 12th of March, as the low-pressure pattern returns and offers a chance of rain scatter for the microwave bands.

The meteor scatter prospects are still driven by random activity, so as usual, a preference for the early hours of the morning is called for on this mode.

It has been mentioned before that the Spring and Autumn are periods when auroras are more likely. This is known as the Russell-McPherron effect when the Earth’s magnetic field is better coupled to the solar wind. So, keep monitoring the Kp index for signs of it going above 5. Then check the bands for fluttery signals, even on the LF bands. CW can be used as an early ‘heads up’ for potential activity on the VHF bands.

Lastly, thoughts about Sporadic-E should be kept in check for a while yet, since we are still very far away from the usual start of the season.

For EME, Moon declination is negative and falling to a minimum next Thursday, meaning shortening Moon windows and lower peak elevation until then. Path losses are falling until apogee on Tuesday, the 10th of March. 144MHz Sky noise is moderate, rising to a high of more than 3000 Kelvin on Thursday and falling back by next weekend.

And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

GB2RS News

Sunday the 1st of March 2026

The news headlines:

British Science Week starts on Friday – what are your plans?

Listen out for the RSGB President operating as GB5CC

Make the most of the RSGB National Radio Centre’s extended summer opening hours

British Science Week starts this Friday, the 6th of March, and finishes on Sunday, the 15th of March. The annual event celebrates science, technology, engineering and maths, and is the perfect opportunity to share amateur radio with new audiences. A number of clubs are hosting events that are open to the public, ranging from a practical skills night with Chelmsford Amateur Radio Society through to the Lincolnshire Portable Radio Group, which is delivering a youth event with the International Bomber Command Centre. Several groups and organisations are looking to arrange skeds during the week. These include Crowthorne and Wokingham Without Men’s Shed with Bracknell Amateur Radio Club, and also South Derbyshire and Ashby Woulds Amateur Radio Group. Get involved with British Science Week by attending an event, or by arranging a sked with one of these groups. Find out more by going to rsgb.org/bsw  and selecting ‘Events happening near you’ from the right-hand menu. If you haven’t planned anything yet, you can get involved by doing the RSGB ‘Riding the wave’ activity with your friends and family. Find this worksheet, along with numerous other ideas and resources, by going to the RSGB British Science Week web page.

The President of the RSGB, Bob Beebe, GU4YOX, will be operating as GB5CC for this year’s Commonwealth Contest, which takes place on the 14th and 15th of March. He will be doing so in memory of former RSGB President, Bob Whelan, G3PJT, who sadly became a Silent Key at the end of last year. Bob Beebe looks forward to making contacts across the Commonwealth and sharing time on the amateur bands to reflect the fellowship, tradition and sense of community that Bob Whelan valued so deeply. Find out more about the contest at rsgbcc.org/hf

If you are planning a visit to the RSGB National Radio Centre, you’ll be pleased to hear that, in line with Bletchley Park’s summer opening hours, the Centre is now open for an extra hour and will close at 5 pm each day. Remember that RSGB members can download a free entry voucher for Bletchley Park at rsgb.org/bpvoucher

Did you know that each RSGB region has a Facebook page that has a focus on regional amateur radio communities? The majority of the posts are from clubs, individual licensees and event organisers from that area, and the content is moderated by members of the RSGB Regional Team. Some RSGB news content is also shared that will be of interest to amateurs in that particular region. These pages can also be used to ask for help about any aspect of amateur radio. Whether you’re an individual or a club, make use of this resource! You can find the pages on Facebook – go to facebook.com/groups/rsgbregion1  for Region 1 or substitute the region number for your local region.

The 235 Alive DMR net takes place on TGIF Talk Group 235 on Mondays and Fridays from 7.30 pm. Everyone is welcome. For details of how to connect, visit the 235 Alive Facebook page or 235alive.com

International Women's Day YL Parks on the Air Party takes place annually on the 8th of March. This isn't a contest. The main goal is to encourage women to get out, get on the air, and be more active in amateur radio. For more information, visit the International Women's Day YL POTA Party Facebook page.

SOS Radio Week is an annual event that takes place throughout the month of May to celebrate the work of the volunteers from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Independent Lifeboats and National Coastwatch Stations around the British Isles. Registration is now open via sosradioweek.org.uk

Please send details of all your news and events to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is 10 am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week. 

And now for details of rallies and events

Today, the 1st of March, the Exeter Radio Rally is taking place at The Kenn Centre, EX6 7UE. The rally includes a bring-and-buy area, disabled facilities, catering and free car parking. The entry fee is £3. Traders can gain entry from 8 am, and the doors open to the public at 10 am. For more information, email Bill, G7AKJ via [email protected]

On Sunday, the 22nd of March, Callington Radio and Electronics Rally will be held in the Town Hall, New Road, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7BE. The doors will be open to the public from 10 am until 1 pm. Entry is £2 each with no charge for those under the age of 16. A comprehensive selection of traders, clubs and societies from the Southwest will be present along with a bring-and-buy stall and the usual catering service. Pre-booking is essential, so contact Alastair, M0KRR, via [email protected] or by phone on 01503 262 755 with your requirements as soon as possible. Visit callingtonradiosociety.org.uk  for more information.

Now the Special Event news

Experimental Danish Radio Amateurs are celebrating the centenary of Denmark’s first licensed amateurs. To mark the occasion, special callsign OZ100OZ will be on the air from 0000UTC on the 1st of March until 2359UTC on the 8th of March. For more information, including details of an award that is available for working the station, visit QRZ.com

Special callsign ZL100C is active to celebrate the centenary of the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters, which was formed on the 16th of August 1926. The callsign will be active until the 6th of August 2026. QSL via the Bureau and Logbook of the World. For more information, visit QRZ.com

Now the DX news

Arno, DL1CW, is active as 9G5ZZ from Ghana until Tuesday, the 3rd of March. He operates on the 80 to 6m bands mainly using CW. QSL via Logbook of the World, the Bureau and Arno’s home call.

Andre, PD1DRE, is active as PJ2/PD1DRE from Curacao, SA-099, until Wednesday, the 4th of March. He operates using FT4, FT8 and SSB on the HF bands. QSL via eQSL.

Now the contest news

Today, the 1st of March, the Worked All Britain 3.5MHz Phone Contest runs from 1800 to 2200 UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and your Worked All Britain area.

Tomorrow, the 2nd of March, the RSGB 80m Club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130 UTC. Using PSK63 and RTTY on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and signal number.

On Tuesday, the 3rd of March, the RSGB 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 1955 UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

Also on Tuesday, the 3rd of March, the RSGB UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

On Wednesday, the 4th of March, the RSGB 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 4th, the RSGB 144MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest.

On Wednesday, the 4th of March, the UK and Ireland Contest Club 80m Contest runs from 2000 to 2100UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.

The RSGB March 144 and 432 MHz Contest starts at 1400 UTC on Saturday, the 7th, and runs until 1400 UTC on Sunday, the 8th of March. Using all modes on the 2m and 70cm bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

The ARRL International DX Contest starts at 0000 UTC on Saturday, the 7th and runs until 2359 UTC on Sunday, the 8th of March. Using SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is RST and Tx power. American stations also send their state, and Canadian stations send their province.

Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA and G4BAO on Thursday the 26th of February 2026

We have just had a period of zero sunspots – the first time since June 2022. However, don’t worry. This may be a sign of things to come, but this zero-spot period was short-lived.

There are now signs of sunspots appearing over the Sun’s eastern limb with old region 4366, last seen on the 11th of February, making its return. It is now renamed ‘active region 4378’. This is helping to boost the solar flux index, which stood at 125 on Thursday, the 26th of February. This is a long way off the usual solar flux index lows we experience at sunspot minimum, when it can be as low as 66 to 70.

As we are now entering March and, with the hours of daylight increasing, we are seeing a change in HF propagation. The Spring equinox is a time for good North-South propagation, especially on the higher HF bands, although we may see the 10m band tailing off a little as we head towards summer. For the best overall DX HF propagation, head to 21MHz or higher, where you may get maximum global coverage.

Propagation has been reasonable, but a high-speed solar wind stream from a coronal hole pushed the Kp index to 4 for long periods. This has not helped HF propagation, although its effects are not as bad as a Kp index of 6 or higher.

DXpeditions to be worked this week include Bouvet Island, 3Y0K; Guinea Bissau, J51A; and the final days of Desecheo Island, KP5/NP3VI, which is due to end around the 3rd of March. Lubo, OM5ZW and Laco, OM4WM, will also be active from Thulusdhoo Island in the Maldives as 8Q7ZW from the 28th of February until the 12th of March 2026.

Next week, the Space Weather Prediction Centre predicts that the solar flux index will remain in the 120 to 130 range.

The solar wind model predicts that a cloud of plasma may hit Earth today, the 1st of March, so watch out for an increased Kp index. Otherwise, the first half of the coming week may be quiet, geomagnetically. However, the Kp index is predicted to rise to 4 on the 5th and 6th of March.

And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO

The early part of last week saw brief 50MHz FT8 spots of the J51A DXpedition to Guinea-Bissau in the southern part of the UK. As with TZ1CE last week, stations much further south benefited from the best propagation. As of Thursday, the 26th of February, Clublog showed no UK stations in their log yet. Earlier in the week, the station was an easy catch using FT8 on all the lower bands.

The current spell of very unsettled weather will last into the early part of the coming week. Thereafter, it seems likely that high pressure will start to build over the country, possibly with another weak front after mid-week. This may soon be followed by another high before the end of the week. In terms of radio propagation, although some further rain scatter is probable at first, as we head into the coming week, there is every chance of tropo becoming a mode of choice.

It’s important to remember that not all highs are equal and, although they all tend to produce a strong temperature inversion, they may not be good for tropo if the air near the surface is too dry. Ideally, we need to see some misty low cloud or early morning fog trapped under the inversion for the better-quality lifts. This is because a change in moisture across the top of the inversion produces the biggest change to the refractive index.

Other modes to consider, though not too seriously, are aurora after the recent coronal hole stream. The indication you are looking for is a high value Kp index, say 5 or greater, up to the maximum of 9.

With meteor scatter, we are in a long gap in shower activity until the Lyrids in late April, so relying on random meteor activity is the best we can expect.

Lastly, the prospects for Sporadic-E are not necessarily zero but are unlikely to be too exciting in this part of the year. The main summer season is normally considered to run from late April to mid-September. In the interim, the occasional burst of activity is possible, but probably limited to the 10 or 6m bands.

For EME, Moon declination has started to fall again, going negative on Wednesday, the 4th of March. This means shortening Moon windows and lower peak elevation. Path losses are rising again after perigee. 144MHz sky noise is low throughout the coming week.

And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

GB2RS News

Sunday the 22nd of February

 

The news headlines:

RSGB 2026 Elections – Nominated Director candidates announced

A year in numbers 2025 – a celebration of RSGB achievements

Former RSGB President Colin Thomas, G3PSM, is now a Silent Key

 In this year’s RSGB elections, there are vacancies for two Nominated Directors. Following a rigorous selection process, the Society’s Nominations Committee has chosen to put forward Graham Smith, G4NMD, and Patrick Wood, 2E0IFB, for endorsement. RSGB members will be able to vote to endorse these candidates when voting opens on Wednesday, the 18th of March. To help you learn more about the candidates, the RSGB has published two videos. The candidates weren’t given the questions in advance and were interviewed separately. You can watch their in-depth answers in a single easy-to-view video, whilst the two-minute video provides their brief thoughts on RSGB membership. You can watch them on the RSGB YouTube channel and on its website at rsgb.org/candidates

Amateur radio continues to evolve, and the RSGB, in turn, develops how it supports current radio amateurs and reaches out to new audiences. The RSGB General Manager, Steve Thomas, M1ACB, wrote his annual feature called ‘A year in numbers’ for the March issue of RadCom. In it he shared some of the year’s great achievements in which RSGB HQ staff have often led the way. Read the full feature and view the infographic on page 48 of the March edition. You can also see the highlights in a brief video on the RSGB YouTube channel at youtube.com/theRSGB

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Colin Thomas, G3PSM. Colin worked tirelessly for the RSGB and was President from 2008 to 2009. He made a great contribution to the acquisition and defence of the radio spectrum. Within Region 1, he played a leading role in the acquisition of additional bands, including 136kHz, 472kHz, allocations at 5MHz and the expansion of 7MHz. He also led the successful defence of existing allocations. IARU Region 1 radio amateurs owe him a huge debt. Colin was an Honorary Life Vice-President and a recipient of the Founder’s trophy in recognition of his work both for the Society and for the IARU. A full tribute to Colin is being prepared for the RSGB website and for RadCom.

The RSGB is reminding radio amateurs that the frequencies at 5MHz are only available on a secondary basis to holders of a UK Full amateur radio licence. Foundation and Intermediate licence holders are not allowed to operate on 5MHz. You can find details about this in the OFW611 amateur radio licence terms and conditions booklet, which is available from ofcom.org.uk, and there is also more information about operating on this band at rsgb.org/5mhz

Are you passionate about attracting older people to amateur radio, while retaining and engaging our valued senior members? The RSGB is seeking an enthusiastic individual to take on the role of Honorary Mature Members’ Officer. This volunteer leadership role will champion the inclusive ethos of amateur radio and promote how the hobby can be enjoyed by all, irrespective of age. You will help to ensure that mature members feel supported, valued and actively involved and build a small team to develop initiatives that strengthen engagement across our community. If you are an RSGB Member and are committed to helping others remain active and involved in the hobby they love, visit rsgb.org/volunteers to read the full role description and find out how to apply.

Time is running out to submit your entry to the RSGB 2026 Construction Competition. The deadline is Sunday, the 1st of March. You’ll need to email a short description of your entry and up to four photographs. It is also recommended to send a link to a video that demonstrates your entry working. More details on submitting your application can be found via rsgb.org/construction-competition. The results of the competition will be announced during the RSGB 2026 Annual General Meeting on Saturday, 18th of April.

To encourage activity on the 2m band, the 145 Alive team has introduced 145 Alive 50. The trial period for this initiative runs until the 18th of April. The rules are simple. Call CQ on the calling channel and have at least one QSO per day on the 2m band. Record your contacts and send your log for 50 or more days, in ADIF format, to [email protected]. Electronic certificates will be supplied by the 145 Alive team to successful applicants.

Please send details of all your news and events to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is 10 am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week. 

And now for details of rallies and events

On Sunday, the 1st of March, the Exeter Radio Rally will take place at The Kenn Centre, EX6 7UE. The rally will include a bring-and-buy area, disabled facilities, catering and free car parking. The entry fee is £3. Traders can gain entry from 8 am, and the doors open to the public at 10 am. For more information, email Bill, G7AKJ via [email protected]

On Sunday, the 22nd of March, Callington Radio and Electronics Rally will be held in the Town Hall, New Road, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7BE. The doors will be open to the public from 10 am until 1 pm. Entry is £2 each with no charge for those under the age of 16. A comprehensive selection of traders, clubs and societies from the southwest will be present along with a bring-and-buy stall and the usual catering service. Pre-booking is essential, so please contact Alastair, M0KRR, via [email protected] or by phone on 01503 262 755 with your requirements as soon as possible. Visit callingtonradiosociety.org.uk for more information.

Now the Special Event news

Today, Sunday the 22nd, Hartlepool Amateur Radio Club will be operating using special callsign GB100HG for World Thinking Day on the Air. Listen for activity on the 40, 20 and 10m bands, mainly using SSB and possibly CW and FT8. FM contacts will also be possible on the 2m and 70cm bands. The operators are keen to make as many contacts as possible. If you hear them, please give them a call.

Celebrating World Radio Day, the VIC Amateur Radio Contest DX Club is operating as 4UNR until the 28th of February using CW, SSB and digital modes. QSL via OQRS.

Now the DX news

Michael, OZ6ABL, is active as 5Z4/OZ6ABL from Watamu in Kenya, until Saturday, the 28th of February. Activity is on the 80 to 6m bands using CW, SSB, FT8 and FT4. QSL via Logbook of the World, OQRS, or via Michael’s home call.

Ulmar, DK1CE, is active as TZ1CE from Bamako in Mali until Sunday, the 1st of March. He is operating mainly FT8 on the HF bands. SSB contacts are also possible. QSL via Club Log and Logbook of the World.

Now the contest news

Today, Sunday the 22nd of February, the UK Microwave Group EHF Band Contest runs from 0800 to 1700 UTC. Using all modes on 76 to 241GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

The REF Contest started at 0600 UTC yesterday, the 21st, and runs until 1800 UTC today, Sunday the 22nd of February. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.  

The ARRL International DX Contest started at 0000UTC yesterday, the 21st, and finishes at 2359 UTC today, Sunday, the 22nd of February. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, the exchange is signal report and transmitter power. American stations also send their state, and Canadian stations send their province.

Tomorrow, the 23rd of February, the RSGB FT4 Series Contest runs from 2000 to 2200 UTC. Using FT4 on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is your report.

On Tuesday, the 24th of February, the RSGB SHF UK Activity Contest runs from 1930 to 2230 UTC. Using all modes on the 13cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

On Wednesday, the 25th of February, the United Kingdom and Ireland Contest Club 80m Contest runs from 2000 to 2100 UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is your six-character locator.

On Thursday, the 26th of February, the RSGB 80m club Championship runs from 2000 to 2130 UTC. Using CW on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report and serial number.

The CQ 160m DX Contest starts at 2200 UTC on Friday, the 27th of February and runs until 2200 UTC on Sunday, the 1st of March. Using SSB on the 160m band, the exchange is signal report and CQ zone. American stations also send their state, and Canadian stations send their province.

On Sunday the 1st of March, the Worked All Britain 3.5MHz Phone Contest runs from 1800 to 2200 UTC. Using SSB on the 80m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and your Worked All Britain area.

Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA and G4BAO on Thursday, the 19th of February.

We had a week of relatively low solar flux indices and mostly settled geomagnetic conditions.

While the solar flux index fell to the 117 to 129 range, the Kp index was mostly in the twos and threes. This was after the weekend’s geomagnetic disturbance, due to a large coronal hole that expelled solar plasma in a stream that moved past Earth at nearly 700 kilometres per second.

As a result, HF conditions have been quite good with plenty of DX being worked.

The KP5/NP3VI Desecheo Island DXpedition near Puerto Rico has been a struggle for many, due to its popularity and use of solar-powered batteries and low power. One quick hint: try FT8 on the 40m band around 7 to 7.30 am. You get a greyline enhancement at sunrise, but for much of Europe, the band is closing, which means there is little competition. Let us know how you get on.

Other DX this week includes 8R1WA in Guyana. This is an Italian team operating until Friday, the 27th of February. Chuck will be active as VP2MCV on Montserrat and will be active in the ARRL DX CW Contest until the end of the month. Finally, a German team will be operating as J51A in Guinea-Bissau until mid-March.

Another large solar coronal hole became Earth-facing on Friday, the 20th of February, so we may expect unsettled geomagnetic conditions from today, the 22nd.

Next week, the Space Weather Prediction Centre forecasted a low solar flux index of 105 for yesterday, the 21st, before rising again to potentially reach 165 by the end of this month. Unsettled geomagnetic conditions are forecast for the 24th and 25th with an estimated Kp index of 5.

And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO

Friday the 13th and Saturday the 14th of February saw afternoon openings on 50MHz to TZ1CE in Mali to generate DX interest. However, as expected, it was stations much further south that benefited from the best propagation, with just a few stations in the southern areas of the UK making QSOs on FT8.

The present spell of unsettled weather remains the main theme for the period up to the end of the coming week. The pattern is controlled by a strong Atlantic jet stream, so ‘changeable’ is the watchword with periods of heavy rain alternating with brighter showery interludes and, of course, quite strong winds at times.

In terms of propagation, rain scatter is a clear favourite, although in one cloudy period in mild air around Tuesday the 24th, some possible tropo may show up for southern areas of the UK.  The meteor scatter options are again subject to random activity since we are still some way off the next important shower, the Lyrids, in late April.  

The auroral prospects have, at best, been gently simmering at low values of the Kp index, mostly less than 5. Stay tuned, though, because we may see an uptick around Tuesday the 24th. So watch for signs of fluttery signals on the LF bands and then check for auroral tones on 10m and up through the 6 to 2m bands. These events are always a bit of a long shot, but should be worth checking this time.

The sporadic-E season is still some way off, although a strong jet stream pattern is always a positive.

For EME, Moon declination is positive and rising, meaning longer Moon windows and higher peak elevation. Path loss continues to fall as we approach perigee on Tuesday, the 24th. 144MHz sky noise starts the coming week low, rising to moderate towards the end.

And that’s all from the propagation team this week.

GB2RS News

Sunday, the 15th of February 2026

 

The news headlines:

Support the RSGB Contest Committees

Learn your freedoms and restrictions in relation to repeaters, gateways and packet radio in March’s Tonight@8

Check your club’s details are up to date on Club Finder

 

The RSGB Contest Support Committee, HF Contest Committee and VHF Contest Committee are looking for volunteers who can help organise, support and manage the Society’s contesting activities. While applications from experienced contestants are welcome, the committees would also be pleased to hear from radio amateurs who are new to contesting. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact RSGB General Manager, Steve Thomas, M1ACB, in the first instance, via [email protected]

In February 2024, Ofcom made significant changes to the amateur radio licensing conditions, but how has that affected your freedoms and restrictions in relation to repeaters, gateways and packet radio? In the next episode of Tonight@8, two members of the RSGB Emerging Technology Coordination Committee will answer this question for you. Join Steve Morton, F4VTF and John McCullagh, GI4BWM, live on Monday, the 2nd of March, via the RSGB’s YouTube Channel or via its special BATC channel. If you have a question on this topic, ensure you watch the webinar live and submit your question via the live chat feature. Find out more by going to rsgb.org/webinars

If you are a member of an RSGB-affiliated club or society, the RSGB is encouraging you to check that your organisation’s details are up to date on Club Finder. The RSGB Club Finder allows people to search for local amateur radio groups. Those people could want to join your club, find out more about amateur radio before taking their Foundation licence exam, or perhaps need support for British Science Week activities. Updating your listing is easy. Just log in to your club’s Membership Services account and go to the ‘UK Club Finder’ section. The form includes a section called ‘Meeting details’ where you can add helpful information about disabled access, as well as details about both physical and online meetings. The Society will update Club Finder with any new data between 4 pm and 6 pm every Friday. If you wish your latest information to appear before the weekend, please ensure you update your details before 3 pm on Fridays. If you have any questions about the process, please contact [email protected]

Among the many informative and engaging displays at the RSGB National Radio Centre, you’ll find information highlighting the contribution to the war effort made by Voluntary Interceptors who were RSGB Members during World War Two. It is this topic that Josephine Saunders explores in her compelling article “Listening for victory” published in “BRITAIN” magazine. The four-page feature looks at the role that radio amateurs played in the War, and how RSGB volunteers now help to bring this history to life at the RSGB National Radio Centre. She also looks at some of the wide-ranging activities on offer at the NRC, such as the ‘Find the spy transmitter’ event held last year. Subscribers to the magazine can read the feature on page 63. It can also be read by going to tinyurl.com/NationalRadioCentre

Participation from radio amateurs in this year’s British Science Week is already looking to exceed last year's. Several clubs and groups are looking to set up skeds, ranging from South Derbyshire and Ashby Woulds Amateur Radio Group to Crowthorne and Wokingham Without NMI Men’s Shed. A sked is a prearranged radio contact with another radio operator at a scheduled time and on a particular frequency. Find out more about these opportunities by going to rsgb.org/bsw  and selecting ‘Events happening near you’ from the right-hand menu.

For those unable to attend the Memorial Service for Dr Julian Gannaway, G3YGF, tomorrow, Monday the 16th of February, the service can be viewed online at watch.obitus.com. The login details are available via the RSGB’s Silent Key web page.

And finally, a date for your diary. The 14th Scottish Microwave Round Table GMRT will be held on Saturday, the 31st of October 2026, at the Museum of Communication, Burntisland, Fife, Scotland. There will be an optional dinner in the evening at a local hotel. Further updates will be provided on the GMRT website at gmroundtable.org.uk

Please send details of all your news and events to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is 10 am on Thursdays before the Sunday broadcast each week. 

And now for details of rallies and events

Today, the 15th of February, Mid Cheshire Amateur Radio Society’s Radioactive Fair is taking place at Nantwich Civic Hall, Cheshire CW5 5DG. The doors are open from 10 am to 3 pm. The event features a bring-and-buy sale, RSGB bookstall and raffle. Catering, parking and disabled facilities are available on site. For more details, visit radioactivefair.co.uk

On Sunday, the 1st of March, the Exeter Radio Rally will take place at The Kenn Centre, EX6 7UE. The rally will include a bring-and-buy area, disabled facilities, catering and free car parking. The entry fee is £3. Traders can gain entry from 8 am, and the doors open to the public at 10 am. For more information, email Bill, G7AKJ via [email protected]

Now the Special Event news

Milton Keynes Amateur Radio Society will be using the special callsign GB100MKG with Milton Keynes Girlguiding during Thinking Day on the Air weekend. The station will be on the air from 11 am on Saturday, the 21st of February and throughout the day. Operators will be running primarily on the 40, 17 and 15m bands, as well as via the QO-100 satellite, using SSB. FT4 and FT8 contacts will also be possible.

Special event station TM23AAW is on the air until the 2nd of March to celebrate the 23rd Antarctic Activity Week. Look for activity on the 40 to 10m bands. QSL via F8DVD or the Bureau. For more information, visit QRZ.com

Now the DX news

Borut, S53BV is active as S9BV from Sao Tome, AF-023, until Friday, the 20th of February. He is operating using CW and SSB on the 60, 40, 30 and 15m bands. QSL via OQRS only.

Walt, W0CP and Mary, K0ZV, are active as V31DJ and V31DK from Placencia in Belize until the 27th of February. They are using CW, FT4, FT8 and SSB. Look for activity on the 160 to 10m bands. QSL via OQRS, Logbook of the World or directly.

Now the contest news

The CQ World Wide WPX RTTY Contest started at 0000 UTC on Saturday, the 14th and ends at 2359 UTC today, Sunday, the 15th of February. Using RTTY on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.

The PACC Contest started at 1200 UTC on Saturday, the 14th and runs until 1200 UTC today, Sunday, the 15th of February. Using CW and SSB on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. PA stations also send their province reference.

On Tuesday, the 17th of February, the RSGB 1.3GHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230 UTC. Using all modes on the 23cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

On Thursday, the 19th of February, the RSGB 70MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 2000 to 2230UTC. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

The ARRL International DX Contest starts at 0000 UTC on Saturday, the 21st and runs until 2359 UTC on Sunday, the 22nd of February. Using CW on the 160 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. American stations also send their state, and Canadian stations send their province.

The REF Contest starts at 0600 UTC on Saturday, the 21st of February and runs until 1800 UTC on Sunday, the 22nd of February. Using SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number.

On Sunday, the 22nd of February, the UK Microwave Group EHF Band Contest runs from 0800 to 1700 UTC. Using all modes on 76 to 241GHz frequencies, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.

Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA and G4BAO on Thursday, the 12th of February.

It has been a good time for HF DX. Settled geomagnetic conditions and a fairly high solar flux index has meant the ionosphere has had time to shine.

With the Kp index not exceeding 4.33, and generally being in the ones and twos, coupled with a solar flux index in the 160s, this has meant that the upper HF bands have been humming.

This is despite many relatively minor C- and M-class solar flares.

DX heard or worked this week includes stations in Vietnam, India, Australia and New Zealand on the 10m band, even with modestly equipped stations.

DX being chased includes the KP5/NP3VI Desecheo Island DXpedition near Puerto Rico. This has been difficult, often because they are running low power on their remotely controlled rigs. But UK stations have got through on all bands from 40 to 10m. Due to deteriorating sea conditions, they have delayed equipment recovery until the 3rd of March, so you still have time to work them.

The next big DXpedition to look forward to is 3Y0K from Bouvet Island. Due to technical problems with their ship, the operation has now been delayed and will start around the 26th of February. With the path to Bouvet being almost due south from the UK, propagation predictions suggest that the path should be open from around 0730UTC until 1830UTC, up to 10m, with 21MHz being open from around 0800 to 1000UTC and again from 1600 to 1800UTC. Outside of these times, look for a path on the 20, or even 30 or 40m bands, in the evening and night.

FT8 will be the most favourable mode, but CW and SSB are possible. However, remember they will be using split frequency operation.

Next week, NOAA predicts that the solar flux index will increase to be in the 160 to 180 range. Geomagnetic conditions may start the week settled, with a predicted Kp index of 2, but we may expect more unsettled conditions as the week progresses, with a predicted Kp index of 4 from the 16th to the 21st of February.

So, get your HF Dxing in early next week!

And now the VHF and up propagation news from G3YLA and G4BAO

The weather is often described as blocked when we see long-lasting high pressure, which hangs around for weeks at a time and is a gift for tropo on VHF. However, right next door to a blocked high you will probably find a low-pressure region, which is also blocked for the same reason. 

Currently, we are in the middle of a prolonged period of blocked low pressure, hence the rain and absence of tropo. The position of the low varies a bit, of course, so sometimes we will have milder southerly winds with rain and at other times colder northerlies with snow. 

We have the full variety in the coming week or so, and that means no tropo for VHF operators, but plenty of rain scatter for the GHz folk.

The meteor scatter position hasn’t changed since last week’s news, so we are once again confined to random activity and, for this, early morning hours are usually best. Aurora alerts continue to trickle through, and as we approach the spring equinox, the chances of auroras improve, but there is a little way to go yet. 

Lastly, thoughts of Sporadic-E remain dormant since we are some way short of the typical early season openings of late April and May. As usual, consider checking the propquest.co.uk  graphs occasionally, which have shown minor peaks of the foEs, or critical frequency of the Es layer, in the early evening on some days. 

The Moon reached perigee, its closest point to the Earth, on Tuesday, the 10th of February. The Moon is moving toward apogee on Sunday, the 22nd of February, meaning path loss will gradually increase throughout the week as the Moon's distance grows. Cosmic background noise is relatively low during this period, which helps maintain a better signal-to-noise ratio.

And that’s all from the propagation team this week.