The
Eastern Iowa DX Bulletin
Number
309, January 16, 2026
Craig Fastenow, KØCF, Editor
This bulletin is a compilation of currently active DX operations (or those that will become active within the current week) from recent issues of the three DX bulletins listed below and other sources. Credit for the source is given at the end of each article.
Articles are ordered by the entity's callsign prefix from the ARRL DXCC Entities List. Callsigns used are in bold with dates of operation highlighted in red. Clickable links are provided for QSL and other information wherever possible. Note that articles may be edited for grammar, language, style and accuracy and will remain in The Bulletin while active; articles that are announcements of ongoing operations, or that have no specified end date, will be removed after three weeks.
Also included is a Propagation section (updated as conditions warrant) and a Contest Calendar of upcoming popular contests.
DX News
items are courtesy of:
The ARRL DX Bulletin
This bulletin is available via email
subscription only. See
http://www.arrl.org/bulletins
to subscribe. (The online archive is no
longer updated.)
425 DX News, A.R.I. DX Bulletin (425DXN)
Edited by Mauro Pregliasco, I1JQJ
& Valeria Pregliasco, IK1ADH
425 DX News Home Page: https://www.425dxn.org/
425 DX News Google Group: https://groups.google.com/g/425eng
DX Newsletter (DXNL)
Edited by Andreas Salder, DK5ON
A weekly service of DARC Committee
"DX", http://www.darcdxhf.de
Propagation data is from:
National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration's
Space Weather Prediction
Center
Dr. Tony Phillips' SpaceWeather.com,
used by permission
Contest data
courtesy of the WA7BNM
Contest Calendar
DX
News
3A, MONACO.
It was expected that 3A/MMØNDX
and 3A/MMØSAJ
would be QRV from Monaco
on December 30th - January 3rd. Due to a medical emergency involving a
close family member of MMØNDX, however, the operation has been
postponed. While the trip is currently on hold, the team still intends
to be active during the low band season - likely in February - once the
situation stabilizes. New dates will be announced as soon as possible.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0123)
3X, GUINEA.
Herman, YB3GIH, is QRV as 3X/YB3GIH
from Boffa while on work assignment. Activity of late has been on 20
meters using SSB. His length of stay is unknown. QSL via eQSL.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 1 January 8, 2026] (0109-0130)
5N, NIGERIA.
Lars, DM1HLK has lived in Ikeja, Nigeria since 2022, and got his 5N4DMZ
license in December 2025. For now, he is operating portable from the
rooftop of his apartment complex, with a fixed setup planned for a
later date. "At the moment only active in digital modes", he says, "but
hope to get proficient enough to be QRV on CW during 2026". QSL via
LoTW and eQSL.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0130)
5Z, KENYA.
Michael, OZ6ABL will be active as 5Z4/OZ6ABL
from Watamu (LI06ap), Kenya, from January 15th to February 28th.
Activity will be holiday style on 80-6 meters CW, SSB, and FT8/FT4. QSL
via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS,
or via OZ6ABL.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0227)
7Q, MALAWI.
Chris, ZS6RI, is currently active from Karonga in Malawi's North as 7Q5C. Lengthy work
assignments of 6 months will keep him busy there until 2027. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS,
LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2493 January 14, 2026] (0116-0206)
8P, BARBADOS.
Chris, WA7RAR, will be QRV as 8P9CR
from January 18th to
30th.
Activity will be on 20 through 10 meters using CW and SSB. This
includes being active from various POTA sites. QSL via LoTW, or WA7RAR.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0130)
8Q, MALDIVES.
Alex, IW5ELA will be active holiday style as 8Q7EL from the
Maldives (AS-013) on January
20th-27th. He will operate mainly CW on various HF bands.
QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog and confirmed automatically via the
bureau.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0130)
8Q, MALDIVES.
Ji, DS1TUW will be active holiday style as 8Q7JI from the
Maldives (AS-013) from January
18th to 24th. He will operate on 80-10 meters, mainly FT8,
with some CW and SSB. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS,
LoTW, or direct to DS1TUW.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0116-0123)
8R, GUYANA.
Aldir, PY1SAD, is QRV as 8R1TM
until February 23rd.
Activity is on 160 through 6 meters using CW, SSB, and various digital
modes during the week between 2300 and 0300z, and full-time on
weekends. This includes being active on various FM and analog
Satellites. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0227)
9A, CROATIA.
To celebrate their 15th anniversary, members of the Croatian Flora
Fauna ARC (9A1WFF) will be active as 9A44FF and 9A44FF/p from January 1st until December
31st. See https://www.qrz.com/db/9A44FF
for information about the Anniversary Award.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0102-0123)
9A, CROATIA.
Tom, 9A2AA will use 9A69AA
throughout 2026
to mark his 69 years of activity on the amateur radio bands. QSL via 9A2AA.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0123)
9X, RWANDA.
Harold, DF2WO will be active again as 9X2AW from Kigali,
Rwanda from
January 22nd to February 8th. He can operate on 160-6
meters using CW, SSB, FT8 and FT4, as well as on the QO-100 satellite.
QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0213)
C5, THE GAMBIA.
Tony, IK7WUL, is QRV as C5WL
until January 20th.
Activity is on the HF bands. QSL to IK7WUL.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 1 January 8, 2026] (0109-0123)
C5,
THE GAMBIA. Andre, ON7YK, is QRV as C5YK from Kotu until January 25th.
Activity is on 20 to 10 meters using SSB, RTTY, FT8, FT4, and some CW.
QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 49 December 4, 2025] (1205-0123)
CE, CHILE.
Jacek, SP5APW will be active holiday style as CE7/SP5APW from
Chiloe Island (SA-018) on January
14th-18th, and as CE8/SP5APW
from Tierra del Fuego (SA-008) on January 23rd-24th.
He will operate FT8 and SSB on 20-10 meters, and FT8 on 6 meters.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0130)
CE9, ANTARCTICA.
Felix, DL5XL, has to cancel
his work trip to Antarctica and thus also his operating as DPØGVN and DP1POL due to
personal reasons. He hopes to be back during the 2026/27 Antarctic
season.
-[DXNL # 2493 January 14, 2026] (0116-0206)
CEØ, SAN FELIX
& SAN AMBROSIO. Felipe, XQ7IR, has announced that
the DXpedition to San Abmrosio Island (SA-013) is presently on hold
due to conflicts over necessary landing and operating permits. He hopes
that future developments with the involved authorities will turn the
situation into a mere postponement. Meanwhile, the equipment that was
to be used during the DXpedition will remained stored on Juan Fernandez
Island (CEØ/Z). Sponsors and donors will be contacted individually. For
more information
see https://sanambrosio-project.com/index.php.
-[DXNL # 2493 January 14, 2026] (0116-0206)
CN, MOROCCO.
Members of the Association Royale des Radioamateurs du Maroc will be
active as CN35CAN
during the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the biennial
international competition for African football (soccer) teams. Morocco
will host the tournament from December
21st to January 18th. QSL direct to CN35CAN.
-[425DXN # 1806 December 13, 2025] (1219-0123)
CT, PORTUGAL.
The Rede dos Emissores Portugueses (REP) has announced an activity open
to its members across Portugal, running from January 8th to December 31st.
Using the special callsign CT1ØØREP
(including /p or /m), this year-long collective activity celebrates the
100th anniversary of the founding of the REP, Portugal's IARU society.
Operation is planned across various HF, VHF, and UHF bands using
multiple modes (SSB, CW, Digital) and satellites.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0130)
DL, GERMANY.
Special callsign DQ3ØGDXF
celebrates the 30th anniversary of the German DX Foundation (https://www.gdxf.de/)
until December 31st.
QSL via ClubLog's OQRS
and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0206)
DL, GERMANY.
The DARC Team SES will be active as DA2Ø26SKI
from January 15th to
February 15th for the FIS Ski-Flying World Championships
to be held in Oberstdorf. QSL via DK5ON, LoTW or
DCL (DARC Community Logbook).
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0220)
DL, GERMANY.
The DARC Team SES will be active as DH2Ø26EM
from January 10th to
February 10th for the Men's European Handball Championship
to be cohosted by Denmark, Sweden and Norway. QSL via DK5ON, LoTW and
DCL (DARC Community Logbook).
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0109-0213)
DL, GERMANY.
DARC Team SES will be active as DL25WIKI
throughout 2026.
The special callsign celebrates the 25th anniversary of Wikipedia, The
Free Encyclopedia, founded in January 2001: "the station reflects the
spirit of free knowledge and international collaboration within the
amateur radio community. Wikipedia and amateur radio share common
values: openness, education, technical enthusiasm, and worldwide
networking". QSOs will be uploaded to LoTW and the DCL (DARC Community
Logbook). QSL cards will be sent automatically via the bureau.
-[425DXN # 1807 December 20, 2025] (0102-0130)
DL, GERMANY.
The following special event stations celebrate 100 years of the German
aviation company Lufthansa during
2026: DA1ØØLH,
DL1ØØLH, and
DK1ØØLH. QSL
via DK5ON.
-[DXNL # 2491 December 31, 2025] (0102-0123)
DL, GERMANY.
Special callsign DB1ØØFT
will be active throughout
2026
to celebrate the centenary of the Berlin Radio Tower (Funkturm), one of
the city's most iconic landmarks. The 150-meter-high steel lattice
tower occupies a prominent place in the history of radio broadcasting
in Germany, as it was used to broadcast transmissions starting in 1926.
QSL via DO2PZ.
-[425DXN # 1807 December 20, 2025] (0102-0130)
DL, GERMANY.
The special event stations DA1ØØTV
and DL1ØØTV
celebrate 100 years of television in Germany during 2026. QSL
via DK5ON.
-[DXNL # 2491 December 31, 2025] (0102-0123)
DL, GERMANY.
To commemorate the centenary of the first Kurzwellentagung (the
landmark convention for German shortwave enthusiasts held in Jena on
January 16-17, 1926) the special callsign DF1ØØKWTJ will be
active from January
1st until March 31st. QSL via the bureau.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0102-0123)
DXCC TOP TWENTY.
Here are the top 20 entities on ClubLog’s "DXCC Most Wanted" list as of
January 15, 2026:
1. P5 DPRK
(North Korea) 11.
KH4 Midway Island
2.
KH3 Johnston
Island 12.
VKØM Macquarie Island
3. KH7K Kure
Island
13.
EZ Turkmenistan
4. CEØX San Felix
Islands 14.
KP5 Desecheo Island
5. FT5/X Kerguelen
Island 15.
PYØS Saint Peter And Paul Rocks
6. BS7H Scarborough
Reef 16.
VPØS South Sandwich Islands
7. 3Y/P Peter 1
Island 17.
YK Syria
8. YVØ Aves
Island
18.
ZL9 New Zealand Subantarctic
Islands
9. BV9P Pratas
Island 19.
FT/T Tromelin Island
10. 3Y/B Bouvet
Island 20.
VKØH Heard Island
For the complete list, see
https://clublog.org/mostwanted.php
-[KØCF January 16, 2026 (0116-0206)
EA, SPAIN.
"Plus Ultra" was
a flying boat which completed the first transatlantic flight between
Spain and South America in January 1926. To mark the centenary of that
event, Cartagena Team's members will be active as AO5PU on January 12th-25th.
QSL via EA5GTU.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0130)
F, FRANCE.
Special event station TM26HB, by
Michel (F8GGZ), operates in the context of the European Handball
Championship from January
15th to 21st.
-[DXNL # 2493 January 14, 2026] (0116-0123)
FG, GUADELOUPE.
Philippe, F1DUZ, will be QRV as FG4KH
from January 20th to
February 10th. Activity will be on 80 through 10 meters
using SSB. QSL via F1DUZ, LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0213)
FK, NEW
CALEDONIA. Phil, VK3HA, is QRV as FK1TS until January 31st.
QSL to VK3HA.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0130)
FO, FRENCH
POLYNESIA. Pascal, F6HCM, is QRV as FO/F6HCM until February 5th,
from various islands in this archipelago. Activity is in his spare time
and generally on 15 meters using CW with QRP power. QSL to F6HCM.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0206)
G, ENGLAND.
Special callsign GB5ØPUNK
will be used by David, G3SKA "and team" to use at various times from January 1st until December
31st to celebrate 50 years of punk rock music. Updates
will be posted to https://www.facebook.com/61585208894891.
QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog and eQSL; QSL via the bureau or direct
to GB5ØPUNK.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0123)
G, ENGLAND.
Using vintage equipment manufactured by KW Electronics Ltd from the
mid-1950s to the 1970s, the GB8KW
multi-operator station will be active again over the "KW Weekend" (January 3rd-4th)
from the Cray Valley radio club's HQ in Eltham, England. Other special
callsigns are expected to be activated by collectors and restorers
across the UK during the month, notably GB2KW from Scotland.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0102-0123)
H4, SOLOMON IS.
Bernhard, DL2GAC, will be QRV as H44MS
from Manakwai Village on Malaita Island (OC-047) from January 18th to April 15th.
Activity will be on the HF bands. QSL to DL2GAC.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0417)
HH, HAITI.
Special event station 4V1L
is QRV during January
to commemorate Marie-Jeanne Lamartiniere, a heroine of the Haitian
Revolution. QSL via N2OO.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0130)
HI, DOMINICAN
REPUBLIC. Special callsign HI6ØUD
celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Union Dominicana de
Radioaficionados, the second oldest amateur radio club in the Dominican
Republic. Look for activity on the HF bands SSB and digital modes, from
January 17th to 31st.
QSL via LoTW (preferred), eQSL, or direct.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0130)
HKØ, SAN ANDRES
& PROVIDENCIA. Adrian, HK4Q is QRV as HK4Q/Ø from
Providencia (NA-049). He has been active on 10 meters using SSB around
2230z. His length of stay is unknown. QSL to HK4Q.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 1 January 8, 2026] (0109-0130)
HR, HONDURAS.
Dave, VE3VSM will be active holiday style as VE3VSM/HR9 from
Roatan Island (NA-057), Honduras on January 5th-31st.
He will operate CW and FT8. QSL via LoTW, or via VE3VSM.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0130)
I, ITALY.
Watch for IG9/S51V,
IG9/S52OT, IG9/S53R, IG9/S53T, IG9/S54W (callsign
to be used during the CQ WW 160-Meter CW Contest), IG9/S56DX, IG9/S57UN, IG9/S58MU, IG9/S59A, IG9/S59ZZ and IG9/YT3H to be
active from Lampedusa Island (AF-019) on January 18th-26th.
QSLs via the bureau to home calls.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0130)
I, ITALY.
ARI Fidenza (IQ4FE), with the patronage and historical supervision of
the Guglielmo Marconi Foundation, will use a series of special
callsigns throughout
2026,
each representing one of the "key figures who played a fundamental role
in Marconi's personal and emotional, educational and cultural,
academic, scientific and, finally, entrepreneurial development": II4GMRC (January), II4AJMR (February), II4AMRC (March), II4JDVS (April), II4ROSA (May), II4PRCE (June), II4JAFL (July), II4KEMP (August), II4PAGE (September), II4NTTI (October), II4GCLB (November) and II4SLRI (December).
Complete information about the "Marconi Supporters" award: http://www.arifidenza.it/.
QSL via LoTW, or direct only to IQ4FE.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0130)
J3, GRENADA.
Rikk, WE9G is QRV as J38WG
until February 16th.
Activity is on 160 through 6 meters using mostly FT8 with some CW and
SSB. He may also activate some POTA references. QSL to WE9G, ClubLog's OQRS,
LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0220)
K, UNITED STATES.
The Straight Key Century Club's annual on-air event, commemorating the
club's founding in 2006 and celebrating the original instruments of
early radiotelegraphy (straight key, bug and cootie keys), will run on January 2nd-31st.
Look for K3Y
to be aired from the ten US call areas (K3Y/Ø through K3Y/9), plus /KH6, /KL7 and /KP4. Information on
the event and QSL instructions can be found on https://skccgroup.com/k3y/k3y.php.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0102-0130)
KP5,
DESECHEO I. A group of operators (see next article)
using remote control are now QRV as KP5/NP3VI
until February 14th.
Activity is on 160 through 10 meters using CW, SSB, and FT8. QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0213)
KP5,
DESECHEO I. In collaboration with the Vieques Island
Amateur Radio Club (NP3VI) and the Manyana DX Foundation, KP5/NP3VI is
expected to be "a landmark DXpedition" to Desecheo Island, currently
ranked as the 14th most wanted DXCC Entity worldwide.
Located approximately 13 miles off the west coast of Puerto Rico,
Desecheo Island has not been activated since 2009. This operation
represents the first Puerto Rican-led DXpedition to KP5 in 48 years,
following the historic KP4AM/D activation in 1978.
Plans
are to deploy two self-sustained RDUs (Remote Deployable Units)
provided by the Manyana DX Foundation. The deployment window is January 12th-14th,
weather permitting. Once deployed, the DXpedition is expected to
operate 24 hours a day for approximately 30 consecutive days,
until the scheduled recovery date. The stations will utilize
state-of-the-art remote operating infrastructure from Remote Ham Radio
(RHR). KP5/NP3VI will be QRV on 160-6 meters CW, SSB, and FT8 (always
MSHV, never F/H). ClubLog's Live Stream feature will be enabled. More
information and updates can be found on https://desecheo2026.com/kp5/
and https://www.facebook.com/people/Desecheo-2026-Dxpedition/61585525894897/.
QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0109-0213)
LZ, BULGARIA.
Radio Club Blagovestnik (LZ1KCP) will use six special callsigns during
2026 to honor various Orthodox saints: LZ1426EN (January and February),
LZ488AM (March and April),
LZ370TL (May and June), LZ67PP (July and August),
LZ936BA (September and October),
LZ911TD (November and December).
Details on the "All Saints 2026 Award" can be found at https://www.lz1kcp.com/.
QSL via the bureau or direct to P.O. Box 36, 4300 Karlovo, Bulgaria.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0130)
OX, GREENLAND.
Loren, KK5LM, is currently staying on Pituffik Space Base and operates
as OX5LM
during his spare time. QRV until
December 2026 on 80-10m on SSB and FT4/8. QSL info via
e-mail.
-[DXNL # 2493 January 14, 2026] (0116-0206)
OX, GREENLAND.
Michael, OX3MC,
plans to get on the air whenever time permits from December 29th to February 25th
from Pituffik Space Base (NA-018). QRV on 80-10m, mostly on SSB. QSL
via OZ QSL bureau.
-[DXNL # 2490 December 24, 2025] (1226-0227)
P4, ARUBA.
Mathias, DL4MM will be active again as P4ØAA from Aruba
(SA-036) on January
11th-29th, CQ WW 160-Meter CW Contest (January 23rd-25th)
included. He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 on 160-10 meters. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS
and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0109-0130)
PJ2, CURACAO.
Jeff, K8ND, is QRV as PJ2ND
until January 30th.
Activity is on the HF bands. This includes being an entry in the
upcoming CQ Worldwide 160 Meter DX contest (January 23rd-25th) as PJ2T. QSL to K8ND.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0130)
PJ2, CURACAO.
Thaire, W2APF will be active as PJ2/W2APF
from Curacao (SA-099) from January
22nd to March 31st. He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 on
80-10 meters. QSL via LoTW, or direct to W2APF.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0403)
PJ7, SINT
MAARTEN. Giovanni IZ2DPX as PJ7/IZ2DPX, and
Flavio IW2NEF as PJ7/IW2NEF
will be active from Sint Maarten (NA-105) on January 13th-21st.
They will operate SSB and FT8/FT4 on various bands. Additionally, side
trips to FS, St. Martin are also being planned, with limited operations
as FS/IZ2DPX
and FS/IW2NEF
from a mobile setup. QSL PJ7/IZ2DPX and FS/IZ2DPX via ClubLog's OQRS,
LoTW, or via home call. QSL PJ7/IW2NEF and FS/IW2NEF via ClubLog's OQRS,
LoTW, direct to IK2DUW, or via
bureau to HE9ERA.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0109-0123)
S2, BANGLADESH.
During 2026, the S21DX team will activate 17 grids via the QO-100
satellite. They plan to operate two stations from each grid for 2-3
days throughout the year, primarily using SSB with some CW. Grids to be
activated are NL41-NL46, NL51-NL55, and NL60-NL65. Teams will vary by
location and date. Operators mentioned are S21ACP, S21AM, S21FIA, S21HMX, S21MOB, S21RC, S21RED and S21YLJ as they will
use their personal callsigns. QSL management and LoTW availability may
differ individually. See https://s21dx.org/
for more information and updates. Also, the S21DX team will issue a
"special paper QSL card" for the event, and an Online QSL Request
System (OQRS) will be available soon.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0123)
SP, POLAND.
The Dobrzycki Amateur Radio Club (SP3PDO) will use twelve special
callsigns during 2026 to honor as many different Polish saints. The
first callsign in the series, SP1894MMK
(January 1st-31st),
is for St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe (SP3RN), born on January 8, 1894, and
killed at Auschwitz in 1941. It will be followed by SP144ØSL (February), SP1Ø4ØSSZ (March), SP1865JML (April), SP192ØKW (May), SP1373JA (June), SP1183JO (July), SP19Ø5MFK (August), SP1373AB (September), SP155ØSK (October), SP1234KK (November) and SP1835JK (December). See https://radioawards.club/ses/155
for the certificates. QSL via SP3PDO.
-[425DXN # 1807 December 20, 2025] (1226-0123)
TL, CENTRAL
AFRICA. Joao, CR7BNW will be active as TL8BNW from Bangui,
Central African Republic for
six months.
During his stay he will be QRV on 40, 20, 15, and 10 meter SSB and FT8.
He has already conducted some preliminary tests in preparation for his
first activity, which is scheduled for December 20th-25th.
QSL via LoTW, and QRZ.
-[425DXN # 1807 December 20, 2025] (1219-0123)
TY, BENIN.
Gerard, F5NVF will be active as TY5GG
from Benin from January
6th until April 6th. QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog
(with Live Stream enabled). QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0130)
TZ, MALI.
Jeff, TZ4AM
is QRV from Bamako and plans to be active until February 28th
as local conditions permit. Activity is on 40 through 6 meters using
mostly CW and some SSB. QSL via KX4R.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0130)
UR, UKRAINE.
Special callsigns EM1ØØW
and EN1ØØWLKK
celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Lviv Shortwave Club, founded in
1926 as Lwowski Klub Krotkofalowcow (LKK). It was one of the largest
European clubs before World War II. A commemorative certificate will be
available, see https://www.qrz.com/db/EM100W
for information.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0206)
UR, UKRAINE.
To celebrate his 50th anniversary in amateur radio, Nick, US8AR will be
active throughout
2026 using the special callsign EM5ØAR. Electronic
QSL cards can be downloaded from https://em50ar.pp.ua/.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0206)
V6, MICRONESIA.
Celebrating his 60th anniversary in amateur radio, Haru, JA1XGI will be
active as V6CU25
from Weno Island (OC-011), Micronesia on January 22nd-28th.
He will operate mainly CW, with some SSB, FT8 (F/H) and RTTY on 160-6
meters, including activity during the CQ WW 160-Meter Contest (January
23rd-25th). See https://islandvacation.amebaownd.com/
for more information. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS,
or direct to JA1XGI.
-[425DXN # 1811 January 17, 2026] (0116-0130)
VE, CANADA.
Mike, VYØBRR, will be active as VE2/VYØZOO
from January 15th to
20th from Kangiqsualujjuaq in the north of Quebec. QRV on
HF on CW, SSB, and maybe digital modes. QSL via VE2XB.
-[DXNL # 2493 January 14, 2026] (0116-0123)
VK, AUSTRALIA.
Special callsign AX12ØAAC
celebrates the 120th anniversary of the Australian Army Cadets (AAC) during 2026.
-[DXNL # 2491 December 31, 2025] (0102-0123)
VP2V, BRITISH
VIRGIN IS. Jonathan, W5GI, is QRV as VP2V/W5GI from
Anegada Island until
January 20th.
Activity is on 40 through 10 meters, but mainly on 20 meters, using SSB
and FT8. This includes being active from POTA VG-0021. QSL to W5GI.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 1 January 8, 2026] (0109-0123)
VP6, PITCAIRN I.
Mike, WA6SVT, is QRV as VP6MC.
Of late, he has been active on 20 meters using SSB around 0200z. QSL to
WA6SVT.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0123)
VP8/H,LU,CE9,HFØ,4K1,
SOUTH SHETLAND IS.
Ivo, LZ1AAW is heading to the Bulgarian Antarctic Base St. Kliment
Ohridski on Livingston Island (AN-010). He plans to be QRV as LZØA in his spare
time from approximately December
27th to February 16th.
He will operate SSB and FT8/FT4 on 20 meters and possibly other bands.
QSOs will be uploaded to LoTW after the end of the activity. QSL via LZ2UU.
-[425DXN # 1807 December 20, 2025] (1226-0213)
VP8/O,LU, SOUTH
ORKNEY IS. Gabriel, LU1WGB, is QRV as LU1WGB/Z from the
Joint Antarctic Base Orcadas on Laurie Island (AN-008) until February 22nd.
Activity is in his spare time on the HF bands using FT8. QSL to LU1WGB.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 15, 2026] (0116-0227)
VU, INDIA.
Sandy, VU22DX, is QRV as AT3WWA
from Goa until
January 31st, for the World Wide Award event. QSL to VU22DX.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 52 December 31, 2025] (0102-0130)
XT, BURKINA FASO.
Max, DK1MAX will be active as XT2MAX
from Ouagadougou (IK92fh), Burkina Faso on January 4th-11th.
He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 (MSHV) XU, CAMBODIA.
Tom, DL7BO, will be QRV as XU7GNY
from December 22nd
to January 18th. Activity will be on 160 through 6 meters
using CW, SSB, and FT8, and concentrating on the lower bands. QSL
direct via DJ4WK.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 51 December 18, 2025] (1219-0123)
YB, INDONESIA.
Dave, PB2X will be active as YB5/PB2X
from West Sulawesi, Indonesia from January 15th until February
5th. He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 ("if I get it working
in time") on 80-10 meters. QSL via PB2X.
-[425DXN # 1810 January 10, 2026] (0109-0206)
YU, SERBIA.
The radio club Mihajlo Pupin YU7BCD in Pancevo celebrates its 45th
anniversary during
2026 with the callsign YU45MJA.
QSL via LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2491 December 31, 2025] (0102-0123)
YU, SERBIA.
The special event callsign YU65AEC
celebrates the 65th anniversary of the first radio club in Odzaci throughout 2026.
-[DXNL # 2487 December 3, 2025] (0102-0123)
Z3, NORTH
MACEDONIA. Members of radio club Stevo Patakot from Bitola
are QRV with special call Z38ØCEF
to celebrate the club's 80th anniversary. QSL via operators'
instructions.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 1 January 8, 2026] (0109-0130)
Z6, KOSOVO.
Gabriele, HB9TSW will be active again as Z68BG from Slatina
Air Base near Pristina, Kosovo on January 8th-28th.
He will operate CW only in his spare time. QSL via LoTW, eQSL, or via HB9TSW.
-[425DXN # 1809 January 3, 2026] (0102-0130)
ZL, NEW ZEALAND.
The New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters (NZART) was founded
in Auckland in 1926. To celebrate their centenary, NZART members are
encouraged to use the ZM
prefix during 2026;
in addition, individual operators and NZART branches can apply to use
special ZL1ØØ
callsigns for a period of 1 to 3 months - e.g. Ian ZL1MVL and the
Whangarei Amateur Radio Club (ZL1AM) will be using ZL1ØØMVL and ZL1ØØAM,
respectively, until
March 31st.
-[425DXN # 1808 December 27, 2025] (0102-0130)
ZL,
NEW ZEALAND. Special callsign ZL6ØPAH will be used
by Phil, ZL3PAH from
November 23rd to
February 22, 2026, to celebrate his diamond jubilee in
amateur radio. He will operate CW, RTTY, and "maybe a little SSB too"
on 80-10 meters. QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1802 November 15, 2025] (1121-0220)
Propagation
The Weekly Solar Data chart plots Solar Flux Index (SFI), Sunspot number (SSN) and Planetary K-Index (Kp) for the past 8 days. With 8 Planetary K-index readings each day, only the minimum, average and maximum K-index values are plotted. Note: You may click here or on the chart above to see the same data for the past month.
The Daily Solar Flux Index, Sunspot number, Planetary
K-index,
Solar Flux predictions and Solar Flare data used in this bulletin have
been collected by
KØCF from the U.S. Department of Commerce's NOAA
Space Weather Prediction Center.
The propagation graphs above are the creations of KØCF and are unique
in space weather reporting.
Please Note: The graphs are high resolution .PNG files which you may view in greater detail using your browser's "zoom" feature. Alternatively, right click on the graph and select "Open Image in New Tab" to enlarge it, or "Save Image As..." to save it to your computer for further analysis.
|
NASA's current view of the Sun at a wave- length of 131 Angstroms. This wavelength shows incredible solar detail. Click here or on the image to view as a full screen 48-hour video loop. It is fascinating! |
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Propagation
Summary
For the 8 day period from Friday, January 9th through Friday, January 16th.
The average solar flux was 124, down 21 points from the previous week,
with a weekly high of 148 on Friday, January 16th, following
a low of 111 on January 11th.
The average sunspot count was 84, down by 19 from last week,
peaking at 144 on Friday, January 16th after a
weekly low of 49 on January 13th.
The Planetary K-index weekly average was 4.3 with a
maximum of 6.0 on Saturday, January 10th, indicating
a moderate geomagnetic storm. The most recent K-index maximum was 5.0 with a minor geomagnetic storm.
Solar flare activity since January 10th has been low with 3 major
flares, the largest of which was an M 3.3 event on Sunday, January
11th.
Propagation
Data
Major solar flares, Saturday, January 10th through 1438 UTC, January 17th.
| # | Date | UTC | Mag. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jan 17 | 1029 | M 2.1 |
| 2 | Jan 14 | 2033 | M 1.6 |
| 3 | Jan 11 | 2314 | M 3.3 |
(NOAA's graph of recent flare activity: GOES-X-Ray-Flux)
From the NOAA Space Weather Prediction
Center,
here are the probabilities of major solar flares and the predicted 10.7
cm Solar Flux for the next 3 days. NOAA updates this information daily.
| Date | M-Flares | X-Flares | Solar Flux |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 17 | 55% | 10% | 145 |
| Jan 18 | 55% | 10% | 145 |
| Jan 19 | 55% | 10% | 147 |
Looking farther ahead, here is the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center forecast of 10.7 cm radio flux and maximum Planetary K-index (Kp) for the next 12 days. This data is updated by NOAA every Monday (last updated on January 12, 2026).
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Weekend Aurora Forecast
High-latitude
sky watchers might see auroras this weekend. A stream of high-speed
(700 km/s) solar wind is blowing around Earth, and the pressure it is
exerting on our planet's magnetosphere could spark G1/G2-class geomagnetic storms. Auroras inside the Arctic Circle are almost guaranteed on Jan. 17-18.
(Copyright
© SpaceWeather.com January
17, 2026. Republished by permission.)
Global
D Region Absorption
Conditions in the D-region of the ionosphere
have a dramatic effect on HF communications. The D-Region Absorption
map combines the effects of solar particles and
photons. Yellow to red colors on the map depict increasing signal
attenuation, where the bar chart at the right displays attenuation
versus frequency. Click the
thumbnail below for an animated map of D-Region Absorption:
The Aurora
Borealis
The aurora is not only beautiful to see but can have a
profound impact on HF and VHF radio propagation. For the HF operator,
auroras can result in a complete shut-down of propagation. However, on
VHF, auroras present interesting DX possibilities. Beam antennas are
very desirable and should be pointed north, towards the aurora. Signals
are reflected by “back-scatter” and will be distorted with a rough
buzz. SSB is the best voice mode to use, but copy can be difficult. CW
will have a rough buzzy sound but be perfectly copyable. Click the
thumbnail below for an animated map of aurora versus time:
Highs
for Cycle 25
Solar Flux: 336 on
August 8, 2024.
Sunspots: 382 on August
10, 2024.
Popular
Propagation web sites
https://prop.kc2g.com/
(Excellent Maximum Usable Frequency map)
NOAA https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/
https://www.spaceweather.com/
https://www.solarham.com/
https://dx.qsl.net/propagation/
A Propagation
Tutorial
The solar X-ray flux tracks solar activity and solar flares.
Solar
flux, which can vary from as low as 50 to as high as 300, influences
the level of ionization in the F2 region of the ionosphere, providing a
very good prediction of HF DX conditions. The higher the solar flux,
the better conditions will be for the higher HF frequencies and even 6
meters. However, the levels need to be maintained for some days to
allow ionization in the F2 layer to build up. A solar flux of 150
results in good HF band conditions, while levels of 200 and up can
provide great conditions.
Large X-ray flares on the sun can
increase the ionization of the D layer of the ionosphere (a lower
layer) on the sunlit side of the Earth, greatly attenuating or blocking
HF radio transmissions for up to a half hour. Solar flares often
produce Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) which, if Earth directed, can
lead to geomagnetic storms. Some large flares are also accompanied by
strong radio bursts that may interfere with other radio frequencies and
cause problems for satellite communication and radio navigation (GPS).
The
Planetary K-index is a measure of the magnitude of geomagnetic storms
and is an excellent indicator of disturbances in the Earth's magnetic
field. A level of 1 or 2 represents quiet geomagnetic conditions; a
reading of 3 or 4 may cause some propagation deterioration; 5 and 6 are
minor to moderate geomagnetic storms; and 7 to 9 are strong, severe,
and extreme storm conditions. Strong geomagnetic storms can trigger
Auroral displays and cause HF radio blackouts. Higher geomagnetic
activity also has the adverse effect of lowering maximum usable
frequencies, much like lower solar flux does.
For
best conditions, the solar flux should be above 150 for a few days with
the K index below 2. When these conditions are met, some good DX is
likely!
(Compiled from information on NOAA.gov and other sources.)
Contest Calendar
Weekly Contests
| Contest | Start UTC | End | Web Site | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| K1USN Slow Speed Test | Monday | 0000Z | 0100Z | Rules |
| ICWC Medium Speed Test | Monday | 1300Z | 1400Z | Rules |
| Monday | 1900Z | 2000Z | ||
| Tuesday | 0300Z | 0400Z | ||
| CWops Test (CWT) | Wednesday | 1300Z | 1400Z | Rules |
| Wednesday | 1900Z | 2000Z | ||
| Thursday | 0300Z | 0400Z | ||
| Thursday | 0700Z | 0800Z | ||
| Weekly RTTY Test | Friday | 0145Z | 0215Z | Rules |
| NCCC CW Sprint (NS) | Friday | 0230Z | 0300Z | Rules |
Sunday at 7:00 PM in the Central Daylight Saving Time zone, or
Sunday at 6:00 PM in the Central Standard Time zone.
Full Calendar
| Contest | Start | End | Web Site | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North American QSO Party, SSB | Jan 17 | 1800Z | Jan 18 | 0600Z | Rules |
| ARRL January VHF Contest | Jan 17 | 1900Z | Jan 19 | 0359Z | Rules |
| CQ 160-Meter Contest, CW | Jan 23 | 2200Z | Jan 25 | 2159Z | Rules |
| REF Contest, CW | Jan 24 | 0600Z | Jan 25 | 1800Z | Rules |
| Vermont QSO Party | Feb 7 | 0000Z | Feb 8 | 2400Z | Rules |
| 10-10 Int. Winter Contest, SSB | Feb 7 | 0001Z | Feb 8 | 2359Z | Rules |
| Mexico RTTY International Contest | Feb 7 | 1200Z | Feb 8 | 2359Z | Rules |
| Minnesota QSO Party | Feb 7 | 1400Z | Feb 7 | 2400Z | Rules |
| British Columbia QSO Party | Feb 7 | 1600Z | Feb 8 | 2400Z | Rules |
| North American Sprint, CW | Feb 8 | 0000Z | Feb 8 | 0359Z | Rules |
| ARRL School Club Roundup | Feb 9 | 1300Z | Feb 13 | 2359Z | Rules |
| CQ WW RTTY WPX Contest | Feb 14 | 0000Z | Feb 15 | 2400Z | Rules |
| CQ 160-Meter Contest, SSB | Feb 20 | 2200Z | Feb 22 | 2159Z | Rules |
| ARRL Inter. DX Contest, CW | Feb 21 | 0000Z | Feb 22 | 2400Z | Rules |
| REF Contest, SSB | Feb 21 | 0600Z | Feb 22 | 1800Z | Rules |
| South Carolina QSO Party | Feb 21 | 1500Z | Feb 22 | 0159Z | Rules |
| North American QSO Party, RTTY | Feb 28 | 1800Z | Mar 1 | 0600Z | Rules |
| ARRL Inter. DX Contest, SSB | Mar 7 | 0000Z | Mar 8 | 2400Z | Rules |
| Oklahoma QSO Party | Mar 14 | 1400Z | Mar 15 | 2100Z | Rules |
| Stew Perry Topband Challenge | Mar 14 | 1500Z | Mar 15 | 1500Z | Rules |
| Idaho QSO Party | Mar 14 | 1900Z | Mar 15 | 1900Z | Rules |
| North American Sprint, RTTY | Mar 15 | 0000Z | Mar 15 | 0359Z | Rules |
| Wisconsin QSO Party | Mar 15 | 1800Z | Mar 16 | 0100Z | Rules |
| BARTG HF RTTY Contest | Mar 21 | 0200Z | Mar 23 | 0200Z | Rules |
| Russian DX Contest | Mar 21 | 1200Z | Mar 22 | 1200Z | Rules |
| Virginia QSO Party | Mar 21 | 1400Z | Mar 22 | 2400Z | Rules |
| CQ WW WPX Contest, SSB | Mar 28 | 0000Z | Mar 29 | 2400Z | Rules |
| Louisiana QSO Party | Apr 4 | 1400Z | Apr 5 | 0200Z | Rules |
| SP DX Contest | Apr 4 | 1500Z | Apr 5 | 1500Z | Rules |
| QRP ARCI Spring QSO Party | Apr 11 | 0000Z | Apr 11 | 2359Z | Rules |
| JIDX CW Contest | Apr 11 | 0700Z | Apr 12 | 1300Z | Rules |
| OK/OM DX Contest, SSB | Apr 11 | 1200Z | Apr 12 | 1159Z | Rules |
| New Mexico QSO Party | Apr 11 | 1400Z | Apr 12 | 0200Z | Rules |
| Georgia QSO Party | Apr 11 | 1800Z | Apr 12 | 2359Z | Rules |
| CQMM DX Contest | Apr 18 | 0900Z | Apr 19 | 2359Z | Rules |
| Michigan QSO Party | Apr 18 | 1600Z | Apr 19 | 0400Z | Rules |
| Ontario QSO Party | Apr 18 | 1800Z | Apr 19 | 1800Z | Rules |
| Quebec QSO Party | Apr 19 | 1200Z | Apr 19 | 2200Z | Rules |
| ARRL Rookie Roundup, SSB | Apr 19 | 1800Z | Apr 19 | 2359Z | Rules |