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The Eastern Iowa DX Bulletin
Number 260, February 7, 2025

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 daily; and a Contest Calendar of upcoming popular contests.

DX News items are courtesy of:
   The ARRL DX Bulletin
      The bulletin is available at http://www.arrl.org
   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
   Ohio-Penn DX Bulletin (OPDX)
      Edited by Tedd Mirgliotta, KB8NW. Although OPDX is no longer
      published as a weekly bulletin, Tedd still sends DX news emails.
      We will occasionally publish some of them.
   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

5N, NIGERIA. The 5N9DTG DXpedition is still on hold due to air travel problems.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0214)

5V, TOGO. Antonio, IK7WUL is QRV as 5VØDX until February 14th. Activity is in his spare time on 10 meters using SSB. QSL via I8KHC, LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0214)

6W, SENEGAL. Willy, ON4AVT, signs 6W7/ON4AVT from February 2nd to April 10th from the town Warang. QRV on 80-10m (CW, SSB, FT8) and via QO-100. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW, eQSL.
-[DXNL # 2443 January 29, 2025]  (0131-0411)

8R, GUYANA. Aldir, PY1SAD, remains on the air until February 8th as 8R1TM. QSL via PY1SAD.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0214)

9A, CROATIA. Special callsign 9A2Ø25HWC marks the 29th edition of the IHF World Men's Handball Championship that is being held right now until February 2nd. The special callsign, however, will be in use until June 30th. QSOs are uploaded to QRZ Logbook and ClubLog. QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0131-0221)

9X, RWANDA. Harold, DF2WO will be active again as 9X2AW from Rwanda from January 27th to February 15th. Usually he operates CW, SSB and FT8/FT4 on 160-6 meters, and via QO-100. QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1760 January 25, 2025]  (0124-0214)

A9, BAHRAIN. Special callsign A975IARU is for the Bahrain Amateur Radio Society's celebration of the 75th anniversary of IARU Region 1. Activity will begin on February 6th-10th and will continue for five days each month starting on the 6th until the end of the year. QSL via EC6DX.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0131-0221)

A9, BAHRAIN. Special callsign A91ØØIARU is for the Bahrain Amateur Radio Society's  celebration of the 100th anniversary of the International Amateur Radio Union. Look for activity for five days each month during 2025. QSL via EC6DX.
-[425DXN # 1760 January 25, 2025]  (0124-0214)

C2, NAURU. Phill, FK1TS is QRV as C21TS and plans to extend his stay on Nauru until September 2025 with hopeful ventures also on 160m, into SSB operating, and with a projected QSO total goal of 100,000 (currently at 83k). QSL via LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2443 January 29, 2025]  (0131-0221)

C5, THE GAMBIA. Przemo, SP3PS is QRV as C5SP until mid-March. Activity is on 20 to 10 meters using SSB and FT8. QSL to SP3PS.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 3 January 16, 2025]  (0117-0314)

C6, BAHAMAS. Chip, K2KJD and John, K4SGR will be QRV as C6ADA from New Providence from February 12th to 16th. Activity will be on the HF bands using CW, SSB, and some FT8. They will try to activate new POTA locations and Lighthouses. QSL via K2KJD.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0221)

CE9, ANTARCTICA. Alex, DL2ALY is QRV as DPØGVN from Neumayer III Station. Activity is on the HF bands using SSB and various digital modes. He may soon be active using CW. This includes being an entry in the upcoming ARRL DX CW contest (February 15-16). QSL via DL5EBE.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0228)

CE9, ANTARCTICA. Mika, OH2FFP is QRV as OJ1ABOA from the Finnish Antarctic Station Aboa (AN-016) until February 12th. QSL to OH2FFP.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 5 January 30, 2025]  (0131-0214)

CE9, ANTARCTICA. Felix, DL5XL will be QRV as DP1POL from the German research station Neumayer III, IOTA AN-016, from January 12th to February 25th. Activity will be in his spare time on the HF bands using mostly CW with some SSB and various digital modes. QSL via DL1ZBO.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 9, 2025]  (0110-0228)

D4, CAPE VERDE. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the independence of Cabo Verde (July 5, 1975), the Monteverde Contest Team (D4C) and Paolo, D44PM will be active as D45ØICV until December 31st. They will operate across all bands and modes, primarily focusing on HF. Watch https://www.facebook.com/D4C.STATION for updates. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0228)

D4, CAPE VERDE. Claudio, HB9OAU will be active holiday style as D44OA from Sal Island (AF-086), Cape Verde on February 5th to 18th. He will operate SSB and CW on 40-6 meters. QSOs will be uploaded also to ClubLog. QSL via LoTW and eQSL (paper cards will not be provided).
-[425DXN # 1759 January 18, 2025]  (0131-0221)

DL, GERMANY. Special callsign DAØIARU (special DOK IARU00) celebrates the IARU centenary until April 27th. QSL will be sent automagically via the bureau; direct via DL2VFR.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0307)

DL, GERMANY. Special callsign DAØLH (special DOK 25ILLW), associated with the lighship Laesoe Rende, will be active throughout 2025. QSL via DK5ON, ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2442 January 22, 2025]  (0124-0214)

DL, GERMANY. Special callsign DL1ØØDM celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Deutsches Museum (German Museum) in Munich during 2025. QSL via DL8FA.
-[DXNL # 2442 January 22, 2025]  (0124-0214)

DL, GERMANY. Special callsign DL2Ø25C celebrates Chemnitz as one of the European Capitals of Culture 2025 from January 18th until March 31st. In addition, DL2Ø25B, DL2Ø25E, DL2Ø25W, and DL2Ø25S will also be active, marking previous German cities similarly honored (Berlin, Essen, Weimar) and the DARC district Saxony, where Chemnitz is located. An award program is also available; see https://www.2025c.de. QSL only in various digital forms.
-[DXNL # 2441 January 15, 2025]  (0117-0328)

DXCC TOP TWENTY. Here are the top 20 entities on ClubLog’s "DXCC Most Wanted" list as of February 7, 2025:
   1. P5     DPRK (North Korea)  11. ZS8    Prince Edward & Marion Islands
   2. BS7H   Scarborough Reef    12. KH4    Midway Island
   3. CEØX   San Felix Islands   13. VKØM   Macquarie Island
   4. BV9P   Pratas Island       14. PYØS   Saint Peter And Paul Rocks
   5. KH7K   Kure Island         15. KP5    Desecheo Island
   6. KH3    Johnston Island     16. VPØS   South Sandwich Islands
   7. 3Y/P   Peter 1 Island      17. ZL9    New Zealand Subantarctic Islands
   8. FT5/X  Kerguelen Island    18. FK/C   Chesterfield Islands
   9. YVØ    Aves Island         19. VKØH   Heard Island
  10. 3Y/B   Bouvet Island       20. FT/T   Tromelin Island
For the complete list, see https://clublog.org/mostwanted.php
-[KØCF February 7, 2025  (0207-0228)

EA, SPAIN. Special callsigns AO1WRD, AO2WRD, AO3WRD, AO4WRD, AO5WRD, AO6WRD (Balearic Islands), AO7WRD, AO8WRD (Canary Islands) and AO9WRD (Ceuta and Melilla) are expected to be active on February 7th-16th in celebration of World Radio Day. World Radio Day (February 13) was proclaimed in 2011 by the Member States of UNESCO, and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 as an International Day. This year's theme is "Radio and Climate Change". QSL for all callsigns direct to EA3RKF.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0207-0221)

F, FRANCE. Francois, F8DVD will be QRV as TM22AAW from Macon on February 2nd and 3rd, and then between February 8th to 20th for the 22nd International Antarctic Week. Activity will be on 40 to 10 meters. QSL to F8DVD.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 5 January 30, 2025]  (0131-0221)

FM, MARTINIQUE. Yuri, VE3DZ will be active as FM/VE3DZ from Martinique (NA-107) from February 11th to 18th. He will participate in the ARRL DX CW Contest (February 15th-16th) as TO4A. QSLs via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, or via VE3DZ.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0221)

H4, SOLOMON IS. Bernhard, DL2GAC will be active again as H44MS from the Solomon Islands from February 9th to May 7th. He is usually QRV daily, with activity on 80-6 meters SSB and FT8. QSL via DL2GAC.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0207-0509)

HBØ, LIECHTENSTEIN. Members of the Ham Radio Interest Group will be QRV as HBØDX from Eschen as a Multi/Single entry in the CQ WW WPX RTTY contest (February 8th-9th). QSL via DL3DXX.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0214)

HP, PANAMA. Bob, NC6Q, operates as HP1TT from February 1st to 17th on 40, 20, 15, and 10m on CW and SSB. QSL via NC6Q.
-[DXNL # 2443 January 29, 2025]  (0131-0221)

I, ITALY. Special callsign II3MPL celebrates the 50th anniversary of ARI Merano/Meran (IQ3MP). Look for activity from February 1st until May 1st.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0131-0221)

ISØ, SARDINIA. Special callsign IRØAPTT celebrates the 50th anniversary of ARI Porto Torres (IQØAK), Sardinia. Look for activity on all bands and modes from February 12th until May 12th. QSL via the bureau or direct to IRØAPTT.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0307)

J5, GUINEA-BISSAU. Livio, IZ3BUR will be active again as J52EC from Guinea-Bissau from January 26th to March 1st. In his spare time, he will be QRV on 20, 15 and 10 meters SSB and possibly digital modes. QSL direct to IZ3BUR.
-[425DXN # 1757 January 4, 2025]  (0124-0228)

J7, DOMINICA. Oliver, W6NV, plans to operate as J79NV during February, with a focus on the ARRL CW contest (February 15th-16th) single op, maybe as J75A, and ARRL SSB contest (March 1st-2nd) together with FM5BH (J79BH), F8AAN (J79AN), and F5VHJ (J79AC). QSL for J79NV via W6NV; no info yet for J75A which has been used once before.
-[DXNL # 2443 January 29, 2025]  (0131-0307)

KH9, WAKE I. Allan, KH7AL is active as KH7AL/KH9 in his spare time while on work assignment on Wake Island (OC-053). "I have a little less than two months to go on this trip until I head home for a month", he says. According to his new website (https://kh7al.site), his next activities are scheduled as follows: February 2nd at 2000 UTC on 10m SSB; February 3rd at 0730 UTC on 12m SSB; February 17th at 0730 UTC on 12m CW (QRS, 17 WPM); February 17th at 1930 UTC on 10m CW (tentative). Logsearch on ClubLog. QSL via LoTW, QRZ Logbook, or via KH7AL.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0131-0221)

LA, NORWAY. Special callsign LA1ØØA marks the centenary of the first amateur radio contact between Norway and the USA in 1925, when Johannes Diesen, LA1A, and U1YB (Dartmouth College) had a QSO on November 25th of that year. QSL via LA1ØØA, LoTW, qrz.com.
-[DXNL # 2442 January 22, 2025]  (0124-0214)

LZ, BUGARIA. Special event station LZ75IPA will be active throughout 2025 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the International Police Association. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, or LZ3HI.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0131-0221)

OE, AUSTRIA. Special event station OE25SKI will be QRV from Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Leogang from February 4th to 16th in celebration of the 2025 Ski Championship. Activity will be on 160 meters through 23 centimeters. QSL cards will automatically be sent via the bureau and eQSL.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 5 January 30, 2025]  (0131-0221)

OH, FINLAND. Ric, DL2VFR, and Georg, DL4SVA, are going to put OH73ELK on the air from February 7th to 20th. DJ9BX joins them on the 12th. For contests they will use the callsign OG7Z. OH/DL2VFR also hopes to activate OHFF references, depending on local snow conditions.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0221)

OHØ, ALAND IS. Alex, SA2SAA will be QRV as OHØ/SE2QRP on 10 meters in the CQ WW WPX RTTY contest (February 8th-9th). QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0214)

P2, PAPUA NEW GUINEA. Xu, BG5DON is QRV as P29XZ near Port Moresby while on work assignment. Activity is in his spare time, mostly during the weekends, on 20, 17, 15, 10, and 6 meters using FT8 with low power. QSL to BG5DON.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 4 January 23, 2025]  (0124-0214)

P4, ARUBA. John, W2GD will be active as P44W from Aruba (SA-036) on February 10th-18th. He will operate CW, with some focus on 30, 17 and 12 meters, and will participate in the ARRL DX CW Contest (February 15th-16th). QSL via LoTW, or direct to N2MM.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0221)

P4, ARUBA. Marty, KE4TT, will be active from Aruba (SA-036) as P4/KE4TT from February 7th to March 11th. He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 on various HF bands. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, or KE4TT.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0207-0314)

PA, NETHERLANDS. Commemorating the 80th anniversary of Operation Veritable during World War II, special event station PA8ØOV will be active on February 13th-28th. See https://rclb.nl/pa80ov for more information. Operation Veritable was the northern part of an Allied pincer movement that took place during the final stages of the conflict (February 8 - March 11, 1945). All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau; direct cards via PD8RW.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0228)

PJ2, CURACAO. Rudolph, NF9V, will be back on the bands as PJ2/NF9V from February 11th to 18th. QRV on 160-10m and as part of the PJ2T team for the ARRL DX CW Contest (February 15th-16th). QSL for PJ2/NF9V via NF9V, LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0221)

PJ2, CURACAO. Thaire, W2APF will be active as PJ2/W2APF from January 12th to April 8th. He will operate CW, SSB and FT8 on 80-10 meters. QSL via LoTW or W2APF.
-[425DXN # 1757 January 4, 2025]  (0110-0404)

PJ7, SINT MAARTEN. Jeff, VA3QSL will be active holiday style as PJ7/VA3QSL from Sint Maarten (NA-105) from January 27th to February 16th. He will operate SSB, CW and digital modes on 40-6 meters. QSLs via LoTW, or VA3QSL.
-[425DXN # 1756 December 28, 2024]  (0124-0221)

PY, BRAZIL. Special event call PV91L is QRV until February 15th to celebrate the 91st anniversary of LABRE. Activity is on all bands and modes, including some on various Satellites. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0214)

S5, SLOVENIA. Special callsign S51ØØIARU is for members of the Zveza Radio-amaterjev Slovenije (Association of Radio Amateurs of Slovenia) celebrating the 100th anniversary of the IARU until December 31st. QSL via LoTW, or via the bureau.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0228)

S7, SEYCHELLES. Bruno, VE3BRU will be QRV as S79/VE3BRU from Eden Island (AF-024) from February 4th to 20th. Activity will be on 40 to 10 meters using CW and SSB. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 5 January 30, 2025]  (0131-0221)

SU, EGYPT. Vladimir, UA4WHX is QRV as SU9VB and has been active on 20, 12, and 10 meters using CW. QSL to UA4WHX.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 4 January 23, 2025]  (0124-0214)

TA, TURKEY. Special callsign TC8DX will be active on February 5th-17th to honor the memory of Mustafa Asim Ezer (TA8DX), who lost his life in the catastrophic earthquake that struck Turkey on February 6, 2023. Certificate on https://tadx.org/awards. QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0131-0221)

TJ, CAMEROON. Thierry, TK1CX is QRV as TJ/TK1CX until the end of February. Activity is in his spare time on 20 to 10 meters using mostly FT8 and low power. QSL via LoTW, eQSL, or EA5ZD.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 47 December 19, 2024]  (1220-0228)

TY, BENIN. Gerard, F5NVF is QRV as TY5C from Godomey until April 2nd. Activity is holiday style on 80 to 6 meters using CW, SSB, and FT8. QSL direct to F5RAV, or via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 2 January 9, 2025]  (0110-0404)

TZ, MALI. Ulmar, DK1CE will be active as TZ1CE from Bamako, Mali from February 12th to March 4th. He will operate SSB and FT8 on 160-6 meters, with special attention to 160m FT8, 80m FT8 and 6m. QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog and LoTW and will be confirmed automatically via the bureau.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0307)

V4, ST KITTS & NEVIS. Tom, KØYA, and his wife Antoinette, W5RCX, sign V4/KØYA and V4/W5RCX, respectively until March 4th. Tom will be active during the ARRL DX CW Contest (February 15th-16th) as V47Y. QSL via LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0307)

V7, MARSHALL IS. Nac, JA1CCH will be active as V73PP from Majuro (OC-029), Marshall Islands on February 7th-11th. He will operate CW and RTTY on 40-10m, and will participate in the CQ WPX RTTY Contest (February 8th-9th). QSOs will be uploaded to LoTW and ClubLog after he returns home.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0214)

V7, MARSHALL IS. Sven, DJ4MX, Yannick, DK1YH, Philipp, DK6SP, Braco, E77DX, Tomi, HA8RT and Jamie, MØSDV, will be active as V73WW from Majuro (OC-029), Marshall Islands from February 12th to 23rd. They will operate CW, SSB, RTTY and FT8 with four stations. Plans are to participate in the ARRL DX CW Contest (February 15th-16th). See https://next-generation-dx.com/v7/ for V73WW's band plan and other information. Updates on https://www.facebook.com/RMI2025. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, or DJ4MX.
-[425DXN # 1759 January 18, 2025]  (0207-0228)

VK9C, COCOS (KEELING) IS. Larry, W5EIT will be active holiday style as VK9/W5EIT on February 11th-18th. He will operate CW and FT8 on 40-10 meters and may try RTTY or SSB if conditions permit. See https://w5eit.org/vk9c/ for more information and updates. QSL via LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0207-0221)

VP2E, ANGUILLA. Chuck, KG9N is QRV as VP2ECV until February 18th. Activity is on all HF bands using CW. This includes being an entry in the CQ WW WPX RTTY contest (February 8-9) and in the upcoming ARRL DX CW contest (February 15-16). QSL via KG9N.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 6 February 6, 2025]  (0207-0221)

VU, INDIA. Team AU2V is QRV from Sacrifice Rock (AS-161) until February 10. Six operators (VU2RS, VU3WEW, VU3GDS, VU2TT, VU3DXA and VU3TPW) will use two stations around the clock, one for SSB/CW and the other for FT8 (F/H). Depending on conditions, they may set up a third station. Donors will not need to send additional QSL requests. QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0214)

VU, INDIA. Special callsign AU75BSG will be used by members of the Rajapalayam International Radio Communicator's Club (VU2IRD) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Bharat Scouts & Guides. QSL via VU2JFF.
-[DXNL # 2442 January 22, 2025]  (0124-0214)

YB, INDONESIA. Emmanuel, F5LIT expects to be active again as YB9/F5LIT from Bali Island (OC-022) from January 28th to February 18th. He usually operates SSB on 40-10 meters. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW, or direct to F5LIT.
-[425DXN # 1760 January 25, 2025]  (0124-0221)

YN, NICARAGUA. N3QQ, W8HC, K5MSK, NL8F, OK8AU, RW3RN, R1BIG, and R9LR will operate from February 11th to 16th as YN6RRC from Complejo Volcanico San Cristobal (POTA NI-055), as H7RRC from Isla Del Cardon (NA-212), and as YN8/KL7RRC from POTA NI-011. At present, all callsigns still need approval from the relevant authorities.
-[DXNL # 2444 February 5, 2025]  (0207-0221)

YS, EL SALVADOR. Dave, WJ2O will be active as YS1/WJ2O from La Libertad, El Salvador on February 12th-19th, including an entry in the ARRL DX CW Contest (February 15th-16th). QSL via N2ZN.
-[425DXN # 1762 February 8, 2025]  (0207-0221)

ZD7, ST. HELENA. Gan, KY8D will be active as ZD7KYD until February 15th. He will operate CW on 60-10 meters. For more information see https://www.qrz.com/db/ZD7KYD. QSL via LoTW or KY8D.
-[425DXN # 1761 February 1, 2025]  (0207-0221)

ZS, SOUTH AFRICA. Special event stations ZS1ØØSARL, ZS6SRL, and ZS9HQ are QRV during all of 2025 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the South African Relay League. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 4 January 23, 2025]  (0124-0214)




Propagation (Updated daily)

Solar Data

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 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!
The current Sun at 131 Angstroms

Propagation Summary
For the 8 day period from Friday, January 31st through yesterday, February 7th.

The average solar flux was 200, up 21 points from the previous week, with a weekly high of 220 on Monday, February 3rd, followed by a low of 182 on February 7th.

The average sunspot count was 165, up 23 from last week, peaking at 194 on Tuesday, February 4th after a weekly low of 141 on January 31st.

The Planetary K-index weekly average was 2.8 with a maximum of 4.3 on Sunday, February 2nd, indicating generally quiet geomagnetic conditions. Yesterday's K-index maximum was 1.3 with generally quiet conditions.

Solar flare activity since February 1st has been very high with 26 major flares, the largest of which was an M 8.8 event on Monday, February 3rd.

Propagation Data
Major solar flares, Saturday, February 1st through 1349 UTC, February 8th.

  #     Date     UTC     Mag.  
1 Feb 08  0927  M 2.0 
2 Feb 07  0921  M 7.5 
3 Feb 07  0721  M 3.2 
4 Feb 07  0630  M 1.6 
5 Feb 06  2326  M 2.3 
6 Feb 06  1104  M 7.6 
7 Feb 05  0750  M 2.7 
8 Feb 05  0315  M 1.2 
9 Feb 04  1313  M 3.2 
10 Feb 04  1121  M 4.7 
11 Feb 04  0518  M 1.2 
12 Feb 04  0148  M 2.6 
13 Feb 04  0050  M 1.2 
14 Feb 03  2112  M 1.4 
15 Feb 03  1836  M 4.3 
16 Feb 03  1318  M 6.1 
17 Feb 03  0913  M 1.4 
18 Feb 03  0744  M 2.5 
19 Feb 03  0547  M 3.1 
20 Feb 03  0358  M 8.8 
21 Feb 02  1533  M 2.7 
22 Feb 02  1513  M 1.2 
23 Feb 02  1404  M 5.1 
24 Feb 02  1250  M 1.4 
25 Feb 02  1012  M 3.0 
26 Feb 01  1319  M 2.4 

   (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 
 Feb 8 70%25% 18
 Feb 9 70%25%/18
 Feb 10 70%25%/18

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 February 3, 2025).

 Date   Flux   Kp 
 Feb 8 2102
 Feb 9 2002
 Feb 10 2003
 Feb 11 1953
 Date   Flux  Kp 
 Feb 12 1954
 Feb 13 1955
 Feb 14 1903
 Feb 15 1804
 Date   Flux  Kp 
 Feb 16 1804
 Feb 17 1853
 Feb 18 1853
 Feb 19 1803

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:
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:
Auroral Oval

Highs for Cycle 25
  Solar Flux: 336 on August 8, 2024.
  Sunspots:  382 on 
August 10, 2024.

Geomagnetic Storm Watch (G1)
NOAA forecasters say there is a chance of G1-class geomagnetic storms on Feb. 10-11 when a stream of solar wind is expecte to hit Earth's magnetic field. The gaseous material is flowing from a crescent-shaped hole in the sun's atmosphere.
(Copyright © SpaceWeather.com February 8, 2025. Republished by permission.)

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
     Note: Start Days are in UTC, e.g. Monday at 0000 UTC is
     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
CQ WW RTTY WPX Contest Feb 8 0000Z Feb 9 2400Z Rules
ARRL School Club Roundup Feb 10 1300Z Feb 14 2359Z Rules
ARRL Inter. DX Contest, CW Feb 15 0000Z Feb 16 2400Z Rules
CQ 160-Meter Contest, SSB Feb 21 2200Z Feb 23 2159Z Rules
South Carolina QSO Party Feb 22 1500Z Feb 23 0159Z Rules
North American QSO Party, RTTY Feb 22 1800Z Feb 23 0600Z Rules
North Carolina QSO Party Feb 23 1500Z Feb 24 0100Z Rules
ARRL Inter. DX Contest, SSB Mar 1 0000Z Mar 2 2400Z Rules
Open Ukraine RTTY Championship Mar 1 1800Z Mar 2 1359Z Rules
YB DX RTTY Contest Mar 8 0000Z Mar 8 2359Z Rules
Oklahoma QSO Party Mar 8 1400Z Mar 9 2100Z Rules
Stew Perry Topband Challenge Mar 8 1500Z Mar 9 1500Z Rules
Idaho QSO Party Mar 8 1900Z Mar 9 1900Z Rules
North American Sprint, RTTY Mar 9 0000Z Mar 9 0359Z Rules
Wisconsin QSO Party Mar 9 1800Z Mar 10 0100Z Rules
BARTG HF RTTY Contest Mar 15 0200Z Mar 17 0200Z Rules
Russian DX Contest Mar 15 1200Z Mar 16 1200Z Rules
Virginia QSO Party Mar 15 1400Z Mar 16 2400Z Rules
North American SSB Sprint Contest Mar 23 0000Z Mar 23 0400Z Rules
CQ WW WPX Contest, SSB Mar 29 0000Z Mar 30 2400Z Rules
Louisiana QSO Party Apr 5 1400Z Apr 6 0200Z Rules
SP DX Contest Apr 5 1500Z Apr 6 1500Z Rules
JIDX CW Contest Apr 12 0700Z Apr 13 1300Z Rules
New Mexico QSO Party Apr 12 1400Z Apr 13 0200Z Rules
Georgia QSO Party Apr 12 1800Z Apr 13 2359Z Rules
ARRL Rookie Roundup, SSB Apr 13 1800Z Apr 13 2359Z Rules
Holyland DX Contest Apr 18 2100Z Apr 19 2100Z Rules
YU DX Contest Apr 19 0700Z Apr 20 0659Z Rules
Michigan QSO Party Apr 19 1600Z Apr 20 0400Z Rules
Ontario QSO Party Apr 19 1800Z Apr 20 1800Z Rules
Quebec QSO Party Apr 20 1200Z Apr 20 2200Z Rules
Florida QSO Party Apr 26 1600Z Apr 27 2159Z Rules
7th Call Area QSO Party May 3 1300Z May 4 0700Z Rules
Indiana QSO Party May 3 1600Z May 4 0400Z Rules
Delaware QSO Party May 3 1700Z May 4 2359Z Rules
New England QSO Party May 3 2000Z May 4 2400Z Rules
     -[Contest data courtesy of the WA7BNM Contest Calendar ]