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The Eastern Iowa DX Bulletin
Number 296, October 17, 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
      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 (The online archive is no
      longer updated.)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

3B9, RODRIGUES I. Kazu, MØCFW will be active as 3B9/MØCFW from Rodrigues Island (AF-017) on October 21st-29th. He will participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th) as 3B9KW. QSL via LoTW and ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1017-1031)

4O, MONTENEGRO. Luca, OE8DDX, is QRV as 4O/OE8DDX until October 19th. QSL to OE8DDX.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1024)

5H, TANZANIA. Maurizio, IK2GZU will be active again as 5H3MB from Tanzania from October 16th to November 20th, while doing volunteer work at a local school. In his spare time, he will operate SSB, CW and digital modes on 80-10 meters. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW, and eQSL, or via IK2GZU.
-[425DXN # 1795 September 27, 2025]  (1010-1121)

7Q, MALAWI. Look for 7Q1A to be active from Lilongwe, Malawi on October 18th-24th (CW and digital modes), and during the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th) with at least two stations. The team (7Q7CT, 7Q6M, 7Q5MLV, 7Q7EB, 7Q7JN, 7Q6UJ, 7Q8AC, and 7Q8P) "brings together the experience of veterans and the fresh energy of a new generation, who are the future of our hobby". See https://www.qrz.com/db/7Q1A. QSL via LoTW, QRZ Logbook, or direct to 7Q7CT.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1017-1031)

7X, ALGERIA. Members of the radio club in Djelfa will join the Jamboree on the Air event as 7W2S until October 19th. QSL direct.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1024)

9M4, WEST MALAYSIA. Members of Radio Club 9M4CSB will be QRV as 9M2ØCSB on October 18th and 19th to celebrate the club's 20th anniversary. QSL via 9M2VVH.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1024)

9M4, WEST MALAYSIA. Members of the DX club in Kulai operate for a scout meeting as 9M4JOTA from October 10th to 20th. See https://www.qrz.com/db/9M4JOTA. QSL via qrz.com.
-[DXNL # 2479 October 8, 2025]  (1010-1024)

C2, NAURU. Phill, C21TS now expects to remain on Nauru (OC-031) until November 30th. After a 2-month leave, "I'll probably be back for a few months from February 2026 with minimal gear", he says. He will be QRT for good no later than June 2026. QSL via LoTW, or via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1795 September 27, 2025]  (0926-1130)

C5, THE GAMBIA. Luc, F5RAV as C5LT and Lui, YT3PL/YU5R as C5R will be active again from the Gambia from October 18th to November 7th. They will operate CW, SSB and FT8/FT4 on various bands, and will participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th) as C5R. Luc and Lui are carrying on a humanitarian project to raise funds for the construction of new classrooms for children aged between 3 and 5: https://www.facebook.com/61572930010269. QSL C5LT direct to F5RAV and C5R direct to YU5R
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1017-1107)

C5, THE GAMBIA. Peter (PC3M), Maarten (PA3EYC), Tijmen (PA3GRM), Mariette (PA4UUS) and Gert (PA2LO) will be active as C5Y from The Gambia on October 23rd-29th, including participation in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). They will operate primarily CW and SSB, with some FT8/FT4 as needed. QSOs will be uploaded to LoTW and ClubLog. QSL direct to PH3T.
-[425DXN # 1793 September 13, 2025]  (1017-1031)

CE9, ANTARCTICA. Callsign RI1ANI was issued to Alex, UG1A for his operations during the 2025-26 Antarctic season. He will be at Progress Station from October 20th until December 5th, and at Vostok Station from December 20th on.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1205)

D2, ANGOLA. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the independence of Angola (November 11, 1975), team D2A will be active from Ilha do Mussulo (actually a peninsula near Luanda) on October 17th-28th. Ten operators (CT1BOL, CT1FFU, CT2GFW, CT7APE, D2ACE, D2XX, EA1ACP, EA5EL, EC1T, and EC7R) will be QRV on 160-6 meters CW, SSB, RTTY and FT8 (MSHV), and the QO-100 satellite with up to six stations. See https://www.qrz.com/db/D2A for more information. QSL via EA7FTR.
-[425DXN # 1787 August 2, 2025]  (1017-1031)

DL, GERMANY. The special event stations DC75DARC, DD75DARC, DK75DARC, and DR75DARC continue to celebrate DARC's 75th anniversary until the end of October. An award program, involving QSOs with DARC members, DARC officials, and club stations is also available via the DARC Community Logbook (DCL). QSL for all for callsigns via DL2VFR.
-[DXNL # 2477 September 24, 2025]  (0926-1031)

DXCC TOP TWENTY. Here are the top 20 entities on ClubLog’s "DXCC Most Wanted" list as of October 17, 2025:
   1. P5     DPRK (North Korea)  11. VKØM   Macquarie Island
   2. BS7H   Scarborough Reef    12. KH4    Midway Island
   3. CEØX   San Felix Islands   13. PYØS   Saint Peter And Paul Rocks
   4. BV9P   Pratas Island       14. KP5    Desecheo Island
   5. KH7K   Kure Island         15. VPØS   South Sandwich Islands
   6. KH3    Johnston Island     16. ZL9    New Zealand Subantarctic Islands
   7. 3Y/P   Peter 1 Island      17. FK/C   Chesterfield Islands
   8. FT5/X  Kerguelen Island    18. VKØH   Heard Island
   9. YVØ    Aves Island         19. FT/T   Tromelin Island
  10. 3Y/B   Bouvet Island       20. EZ     Turkmenistan
For the complete list, see https://clublog.org/mostwanted.php
-[KØCF October 17, 2025  (1017-1107)

E5/N, NORTH COOK IS. Team E51MWA (Robert N7QT, Jack N7JP, James KC7EFP, Brian N9ADG, and YL operators Robin WA7CPA and Violetta KN2P) will be active from Manihiki Atoll (OC-014), North Cook Islands on October 9th-20th. They will operate CW, SSB, and FT8 (F/H) on 160-10 meters with three stations. See https://www.e51mwa.com for more information and updates. Selective LoTW upload will be in place. QSL via MØURX's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1787 August 2, 2025]  (1003-1024)

E6, NIUE. The Rebel DX Group has been active as E6AD from Niue (OC-040) since October 7th. This is a 2-man activity. "Digital is a priority", they say, "some CW and SSB will be done from time to time". See https://www.qrz.com/db/E6AD for more information. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1010-1031)

EA, SPAIN. Members of URE's Union de Radioaficionados de Cadiz (EA7URU), in collaboration with the Rotary Club Jerez Internacional, will be active as AO7POLIO on October 18th-26th. QSL via the bureau and eQSL. The special callsign marks World Polio Day (October 24th), established by Rotary International to raise awareness and celebrate global efforts to eradicate poliomyelitis through vaccination.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1031)

F, FRANCE. Michel, F8GGZ will be active as TM8ØUCO on October 12th-19th for the 80th anniversary of UNESCO, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization that promotes cooperation in education, science, culture and communication. He will operate SSB and CW on 80-10m. QSL via eQSL only.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1010-1024)

FW, WALLIS & FUTUNA IS. The DX Obsessed Group (K6VHF, KA6BIM, W7HER, NG7E, N7JI, and NC7M) will be active as FW5K from Wallis Island (OC-054) from October 20th to November 7th. They will also participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). QRV with 3 rigs on 160-6m. (Note from 425DXN: team members also hold personal callsigns: K6VHF is FW1NA, KA6BIM is FW6N, W7HER is FW7H, N7JI is FW7SR and NG7E is FW7Z) See https://www.dxobsessed.org/home for more information. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW after 6 months.
-[DXNL # 2480 October 15, 2025]  (1017-1107)

FY, FRENCH GUIANA. Renato, PY8WW, is QRV as FY/PY8WW from Saul. Activity is on the HF bands using mostly FT8. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1107)

G, ENGLAND. Members of the 2nd Uxbridge Scout Group will be QRV as GB2UXB on October 18th and 19th during the Jamboree On The Air event. Activity will be 80, 40, 20, 17, 15, 12, 10, and 6 meters using CW, SSB, FT8, and on 2-meter D-Star. QSL via operators' instructions.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1024)

GU, GUERNSEY. Ron, G4DIY and Kev, MØTNX will be active as GPØSTH from Guernsey (EU-114) on October 17th-19th. They will operate CW and SSB on 80-10 meters. QSL direct to G4DIY; QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog, LoTW and QRZ Logbook.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1024)

H4, SOLOMON IS. Bernhard, DL2GAC, is QRV as H44MS from Malaita Island (OC-047) until November 25th. Activity is on 80 to 6 meters using SSB and FT8. QSL to DL2GAC.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 41 October 9, 2025]  (1010-1128)

HH, HAITI. Members of Radio Club d'Haiti will be active as 4V1SB on October 1st-31st. The special callsign commemorates Simon Bolivar, who led several South American countries to independence from the Spanish Empire. Haiti played a crucial role in Bolívar's revolutionary efforts by offering him refuge and providing significant military support. QSL via N2OO.
-[425DXN # 1796 October 4, 2025]  (1003-1031)

HKØ, SAN ANDRES & PROVIDENCIA. Team 5KØUA (HK1T, HJ1YL, K2BB and UUØJR, plus possibly US7UX, VA2WA and WB2AA) will be active from San Andres Island (NA-033) from October 15th to November 3rd. They will operate CW, SSB and FT8 on 160-10 meters, and will participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). See http://imdx.org/ for more information. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1010-1107)

HS, THAILAND. A group of operators will be QRV as E2JOTA from Ratchaburi on October 18th and 19th as part of the Jamboree On The Air event. Activity will be on the HF bands using CW, SSB, and various digital modes. QSL via bureau.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1024)

I, ITALY. Markus, DJ4EL will be active as IE9/DJ4EL from Ustica Island (EU-051) on October 15th-21st. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1024)

I, ITALY. Members of ARI Gorizia (IQ3GO) will be active as II3GONG from October 1st to December 29th. The special callsign's suffix stands for Gorizia (Italy) and Nova Gorica (Slovenia), the first cross-border European Capital of Culture. A certificate will be available, see https://www.qrz.com/db/II3GONG for information. QSL via the bureau and eQSL.
-[425DXN # 1795 September 27, 2025]  (0926-1024)

J7, DOMINICA. A group is going to operate as J75A from October 20th to 29th from Dominica (NA-101), including the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). Before and after the contest, Gil (FM5FJ) also signs J79FJ. QSL for J75A via KU9C; J79FJ via FM5FJ.
-[DXNL # 2480 October 15, 2025]  (1017-1031)

J7, DOMINICA. Gil, FM5FJ, will be QRV as J79FJ from October 20th to 29th. Activity will be on the HF bands using CW, SSB, and possibly FT8. This includes being active with the J75A team in the upcoming CQ World Wide DX SSB contest (October 25th-26th). QSL J79FJ and J75A via KU9C.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1031)

JA, JAPAN. Take, JI3DST will be active as JS6RRR from Miyako Island (AS-079) from September 26th until December 3rd. He will operate SSB, CW and FT8 on 40-6 meters. Other callsigns to be used are JI3DST/6, JJ5RBH/6, JI3DST/p and JJ5RBH/p. QSOs will be uploaded to ClubLog and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1796 October 4, 2025]  (1003-1031)

JD1/M, MINAMI TORISHIMA. Take, JG8NQJ has been back to the weather station on Minami Torishima (OC-073) since September 18th, and will remain there until December, his QSL manager reports. Take is QRV as JG8NQJ/JD1 in his limited spare time. He operates CW and some FT8 (please note that he wants you to call with your signal report, not your grid square). QSL via JA8CJY (direct), JG8NQJ (bureau) and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1794 September 20, 2025]  (0919-1024)

JD1/O, OGASAWARA. Kou, JP1IHD will be active again as JD1BQP (https://x.com/jd1bqp) from Chichijima (AS-031), Ogasawara from October 19th until November 2nd. Activity will be focused on 6 meters, but he will also participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). QSOs will be uploaded to LoTW and ClubLog; QSL via JP1IHD (direct) or JD1BQP (bureau).
-[425DXN # 1796 October 4, 2025]  (1017-1107)

K, UNITED STATES. Radio club NI6BB aboard the USS Iowa marks the 200th anniversary of the US Navy from October 4th to 19th. See also https://biara.org.
-[DXNL # 2478 October 1, 2025]  (1003-1024)

KP2, VIRGIN IS. A group of young operators will be active as NP2R from St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (NA-106) on October 20th-22nd. See https://vp2vrx.com for more information. QSL via LoTW, eQSL, ClubLog's OQRS, or via N4XTT.
-[425DXN # 1793 September 13, 2025]  (1017-1024)

LX, LUXEMBOURG. Special callsigns LX25GDH (September 3rd - October 3rd) and LX25GDG (October 3rd - November 3rd) are the for Radioamateurs du Luxembourg (RL, Luxembourg's IARU society) to mark the "Trounwiessel" - the accession to the throne of Prince Guillaume, who is set to become Grand Duke on October 3rd upon the abdication of his father the Grand Duke Henri. QSL via ClubLog's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1792 September 6, 2025]  (0905-1107)

ON, BELGIUM. The ONZ Oostkust Radioclub (ON6HC) will be active on all bands and modes as OR81C from October 15th to November 14th to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the liberation of the region of Knokke-Heist by Canadian troops in 1944. A certificate will be available: https://www.onz.be/or81c-award-request/. QSL via eQSL.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1010-1114)

OX, GREENLAND. Bo, OZ1DJJ will be active again as OX3LX from Greenland (NA-018) from October 3rd to 21st. As always, this will be a working trip, and he will be QRV only in his spare time. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS or via OZØJ.
-[425DXN # 1796 October 4, 2025]  (1003-1024)

P4, ARUBA. John, W2GD will be active again as P4ØW from Aruba (SA-036) on October 20th-27th. Main activity will be during the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th); outside the contest he will be QRV on 30, 17 and 12 meters CW as time permits. QSL via LoTW, or direct to N2MM.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1017-1031)

PA, NETHERLANDS. Volker, DL1WH will be active holiday style as PA/DL1WH from Texel Island (EU-038) on October 11th-24th. He will operate mainly CW, with some SSB. QSL via DL1WH.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1010-1024)

PA, NETHERLANDS. Special callsign PA8ØVERON celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Dutch IARU society, Vereniging voor Experimenteel Radio Onderzoek in Nederland (VERON). QSL via PA1AW.
-[425DXN # 1796 October 4, 2025]  (1003-1024)

PJ2, CURACAO. Operators N4ML, W4IPC, KN2P, K8LG, KG5XR, DL3ON, and EI5LA will be QRV as PJ2/homecalls from October 21st to 28th. Activity will be on 160 to 6 meters, including 60, 30, 17, and 12 meters, using CW, SSB, and FT8. They will be active as PJ2T as a Multi/Multi entry in the upcoming CQ World Wide DX SSB contest (October 25th-26th). QSL all calls via LoTW, PJ2T via KU9C.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1031)

PJ2, CURACAO. Andre, PD1DRE, is currently vacationing on Curacao (SA-099) and signs PJ2/PD1DRE until October 28th on 40-10m (SSB, FT8), mostly during his evening and night hours. QSL via eQSL.
-[DXNL # 2479 October 8, 2025]  (1010-1031)

PJ6, SABA & ST. EUSTATIUS. Team PJ6Y will be active from Saba (NA-145) on October 17th-29th. The team will comprise 14 on-site operators (Gregg W6IZT, Jeff NM1Y, Glenn WØGJ, Connor KD9LSV, Robin W7YED, Dominik DL1DJH, Alexander KC1SJR, Emilia YO8YL, Ewan N7EWN, George YO9LIG, Marlee KC1YBR, Matus OM8ATE, Vincent PC2Y, Suzan PD3SZN), eight of whom will be under the age of 25. The local team will be complemented by 25-30 remote operators. There will be five stations: three for the local operators, and two NexGenRiBs2 for remote operation. Activity will be on 80-6 meters CW, SSB and FT8, plus satellite. PJ6Y will also participate in the CQ WW SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). Fundraising is in progress, with the goal of covering all expenses for the young operators. See https://pj6y2025.com for more information and updates. Full LoTW upload within 6 months after the conclusion of the expedition. QSL via MØOXO's OQRS.
-[425DXN # 1769 March 29, 2025]  (1017-1031)

PYØS, ST. PETER & ST. PAUL ROCKS. Ops KO8SCA, PY2XB, AA7JV, KN4EEI, PY5CC, and HA7RY activate St. Peter and St. Paul Rocks (SA-014) during October and November. The actual dates will be announced later. They will deploy Radios in Boxes (RIB) on the island and use them from aboard a vessel. For their actual callsign and other updated information see: http://py0s2025.com.
-[DXNL # 2478 October 1, 2025]  (1003-1024)

TA, TURKEY. Members of the Tango Alfa Ham Radio Club (YM1KE) will be active as TC29TC on October 19th-29th to celebrate Republic Day (29 October). QSL via eQSL.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1031)

TF, ICELAND. Stephen, W4BB will be active as TF/W4BB from Iceland from October 23rd to 27th. His main goal is to participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th); outside the contest he will be QRV on 40, 20, 15 and 10 meters (he is not authorized to transmit on other bands) and on FM satellites. QSL via LoTW, ClubLog's OQRS, or direct to W4BB.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1031)

TG, GUATEMALA. Dwight, VE7BV will be QRV as TG9BBV from October 5th to 25th. Activity will be on 40 to 6 meters using CW, SSB, and possibly FT8. QSL via LoTW.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 40 October 2, 2025]  (1003-1024)

V5, NAMIBIA. Wolfgang, DH3WO, is presently operating as V51WO from Outjo, 350km north of Windhoek, mostly on FT8. QSL via DL3DXX, ClubLog's OQRS, LoTW.
-[DXNL # 2479 October 8, 2025]  (1010-1024)

VP2M, MONTSERRAT. Corey KB4YPN (VP2MPN), Ralf DL9DRA (VP2MRL), Irina DL8DYL (VP2MYL), and Stan K4SBZ (VP2MZZ) will be active on various bands from Gingerbread Hill, Montserrat (NA-103) on October 22nd-28th. Franco VP2MAA will join them to participate in the CQ WW SSB Contest (October 25th-26th) as VP2MPN . QSL VP2MPN via KB4YPN and LoTW. QSL VP2MZZ via LoTW only.
-[425DXN # 1797 October 11, 2025]  (1017-1031)

VP2M, MONTSERRAT. Franco, J88BTI, moved to Montserrat (NA-103) in mid-September and is now active as VP2MAA on 40-6m (CW, SSB, FT8). He hopes to set up better antennas and integrate an amplifier into his setup by the end of the year. QRV until September 2026. QSL via IK2DUW.
-[DXNL # 2479 October 8, 2025]  (1010-1031)

VP2V, BRITISH VIRGIN IS. A group of young operators will be active from Tortola, British Virgin Islands (NA-023) on October 23rd-28th. They will participate in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th) as VP2VRX. Outside the contest, look for VP2V/KC1KUG, VP2V/N4XTT, VP2V/W3MLJ, and VP2V/W9RFT to operate SSB, CW, and FT8 (MSHV) on 160-6 meters "excluding WARC". See https://vp2vrx.com for more information. QSL via LoTW, eQSL, ClubLog's OQRS, or via N4XTT.
-[425DXN # 1793 September 13, 2025]  (1017-1031)

XT, BURKINA FASO. Harald, DF2WO will be active again as XT2AW from Burkina Faso on October 4th-27th. Usually he operates CW, SSB and FT8/FT4 on various bands, 6 meters included, and via QO-100. QSL via MØOXO's OQRS and LoTW.
-[425DXN # 1795 September 27, 2025]  (1003-1031)

YJ, VANUATU. Chris, VK2YUS is QRV as YJØCA until October 24th. Activity is on 40 to 10 meters using SSB. QSL direct to VK2YUS.
-[ARRL DX Bulletin # 42 October 16, 2025]  (1017-1024)

Z6, REPUBLIC OF KOSOVO. Milan S58MU as Z68MU and Silvo S5ØX as Z68WW will be active from Gjilan, Kosovo from October 23rd to November 3rd. They will operate SSB and CW on 160-10 meters, including an entry as Z68MU in the CQ WW DX SSB Contest (October 25th-26th). On November 1st-2nd, during the IPARC Contest (https://dl0ipa.darc.de/Contest.htm) they will operate as Z66IPA. QSL via S58MU.
-[425DXN # 1798 October 18, 2025]  (1017-1107)




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 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 Saturday, October 11th through yesterday, October 18th.

The average solar flux was 154, up 25 points from the previous week, with a weekly high of 164 on Friday, October 17th, following a low of 131 on October 11th.

The average sunspot count was 117, up 15 from last week, peaking at 132 on Thursday, October 16th followed by a weekly low of 105 on October 18th.

The Planetary K-index weekly average was 4.0 with a maximum of 6.0 on Saturday, October 18th, indicating a moderate geomagnetic storm.

Solar flare activity since October 12th has been very high with 22 major flares, the largest of which was an M 4.8 event on Wednesday, October 15th.

Propagation Data
Major solar flares, Sunday, October 12th through 1915 UTC, October 19th.

  #     Date     UTC     Mag.  
1 Oct 18  1051  M 1.5 
2 Oct 18  0658  M 1.3 
3 Oct 18  0639  M 1.2 
4 Oct 18  0239  M 1.1 
5 Oct 17  1905  M 1.1 
6 Oct 17  1658  M 1.2 
7 Oct 17  1632  M 1.3 
8 Oct 17  1245  M 1.1 
9 Oct 17  0128  M 1.5 
10 Oct 16  1916  M 1.1 
11 Oct 16  1408  M 1.3 
12 Oct 16  0021  M 1.1 
13 Oct 15  2228  M 2.7 
14 Oct 15  1410  M 1.1 
15 Oct 15  0718  M 3.7 
16 Oct 15  0415  M 4.8 
17 Oct 14  2036  M 3.1 
18 Oct 14  1247  M 2.0 
19 Oct 14  0041  M 2.0 
20 Oct 13  1318  M 1.2 
21 Oct 13  0919  M 2.7 
22 Oct 13  0526  M 1.9 

   (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 
 Oct 19 35%5%150
 Oct 20 35%5%155
 Oct 21 35%5%160

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 October 13, 2025).

 Date   Flux   Kp 
 Oct 19 1502
 Oct 20 1505
 Oct 21 1503
 Oct 22 1453
 Date   Flux  Kp 
 Oct 23 1402
 Oct 24 1452
 Oct 25 1504
 Oct 26 1504
 Date   Flux  Kp 
 Oct 27 1503
 Oct 28 1455
 Oct 29 1456
 Oct 30 1455

The Solar Wind Is Coming
A high-speed stream of solar wind is approaching Earth. ETA: Oct. 21st. The gaseous material is flowing from a large equatorial hole in the sun's atmosphere, and it could spark a G1-class geomagnetic storm when it arrives.
(Copyright © SpaceWeather.com October 18, 2025. 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:
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.

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
10-10 Int. Fall Contest, CW Oct 18 0001Z Oct 19 2359Z Rules
New York QSO Party Oct 18 1400Z Oct 19 0200Z Rules
Worked All Germany Contest Oct 18 1500Z Oct 19 1459Z Rules
Stew Perry Topband Challenge Oct 18 1500Z Oct 19 1500Z Rules
Illinois QSO Party Oct 19 1700Z Oct 20 0100Z Rules
ARRL School Club Roundup Oct 20 1300Z Oct 24 2359Z Rules
CQ Worldwide DX Contest, SSB Oct 25 0000Z Oct 26 2400Z Rules
ARRL Sweepstakes Contest, CW Nov 1 2100Z Nov 3 0300Z Rules
WAE DX Contest, RTTY Nov 8 0000Z Nov 9 2359Z Rules
10-10 Int. Fall Contest, Digital Nov 8 0001Z Nov 9 2359Z Rules
JIDX Phone Contest Nov 8 0700Z Nov 9 1300Z Rules
OK/OM DX Contest, CW Nov 8 1200Z Nov 9 1200Z Rules
ARRL Sweepstakes Contest, SSB Nov 15 2100Z Nov 17 0300Z Rules
LZ DX Contest Nov 22 1200Z Nov 23 1200Z Rules
North American SSB Sprint Contest Nov 23 0000Z Nov 23 0400Z Rules
CQ Worldwide DX Contest, CW Nov 29 0000Z Nov 30 2400Z Rules
ARRL 160-Meter Contest Dec 5 2200Z Dec 7 1600Z Rules
ARRL 10-Meter Contest Dec 13 0000Z Dec 14 2359Z Rules
ARRL Rookie Roundup, CW Dec 21 1800Z Dec 21 2359Z Rules
RAC Winter Contest Dec 27 0000Z Dec 27 2359Z Rules
Stew Perry Topband Challenge Dec 27 1500Z Dec 28 1500Z Rules
RAEM Contest Dec 28 0000Z Dec 28 1159Z Rules
ARRL Kids Day Jan 3 1800Z Jan 3 2359Z Rules
ARRL RTTY Roundup Jan 3 1800Z Jan 4 2400Z Rules
North American QSO Party, CW Jan 10 1800Z Jan 11 0600Z Rules
North American QSO Party, SSB Jan 17 1800Z Jan 18 0600Z Rules
ARRL January VHF Contest Jan 17 1900Z Jan 19 0359Z Rules
     (Contest data courtesy of the WA7BNM Contest Calendar )