THREE GREAT

RADIO PROPAGATION VIDEOS

For years, I have been fascinated by HF and VHF signal propagation. We have been using propagation for long-distance communication ever since radio began. Yet, it is still an evolving science as we continue to learn more about the Sun, our own atmosphere and how radio waves travel between the transmitter and the receiver.

And, there are different signal propagation characteristics to consider across the radio spectrum, depending on whether we are tuning the longwave, mediumwave, shortwave or VHF/UHF bands. So, knowing the when, where and how to listen to or transmit radio signals is a great aid to understanding and enjoying the radio hobby.

Here are three informative and visually appealing videos prepared and produced by Andrew, VK3FS. Although not a "deep-dive" into the ins and outs of radio wave propagation, they serve as a fabulous introduction to the subject. They are between 9 and 14 minutes long.

Video 1: Making Sense of Solar Indices

Solar cycle 25 is now showing signs of life. What happens on our sun affects radio propagation around the world. In this video, we look at the solar indices and what they mean to amateur radio propagation. Solar indices are a measure of activity on the sun. These indices can be used by amateur radio operators to get a sense of how radio signals will propagate globally and when to expect radio blackout.

Video 2: Sporadic E Propagation

Sporadic E propagation is a result of highly ionized patches or “clouds” that occasionally form in the E region of the ionosphere at altitudes between approximately 80 and 150 kilometres. Communication distances of 800–2000 km can occur using a single Es cloud. This variability in distance depends on a number of factors, including cloud height and density. MUF also varies widely, but most commonly falls in the 25 – 150 MHz range which includes the amateur radio 2-meter, 6-meter, and even the 10-meter bands. Strong events have allowed propagation at frequencies as high as 250 MHz.

Video 3: Tools for VHF Propagation

Working VHF DX is a lot of fun, but it can be challenging. In this video, Andrew shows you the tools he uses to work VHF from -20 to 40 over. The 6 and 2-meter bands can be a lot of fun, after all, they don’t call 6m the magic band for nothing. These bands come to life as we come out of winter and head towards summer.

I suspect that many MEDXR blog readers will enjoy and learn much from these videos. Check out Andrew's website, too at https://3fs.net.au. Thanks, Andrew for taking the time to produce these wonderful videos.

73 and good DX to you all,

Rob Wagner VK3BVW