OFCOM and mobile repeaters

Next year, OFCOM is to approve more mobile repeaters allowing better reception indoors for mobile users. See the OFCOM website.

Rallies

As far as I am aware the Holsworthy Rally is on this Sunday, November 7th. As usual, contact the organiser m0omc@m0omc.co.uk to check this is correct, especially if travelling far.

The Bushvalley ARC Radio Rally has been cancelled.

Covid-19 is still having an impact.

Bird's nest - NOT amateur radio

In the tree on the left of the photo is a bird's nest. If it survives the winds, I guess it may be used again in the spring. 

The windmill is next door to our bungalow.

Ely in autumn - NOT amateur radio

These photos were taken in Ely yesterday. Although most leaves are still on the trees, it is looking more like autumn. This is the famous Ely cathedral.

30m FT8 RX with the active Wellgood loop

On 30m FT8 RX using the Wellgood loop stuck to the shack window inside, 264 stations spotted. 

10m FT8 RX

 At 0845z, my 10m FT8 RX gear was turned on. So far (at 0859z) 2 Europeans spotted on RX.

UPDATE 1238z:   245 stations spotted on 10m FT8 RX today.

UPDATE 2022z:  447 stations spotted today on 10m FT8 RX (see map).

Sunspots - Thursday November 4th 2021

Solar flux is 89 and the SSN 41.   A=21 and K=5.

Eating out - NOT amateur radio

Several months ago we were given a voucher for a local restaurant as a gift for our golden wedding anniversary. Today we used it. My main course was lamb followed by a cheese board. . 

30m FT8 RX with the Wellgood active loop

For a change, I am on 30m FT8 RX using the Wellgood active loop antenna stuck to the shack window. So far, 13 Europeans spotted. I think this is probably the highest frequency at which I can use the loop to any advantage. It probably still works, but external noise probably ceases to dominate.

UPDATE 1026z: 21 stations spotted.

UPDATE 1919z:  227 stations spotted on 30m FT8 RX.

UPDATE 2222z:  245 stations spotted on 30m FT8 RX today.

2m UKAC (November)

Last night was the 2m November leg of the activity contest run by the RSGB. I noticed my antenna had a very high VSWR, so I stopped after just one contact. I have no idea why this was, but must see what it is now.

UPDATE 1005z:  Still high VSWR this morning. On a dummy load VSWR is low. On RX hearing the Kent beacon normally.