King's - NOT amateur radio

Living near Cambridge, we see many famous places that people travel the world to see. We can get in free too. One such is the world famous King's College Chapel shown here.

Sunspots - Monday March 19th 2018

Solar flux is 69 today and the sunspot number 13. A=25 and K=4.

Friedrichshafen - June 2018

Although I have never been, this "rally" in Germany is probably the biggest in Europe.  It is often the place where new products are introduced to Europe for the first time. I expect Yaesu will have the underwhelming FT818 there. WiMo will not be there sadly. Perhaps ICOM will announce a new product? The other "big one" is in the USA at Dayton, Ohio. Again, I have never been.

See http://www.hamradio-friedrichshafen.de/ham-en/

630m (472kHz) WSPR RX

A few minutes ago I went QRT on 2m FT8 RX and switched to 630m WSPR RX. To be honest, I now know what 2m FT8 can do and I need a new challenge!

UPDATE 1920z: So far this evening 6 uniques with best DX spotted here HF7A (1294km).

UPDATE 2008z: Now 9 uniques spotted.

Super 6m DX

A reminder than 6m propagation often extends far further than traditional 1 or 2 hop Es. Last summer, even with a modest V2000 vertical I spotted Japanese stations on 6m JT65 many times. I am not a great believer that many of these very long 6m paths are due to multi-hop Es. This may account for some, but not all. Personally I think some other mechanism is at work. One example is reflections due to noctilucent clouds. Maybe we are seeing some sort of chordal hop E layer propagation. There is much we do not know.

I guess next Es season the best mode will be FT8. I shall certainly be monitoring this band/mode.

See https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/vuhf/noctilucent .

That nerve agent - NOT amateur radio

Although the "considered opinion" is that Russia was behind the nerve agent attack in the UK recently, nagging doubts remain. If we could totally trust our government, I might feel differently.

As it is, we need independent proof that this was definitely Russia and not the UK out to cause mischief. One could argue that the Russians would not be stupid to use a nerve agent clearly with Russian origins. On the other hand, Russia does not exactly have a "whiter than white" record.

But, we have to remember that history often shows we are not always whiter than white. Propaganda is a murky affair: one can never be totally sure who is telling the truth. In reality both the Russians and the UK will have secret agendas and the true story is probably hard to discern.

One thing is likely: the Russians will attempt a cyber attack on the UK in the coming days. If nothing else, this is a perfect excuse. Watch out NHS, National Grid and banks.

Es Season and 10m

It seems scarcely possible, but the northern hemisphere Es (sporadic-E) season will soon be here again. Bands like 10m, 6m, and to a lesser extent 4m and 2m bring in DX from distant places.

If you don't have a suitable antenna, may I suggest my Homebase-10 antenna? 

Although designed for 10m, it can easily be scaled for other bands like 6m or 4m. It is basically a wire halo made from readily available material. It has a near omnidirectional horizontal pattern and is ideal for Es. I have worked the world with mine and all across Europe with 50mW CW, in the days before FT8 and WSPR.

See https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/antennas/homebase

Village Exhibition - NOT amateur radio

This weekend we have "Burwell at Large", which is a 2 day exhibition at which village groups have a chance to showcase themselves. It happens every 2 years.

We are a thriving village, so there is plenty to do whatever your interests. One example was the "mobile belfry" brought along by the local tower bell-ringers (see photo).

We have a thriving sports scene and lots of different groups and clubs.

Moon based amateur radio?

According to Southgate News, China is to launch a couple of lunar satellites which will send data on 70cms. The Chinese also plan a lunar rover.

See http://southgatearc.org/news/2018/march/satellites-to-transmit-amateur-radio-data-from-the-moon.htm#.Wq5Bgkx2vIU

Sunspots - Sunday March 18th 2018

Solar flux is 68 today and the sunspot number 15 (quite high for recent times). A=12 and K=3.

Return to 2m FT8 RX

After yesterday's foray onto 20m, today I have returned to 2m FT8 mainly RX.

Just before breakfast I called CQ and was reported by a couple of local Gs. Since then I have been RX only. So far, 8 stations spotted in 3 countries with best DX DL6YBF (471km).

UPDATE 1050z: Currently 13 unique stations spotted in 4 countries on 2m FT8 RX.

UPDATE 1208z: Now 28 uniques in 5 countries with best DX spotted DL0HOL (619km).

UPDATE 1358z: Now 47 uniques in 7 countries spotted today. Some reports are so strong that I am convinced at least some stations are coming in by aircraft reflection e.g. G7RAU (469km) in IN79jx square at +2dB S/N.

Grandkids - NOT amateur radio

My wife made this collage earlier.

20m FT8 RX

As far as I recall I had never tried FT8 RX on 20m. In the past I took a peak at 20m JT65.

Within just a few minutes I was copying all across Europe as well as spotting Japan on 20m FT8. It is amazing how FT8 has "taken off" in such a short time. The slot was crowded with stations.

My end fed antenna is quite low (4m or less?) and definitely not brilliant for 20m DX! Yes, FT8 is transformational.

UPDATE 1026z: Now seeing South Americans coming through including VP8LP (12773km).

UPDATE 1725z: Incredible! The photo show the stations spotted today on 20m FT8 RX.

Sunspots - Saturday March 17thn 2018

Solar flux is 68 today and the sunspot number zero again. A=20 and K=3.

472kHz WSPR RX

For about 90 minutes I have been on 472kHz (630m) WSPR RX. So far 8 uniques spotted in 5 countries with best DX EA5DOM (1525km). This is pretty average.

UPDATE 2235z: So far 13 uniques spotted on 472kHz WSPR.

Red Legged Partridges - NOT amateur radio

For years we have seen these attractive birds around our Close. Then, a couple of months ago, they disappeared.

Today, a couple were outside our home again, probably after food or a nest site. Anyway, it was good to see them around.

See https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/red-legged-partridge

Rally

18 MARCH 2018 : HACK GREEN BUNKER RALLY

Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, French Lane, Hack Green, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8AL. This will be a sale of electronic equipment, amateur gear, components, military radio items and vehicle spares. Doors open 10AM, there will be refreshments available onsite. Contact 01270 623 353, coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk www.hackgreen.co.uk.

A list of rallies can be found at http://rsgb.org/main/news/rallies/

10m Moxon

With limited space and neighbours who would not approve, I can only dream of HF beams! One good choice where space is limited is the Moxon 2 element beam. These have useful gain, wide bandwidth and are relatively small. This would still look huge in my garden, even on 10m!

Some years ago I made one for 70cm from an old coat hanger. It was easy to make and worked well.

See http://www.innovantennas.com/our-antennas/view/productdetails/virtuemart_product_id/455/virtuemart_category_id/4.html

See also https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/antennas/70cm_moxon

Just leave me alone! - NOT amateur radio

At Anglesey Abbey there is usually a swan's nest close to this spot, although this one was more interested in sleep than nest building!

On another bird matter, I see that wheatears are returning to Devon. Spring is springing, even though we have a brief return to snow this weekend.

6m EME

One of the great things about our hobby is the huge diversity. Some just enjoy chatting, whereas some choose to chase DX, often by the most difficult methods. In the latter category is 6m EME (moonbounce).

On Facebook today, I spotted this photo of a 6m EME antenna. Now, the antennas alone must be £1k plus (I'd guess) and the tower similar. The low-loss coax won't come cheap and neither will the amplifier and rig.  You also need a fair bit of space.

Now, how people choose to spend their disposable income is their affair, but there is no way you'll catch me spending thousands on the hobby. This is an impressive antenna.

See www.innovantennas.com .

Sunspots - Friday March 16th 2018

Solar flux is 68 today and the sunspot number 11. A=15 and K=4.

6m FT8

For a change, I am on 6m FT8. After a few minutes on TX calling CQ (no reports) I am on RX using the V2000 vertical antenna. As yet, nothing spotted.

UPDATE 1134z: Just 2E0VDS (30km) spotted so far.

UPDATE 1307z:  G3PXT (80km) has been spotted.

UPDATE 1547z: G0GGG (211km) is currently the best 6m FT8 DX spotted today.

UPDATE 1705z: Just 4 UK stations spotted today, which is well down on the numbers spotted on 2m FT8. There must be much less activity on 6m FT8.  I'll give it a bit longer, then QSY to MF WSPR RX.

More OFCOM

You will be thrilled at this exciting news from OFCOM. One of the bidders in their upcoming auction of microwave spectrum has dropped out! Such excitement - I must watch my heart. Gosh, this beats enforcement any day! This really is such unbelievable news that I can scarcely stand the thrill of it!

One day they will "get real".

See http://ofcom.createsend1.com/t/ViewEmail/i/44F8D9458F3B629A2540EF23F30FEDED/59D1BD3EA2F08127C67FD2F38AC4859C

RSGB discounts

The RSGB is doing discounts for members for World Book Day. In my case this was worth £2.50 off a book. For once, I have bought something! Rather sneakily, they add the shipping costs at the very end. Naughty.

RSGB, I don't like this. Change it!!

Spies - NOT amateur radio

The UK government has accused Russia of trying to poison an ex-spy and his daughter with a nerve agent. Although probably true, I have nagging doubts.

Most world powers have "dirty tricks" departments including the UK and the USA. The secret is not to get caught. Also, there is a lot of propaganda around, on all sides. It is just possible this is not as it seems. We may never know.

See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-43415271 .

World Happiness Report - NOT amateur radio

Wondered where in the world are the happiest and saddest people? Well the World Happiness Report may have some answers. Incidentally, the UK is ranked 19th out of 156. Burundi is the worst.

See http://worldhappiness.report/ed/2018/

mcHF clones

There has been quite a bit of interest in this HF transceiver project. At one time MLS was going to sell a Chinese clone, but had second thoughts. You can buy this Chinese clone direct from China. It is much less than the FT817/818.

There is a German derivative coming called the OV140. At the time of writing, kits are not yet available. This is open source hardware and software. It looks like this will be good when it comes.

See https://www.amateurfunk-sulingen.de/projects/ovi40-sdr#start

See also http://www.m0nka.co.uk/

Cambridge Concert - NOT amateur radio

A reminder that my wife's concert is in early April (see photo). You can get tickets on the door.

LimeSDR review

Southgate News has links to a review of the LimeSDR transceiver.

See http://southgatearc.org/news/2018/march/limesdr-mini-software-defined-radio-transceiver.htm#.WqpM30x2vIU .

Sunspots - Thursday March 15th 2018

Solar flux is 68 today and the sunspot number zero. A=9 and K=4.

2m FT8

A QSO with M0MWS (195km) was not a bad start on 2m FT8 today with 2.5W and a big-wheel! So far, 16 uniques spotted in 4 countries. Best DX on RX is DK1VC (503km).

UPDATE 1046z: Now 18 uniques in 4 countries in last 6 hours on 2n FT8 RX.

UPDATE 1300z: 35 uniques in 7 countries so far today on 2m FT8 RX.

2m FT8 RX today up to 1600z - amazing!

UPDATE 1429z: Now 47 uniques in 7 countries today so far on 2m FT8 RX. Quite amazing.

UPDATE 1612z: Now 57 uniques spotted in 8 countries, just using the standard FT817 (no preamps) with a big-wheel omni antenna. Scarcely credible!

Aurora webcams

Apparently you can watch auroras live via a couple of webcams.

See https://lightsoverlapland.com/webcams/ .

G1 Solar storm?

According to the Spaceweather site, we have a 55% chance of being hit by a solar storm.  Although it might result in some strong auroras, I'm not quite sure what else will be affected.

See http://spaceweather.com/ .

Cambridge Punts - NOT amateur radio

My wife took this picture earlier today. It shows punts on the River Cam outside King's. For once we had sunshine!

Es'hail2 satellite

Although I am unsure when this geosynchronous amateur satellite is due to be launched, it could revolutionise amateur radio, if successful. It should allow communications from as far apart as Brazil and Thailand. It will use a 10GHz downlink and 2.3GHz uplink, I think. Being geosynchronous, antennas can be fixed in one direction, with no need for tracking. There are 2 linear transponders I think. The 250kHz wide one for SSB etc will be like a new DX band.

I know of one local who is building gear in readiness.

See https://amsat-uk.org/satellites/geosynchronous/eshail-2/  .

RIP Stephen Hawking - NOT amateur radio

So the legendary physicist Stephen Hawking has died. Although severely disabled, he beat the odds and lived many, many, years more than people expected and did some great work.

See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-43396008  .

2m FT8 RX

This morning, I decided to, once again, monitor 2m FT8. I have been on since just before breakfast. Already 8 unique stations spotted in 5 countries with best DX DK1VC (503km). My own brief call on TX was copied locally over an hour ago. Remember this is with just the big-wheel antenna - no beam!

2m FT8 spots today to 1500z

UPDATE 1430z: 46 uniques in 7 countries so far on 2m FT8 today. Remember this is FLAT conditions and just a big-wheel omni antenna.

UPDATE 1500z: 52 uniques in 8 countries spotted so far today on 2m FT8 RX.

UPDATE 1712z: Now 56 uniques in 8 countries today!

UPDATE 2052z: Countless stations (so many I have lost count!) in 9 countries today. Quite incredible. 2m behaves like a different band with FT8.

Sunspots - Wednesday March 14th 2018

Solar flux is 68 today and again the sunspot number is zero. A=4 and K=0.

Remember, yesterday with similar "poor" solar numbers, 10m FT8 opened to the Falkland Islands.

472kHz WSPR RX

For about an hour, I have been on 472kHz WSPR RX. Best DX is EA5DOM (1525km).

UPDATE 2255z: About to go QRT. 10 uniques spotted this evening on 472kHz WSPR.

The end of 1p and 2p coins in the UK? - NOT amateur radio

It surprises me these UK "copper" coins have lasted this long. Basically, they are a nuisance these days. Apparently the government is reviewing whether or not these should continue. Personally, I'd be happy to see these go.

See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-43388662 .