Hannes Coetzee, ZS6BZP

Propagation Report from Hannes Coetzee, ZS6BZP

04 January, 2009

Hannes Coetzee, ZS6BZP, reports that the expected solar activity will be very low. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at quiet levels. The expected effective sun spot number for the coming week will be less than 5.

15 and 20 m will provide best opportunities for DX. There is a possibility of 10, 15 and 20 m openings towards India from about 12:00 CAT. Short contacts with New Zealand are going to be possible on 15 m at 08:00 and on 20 m from 18:00. At 8:00 and at 14:00 weak 20 m contacts may be possible with Australia. Contacts with Peru are going to be highly unlikely. Brazil may be worked on 20 m from 18:00. At 18:00 there may be short, weak 20 m openings towards Europe.

Contacts with the USA East Coast are possible on 15 m from 20:00. 10 MHz is looking promising late afternoon and after dark for the CW and digital enthusiasts.

Local conditions are going to be good on 40 m during the daytime. 80 m may perform well during the early mornings and late afternoons over the shorter distances, e.g. between ZS5 and ZS6.

30 m may perform well during the middle of the day between ZS6 and ZS1. Even 20 m may perform well over the longer distances before morning teatime. 80 m is the frequency of choice in the evenings. With summer here the thunderstorms and static discharges may cause conditions to be be a bit challenging.

Remember that this is only a prediction and that HF has the capability to pleasantly surprise you in the New Year, but you will never know unless you switch your rig on, listen and also call CQ.

Please visit www.spaceweather.co.za for further information.

South African Radio League

• All propagation reports can be found at:
http://www.southgatearc.org/propagation