31/1
Pacific Trip:
Angelo, I6BQI, writes detailing the dates he will be QRV from
Nuie, Tonga and Vanuatu. He will have 6M. "... but the rig/ant is
not the best. I using a vertical 5/8 and about 80 watt.
February 24 - 27 A35BQ
February 28 - March 13 ZK2BQI
March 14 - 16 A35BQ
March 17 - April 7 YJ0???
...see you from there" Angelo, I6BQI.
31/1
Guantanamo Bay, KG4:
Is there a need in the 6m community for an operation here?
How many need it for DXCC? What would be the best time to go, May,
June, July or?? Let me know if you are interested and I will pass it
on. Tnx es 73, Dale aa5xe@ktc.com
31/1
Comoros, D68 Update:
"Our major focus will be on those areas of the world where
D68 is in greatest demand, and we will take care to check the tough paths,
such as that to VK/ZL. We will try to give SSB and CW roughly equal
treatment.
For 6m enthusiasts, we will attempt to have the 6m beacon running on
50.090 as soon as possible after our arrival (probably sometime on 7th
February).
One matter which we need to cover at this stage. There is a possibility of
short power outages at the hotel. These will necessitate bringing the local
generators on line, which could take up to two or three minutes. Should this
happen, when power is restored we will come back on the same frequencies,
both transmit and receive, and start by trying to complete the QSO with the
station we were working when the power failed."
The pilot for Asia and Oceania is Ray G3NOM at g3nom@rast.or.th
The feedback from the expedition team will principally be via the Chief
Pilot's web page.
30/1
Australia Post Changes:
QSLing direct overseas, then take note...
Jack Haden, VK2GJH, received a letter from Australia Post at the Northern
Suburbs Mail Exchange in Sydney (today Tue 30th Jan) regarding some 489
articles bulk posted on Thu 25th Jan 2001:
"Dear Mr Haden, it has been brought to our attention that a number of
"overseas" articles included in your bulk mailing did not have INTERNATIONAL
postage stamps affixed. You are hereby reminded that DOMESTIC
Australia Post stamps are no longer valid for INTERNATIONAL mailings.
You must use Australia Post stamps marked INTERNATIONAL in blue left hand
portion of the stamp. We will overlook this matter at this moment, but
in the future mail will be returned to you in order that the proper stamps
be utilised....your faithfully etc."
So this must serve as a warning to all VK stations who reply to QSL requests
from abroad with Australian "local" stamps already affixed. Aussie
domestic stamps are NOT allowed anymore on overseas mail. Reason
being that there's no GST applicable to overseas mail, hence the different
stamps...73 de Jack Haden VK2GJH/C21JH etc.
30/1
UKSMG Subscriptions for 2001:
If you have yet to renew or would like to join the UK Six Meter
Group - see http://www.uksmg.org/applic.htm
for details - then please provide your details to me ASAP. It works
out to being a measly AUD$35 and VISA or Mastercard is accepted.
mailto:vk4cp@one.net.au
28/1
Easters Island, CE0Y:
Arliss, W7XU, & Holly, N0QJM, will be QRV from Easter Island March
29 - April 9, concentrating on 6M. Arliss W7XU w7xu@dtgnet.com
27/1
Nuie Island, ZK2:
Hape, DL1EMH, will be QRV on 6M from Nuie Island as ZK2GEO from March
18 - April 6. Using an IC-706 & extended G5RV. Check
50.118 from time to time. QSL direct to DL1EMH. Bureau cards are
welcome and will be processed in order of receiving. So, CU in the pile-up
then! 73's from Hape DL1EMH/ZK2GEO DL1EMH@t-online.de
27/1
Equatorial Guinea, 3C5:
The 3C5I beacon is operational again. Watch for it on 50.096, with 30 watts
with beam heading chasing expected dx. Probably to Europe during day, LP to
VK or JA overnight. Any predictions welcome! If I am not in the shack, it
will be continuous. If I am around the shack, it will call cq with a
listening period. I will be out of 3c from Jan 31 to Feb 4 in ON land.
Alan kb2wf@hotmail.com
27/1
Solar Update:
Solar activity over the past seven days, January 19 through 25,
was mostly moderate due to C7 and M1 flares produced by Regions 9311, 9313,
and 9325. The highest activity was seen on January 21, when Region
9313 produced an M7 flare.
Following the sun's 27-day rotation period, the 10.7 cm solar flux gradually
rose from 153 at the beginning of the period to around 170 at the end of the
period.
The planetary A index was 11 or less for most of the period, with a jump to
18 on January 21 and 24.
The most recent SSN (smoothed sunspot number) data for Cycle 23 indicates we
may be seeing the peak of Cycle 23. The last four month's of data
(March, April, May, and June 2000) shows the SSN to be hovering around 120.
Only time will tell if this is just a plateau toward a slightly higher peak
or indeed it's the peak.
Historically the SSN of a solar cycle of this magnitude will remain somewhat
constant for a couple more years (as Cycle 20 did). So take advantage
of the excellent worldwide propagation opportunities on the higher bands
-15, 12 and 10 meters -while you can. (K9LA)
26/1
Grenada, J3:
Willi, DJ7RJ, is QRV as J3/DJ7RJ until February 3.
He is active on 160 to 6M using CW and SSB. QSL to home call.
(ARLD004)
25/1
C21JH QSL Situation:
Jack, VK2GJH, writes...
Cards were delivered from the printer yesterday, I was up until 2.00am
processing cards. Today at 9.30am local time some 489 QSL requests
were mailed at Ryde Post Office. Around 70% to JA, 27% to USA/Canada
and the remaining Europe and South America. Standard of QSLing has
been very good, only 10 returns "Not-In-The-Log" so far.
Only gripe is the JA and Korean amateurs who persist in sending SAE which
have no gum on them. Real nuisance, I have yet to receive a SAE from
Korea that has gum on it to seal the envelope. I would expect
envelopes like this from Third World Developing nations.
Some cards have been held, those requesting C21JH and T30JH contacts in the
one envelope, they can wait until later. I prefer one callsign per
envelope. The main purpose is to clear C21JH year 2000 contacts, others can
wait until I have free time. All in all very good, 73 de Jack.
C21JH.
24/1
Wake Island, KH9:
6M on Wake is a goer! Bruce, AC4G, writes...
"Yes, I will be on 6 meters for sure! Look forward to the QSO(s).
Wake in from February 10 - 27. Bruce"
23/1
Singapore, 9V1:
Pictures added today! 50MHz in Singapore.
22/1
St. Helena & Asension Islands:
Rich, GW4BVJ, Sheri (logistics manager), Doug, G0WMW, & Glyn, GW0ANA, will be QRV from Ascension Island March 19 for 8 days.
They intend to operate 160 - 6M. An emphasis will be on CW but
will run SSB, RTTY, PSK31, SSTV, MFSK & Heilshriber. They will be on
Ascension for 8 days then off to St. Helena for 15 days. Callsigns
are TBA. Will have a beam for 6M. QSL manager is Glyn, GW0ANA.
(OPDX)
22/1
Conway Reef. 3D2/C update:
Hrane, YT1AD, reports that the 2001 Conway Reef DXpedition will
start a day earlier than planned. The team will go via Hong Kong instead of
Kuala Lumpur, and the DXpedition will start on February 18th at 08:00 local
time, or on February 17 at 2100z. (OPDX)
22/1
VK6RSX Beacon:
Please be advised that the VK6RSX beacon at Exmouth, Western
Australia on 50.304 MHz is reduced to intermittent service until further
notice due to local EMC problems. It may be necessary to find a new
QTH if the service is to continue. Other VK6 beacons on 50.066
(VK6RPH), 50.306 (VK6RBU) and 50.308 (VK6RTW) are operational. 73... Don
VK6HK
22/1
Singapore, 9V1:
Jack,
VK2GJH, (C21JH, T30JH) was in Singapore last week and caught up with some of
the locals for a chat about the 50MHz scene there. You can read all
about 50MHz in Singapore here.
21/1
Television Frequency List update:
The TV Frequency List has had an overhaul
and is now presented in a new xls format. Recent observations and
updates from the TV DX forum are included.
21/1
Malawi 7Q7:
Don, KC7JDC, is now QRV on 6M from Malawi as 7Q7DC. His locator is KH66RK
and his QSL route is via G0IAS QTHR. (G4UPS)
21/1
St. Maarten, PJ8:
Bob, AA1M, Mike, W1USN, and Jim
W1HL, will be QRV as PJ8/homecall from Sint Maarten between February 27 -
March 6. They plan to be active on 80 - 6M CW, SSB and PSK31. They also
hope to do some operating mobile from the French side as FS/homecall during
this time. QSL PJ8/W1HL and PJ8/AA1M via AA1M (direct or bureau), QSL
PJ8/W1USN via W1USN (direct or bureau). (425DXN)
21/1
East Kiribati, T32RD update:
Pepa, OK1PD, will replace Frank, OK1EK, during the T32RD
operation from Christmas Island. Other modes (RTTY and PSK31) and
6M have been added to the previously announced plan. Operations are now
expected to take place from February 11 - March 4. Suggested
frequencies: CW 50.105 and SSB 550.125. QSL via OK1RD (425DXN)
21/1
Martinique, FM:
JA2EZD will be QRV from Martinique until January 24. On
January 24 he expects to be QRV from St. Lucia, J6. From
January 25 to the end of the month he'll be active from Guadeloupe, FG.
During early February he will operate from Puerto Rico, KP4. (SMIRK)
20/1
Benin, TY:
Flo, F5CWU, advises that he, F5MOO, F5AOV will be QRV from Bénin
August 9 - 31 on 160 - 6M. "We are waiting at this
time the licenses to see the eventual restrictions. We will leave France
with quads for 20m to 10m, verticals for low bands, yagi for 6m and a 500
watts amplifier. We are looking for your needs about Bénin. Tell me please
the bands, modes ... and any comments . You can mail me the info to f5cwu@wanadoo.fr
and also visit the web site of the expedition to: http://perso.wanadoo.fr/f5cwu
and see in the item TY-2001.
20/1
Damn Good Advice:
HOLLINGSWORTH SAYS "RADIO RAGE" HAZARDOUS TO HAM RADIO
Entering his third year spearheading the FCC's Amateur Radio enforcement
effort, Special Counsel for Amateur Radio Enforcement Riley Hollingsworth
says "radio rage" could become a bigger danger to the future of
Amateur Radio than rule breaking.
"It's the infighting and arguments and juvenile spats,"
Hollingsworth said this week. "That's going to come back to haunt us if
we don't just grow up. It will do the service in, if the ham community
doesn't put a stop to it."
Hollingsworth said that he's encouraged that the FCC's enforcement program
has the support of "99.9%" of the amateur community and that the
vast majority of hams follow the rules. But, he said that radio rage in
the form of such things as on-air squabbles or frequency fights can
degrade the bands just as quickly as outright rule breaking. "The FCC
can't do anything about that," he said. "It's up to the amateur
community."
Hollingsworth said that while much radio rage technically is not illegal, it
reflects poorly on Amateur Radio and can balloon into an enforcement issue.
More important, he said, rude or intemperate on-air behavior might provide
just the sort of ammunition that an entity seeking additional spectrum will
use against Amateur Radio. (extract from The ARRL Letter Vol 20 No.3)
Wouldn't happen in VK? It already has.
Events from VK8 last year are a perfect example. An amateur in VK4
was threatened with physical violence over 28.885MHz, for all to hear, and
believe me many were listening. Offender(s) -
Take note of above. QSL?
20/1
Solar Update:
Average solar flux dropped a little over 2 points and average
sunspot numbers declined 22 points over the past week. On Wednesday
the sunspot number dropped below 100 for the first time since December 12.
The outlook for the near term is for continued low activity.
Last week's bulletin mentioned a short term solar flux peak around 200 on
January 17, but instead it was only 151.9. The largest sunspot group
is rotating out of view around the sun's western limb, and the near term
outlook is for solar flux to continue declining for the next few days, to a
minimum of 140 on January 21, then rise to 170 on January 25, and stay
around 175 from January 26 through February 1, peaking at 180 on February 2
or 3.
These numbers are far below recent values over 200, and are an other sign
that we have passed the peak of the solar cycle. But along with this
decline in activity come stable geomagnetic conditions, as the chance for
solar flares declines along with the sunspot activity. Planetary A
indices are expected to remain in the single digits until the end of this
month. With the longer winter nights, this looks good for DX on 160,
80 and 40 meters.
Not only are we experiencing stable geomagnetic conditions, but in the
northern hemisphere, atmospheric noise is also at a seasonal low. The
higher frequency bands (20 meters and above) are still good during the day,
but because of the season 20 meters is not open late into the evening as it
was in the fall. Of course, the southern hemisphere is experiencing
summer right now.
On Saturday earth is expected to move through a solar wind coming from a
small coronal hole, but currently no geomagnetic disturbance is predicted.
Sunspot numbers for January 11 through 17 were 173, 173, 146, 181, 154, 115
and 71 with a mean of 144.7. 10.7 cm flux was 165.9, 178.3, 184.3, 176.3,
169.2, 161.9 and 151.9, with a mean of 169.7, and estimated planetary A
indices were 5, 7, 5, 8, 7, 6 and 7 with a mean of 6.4. (K7VVV)
20/1
ZL VHF Get Together:
Peter Loveridge, ZL1UKG, writes...
Hello All, If anyone happens to be visiting NZ around Easter you may
wish to include the Whangarei area over the April 14 - 15. The
Whangarei area club is hosting the national get together for VHF+ interested
people. The program is now out for topics to be covered and includes:
6M and Cable TV specialist ZL4AAA, Modern Data Communications ZL2TQV,
Microwave Antennas ZL1UKG, Digital Microwave ZL2TRV of 4RF, FM ATV ZL1WTT,
APRS ZL1AMW, VHF/UHF Forum ZL1TGC, FMTAG (Frequency management) Forum
ZL2SX/ZL2TAR.
There will be a car rally, antenna range and social functions included. The
venue is within the Heritage Park with Museum and Kiwi house adjacent. There
is a fine collection of early engineering and farm machinery.
Full catering and costs for the weekend is NZ$60 with other prices for
separate parts of the weekend. I will be happy to answer questions about the
event if anyone is interested. It has similarities to the Gippsland
Technical Conference which I attended in July 99, but will be a bit more
informal.
17/1
Eastern Kiribati, T32:
The OK DX Foundation will be QRV from Eastern Kiribati as T32RD
February 11 - 25. They will bring 6m gear too. QSL via OK1RD.
Frequencies; 50.105 CW &, 50.125 SSB. (JF2MBF)
17/1
Swaziland, 3D:
Andre, ZS6WPX, will be QRV from Swaziland as 3DA0WPX from January
26 - 28 Jan on all bands, including 6M. QSL manager is ZS6WPX. Direct
QSL only. Include USD$ or 2 IRC for return postage. For full details; www.zs6wpx.s5.com/3da.htm
Andre, ZS6WPX vanwyk@starnet.com.eg
17/1
C21JH QSL Situation:
According to Jack 800 C21JH cards will be ready from the printer
next week, so he'll be QSLing from around next Thursday 25/1/01.
17/1
VP2M QSL Situation:
Neil, G0JHC, spoke with Jimmy W6JKV last week, and said if anyone
was asking about VP2M cards, the art work went to the printers "a few
days ago". G0JHC carr.n@runshaw.ac.uk
16/1
VK TV in Germany last night follow-up:
Hape, DL1EMH, writes...
Well, I heard something on 46172, but it was very weak here, about S1-2 with
QSB, and my noise level here in the city is just the same... Well, on 46250
there could have been computer QRM with changing intensity, but it sounded
just like a TV carrier. Well, checking the VK beacons brought nothing here,
but I am sure that my ODX will improve during this sunspot cycle. I worked
already VR2BG in December, so it could be possible to get through to VK
also. Rig here is an IC 706 and a 5 element Yagi, about 15m high on the roof
of my house. So, just checked the propagation, but it seems that 6m is
dead right now (at
8:33 UT). So, best wishes to you for now, and I hope to reach VK
sometimes in the future. best 73's and good DX de Hape, DL1EMH
16/1
Maldives, 8Q7:
Mike, OE3MZCI, and his wife Barbara, OE3YCB, will be QRV
sometimes whilst holidaying in the Maldives Islands February 7 - 21
2001 as 8Q7BZ & 8Q7MZ respectively. QTH first week is Kuredu Island
& Velavaru Island for the second week. Active all HF bands,
(mainly around IOTA frequencies) also 6M. Check http://www.qsl.net/oe3mzc/
for updates. (OE3MZC)
16/1
UKSMG 2001 Convention:
Just in case you're in the U.K. in early April...
The UK Six Metre Group in conjunction with the RSGB Spring Show and VHF
convention is pleased to announce its Annual General Meeting and a two day
6-metre convention to be held at Bletchley Leisure centre, near Milton
Keynes, Buckinghamshire, UK on the 7th and 8th of April 2001. A full
programme of events is planned, including lectures by the OX2K dxpeditioners
who put Greenland well and truly on the 6m map last year and the world's top
6m dxer PY5CC. Come, meet and listen to the man who's worked 200+ countries
on the 'magic band'.
For those just starting on 6m, Clive, G4FVP and Trev, G3ZYY will be
presenting a beginner's guide to operating and adventure on the best amateur
band in your transceiver. All of the major UK traders will be there with
bargains for your shack.
There will be a 6m DXer's dinner on the night of the 7th April at the home
of the WWII Enigma de-coding machine at Bletchley Park. Tickets for the
dinner are limited. so if you want to come along reserve your place quickly!
The cost is 35 pounds Sterling per head for a four-course meal. Please
forward your cheques (payable to "UKSMG") to Iain Philipps G0RDI,
24 Acres End, Amersham, Buckinghamshire, HP7 9DZ UK. (FAX: +44 (0) 1494
728094, eMail: six@xcms.net). For payment
by Visa or Mastercard the following details will be required: Credit card
number, Expiry date, and the name as it appears on the card. Details of the
menu will be issued later and please let us know if you have any special
dietary requirements such as a vegetarian meal.
We are expecting a heavy demand for the limited number of seats available
for this unique occasion. In the event of a sell-out, we will endeavour to
give preference to UKSMG members, but we can only do this if you get your
booking in early - so act today.
As a benefit for UKSMG members, accommodation for the event, at a special
rate, can be booked directly through RSGB. For information about
accommodation in or near Bletchley, please ring Jan Forde at the RSGB on +44
(0) 870 904 7377 Mon - Fri 9-5 UK time. Be sure to ask for accommodation for
the 'Spring Show' and mention that you are a member of the UKSMG. Ask for
accommodation at 'Parkside' which is the better of the two hotels available.
For further information please contact G0LCS Kerry on +44 (0) 208 441 7129
or e-mail g0lcs@qsl.net or go to http://www.uksmg.org/dinner.htm
See you there! Committee of the UKSMG
15/1
VK Video into Germany:
This interesting spot appeared from DL1EMH on the OH Summit this evening;
DL1EMH-@ 50000.0 VIDEO 46250 &
46172 qtf 80 fm JO31 1134 15 Jan
15/1
St Helena, ZD7:
No sign of Johhny, ZD8KW, active from St Helena yet. He was
reportedly going to be QRV from ZD7 from January 9 - February 11.
However, ZD7VC was spotted on 6M yesterday on the OH Summit;
EB7NK 50110.0 ZD7VC cq 2223 14 Jan 2001
15/1
Radio & Communications Magazine:
Subscribers would have received a letter today from ACP Action
stating...
"....For your information, Cinch [new publisher] has appointed former
Editor and columnist Len Shaw to re-take the reigns of Radio &
Communications. To allow for the switch of Publisher and the Christmas
break, a January/February issue of the magazine will be published in the
third week of January and monthly thereafter as normal."
15/1
Djibouti, J2:
"The 59(9) DX Report" reports to look for David, F5THR
(ex-6W1AE, TL8CD), to be active from here as J28EX until January 2002.
Activity will be on 160-10 meters. He is going to have a 4 element beam
up for 6M. QSL via FB1BON: Patrick Brochet, P.O. Box 522, 85305 Challans
CX, France.
15/1
San Ambrosio Island, CE0X (Update).
Marco, CE6TBN, Team Leader for the CE0XT DXpedition to San
Ambrosio Island (during the second week in February), reports that the team
will use the following suggested frequencies:
CW - 50105 kHz SSB - 50120 kHz
The 6M Beacon will be on 50.105 MHz. It will repeat every 30-45 seconds. The
team states that "they will probably listen on the
same frequency, using the squelch of the rig to cut the noise down. When a
signal break the squelch, that is a sign to get someone onto the 6M rig and
begin making QSOs. We probably will run the beacon at 50W so that the rig
doesn't get hot."
The following pilot stations have been chosen for the CE0XT operation:
North America - Dr. Bill, K6GNX, - E-mail: bavery@telemetry.com
Japan - Yosi, JA3AAW
- E-mail: ja3aaw@sannet.ne.jp
Europe - Still has not been
chosen.
DXpedition Web page for updates and info is: http://www.qsl.net/ce0xt
(OPDX)
15/1
Comoros, D6:
Josep/EA3BT and Nuria/EA3WL became active from here on Saturday,
around 1530z, as D68BT and D68WL. However, information from their pilot
station state that upon the duo's arrival, it was raining cats and dogs and
they only could build the 3 element beam for 10-15-20M and had only 1
station active running only 100 watts. By the time you read this, they hope
to build the 40-80 and 6M antennas and have the second station
active. Their suggested frequencies are:
SSB - 50.110MHz
In order to receive feedback from the DX community, the following pilot
stations have been selected. You can get in touch with each pilot of your
area/zone:
Europe and Central/South America: Pere Galimany, EA3AJI - E-mail
address: pilot_d68@ea3aji.com
North America: Dr. Bill Avery, K6GNX - E-mail address: k6gnx@telemetry.com
Japan, Asia & Oceania: Yuki Deguchi, JI6KVR - E-mail
address: ji6kvr@orange.ocn.ne.jp
Periodically information will be sent through the main DX reflectors.
Remember that the logs will be posted daily, along with additional
information and pictures posted by Xavier, EA3BHK, at the following web
page: http://www.qsl.net/ea3bt
(OPDX)
15/1
Mariana Islands, KH0:
JQ1NGT & JI1EFP will be QRV as KH0/JI1EFP & KH0/JQ1NGT
from Saipan February 16 - 19. Activity will be on 160-6M on CW
and SSB. The two operators plan to participate in the ARRL CW DX Contest
either as Single Op or as a Multi-Single entry.
QSL via JQ1NGT: Kenji Sekine, 3-4-7 Honcyo, Fukiage,369-0115 JAPAN.
14/1
Digipan V1.6c:
A new version of Digipan, 1.6c, is available for free download
at;
http://members-proxy-5.mmbrprxy.home.net/hteller/digipan/
It's great! Amongst other new features a Phase Scope has been
added which makes it real easy to tell when Digpan has locked onto the
incoming signal so if your measuring TV carriers you'll know when Digipan's
AFC has stopped dancing around and you can then determine the frequency of
the carrier.
Revision History
1.0c: 01/04/2000 Initial release
1.1: 05/15/2000 Second release. Added Seek, DTR PTT, Bookmarks on Spectrum Window,
Right-click macro editing, Word
wrap, Tune signal, Additional Log bar, Drag-drop Log
entry, Spectrum window default palette
selection, Dial Scales for 80m - 10m, CW ID,
and other macros.
1.2: 06/01/2000 Third release. Added SCAN, Markers, log editing,
support for nine serial ports,
additional macros, and corrected the
intermittent disappearing cursor problem.
1.5: 11/05/2000 Fourth official release. Added dual channel
reception, selectable colors for all
windows, ability to transmit and receive on
different frequencies, easier to use log, QSO
data display on status bar, phase
scope, Sound history, and transmitted IMD measurement.
1.6: 1/1/2001 Fifth release. Fixed bug that changed the Regional Settings, added ADIF Log import
and export, and changed to new internal log format for faster searching.
1.6c: 1/5/2001 Sixth release. This is a maintenance release that corrects some minor bugs in the
log operation.
14/1
Wake Island, KH9:
Bruce, AC4G/KH9, will be QRV from Wake Island (KH9) from February
9 - 27. He will be using AC4G/KH9 on all bands with an attempt at 6M
if he can get an antenna in time. Bruce already has antennas on the
island and will be using a Yaesu FT-847 for SSB and CW. He'll be working on
the island and will operate in his spare time. Plans are to participate in
the ARRL CW DX Contest and the CQ WW SSB 160 Contest.You can also look for
Bruce to be active from Kwajalein Island as V73CW, the last week of January.
QSL as usual to AC4G, Bruce Smith,1056 Old Railroad Bed Road, Taft, TN 38488
Info courtesy of The Daily DX, Vol 5, No 10, Jan 12, 2001 (SMIRK)
14/1
Panama Early Warnings:
Ian Julian, ZL1TBM, from Pukekohe New Zealand advises of a few
Panamanian frequencies of interest taken from the Panama online freq search.
41.250 Autoridad Del Canal De Panama Gatun Hydro
41.550 Cuerpo De Bomberos (fire) De La Chorrera Estacion 1,
Estacion 2.
42.300 Cuerpo De Bomberos De Colon.
43.650 Cuerpo De Bomberos De Colon
49.075 Electronica Delgardo, S.A Movil
49.700 Electronica Delgardo, S.A Cerro Campana
13/1
Solar Update:
Average sunspot numbers were up over the past week, and solar
flux was down, probably reaching a low on Wednesday. The predicted solar
flux for January 12 - 15 is 170, 175, 180 and 185. Solar flux is expected to
peak below 200 around January 17, but not drop back to 180 until January 25.
Very quiet geomagnetic conditions are forecast through the end of the month,
the exception being this weekend, with a slightly unsettled planetary A
index around 12. Otherwise look for A indices in the low single digits.
The unsettled conditions are predicted because of a full-halo coronal mass
ejection on Wednesday, but the effect is uncertain.
Scott Craig has made some slight modifications to his solar data plotting
software, and here at K7VVV it now seems to work with Windows 2000. Download
the new version 3.09w from http://www.craigcentral.com.
Sunspot numbers for January 4 through 10 were 180, 158, 172, 183, 167, 140
and 139 with a mean of 162.7. 10.7 cm flux was 174.6, 176.3, 179.4,
176.7, 167.1, 166.3 and 162.8, with a mean of 171.9, and estimated planetary
A indices were 10, 6, 6, 5, 10, 5 and 4 with a mean of 6.6. (K7VVV)
12/1
DXpeditioning Behind The Scenes book:
Many of those travelling to D68 were members of the successful
DXpedition to 9M0C. Read about the planning behind this DXpedition in
the book "DXpeditioning
Behind the Scenes". Proceeds from book sales will help to
fund the D68C DXpedition. The books makes a great addition to any shack
bookshelf!
12/1
Mariana Islands, KH0:
Haru, JA1XGI, is QRV as KH0/JA1XGI from Saipan, IOTA OC-086, from
January 13 - 15. He will be active on 15, 10 and 6Ms using CW,
RTTY, SSTV and PSK31. QSL to home call. (ARLD002)
12/1
Heads Up:
A quick count has revealed that some 27 countries outside VK have
been worked/heard from South East Australia during past Januarys.
These include;
VK9L, VK9N, VK0 Casey, VK0 Macquarie, ZL, ZL9, FK, YJ, FO, ZK1, 3D2, 3D2/R, KH0, KH6, P29, OH, SM, LA, 9H1, W, XE, TI, HP, JA, HL,
XX9 and VR2.
The last week of
January produced some excellent DX this time last year;
08/01/2000 0740 3D2AG/R
28/01/2000 23:30 TI5BX EK70
28/01/2000 23:55 TI2NA/B
29/01/2000 00:00 HP3XUG EJ88
29/01/2000 00:11 3F2K FJ09
29/01/2000 00:26 TI5KD EJ79
30/01/2000 00:45 FO5DR/B
30/01/2000 01:17 W1LP/MM EK51
30/01/2000 01:37 FO5DR BH52
30/01/2000 02:37 ZK1NCI
31/01/2000 03:13 K6MIO/KH6
11/1
VQLog Update Coming:
Gabriel, EA6VQ, writes...
Next version 2.1c is expected to be released in February/March, after a
delay of three-months because I have moved in a new house and I almost
haven't had free time for working on the program. I will announce the
availability of the new version on the list. 73.
11/1
T.E.P:
Last night around local midnight saw P29BPL beacon 519 and many
R1/C1 offsets up to S9. No sign of JA beacons or amateur signals.
10/1
KH6ND/KH5 Palmyra QSL situation:
Tom, N4XP, writes...
All direct requests for KH6ND are answered. However I have received
many for Mike that have been sorted into the K5K queue because no mention
was made on the front of the envelope of KH6ND. I am sure your SASE is
in that queue but I have no way to go back through the thousands of
envelopes to locate it. I will come to it when I start to open K5K and
it will be processed at that point.
I am out of town and can not check the log to make sure you are in it but
will do so upon return. I'll advise you when I arrive home.
Jon, N0JK, writes...
Adam: Received a card back for KH6ND/KH5 in two weeks (sent Nov, rec.
Dec 2000.) They may be buried now with the K5K QSL requests now. The Dudley
DXers
manage QSLs for KH6ND/KH5 and K5K. - N0JK
10/1
6M is dead, so what?
Looking for something to do whilst the
propagation is lousy? (Even this Summer has been lousy for Es in
Australia) Why not have a read of Nick, SV1EN's, lighthearted article
"6M Is Dead, So What? (Things to do while the sun is hibernating)"
in the UKSMG "Six News" archives; http://www.uksmg.org/dead.htm
And while your there have a peruse of the Archive for other great articles from
"Six News".
9/1
French Polynesia, FO update:
Jean-Louis, F5DYD, has been QRV from Tahiti island as FO5RA since
July 2000. He will be there for 2 years running an FT847 and 2 el
quad. He's looking for Europe every day at 07:00 and 17:00. Jean-Louis has
only worked several JA, KH6, VK4 & FK8CA. He's also on 28.470 around
16:3. Also QRV on 6M are FO3QX and FO3BM on Moorea island. (F8OP via
SM7AED)
9/1
Belize, V31:
Klaus, DJ4SO, will be QRV from Hopkins Village between January
17 - February 12. His emphasis will be on WARC & 50MHz (The
50MHz DX Bulletin)
8/1
Propagation into Brisbane:
0450 signals from JA8 start to appear. Twenty minutes later
and JA7, JA1 & JA2 appear as the propagation moves South. Many stations
active on SSB & CW up to 599+.
0710 HL1KTX is heard calling on 50.110 at 55 but does not answer many
stations calling him. Deaf setup?
0800 Es across to New Caledonia, FK.
8/1
Conway Reef (Update):
According to Raymundo, YS1RR, the planning for the Conway Reef
DXpedition is progressing on a "fast track". Operators
YT1AD, YU1RL, YU1NR, YU1FW, YU7AV, YU6AO (YZ7AA), YS1RR, Z32AU and Z32ZM are
expected to operate from here (refer to OPDX.482/488) from February 19 -
28.
Their callsign will be announced on February 18th. They have announced the
following suggested modes and frequencies:
CW - 1825, 3505, 7003, 10104, 14020, 18020, 21020, 24896,
28020, 50105
SSB - 1835, 3795, 7075, 14195, 18145, 21295, 24945, 28495,
50125
Digital - 1835, 3575, 7035, 14075, 21075, 28075
SSTV - 3723, 7035, 14230, 21340, 28680 kHz
* ADDED NOTE: Receiving frequencies will be 5 to 30 kHz higher than
transmitting frequencies. Additional information will be given during
operation time. QSL via YT1AD: Hrane Milosevic, 36206 Vitanovac, Yugoslavia.
Raymundo reports that as in all DXpeditions, they are short of funds and
your donations will be very helpful to make this operation a great success
and any small or big donations are welcome. Donations can be sent to YS1RR:
Raymundo Rodriguez, P.O. Box 32, San Salvador, El Salvador or to VIPSAL 682,
P.O. Box 02-5364, Miami, FL 33102-5364, USA. Please visit the Conway 2001
Web Page at: http://www.kragujevac.co.yu/3d2
This is under construction and will be updated frequently. (OPDX)
7/1
Open across Pacific:
0541 Art, KH6SX, booming in at 599 followed by Al, KH6IAA, at
0600 peaking 52.
7/1
C21JH Bulletins:
All C21JH 2000 DXpedition Information bulletins moved from this
News Page to this archive; C21JH DXpedition News Bulletins
7/1
South Cook Islands:
Dan, N6PEQ, writes...
Hi Adam,
The trip has been postponed until later this year. I will have 6 meter
gear when I am down there, but probably will not spend a great deal of time
there. Hopefully we will be able to work each other. Have a great new
year. Best 73's and DX
7/1
Virus Follow up:
Although I use NAV 2000 here I later discovered that my 12 month
subscription to receive free virus definition updates had expired recently,
and for some reason my Outlook Express mail client wasn't being checked
(although it has in the past - how/why did this change???)
Two Lessons learnt here;
1) Make sure you are paid up and/or
actually receiving the latest virus definition updates and not just the free
program updates.
2) Make sure your e-mail clients are configured correctly so that incoming
e-mail is scanned.
Above - NAV2000 Screenshot to configure e-mail checking
6/1
VIRUS ALERT:
A virus is circulating the ham community - be aware. The one I
received (and stupidly ran!) was "Emanuel.exe".
This was sent by "GUY" with an e-mail address of: on4aoi@ping.be
Perhaps he may not be aware of this?
Although most of your system will be crippled and unable to run most
applications, luckily Microsoft Internet Explorer still works, so you can
visit the NAV site. Download the W32.Navidad.16896 information from http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.navidad.16896.html
and follow the instructions;
However, I also have the information here
It really screws around with Outlook Express. PS Check your Outbox. There
were almost 1900 odd e-mails ready to send out that this virus generated
from stuff in my Inbox.
6/1
Solar Update:
On January 2 and 3 a large sunspot group, number 9289, crossed
the center of the visible solar disk. This is the area that has the greatest
effect on the earth. It covered 890 millionths of the solar disk, which is
an area five times the surface of the earth. On January 4 around 0900z the
earth reached perihelion, which is the closest it will be to the sun all
year. Sunlight at perihelion is about 7 percent more intense over the whole
of the earth than it is in July.
Sunspot numbers and solar flux were down over the past week, with the weekly
average sunspot number off over 20 points and the average solar flux
declining nearly 14. Geomagnetic conditions were very quiet, with Wednesday
having only moderately unsettled conditions, with a planetary A index of 11.
The high-latitude College A Index in Fairbanks, Alaska was 22 on that day,
but the day before it was actually 0. This is unusually low, especially for
such a high latitude location where any solar event aimed toward earth seems
to cause upset and absorption for polar HF signals. The College K index was
also 0 for each 3-hour period, except for the last period of the UTC day,
when it was 1.
Solar flux is expected to continue to fall over the next few days, and reach
a short term minimum around January 9 or 10. The next solar flux peak is
expected around January 18-21. Unsettled geomagnetic conditions are expected
with a planetary A index of 15 for January 5 and 6, stabilizing slightly to
an A of 12 for January 7 and 8.
Now as promised in last week's bulletin, it is time to review the numbers
for last year, and perhaps divine when the peak of this sunspot cycle
occurred.
The yearly averages of daily sunspot numbers for 1995-2000 were 28.7, 13.2,
30.7, 88.7, 136.3 and 174.4. The yearly averages of daily solar flux numbers
for 1995-2000 were 77.1, 73.4, 81, 117.9, 153.7 and 181.2. We can see that
the minimum activity was centered around 1996 and that the maximum was in
2000.
If you use WA4TTK's solar plotting software with the data from these
bulletins, you can see from the chart that there were a couple of high
points in activity this year. The first was May 17 when the solar flux was
262 and sunspot number 342. The second was July 18-20, when sunspot numbers
were 343, 342 and 401 and solar flux was 261.9, 249.9 and 252.9. Examination
of the graph shows a general drop in activity since July. (If you don't have
the solar plotting software, you can get it for free from WA4TTK's web site
at http://edge.net/~scraig/index.html
or specifically http://www.craigcentral.com/sol.htm.
Note that you can also download an updated data file, which has all of the
solar flux and sunspot data from this bulletin from January 1, 1989 through
December 31, 2000.)
These peaks suggest a solar maximum around May or July. Since there is so
much daily variation in the data (even at the cycle peak), it is useful to
look at averages. The monthly averages of daily sunspot numbers for 2000,
January through December, were 140.8, 161.9, 203.6, 193.4, 188.8, 190.3,
236.7, 166.7, 169.9, 138.9, 149.9 and 146.4. The 236.7 number for July was
the highest for the year. Monthly Average of daily solar flux for the year
was 159, 174.1, 208.2, 184.2, 184.5, 179.8, 200.5, 163.1, 201.7, 167.7,
178.8 and 173.6. This gives us three peaks, in March, July and September.
The quarterly daily sunspot averages were 168.9, 190.8, 193.1 and 145, and
quarterly solar flux was 180.5, 182.9, 188.3 and 173.3. These suggest a
maximum in the third quarter, July through September.
Ultimately the solar physicists who represent the real scientific expertise
will come up with an approximate date for the peak using a smoothed moving
average, but the data is not all here yet.
Sunspot numbers for December 28 through January 3 were 159, 150, 140, 153,
119, 143 and 128 with a mean of 141.7. 10.7 cm flux was 185.4, 181.5, 182.1,
169.5, 171, 176.1 and 169.9, with a mean of 176.5, and estimated planetary A
indices were 5, 6, 2, 2, 3, 4 and 11 with a mean of 4.7. (K7VVV)
5/1
Nauru DXpedition C21JH:
C21JH
card received today and added to the QSL Collection.
Jack reports that almost 300 QSLs, mainly from JA, have been
received so far. Very few cards from VKs have come in - VK's don't you
want C21JH confirmed? Jack is out of the country on holidays and
returns on January 20. He managed to get a few cards out before
leaving, but will deal with the backlog once he has returned and when he has
a fresh batch of cards back from the printer. Remember,
Jack closes the log off after 5 years.
See
Images of Nauru taken by Jack during the trip.
5/1
Conway Reef 2001 Update:
All the processing to activate Conway Reef is going as in fast
track, the Planed schedule is as follows:
DXpedition Schedule
13/02/01 Departure Belgrade Skoplje
17/02/01 Boarding Equipment in yacht "TIRAGU LEVI", a/c,long
20 m, with diesel engine 2 x 600 kW & Departure to Conway Reef.
18/02/01 20:00 Arriving on Conwey Reef, sleeping and ...
19/02/01 06:00 Day "C" until 27/02/01 at 18:00
28/02/01 Departure for Fiji and return trip home
Operating Frequencies:
BAND
CW SSB
DIGITAL SSTV
160 1.825 1.835
1.835
80 3.505 3.795
3.575 3.723
40 7.003 7.075
7.035 7.035
30 10.104 -
- -
20 14.020 14.195
14.075 14.230
17 18.075 18.145
- -
15 21.020 21.295
21.075 21.340
12 24.896 24.945
- -
10 28.020 28.495
28.075 28.680
6 50.105 50.125
- -
Remarks */: Receiving frequencies will be 5 - 30kHz higher than transmitting
frequencies.
General Information
Team members: YT1AD , YU1RL, YU1NR, YU1FW, YU7AV, YU6AO (YZ7AA), YS1RR,
Z32AU, Z32ZM
Call sign: 3D2?? ( will be announced on 18/02/01 )
Operating time from Conway Reef February 19 - 28
QSL info : via YT1AD, Dr. Hrane Milosevic, 36206, Vitanovac,
Yugoslavia, With QSL + SAE + 1-2 USD ( 2-3 IRC)
E-mail: YT1AD@ Eunet.yu
Donors coordinator : Raymundo Rodriguez YS1RR, P.O.Box 32, San Salvador, El
Salvador, C.A. or VIPSAL 682, P.O.Box 02-5364, Miami, FL 33102-5364,
e-mail: ys1rr@navegante.com.sv
Dxpedition Pilots: for EU , AF, AS : YU1AA, YT1AD (op YU1DX ), For NA, SA,
OC: VE3EXY
As in all DXpeditions we are short of funds and your donations will be very
helpful to conclude this operation with great success so please don't think
too
much and your donations will be very well received; small or big donations
are welcome. So please send checks or cash in USA Dollars to my addresses up
here, or if you need more info no doubt in ask via e-mail or by phone to my
telephones down here. (Raymundo Rodriguez YS1RR)
4/1
Nauru, C21:
N0JK has cancelled his DXpedition to Nauru in April. Apparently there wasn't sufficient interest. (N0JK)
4/1
Australian Ham Radio Magazines:
The discerning consumer will now have a
choice of two locally produced magazines. The new look R&C
is due out January 12, whilst the other "Radiomag" is scheduling
an issue for late January sometime. Competition is always healthy!
4/1
Gosford Hamfest:
Sunday February 25. Check out the Central
Coast Amateur Radio Club web site for more details.
There are plenty of cheap airfares around at the moment (ie;
BNE>SYD>BNE for $143) which helps offset the exorbitant entry fee of
$10!!!
4/1
Guantamo Bay, KG4:
Ed, WP4O, will be doing some traveling in this month in Guantamo
Bay (KG4) and also portable TI6 (grid EJ89). No specific dates but
will first get on 28.885 and annonunce he's active from that specific
country. (OZ6OM)
3/1
Wagga TV Heard in Poland:
SP6ASD 50000.1 VK/VIDEO 46240.1 59+ 0913 03 Jan
3/1
Six Italy Top QSO of the Year Contest:
The top 10 list. For some reason the Italians have decided
to use short path distance even if it was a long path QSO.
A valid and confirmed QSO cannot be disputed but the path/distance could
always be.
|
|
2/1
Website changes:
VK4
Grid Square Map. A clickable map showing the location of known active 6M
operators. Click on the Yellow
Grid Squares to reveal a list and map for that square. Check
out QG62 - Is this VK's highest concentration of 6M ops?
1/1
DXCC News:
"QRZ DX" reports that Bob, W4VQ, has filed a petition
to the DXCC & DXAC asking them to consider the removal of Macao (XX9)
from the DXCC List in accordance with DXCC Rule 5. This comes as a result of
Portugal turning Macao over to China, December 20, 1999. (OPDX)
The DXCC Desk is reporting that it takes about 8 weeks for processing QSL
cards now.
1/1
San Ambrosio Island, CE0XT:
Marco, CE6TBN, (Team Leader of CE0XT San Ambrosio 2001
DXpedition) writes...
We will be on the air on 6M between February 10-18 as CE0XT grid
locator FG93wq. QSL manager is CE6TBN Marco A. Quijada, Box 1234 Temuco
Chile. Team members: CE3AQI/NP4IW Carlos, CE6NE Mario, CE6SAX Alex,
CE6TBN Marco, DJ9ZB Franz, K0EU Randy, OH1EB Jari, OH2BH Martti, OH2RF
Pertti (OH2BH and K0EU are well known 6m hams from many expeditions). More
info on CE0XT 2001 73 Mark
CE6TBN (SM7AED)