HF Propagation Forecast
HF Propagation Forecast Overview
- Ham radio (HF) communication relies on skywave propagation.
- Skywave band conditions shift constantly
by the minute and across longer timeframes. - Factors like time of day, solar activity, and ionospheric conditions drive these changes.
- Propagation charts visually aid in signal strength estimation and long-distance communication potential by highlighting factors like MUF, solar flux, geography, and geomagnetic activity.
- By interpreting propagation charts, users can forecast how and when certain communication paths might open or close.
Propagation Forecast Charts based on recent conditions
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Regional Propagation Maps
based on ham activity and ionosondes Pros: Show geographical distribution Cons: Implicit info about disruptions! Recent Ham Activity (last 15 minutes)
 real-time reports on 11 bands (160-6 m). Recent MUF Conditions (last 15 minutes)
 Iso-frequency contours of 8 ham bands based on data from ionosondes. The predicted Regional LUF Conditions
 Global map of the recent LUF shows the predicted attenuation from 3 to 35 MHz due to solar and spaceweather events. Point-to-Point 24-hour forecast—HF planner
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Global Conditions Charts
based on solar-terrestrial data. Pros: Comm. disruptions at a glance Cons: No geographical distribution! Recent R-S-G reports  Solar flares | More Space weather reports |
Forecasting vs. Prediction
The terms forecasting and prediction differ primarily in their time frames and methodologies.
- Forecasting: Short-term estimations based on current data (e.g., "Conditions will improve in the next hour").
- Prediction: Long-term estimates based on trends (e.g., "Better 40-meter conditions expected next month").
Evolution of forecasting techniques
Remarkable advancements in space technology ↗, software-defined radio (SDR) ↗, and the internet have revolutionized our understanding of radio wave propagation. Before the 1990s, propagation charts and reports were often published in amateur radio magazines. Today, real-time solar indices and computer programs provide accurate, up-to-the-minute propagation data using online tools ↗.
Real time radio propagation map
Current solar conditions Ham radio
Current Ham Radio HF Propagation
HF Radio Propagation Search Terms
Current HF Band Conditions Online Map
Current Ham Radio Propagation Conditions
Real-time watching of worldwide ham activity
How does the sun affect radio communication?
Real-time watching of worldwide hams' activity
The Fascinating World of HF Skywave Propagation