Point-to-Point 24-hour HF propagation forecast

Introduction: Understanding Global and Regional Propagation Conditions

Researchers evaluate propagation conditions globally and regionally. Global propagation conditions refer to the overall state of the ionosphere and how it affects radio wave transmission across our planet, which is influenced by solar activity, geomagnetic storms, and other large-scale events. However, regional propagation conditions focus on particular geographic regions, as demonstrated on this page. Regional radio propagation forecasts help radio operators optimize communication by determining the best frequencies and times to make contact with specific destinations.

Andrew D. Rodland, KC2G, offers a free application called "HF Propagation Planner." This is an HF propagation planning and forecasting tool, similar to Proppy's Radcom Predictions. While prediction tools rely on "global monthly average" ionospheric conditions, the following "HF planner" makes a regional short-term forecast using real-time data. This tool checks your current local HF conditions and schedules your QSOs for today. ↗

Explanation:
The charts below show probabilities for a planned SSB QSO from Karmiel, Israel (QTH locator: KM72pw), to a dozen places over the globe. The calculation was performed on 25-August-2025.

Input variables: Tx: 100W SSB | Rx Noise: Residential -145dBw/Hz @ 3MHz | Antenna: Vertical 2.16 dB gain.

The following calculated charts show columns for each hour of the day and rows for each amateur radio band. Each cell displays the predicted probability (by color) of successful communication for the selected mode (SSB), as well as the expected signal strength in S-units. The default times are UTC, but in this example local time is selected. Users can adjust antennas by selecting the type and height above ground. The "Custom Site" feature adds one more RX site to the list. As with any forecast, predictions are not guaranteed, and actual band conditions may differ. This tool is useful for casual use and organizing contest weekends.

Figure 1: Example: Forecasting propagation conditions from Karmiel, Israel, to multiple destinations
SSB signals—S units; probabilities—BCR colors

For contextual information, see the explanatory notes above Figure 1.

Figure 2 (below) presents the calculated current regional propagation conditions, which are quite useful for planning within the upcoming minutes.

Figure 2: MUF 3000 km Propagation Map, by Andrew, KC2G
This map does not take into account terrain or ionospheric dynamics.
How to use this map | Additional notes | Animated map

The project "Understanding HF Propagation" focuses on near-real-time indicators and explains what they mean.