↑ Skywave Propagation for Radio Amateurs
A brief overview

This page is part of the project "Understanding HF Propagation"
by Doron Tal, 4X4XM

Radio amateurs use a variety of propagation modes, including line-of-sight, ground-wave, and skywave.

Illustration of Skywave Propagation Modes
Propagation Modes

Line of sight involves direct transmission; ground waves descend along Earth's surface; and skywaves (HF bands) bounce off the ionosphere over very long distances. Therefore, understanding skywave propagation is essential for radio amateurs.


The solar radiation generates Earth's ionosphere, that enables HF radio waves to be reflected and propage over very long distances.

Long distance communication by ionospheric refractions

The "propagation conditions" of skywave change along time of day, seasons, and due to the erratic solar activity.


A review of the last 24 hours skywave propagation map:
MUF 3000 km map animated review of skywave propagation map
Static maps provided by Andrew D Rodland, KC2G, updated every 15 minutes.
The animated version was made by Roland Gafner, HB9VQQ,
showing the last 24 hours in 15-minute steps.

Understanding skywave propagation is crucial for a successful communication of radio amateurs, requiring them to learn and practice various factors.


The project "Understanding HF Propagation" provides a detailed overview and tutorials on HF propagation.

Find here basic and advanced explanations, practical methods, map-charts, banners, calculators, real-time reports 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, models 1, 2, 3, table of contents, index of terms, and references.
The entire website contains additional pages that each cover a sub-topic. See the sitemap.



The project "Understanding HF Propagation" provides a detailed overview and tutorials on HF propagation.

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