The 10, 12, 15, 17, and 20-meter bands have been buzzing lately! Whether you’re a seasoned DXer, a casual rag chewer, or just enjoy the thrill of a good skip opening, these high-frequency bands are offering some of the best propagation conditions in years.
What’s the magic behind this boom? Solar activity is playing a role. We’re currently heading towards the peak of Solar Cycle 25, which translates to more sunspots, stronger solar winds, and a more dynamic ionosphere. This means better signal reflection and longer skip distances, opening up exciting communication possibilities.
Antenna:
I placed a multi-band YoYo-Vee antenna in my yard.
The antenna is on about a meter and a half to two meters above the ground, held up by braided fishing line tied to the trees above.
Using my Yaesu 857D, set to 85 Watts, to my surprise, I was able to tune it for 10, 12, 15, 17, and 20-meters.
I’ve made contacts from California to Florida and have been able to DX Russia, Sweden, Scotland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia.
Not bad for a cheap wire, dipole antenna.
Let’s break it down band by band:
- 10 Meters: This “band of surprises” has been living up to its name with frequent openings to Europe, Asia, and even South America. SSB, CW, and digital modes are all seeing success, making it a great time to hunt DX or catch up with international friends.
- 12 Meters: This daytime wonder has been surprisingly active, offering reliable contacts across continents throughout the day. If you haven’t explored 12m yet, now’s the perfect time to see what you’ve been missing!
- 15 Meters: The all-around favorite, 15m has been a consistent performer, providing solid communication within your region and beyond. Whether you’re chasing DX or enjoying local QSOs, 15m has something for everyone.
- 17 Meters: This band often shares the spotlight with 15m, and lately, it’s been no different. Expect good signal strengths and decent skip during the day and early evening hours, making it a great choice for casual contacts and regional nets.
- 20 Meters: The ever-reliable 20m continues to shine, offering consistent long-distance communication throughout the day and night. With good antenna setups, reaching out to Europe, Asia, and Africa is well within reach.
But it’s not just about the bands themselves.
The ham radio community is buzzing with excitement too. With so many stations active and conditions this good, the airwaves are filled with friendly chatter, lively discussions, and the thrill of making new contacts. It’s a reminder of the unique power of ham radio to connect people across borders and distances.
So, what are you waiting for?
Get out there and join the fun! Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just getting started, these high bands offer something for everyone. With a little patience and the right antenna setup, you’ll be amazed at who you can connect with. Remember, the best time to try is now, while the bands are hot!
Here are some tips to maximize your success:
- Check propagation forecasts regularly to see what bands are open and when.
- Use a good antenna that’s well-matched to the band you’re operating on.
- Be patient and listen carefully for weak signals.
- Be courteous and respectful on the airwaves.
- Most importantly, have fun!
This is a golden opportunity to experience the best that ham radio has to offer. So grab your rig, tune into the high bands, and join the excitement!
73 de KB1YNO