As we move past the peak of this current solar cycle it seems that we are enjoying some of the best conditions on the high bands in several years. However, there does seem to be a sense of urgency to enjoy 10 meter DX since these conditions will likely last a few weeks rather than a year or two as in past cycles. I remember when I received my Novice license in 1989 that 10 meters was so busy you could hardly find a spot to call CQ in the Novice band, 28.300 - 28.500.
Since the flux has been in the 160 -170 range lately, last week's 10 meter contest was full of activity. It was a great opportunity for me to increase my QRP DXCC count which was at 160 entities worked going into the weekend. The bottom line, with the exception of V55V on SSB, I was able to work everyone I chased. It was harder work that I thought it would be, which is a testament to how busy the band was.
So with the band hopping, I fired up the KX3 and went hunting. I was able to work TK5EP, 4O3A, OX3XR on CW and ZS1TMJ on SSB. It was Saturday morning when I made these QSO's, so it was still early in the contest, I'm sure on Sunday, these stations would have been a little easier to work. I picked up four new counters on 10m and threw in FG5FR on 15m to get my QRP DXCC to 165. It was a fun weekend and it's good to hear some much activity on 10m.
So, go have a look at 10 meters, better yet, call CQ. You mght be surprised who comes back.
And what about QRP 5W and mobile! I did it with succes last weekend. Tried for V55V as well, no luck. pile-up was too huge. You did a nice job Mike. I have been calling CQ, not QRP though yesterday and till my surprise I worked 2 stations from the states. So, proabely we will meet some day ;-). 73, Bas
ReplyDeleteBas,
DeleteHopefully we will, if not 10m, some other band.
73,
Mike AD5A
Hey Mike, yes when 10m is hot it's hot........when the cycle starts to dive these hot times will be the stories for the ham fest's and club meetings.
ReplyDeleteMike
Mike,
ReplyDeleteAgree and let's hope the hot times last a little longer.
73,
Mike AD5A
Great blog,
ReplyDeleteI agree 10m has been in pretty good shape. I guess no better band or time to operate QRP.
I got greedy and operated with QRO during the ARRL 10 contest on CW only during Saturday (I had to work on Sunday). I used the special event call ZS9MADIBA in honour of Nelson Mandela.
Have Fun !!
Pierre ZS6A