[TAC] [Fwd: [QRP-L] X1 Flare - HF Blackout]

[Hank Kohl K8DD]

-------- Original Message --------
Subject: 	[QRP-L] X1 Flare - HF Blackout
Date: 	Thu, 14 Jul 2005 09:33:02 -0600
From: 	na5n at zianet.com
To: 	qrp-l at mailman.qth.net



Gang,
Solar region 786 has rotated out of view on the solar dish.  However, it 
departed with a bang ... an M9 flare at 06Z 14JUL and an X1 flare at 12Z. 
The x-ray energy from the X1 has high ionized the D-layer - meaning, very 
heavy absorption to HF signals trying to get to the E/F layers - producing 
an HF BLACKOUT.  I don't have access to a radio at the moment, but the data 
suggests the blackout is currently nearly total along the east coast (closer 
to where the sun is right now) and less severe along the west coast.  This 
HF blackout will subside over the next couple of hours. 

The good news is the ionizing radiation that caused the HF blackout, by the 
extra ionization to the D-layer, also extra ionized the E and F layers.  
When the D-layer recovers, there should be enhanced activity on the higher 
bands in the form of increased reflectivity to the E/F layers, a higher MUF, 
possibly allowing 15M to be open, and good signal-noise ratios for the 
remainder of daylight hours today.  The improved signal-noise ratio is a 
good thing for QRP signals working DX.  Those fortunate enough to be home 
today should check for improved conditions on 20M and perhaps brief openings 
on 15M and even 10M.  By sundown, it will be over. 

Because today's flares occured on the sun's western limb, they will not 
trigger any geomagnetic storming in 2-3 days.  The effects of these flares, 
a solar storm in the R3 range, will persist only for today.  I.e. RAT NOW. 

GL and 72,
Paul NA5N 


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