[CQ-Contest] ionospheric absorption not heating

[K8GT]

We-e-e-ellll, I always learned that at the band opening and closing,
that the only signals that make it through are those at very low angles,
and since the stations with antenna installations capable of producing
low angle lobes (with power) usually are the big (ie: contest) stations,
with excellent arrays high in the air.  Then as the band opens more,
higher angle signals are passed, (including peanut whistles like mine).

73, Gerry  K8GT



N7DF writes:

  > The real factor in the anomalous change in signal strength between =
  > qrp/qro signals is attributable to a threshold level of absorption in
=
  > the ionosphere.  When the level of ionization drops below a certain =
  > level, a signal must exceed the absorption potential before it will
be =
  > refracted and intercepted by ground based stations.  This is easily =
  > noticeable during band opening and closing periods where stations
with =
  > exceptionally tight beam signals break through with loud signals
while =
  > the majority of stations are not even heard.


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