Topband: weird propagation

[k9la at frontier.com]

It would be good to pay heed to N7DF's e-mail about possible improved propagation when the IMF turns south. Two examples that come to mind are skewed paths (reflection/refraction from the intense ionization at the equatorward edge of the auroral oval) and enhanced paths right before the K index spikes up (possibly due to an improved electron density valley - giving ducting).
 
One quick correction, though - the electrons that precipitate into the high-latitude atmosphere when the K index is elevated are those that were trapped in the Earth's magnetosphere - they don't come directly from the Sun (the electrons in the solar wind are way too low in energy).
 
Carl K9LA