Topband: VP8STI last night

[Ken Boasi]

Just my observations from what happened here last night in NY (doesn't help you west coast guys, I guess). 

VP8STI was solid copy from my sunset around 2230z until 0200z. Very little fading and Q5 copy. They were calling and working EU only during this period. 

Around 0200z, their signal got much weaker and more susceptible to QSB. They also started calling for anyone at that time, not just EU. I don't know if they switched direction on their TX array or not at that point, but things did get worse at that point; propagation I'm assuming. 

I use two 560' beverages to receive, one at 135 degrees and one at 180 degrees. No diversity rx, just switching back and forth. They were the same copy on both antennas, generally, since both are about the same amount "off" of STI's hearing from here (FN13, western NY). 

I didn't listen much after 0200z, so I don't know if their signal came back up at any point. 

They did have an excellent run of EU during that 2200-0200 time frame, though. 

73, Ken N2ZN 

> On Jan 22, 2016, at 11:11 AM, Tom <wa8wzg at wa8wzg.net> wrote:
> 
> N6SS is located about 40 miles north west of me in AZ,, 2800 feet higher in elevation and a lot quieter location,,and better receiving antennas,, I have not heard but just traces past 2 nights,, will be there tonight,, been listening to the east coast guys working them,, all signals have been great except Vp8!! Congrats to all that have worked them and maybe tonite the propagation gods will shine west!!! 
> 73's 
> Tom
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Tree <tree at kkn.net>
> Sender: "Topband" <topband-bounces at contesting.com>
> Date: Fri, 22 Jan 2016 06:57:33 
> To: 160<topband at contesting.com>
> Subject: Topband: VP8STI last night in Oregon
> 
> At least in my location - I would say that things were no better last night.
> 
> N6SS in Arizona said he worked them just after 0400Z.  There was also a
> report that he came back to N6MB about 10 times around 0430Z - but N6MB was
> not hearing him.  The data suggests they are hearing better than getting
> out - which means if you can hear them - the spotlight is shining on you
> and you have a pretty good chance of making the QSO.
> 
> If it was easy - it wouldn't be as rewarding when it happens!!
> 
> Good luck to all.
> 
> 73 Tree N6TR
> Hillsboro, OR
> _________________
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> _________________
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband