[VHFcontesting] K index just went through the roof

[David Olean]

Hello Chris,

Aim your antennas up to the North. You will hear a raspy CW note from an 
auroral signal. People are seeing Auroral signals on six meters right 
now, but it is not strong and only northerly stations are making it. As 
the Sun sets the condx will get better for AU and things will improve 
with signals appearing on 144, 222, and maybe 432.  You should hear CW 
on 144 just below 144.100.  Speed is slow at about 12-15 wpm and be sure 
to swing your antenna around. You did not say where you are located, but 
beam headings can extend both East and West as the Aurora gets bigger. 
If you hear strong signals on 144, you should  listen on 432.100 plus or 
minus in case things get really good.  Be aware that doppler shift can 
be significant on 432. Callers might be 2+ kHz away from your carrier at 
times. Use a wide bandwidth in your RX.  I hope this helps. I am getting 
ready to head up to the shack now.

Dave K1WHS

FN43mj Lebanon, ME. 04027

On 5/10/2024 2:34 PM, Chris Lumens wrote:
>> 1800 UTC the K is at 7+ Hopefully things will heat up as evening 
>> approaches .
>
> I live in a poor location for VHF with only modest power and beams on 2m
> and 70cm set up permanently (for satellites).  What is my best bet for
> taking advantage of this event?
>