BasicB-007-007-006
On which amateur radio band is the extended-distance propagation effect of sporadic-E most often observed?
C
Answer
Interference and suppression
Type
A
2 metres
B
160 metres
C
6 metres
D
20 metres
Answer Notes
Sporadic-E propagation is most famously associated with the 6-metre amateur band (50 MHz). When these dense patches of ionization form in the E layer, they can suddenly refract 6-metre signals back to Earth, enabling communications over hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
Because of these thrilling, unpredictable long-distance openings, 6 metres is affectionately known as the 'magic band.'
While Sporadic-E can occasionally reach the 2-metre band (144 MHz) and frequently affects 10 metres, 6 metres is the primary band where this effect is most dramatically and consistently observed. Bands like 20 metres and 160 metres rely on entirely different primary propagation modes.
Previous · B-007-007-005
What is a sporadic-E condition?
Next · B-007-007-007
In the northern hemisphere, in which direction should a directional antenna be pointed to take maximum advantage of auroral propagation?