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Amateur Radio Daily

25 January 2026

• IP400 Project Chooses Modulation Method for Supernode

  The following is a press release from the Alberta Digital Radio Society:

  Calgary, Alberta, Jan 23rd, 2026. The Alberta Digital Radio Society is pleased to announce that it has chosen Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) as the modulation method for the enhanced data mode on its IP400 Supernode. “This mode will enable higher data rates than have previously been achieved with conventional FM Radios”, says Martin Alcock, VE6VH, founder of the IP400 project, who goes on to say “and it will provide us with the ability to extend the network to a mobile station on a conventional repeater which can be in either the 2M, 220, 440 and 900 bands, and with no radio modifications required”. The goals of the IP400 project are not only to implement a higher speed mesh network on the 400MHz band, but also to breathe new life into analog repeaters with a simple data upgrade, which will result in the addition of three modes: a 4FSK compatible mode on 400MHz, and a high speed OFDM mode at 2.39GHz for linking and backbone purposes, and a slower audio band OFDM mode that is designed to work with existing VHF and UHF radios.

  Editor's note
  Additional updates have recently been posted to the ADRCS news page:

  ...the society is pleased to announce that its power node is now in development and that the specification for the supernode is now available for developers.

  the IP400 supernode is now entering its development phase. This node provides a data upgrade with two native modes: a compatible 4FSK mode on 400MHz a high speed OFDM mode on the 2.9GHz band for backbone data network implementations, combined into a single RF modem. The hardware will be a HAT module for an existing raspberry Pi system, which can operate either in a standalone mode or as a simple upgrade to an existing AllstarLink system. A third data mode is currently in the design phase, which will enable IP400 traffic on conventional FM radios. Copies of the specification are available on the [private] developer GitHub site, or to members upon request. The OFDM mode development is being sponsored by a grant from ARDC.

  Source: ADRCS

• SpottedHam.com Launches Custom POTA and Keyword Email Alerts

  The following is a press release from SpottedHam.com:

  SpottedHam.com Launches Real-Time Custom Keyword Alerts for Portable Operators

  A new web-based tool for the amateur radio community, SpottedHam.com, has launched to provide hams with a more granular way to monitor the bands. Unlike traditional clusters, SpottedHam allows users to create custom watchlists for specific callsigns, POTA (Parks on the Air) references, or specific bands and modes.

  The system monitors live spotting data and sends an immediate email notification to the user the moment a match is found. This is particularly useful for operators chasing specific park references or monitoring the activity of friends and local club members.

  Developer Robert Campbell/KM6HBH designed the tool to be mobile-first, ensuring that activators in the field and operators in the shack have a clean, clutter-free interface. The service is currently free to use and supports global spotting data, including UK and European POTA references.

  Interested operators can find the live spotting table, an easy way to spot themselves, and sign up for alerts at: https://www.spottedham.com

  Source: Spotted Ham

• New Comedy Podcast Tackles Ham Radio's "Gatekeeping Problem" With Humor and Education

  The following is a press release from Ham Radio Gizmos:

  New Comedy Podcast Tackles Ham Radio's "Gatekeeping Problem" With Humor and Education

  Guy and Gus launch innovative series as survey data reveals 73% of new operators feel intimidated by online ham radio communities

  Orlando, FL – January 20, 2026 – As amateur radio experiences a post-pandemic surge in new licensees, a troubling trend has emerged: online communities have become battlegrounds where "real radio" debates and equipment tribalism drive newcomers away from a hobby designed around experimentation and connection.

  Ham Radio Gizmos is tackling this challenge head-on with an innovative solution: a comedy podcast that makes learning fun again.

  The show centers on twin brothers Guy and Gus Wyre, whose constant disagreements mirror the hobby's most heated debates. Guy champions modern software-defined radios, digital modes, and computer integration. Gus lives for vintage tube equipment, heavy iron, and radios that glow before they transmit. Their sibling rivalry becomes the vehicle for education – proving both approaches have merit while reminding listeners that ham radio is big enough for everyone. "Somewhere between firmware updates and heated forum arguments, we forgot that this hobby is supposed to be enjoyable," says Lee Love (N2LEE), creator of Ham Radio Gizmos. "Guy and Gus exist to prove you can laugh at ourselves while learning – and that 'real radio' is whatever gets you on the air."

  What Makes This Different
  Unlike traditional ham radio podcasts that lecture or interview, Guy and Gus creates an entertainment experience where education happens naturally through story, debate, and good-natured brotherly warfare. The innovative production format allows for consistent weekly releases, professional quality, and creative storylines – including time travel segments, historical recreations, and exaggerated character conflicts that make technical concepts memorable.

  Each episode features:

  • Character-driven comedy that breaks down technical barriers
  • Practical troubleshooting embedded in entertaining narratives
  • Historical context connecting vintage and modern approaches
  • Inclusive messaging welcoming all experience levels and equipment choices

  The podcast's philosophy is simple: Ham radio should be fun. Learning should be enjoyable. And laughing at ourselves is part of the process.

  Bridging the Generation Gap
  The show addresses a critical industry challenge: attracting younger operators while respecting the hobby's deep traditions. By personifying both camps through Guy (modern) and Gus (vintage), the podcast validates every operator's path while gently mocking the tribalism that divides communities.

  "We're not saying one approach is better," Love explains. "We're saying the arguments are entertaining, both sides have wisdom, and the hobby thrives when we stop gatekeeping and start experimenting together."

  Proven Educational Approach
  Ham Radio Gizmos represents a fresh approach to educational content creation. The character-driven format maintains broadcast-quality consistency while exploring creative formats:

  • Consistent character voices and personalities across episodes
  • Time travel segments featuring historical radio operators
  • Rapid-fire technical debates that clarify complex concepts
  • Weekly release schedules with professional production values

  Early listener feedback validates the approach: audiences report higher engagement and better retention of technical concepts compared to traditional lecture formats – proof that entertainment and education can coexist.

  About Ham Radio Gizmos

  Ham Radio Gizmos is a multi-platform educational initiative dedicated to making amateur radio accessible, enjoyable, and welcoming. Through YouTube tutorials, podcast episodes, and community engagement, the project serves both new and experienced operators with content that respects the hobby's traditions while embracing innovation. The Guy and Gus podcast releases weekly, with episodes available on all major podcast platforms and YouTube.

  Disclaimer
  Before tuning in, prospective listeners should know: Ham Radio Gizmos is intended for entertainment and educational purposes only. Side effects may include spontaneous enjoyment, sudden urges to buy amateur radio equipment, mysterious antenna appearances on property, and spirited discussions with spouses, neighbors, or HOAs. The hosts are not responsible for glowing gutters, questionable amplifier decisions, or increased tolerance for sibling arguments. Listen responsibly – preferably with a sense of humor.

  Media Contact
  Lee Love (N2LEE)
  Ham Radio Gizmos
  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  HamRadioGizmos.com

  Source: Ham Radio Gizmos

• DXLook Introduces VOACAP View Professional HF Propagation Predictions

  Editor's note: For additional insight into how this tool was produced as well as some history behind VOACAP, this in-depth write-up is worth a read.

  The following is a press release from DXLook:

  DXLook Introduces VOACAP View — Making Professional HF Propagation Predictions Easy for Everyone

  DXLook has released a new VOACAP View that makes professional-grade HF propagation predictions accessible to amateur radio operators for the first time, without requiring technical expertise or specialized software.

  VOACAP (Voice of America Coverage Analysis Program) is the gold standard for HF propagation prediction, originally developed by the U.S. government for international broadcasting. It uses sophisticated ionospheric modeling to predict which frequencies will work between any two points on Earth, based on solar activity, time of day, and seasonal variations. Until now, using VOACAP required command-line tools and configuration files that put it out of reach for most hams.

  What makes DXLook's approach unique is how the VOACAP data is presented: using the same visual language as DXLook's Reports view. If you already understand how Reports work, you'll understand VOACAP immediately — same colored arcs showing propagation paths, same band indicators, same signal quality visualization. Zero learning curve.

  This release marks a significant evolution for DXLook as a platform. Until now, DXLook has focused on displaying real, observed propagation data from sources like PSK Reporter, RBN, and WSPRnet. With the new VOACAP View, DXLook adds the capability to display predictions alongside that real data — giving operators both what's happening now and what's expected to happen.

  The VOACAP View is driven by real-time solar data, automatically adjusting predictions based on current smoothed sunspot numbers (SSN). Predictions update hourly and cover all HF amateur bands from 80m to 10m.

  The VOACAP View is now live and available to all users at https://dxlook.com.

  About DXLook
  DXLook is a real-time HF and VHF propagation visualization platform built by amateur radio operators for the amateur radio community. It combines live reception reports, space weather data, physics-based modeling, and professional-grade VOACAP predictions to help operators understand both current band conditions and expected propagation behavior worldwide.

  Source: DXLook

• CQ Amateur Radio Hall of Fame Seeks Nominations

  The CQ Amateur Radio Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the 2026 class of inductees. 3 nomination will be inducted in 2026.

  The CQ Amateur Radio Hall of Fame was established in January, 2001, to recognize those individuals, whether licensed radio amateurs or not, who significantly affected the course of amateur radio; and radio amateurs who, in the course of their professional lives, had a significant impact on their professions or on world affairs.

  Nominations may be sent to Tom Roscoe (K8CX) at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. See nomination guidelines.

  Source: hamgallery.com

• YL POTA Party

  On Saturday, March 7, women interested in amateur radio and portable operating are invited to spend the day together at Owens Lodge, Pineway Ponds Park along the Erie Canal in Spencerport, NY for a relaxed YL POTA Party.

  Parks On The Air (POTA) is an amateur radio activity that encourages operators to set up portable stations in parks and make contacts from the field. The YL POTA Party is an exciting way for women of all ages to experience portable operating, learn by doing, and enjoy time on the air together. You do not need to be licensed to participate.

  Starting at 9:00 AM, the day kicks off with setting up portable stations and getting on the air, with plenty of time to operate, chat, and enjoy food throughout the day (we just need to be out by 9 PM). Bring your own portable equipment or operate from ours.

  Similar YL POTA parties are held each year around International Women’s Day, with gatherings planned worldwide to celebrate women’s contributions to radio and their involvement in the hobby.

  Please RSVP to Angela N3ARB and Matt K2EAG by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  You can also visit us at upstatenypota.com.

  This is an unofficial event and is not sponsored by Parks On The Air.

  Source: K2EAG

• APRS Day Out at HamCation

  APRS Day Out 2026 will take place during HamCation. Sponsored by the Daytona Beach Amateur Radio Association, a dedicated digipeater will be on the air covering the HamCation fairgrounds.

  Hams should tune their APRS enabled devices to 147.585 and use a path of TEMP1-1

  APRS Day Out is the brain child of Bob Bruninga, WB4APR/sk. In his words "The purpose of the APRS Day out is to test our skills at forming ad-hoc networks in ham radio for use at events and disasters.

  Operators are encouraged to send messages and bulletins to spread information and connect with one another. More information is available here.

  Source: KM4ACK

• Australian Ham Clubs Build Enterprise-Grade Yaesu IMRS Repeater System

  Australian amateur radio operators have partnered with commercial networking experts, KernWi-Fi to build an "enterprise-grade" network of linked repeaters. The network of repeaters utilizes Yaesu's Multi‑site Repeater System (IMRS) technology to route repeater traffic over a secure internet link.

  Our goal was straightforward: deliver IMRS over an IP fabric that behaves like a carrier network—predictable routing, strong isolation, and security you can audit. If we treat community infrastructure with enterprise discipline, reliability follows. —Phil Kern (VK5PK)

  Members of the Darwin Amateur Radio Club and the South Pacific Contest Club were involved in this project. Details of the build are available on the KernWi-Fi website. A network diagram is also available (PDF).

  Source: KernWi-Fi

• 52 Week Ham Challenge Returns for 2026

  The 52 Week Ham Challenge is back for 2026.

  This year's challenge consists of weekly exercises ranging from making a QSO on Echolink to eliminating a source of interference.

  This is meant to inspire you to extend your horizon in amateur radio by weekly challenges through the year that touch all aspects of ham radio (and related fields). A lot of the challenges may be trivial for some participants (because it is what they do all the time), but very challenging to others. Participants of the challenge are encouraged to help each other in any way possible.

  Participants are encouraged to post progress through social media using the #hamchallenge hashtag. An IRC channel is also available.

  The 53 Week Ham Challenge is created by Fabian Kurz (DJ5CW).

  Source: 52 Week Ham Challenge

• Raleigh Hamfest Seeks Presenters

  RARSfest, the Raleigh, North Carolina area hamfest is seeking speakers for their April 2026 event.

  All ham radio related topics are encouraged with the opportunity to speak in-person during 50 or 80 minute time slots. Proposals should be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 5:00 PM EST on Monday, February 16th, 2026.

  The hamfest takes place on April 4th, 2026. RARSfest is sponsored by the Raleigh Amateur Radio Society.

  Source: RARSfest

• HamSCI Speaker Series Explores WSPR Spectral Width

  HamSCI's first Speaker Series of 2026 will be presented by Dr. Barry Johnson (W4WB) and focus on WSPR spectral width.

  [W4WB] will be speaking on a paper he co-authored along with Gene Marcus, W3PM titled “A Modest Study of WSPR-2 Spectral Width”. The topic arose from a question posed originally by HamSCI scientist Gwyn Griffith G3ZIL which was, “What is the minimum obtainable spectral width of WSPR-2 signals?” To answer this seemingly simple question was anything but simple as will become evident in the discussion comprising this presentation.

  The presentation will take place on January 8th at 21:00 UTC over Zoom. Those interested in joining can do so from this Zoom link. Meeting ID and password are available here.

  Source: HamSCI

• QRZ Announces USA 250 Award

  QRZ.com has announced the USA 250 Award to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. Participants are encouraged to make 250 confirmed QSOs with US based amateurs throughout 2026. The award is open to all ham radio operators across the globe.

  Additional details are available on the QRZ forums.

  Source: QRZ

• DXLook Adds Map Layers and Weather Radar Overlays

  The following is a message from DXLook.com:

  DXLook has introduced a new map layer system that allows additional data to be displayed directly on top of its propagation maps.

  The first available layers include North America Rain Radar and North America Snow Radar, providing real-time weather context alongside HF propagation data. Layers can be enabled or disabled individually to avoid clutter and preserve map readability.

  The new layer framework is designed to be extensible, and additional layers are planned. The DXLook team invites users to suggest new layer ideas and reliable public data sources that may benefit the amateur radio community.

  This update also brings back user-requested controls:

  • Hide / Show Arcs, to toggle propagation paths
  • Hide / Show Labels, to control callsign and time labels

  Several UI and cosmetic improvements were also made to the main menu, improving usability on both desktop and mobile devices.

  DXLook is available at https://www.dxlook.com

  73, Rodrigo – AK6FP

  Source: DXLook

• Space-π to transmit SSTV images via UMKA-1 (RS40S) CubeSat

  AMSAT-Francophone has posted information about an SSTV event sponsored by Space-π. The event will transmit SSTV images from the UMKA-1 (RS40S) CubeSat and run December 28th through the later portion of January. Transmitted images will include children's drawings with additional imagery to follow early in January.

  Those looking to receive images can point their antennas at the UMKA-1 (RS40S) CubeSat and tune their receivers to 437.625 MHz. SSTV images are expected to be transmitted in the Robot 36 format.

  Source: AMSAT-Francophone

• DXLook Introduces Real-Time D-RAP Visualization for HF Absorption Events

  The following is a press release from DXLook:

  DXLook has released a new D-RAP (D-Region Absorption Prediction) view that helps amateur radio operators understand and visualize HF absorption caused by solar X-ray flares in real time.

  D-region absorption is a major cause of sudden daytime HF blackouts, particularly on lower-frequency bands. DXLook’s new D-RAP view presents existing D-region absorption data in a band-aware, geographic format, allowing operators to visually assess where and on which HF bands absorption may be occurring at a given moment.

  The D-RAP view is primarily driven by official data from the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, using the global “frequency for 1 dB absorption” product based on GOES satellite X-ray measurements. This dataset identifies, for each region of the Earth, the highest HF frequency expected to experience significant D-layer absorption at the current time.

  When NOAA data is unavailable or becomes outdated, DXLook automatically switches to a physics-based fallback model derived from real-time solar position calculations. The system clearly indicates when calculated data is being used instead of measured NOAA data, ensuring transparency for users.

  Absorption regions are displayed as smooth, color-coded zones aligned with amateur HF bands, allowing operators to quickly assess which frequencies may be degraded. The D-RAP view integrates with DXLook’s existing MUF, spot, and propagation tools, helping users understand the full operating window between D-layer absorption at lower frequencies and ionospheric refraction limits at higher ones.

  The new D-RAP view is especially useful for contest operators, DXers, and emergency communications groups assessing HF reliability during solar events, as well as for operators trying to understand sudden short-wave fadeouts during daylight hours.

  The D-RAP view is now live and available to all users at https://dxlook.com.

  About DXLook
  DXLook is a real-time HF and VHF propagation visualization platform built by amateur radio operators for the amateur radio community. It combines live reception reports, space weather data, and physics-based modeling to help operators better understand band conditions and propagation behavior worldwide.

  Source: DXLook

• ARDC Launches 44Net Connect

  ARDC has launched 4Net Connect, a new portal designed to make it easier for ham radio operators to gain access to and experiment with subnets of the 44.0.0.0/8 IP address space. Through the portal, hams can apply for VPN access to 44Net which comes with a dedicated 44Net IP address. Tunnel services are provided through WireGuard with options to add IP networks and autonomous system numbers. Proof of ham radio license is required.

  Hams can get started at https://connect.44net.cloud/. An overview of 44Net is available on the 44Net Wiki.

  Source: ARDC

• FCC Expands US Hams Access to 60 Meter Band

  General Class and above license holders in the United States will soon have access to an expanded portion of the 60 Meter band.

  Specifically, the Commission allocated 5351.5 - 5366.5 kHz (60 meters) to the amateur service on a secondary basis with a permitted power of 9.15 watts ERP. The Commission also authorized amateurs to continue using four existing channels outside of the 5351.5 - 5366.5 kHz band centered on 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz on a secondary basis with a permitted power of 100 watts ERP.

  This new allocation is in line with the regulations adopted during the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference.

  Source: ARRL

• First HamTV Transmission from ISS Since 2018

  The first HamTV transmission from the International Space Station (ISS) since 2018 occurred on October 18, 2025. As part of an ISS contact with the 1st Radford Semele Scout Group in the United Kingdom, HamTV was utilized in addition to FM voice over onboard amateur radio equipment.

  ARISS has uploaded a compilation of video feeds received from ground stations in Europe.

  The HamTV setup on ISS has been out of commission for repairs since 2018 but was just recently brought back online in July.

  Source: ARISS

• SAQ Grimeton to Transmit CW Message Christmas Eve

  On December 1st 1924, the 200kW Alexanderson alternator with the call sign "SAQ" was put into commercial operation with telegram traffic from Sweden to the United States. 101 years later, the transmitter is the only remaining electro-mechanical transmitter from this era and is still in running condition. On Christmas Eve morning, Wednesday December 24th 2025, the transmitter is scheduled* to spread the traditional Christmas message to the whole World, on 17.2 kHz CW.

  Transmission Schedule

  • 08:20 CET (07:20 UTC): Live stream on YouTube begins.
  • 08:30 CET (07:30 UTC): Startup and tuning of the Alexanderson Alternator SAQ.
  • 09:00 CET (08:00 UTC): Transmission of a Christmas message from SAQ.
  • 08:00 CET (07:00 UTC): The transmitter hall at World Heritage Grimeton is opened for visitors.

  E-QSL reports may be submitted online.

  Source: SAQ Grimeton

• HamSCI Meteor Scatter QSO Party

  HamSCI will host the second half of its 2025 meteor scatter QSO party December 12-13. The December event will take advantage of the Geminid meteor shower and allow amateur radio operators to conduct QSOs via MSK144 mode. HamSCI expects hundreds of participants on the 6 meter and 10 meter bands.

  In addition to QSOs, HamSCI is requesting audio recordings of decoded pings. This is possible through the WSJT-X software suite.

  Source: HamSCI

25 January 2026

• This Week's Amateur Radio News and Notes Now Available
• Belarus Targets Amateur Radio Operators With Espionage Charges
• Connecticut Parks on the Air Activators form WB1CT club
• Winter Field Day 2026 Names DXLook as Recommended Propagation Tool
• *** HAM RADIO PLATES IN NH ***
• This Week's Amateur Radio News and Notes Now Available
• DXLook Introduces VOACAP View — Making Professional HF Propagation Predictions Easy for Everyone
• 2026 Chasing Cornwallis Challenge - K4C The Battle of Cowpens Special Event
• This week's Amateur Radio News and Notes Now Available
• A Historic Live (ISS) Satellite Demo at Pransla, Gujarat amongst 12000 Students!
• SWR Magazine – New Official Website Now Online
• The January edition of SWR Magazine is now available!
• The Communicator eZine: January-February 2026
• ARRL 10 Meter Recap: The Contest Crew Sounds Off
• The Sky Isn’t the Limit: Inside W0AAE’s Ham Radio Ascent
• Announcing the USA250 Award
• Visualizing Real-Time SOTA Propagation with DXLook
• Manuel WP4TZ: From Surf Breaks to Contest Pileups
• December YOTA Month Continues for One More Week & YOTA Contest Part 3
• DXLook News: Map Layers, Weather Radar, and UI Enhancements
• Youth on the Air Camp 2026 Application Period Opened
• IRCs Discontinued Effective 31 December 2026
• Joe Walsh WB6ACU is always a good person
• Christmas Edition of Ham Radio Ireland Free Magazine
• Tis the Season! 12 Days of Christmas is On the Air
• 'Twas the Nite B4 Ten Opened by Mike VE9AA
• DXLook Introduces Real-Time D-RAP Visualization for HF Absorption Events
• Municipality and Los Molinos Amateur Radio Club Formalize Key Alliance to Ensure Operational Connect
• Contest Crew Debriefs After Record Setting CQ World Wide CW
• New FCC 60-meter band rules
• Dr. David Hysell KY2W Discusses Using HF Beacons For Ionospheric Specification and Space Weather
• A Ham's Night Before Christmas (2025)
• World Wide Award - January 2026
• Mapping ham radio
• EF8R: Inside Dan N6MJ’s Record-Breaking CQ WW CW Win
• HamSCI Meteor Scatter QSO Party December 12th-13th Call for Operators and Monitors
• 11,000+ QSO's From CQ9A: KL9A’s Last Single Operator CQ WW CW
• The December edition of SWR Magazine is now available — Don’t miss it!
• December Issue: The Logger's Bark Magazine
• Two Weeks To Go! Save The Dates and Participate! HamSCI Meteor Scatter QSO Party December 12th-13t