We are pleased to announce the 2025 Blossomland Amateur Radio Association and Midwest Classic Radio Net KI8BQ Memorial Trunk Swap is a go!

Amateur Radio Daily

16 February 2026

• SpottedHam.com Adds DX Cluster Integration and Customizable Club Widgets

  The following is a press release from SpottedHam.com:

  Following its successful launch earlier this month, the spotting and alert platform SpottedHam.com has released a major feature update driven by community feedback.

  In addition to its signature POTA and SOTA real-time email alerts, the platform now integrates a global DX Cluster feed. This allows operators to filter for rare DX alongside portable activations, all within the same lightweight, mobile-first interface. Users can still set custom watchlists for specific callsigns, ensuring they never miss a "need" on the bands.

  Perhaps the most significant addition is the new SpottedHam Club Widget. Radio clubs can now generate a custom HTML snippet to embed a live member activity table on their own club websites. This feature aims to help local clubs stay connected by showing at-a-glance what club members are currently on the air.

  Developed by Robert Campbell (KM6HBH), SpottedHam continues to focus on a "low-bandwidth, high-speed" philosophy, making it ideal for field use or slow shack connections. The service is free to use and is already running some DX clubs pages.

  Operators can explore the new DX filters, set up their first email alert, or generate a widget for their club at: https://www.spottedham.com.

  Source: SpottedHam.com

• New 60 Meter Frequencies Available to US Hams Today

  The FCC approved access to a new set of 60 meter frequencies to be more in line with the worldwide 60 meter amateur allocation made by the World Radiocommunication Conference in 2015. US General and Extra class holders may now operate on a secondary basis between 5351.5 and 5366.5 kHz.

  The existing 60-meter channels centered on 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz remain as secondary amateur allocations with maximum power of 100 watts ERP. However, the old channel at 5358.5 kHz is eliminated as it is now part of the new 5351.5-5366.5 kHz subband and subject to the lower power limit.

  Additional rules including a maximum bandwidth of 2.8 kHz and maximum transmit power of 9.15 watts ERP apply.

  Source: ARRL

• ADRCS Collaborates with TARPN on IP400 Project

  The following is a press release from the Alberta Digital Radio Communications Society (ADRCS):

  The Society is pleased to announce that it is collaborating with the Terrestrial Amateur Radio Packet Network group (TARPN) to implement an audio band version of its OFDM technology in their Terminal Node Controller (TNC). “Adding the TNC rounds out the vision of the supernode that we presented at the Zero Retries Digital Conference last September and extends the functionality of the IP400 network to conventional radios on the 2M, 220 and 450 MHz bands, without any modifications”, says Martin Alcock, VE6VH, founder of the IP400 project. “Adding OFDM to our TNC gives us a higher speed mode than previously implemented and practical experience with OFDM”, says Nino Carrillo, KK4HEJ, creator of the TNC. Martin goes on to say “in addition it will give us access to proven KISS mode technology that will greatly enhance the utility of our existing nodes in delivering higher data rates for conventional packet radio applications on existing terrestrial networks”.

  Source: ADRCS

• Amateur Radio Software Award Nominations Open

  The Amateur Radio Software Award is seeking nominations for outstanding software developed for ham radio. Nominations should promote innovative, free, and open source projects. Submissions are being accepted until February 28th.

  The Amateur Radio Software Award is an annual international award for the recognition of software projects that enhance amateur radio. The award aims to promote amateur radio software development which adhere to the same spirit as amateur radio itself: innovative, free and open.

  See previous award recipients, read the rules, and check out the FAQ.

  Source: Amateur Radio Software Award

• HB9RG Trophy Celebrates First Amateur Radio Contact via Satellite

  AMSAT Switzerland has announced a special event and contest that encourages hams to make extreme long-distance contacts via amateur satellite. The event recognizes Dr. Hans Rudolf Lauber (HB9RG) and his contribution to amateur radio. HB9RG and Alfons Häring (DL6EZA) conducted the first amateur radio contact via satellite on March 10th, 1965.

  The event runs for 2 weeks, March 2-15. The 10 furthest contacts will be evaluated. The full set of rules is available here [PDF].

  The #HB9RGTrophy hashtag will be active on social media to help track this event.

  Source: AMSAT Switzerland

• Obsolete Part 97 Rules Deleted Today

  Four rules that affect amateur radio operators under Part 97 have been marked for deletion by the FCC, effective today. The following four rules include:

  • § 97.27 This provision is duplicative of a statutory provision related to the FCC’s right to modify station licenses.
  • § 97.29 This provision specified an obsolete procedure to replace paper licenses.
  • § 97.315 (b)(2) This obsolete provision grandfathered HF amplifiers purchased before April 28, 1978 by an amateur radio operator for use at that operator's station, and grandfathered those manufactured before April 28, 1978, for which a marketing waiver was issued.
  • § 97.521(b) and Appendix 2 This rule and appendix relate to obsolete VEC regions.

  Source: ARRL

• HamSCI 2026: Discovering Science Through Amateur Radio

  Registration for HamSCI 2026 is now open. The 9th annual workshop will take place at Central Connecticut University March 14-15.

  This year's theme, "Discovering Science Through Ham Radio", celebrates the community's achievements, including Personal Space Weather Station deployments, meteor scatter propagation studies and the promotion of WSPR as a propagation sensing tool. The workshop is expected to feature more than 50 poster and oral presentations, plus invited tutorials, and a banquet with a keynote address by a prominent member of the community.

  Notable speakers and talks include:

  • Dr. Rob Suggs NN4NT, "Meteor Scatter Tutorial"
  • Dr. Kuldeep Pandey, "Solar Eclipse Through Ham Radio: What the Bands Revealed"
  • Jonathan Rizzo (KC3EEY), "Remembering and Honoring Paul Nicholson G8LMD: Passionate VLF Enthusiast and Master"

  Tours of ARRL and operation of W1AW will be available during the event. More information is available on the HamSCI website.

  Source: HamSCI

• Polish Amateur Radio Union Celebrates Gdynia 100th Anniversary

  The Polish Amateur Radio Union (PZK) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the city of Gdynia in Poland. Between February 7th and 22nd, six unique call signs will be on the air:

  • SP100G
  • SQ100D
  • SO100Y
  • SN100N
  • HF100I
  • 3Z100A

  eAwards are available in PDF format as well as a limited number of printed QSL cards.

  Source: Polish Amateur Radio Union

• The Best CHIRP File for SARnet

  Playground Amateur Radio Club (PARC) has released an easy to use, printable table to help SARnet users traverse repeaters as they travel Florida's highways.

  Your 3x5 index cards will make it simple as you travel the interstates or turnpike. Select the channel covering the mile marker where you entered the highway, and press your channel ⬆️ or ⬇️ button at each suggested mile marker.

  PARC has provided a PDF and CSV file with full instructions available from their website.

  Source: Playground Amateur Radio Club

• open-hamclock-backend Aims to Keep HamClock Ticking

  A group of ham radio operators have stepped up to keep HamClock operating beyond it's scheduled sunset in June. An open source replacement for the backend processes required to keep the popular HamClock project alive is well under way.

  Developed by Brian (KO4AQF) and Austin (KN4LNB), open-hamclock-backend is designed to be a drop-in replacement for the backend server that populates HamClock with its signature set of 40+ data points and visualizations.

  From Brian (KO4AQF):

  HamClock relies on an internet backend to provide live space-weather, propagation, DX, and news data. With the passing of its original developer, that backend is no longer being maintained, which means many HamClocks will gradually lose live functionality even though the devices themselves still work.

  An open-source replacement backend is now being developed that recreates the same data feeds HamClock expects, using publicly available sources such as NOAA, space-weather services, PSK Reporter, and DX information sites. From the HamClock’s point of view, nothing changes — it connects to the same paths and receives the same data formats, without any firmware modification. We are very close to replicating nearly every possible data source and making slight improvements along the way.

  The system is free, open-source, and designed to run locally on a small Linux system, allowing individual hams or clubs to keep existing HamClocks fully operational. The goal is preservation, not reinvention — keeping HamClock working exactly as intended for years to come.

  Currently, open-hamclock-backend is designed to be self-hosted, requiring any user wishing to extend HamClock's usefulness beyond June to run the software themselves. However, options are being considered for a centralized version to be stood up for all HamClock users to take advantage of.

  Source: open-hamclock-backend

• Hamvention 2026 Theme and Logo Announced

  Hamvention has released the theme and logo for the 2026 Dayton Hamvention show that will take place May 15-17.

  This year's theme is "Radio Adventure" referencing exploration of the many avenues ham radio offers.

  Radio has always been about exploration — of ideas, technologies, distances, and possibilities. From the earliest spark-gap pioneers to today’s digital experimenters, satellite operators, contesters, emergency communicators, and outdoor enthusiasts, amateur radio continues to be a gateway to discovery.

  Hamvention will take place at the Greene County Fair and Expo Center in Xenia, Ohio.

  Source: Hamvention

• LABRE Celebrates 92 Years with SSTV Event

  The League of Brazilian Amateur Radio Transmitters (LABRE) will celebrate its 92nd anniversary through a series of SSTV images transmitted via the UmKA-1 (RS40S) satellite. SSTV transmissions will take place between February 6 and February 9.

  • Frequency: 437.625 MHz
  • Mode: Robot36
  • Transmission interval: 3 minutes

  A special certificate will be available for operators that receive the SSTV image. Image files may be submitted here.

  Source: LABRE

• HamClock Project to Sunset June 2026

  A message posted to the HamClock website earlier today announced that the HamClock project will no longer receive updates. The message stated that while the project has ended, HamClock devices should continue to operate until June 2026, at which point it's expected data will no longer be pushed to the application.

  HamClock is a popular cross-platform application that visualizes a range of customizable data helpful to ham radio operators. As of 2023, HamClock was installed on more than 2,600 devices across the globe.

  HamClock is a kiosk-style application that provides real time space weather, radio propagation models, operating events and other information particularly useful to the radio amateur.

  Amateur Radio Daily reached out to the creator and maintainer of HamClock, Elwood Downey (WB0OEW), via his personal email address and received an auto-reply message stating that Mr. Downey had become a silent key on January 29th, 2026.

  Additional information about HamClock as well as the source code is available via the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine.

  Editor's Note: Headlines from Amateur Radio Daily have appeared on HamClock since 2023.

  Source: Clear Sky Institute

• ARDC Priority Areas of Funding Offer Opportunities for Hams

  ARDC continues to accept grant applications from organizations aiming to advance the hobby of amateur radio and beyond. The next application deadline is just around the corner on February 1st, but three additional rounds of applications will be accepted later this year on April 1st, July 1st, and September 1st.

  ARDC makes grants to programs and organizations that aim to advance our mission and vision, with the strategic goals of getting more people learning, experimenting, and doing with amateur radio and digital communications technology.

  With the recent introduction of Priority Areas for Funding, ARDC is especially interested in projects that align with the following areas:

  • Research & Development (R&D): open hardware and software systems that enable learning and experimentation (e.g. SDRs, open codec technologies, new modulation techniques).
  • Space-Based Communications: projects that create or expand access to satellite communications for amateur radio (AR) and digital communications (DC), engaging communities in wireless experimentation (e.g. GEO or HEO programs, repurposed commercial satellites, space-based tools for learning).
  • Open Source Education: scalable, open educational materials and hands-on projects that make AR and DC more accessible, especially for new learners and clubs (e.g. curricula, videos).

  ARDC welcomes proposals across the full range of amateur radio and digital communications, but projects that align with these areas remain a priority. Learn more about applying for grants at ARDC.

  Source: ARDC

• 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

16 February 2026

• Immediate Response from Chilean Ham Radio Operators
• 96th Anniversary of the Discovery of Pluto Special Event February 14-22, 2026
• This Week's Amateur Radio News and Notes Now Available
• Why Your Favorite Solar Metric Keeps Lying to You
• Indiana Amateur Radio Plate Redesign
• HAM EYEBALL - 22nd MAHAMEET
• How a Youth Team Took on Saba: Inside PJ6Y
• AMSAT-CAMRAS record DX reception of Voyager 1 signal
• Call for 2026 Amateur Radio Software Award nominations
• WB6RER 20 meter Pico balloon holds world record
• This Week's Amateur Radio News and Notes Now Available
• Contest with K1RX: The Four Cs of Contesting (Episode 1 of 7)
• Amateur Radio & Space Communication Gallery at Science Expo Rajkot – Gujarat (India)
• The Contest Crew Talks RTTY, Records & the Road Ahead
• Young Gun of POTA: Josiah WD5JR’s Ham Radio Journey
• The February edition of SWR Magazine is now available!
• DXLook Interface refresh is live — New Station Panel, Widget Framework, and Map Improvements
• HamSCI Announces Its Ninth Annual Workshop on March 14-15
• This Week's Amateur Radio News and Notes Now Available
• 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