Solar activity, such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can significantly impact radio signals, particularly in shortwave and high-frequency (HF) bands. Here’s how it works:
- The Sun and the Ionosphere:
Radio waves rely on the Earth’s ionosphere (a layer of charged particles in the upper atmosphere) to bounce signals over long distances. Solar activity affects the ionosphere by increasing ionisation levels, which changes how well it can reflect radio signals.
- Improved Signal Propagation:
During periods of increased solar activity, when sunspots are numerous, the ionosphere becomes more reflective. This boosts the range of shortwave radio signals, due to reflection, allowing them to travel a greater distance.
- Signal Disruptions:
Solar flares and CMEs (Coronal Mass Ejections) can cause sudden ionospheric disturbances, which may lead to radio blackouts. These events can block or degrade radio signals, especially on the sunlit side of the Earth.
- Day vs. Night Propagation:
Solar radiation influences the ionosphere more during the day than at night. As a result, higher frequency signals (like shortwave) propagate better during daylight, while lower frequencies (like MW) tend to perform better at night.
- Solar Cycle Impact:
The Sun follows an 11-year solar cycle. During the peak (solar maximum), radio conditions improve, but disruptions also become more common. During solar minimum, signal ranges may be reduced. We are currently in Solar Cycle 25 with maximum activity expected in July 2025.
Understanding these solar influences helps radio enthusiasts optimise their listening experience by timing operations with favourable solar conditions.
The development of the modern phonetic alphabet for radio communication was developed and refined over the period from 1927 until 1965. Practical experience over both World Wars and subsequent conflicts involving voice radio communications have led to the final version used today, known officially as the NATO Phonetic Alphabet.
The phonetic alphabet consists of a collection of 26 code words, each representing a single letter of the alphabet. This system was devised and revised to ensure the use of the phonetic alphabet would eliminate any ambiguity during the passing of messages by radio (or telephone), and that the letters and numbers would be easily distinguishable from one another.
Over radio, the names of many letters sound similar, for instance “n” and “m”, “f” and “s” etc. Using the codeword for each letter improves readability in poor radio conditions.
The 26 code words of the phonetic alphabet are:
Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliett, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, Xray, Yankee, Zulu
Emphasis is placed on the letters shown in capitals.
There are also codewords for numbers, to minimise miscommunication.
Number/Symbol Codeword Pronunciation
These code words are used today by amateur, aviation, marine and both civilian and armed forces.
Imagine being nestled in a remote cabin north of the Arctic Circle, surrounded by the icy expanse, with only the occasional glimpse of the sun. This is the backdrop for a heartfelt review from a seasoned shortwave listener who found comfort and connection through the Degen DE13DSP Emergency AM/FM/SW Solar Radio—our “cheap and cheerful” solution priced at just $52.50.
In this touching letter to the Tecsun Radios Australia Team, our customer shares how this little radio has become a lifeline in one of the most extreme environments on Earth. Despite the challenges of Arctic life, this radio—powered by the fleeting Arctic sun—has stood strong, delivering reliable performance where it matters most.
But the story doesn’t end there. Whether in the icy north or the subtropical warmth of Darwin, our customer has experienced firsthand the rugged durability and superior performance of our Tecsun radios. Join us as we delve into this incredible journey of resilience, connection, and the extraordinary reach of a simple radio.
“Dear The Tecsun Radios Australia Team
Greetings from an aged shortwave listener in a cabin north of the Arctic Circle! I’m writing to express my gratitude for the exceptional service I’ve received from your team.
I’ve been enjoying my Degen DE13DSP Emergency AM/FM/SW Solar Radio here in the Arctic, where the occasional sessional sun provides just enough power to keep the battery alive. The radio has been a reliable companion in this remote location.
When I’m back home in the subtropics of Darwin, I use my Tecsun S2000 and Tecsun PL 990 radios, both of which have exceeded my expectations. Your products truly stand up to the elements, whether in the icy north or the warm tropics.
I also wanted to mention how thrilled I was to receive the company T-shirt, which I proudly wear in the photo taken here in the Arctic. It’s a wonderful gesture that I deeply appreciate.
Thank you once again for your outstanding products and service. It’s rare to find such dedication and quality, and I’m grateful for all that you do.”