October 27, 2026
The sunspot count is approaching zero, with active region 4560 preparing to rotate off the Sun's western limb. Only the continued growth of two small proto-sunspots is preventing a completely spotless Sun. Solar Cycle 25 is nearly two years behind schedule, and an increasing number of spotless days can be expected.
Propagation Forecast for November 2026:
In November 2026, very favorable propagation conditions are expected for shortwave radio operators. Although Solar Cycle 25 has already passed its peak, residual solar activity should remain high enough to allow for regular openings on the higher shortwave bands. At the same time, the significantly longer autumn nights provide better conditions on the lower bands. Traditionally, this combination makes November one of the best months for global radio communications.
For locations at mid-latitudes, the higher bands—specifically the 10, 12, and 15-meter bands—should remain frequently usable. On the 10-meter band, numerous DX contacts with North and South America, Africa, and occasionally Asia and the Pacific region are still expected. The 12 and 15-meter bands should perform even more reliably, allowing for stable long-distance contacts over many hours.
The 20-meter band is expected to remain the most versatile DX band. Both day and night, contacts with almost every region of the world should be possible. The 17-meter band complements this, often offering particularly quiet and efficient DX opportunities when conditions are good.
On the lower frequencies, the true DX season begins in November. Long periods of darkness reduce attenuation in the ionosphere, allowing the 40-meter band to achieve excellent range during the evening and at night. The 80-meter band also benefits significantly from winter conditions and, given stable geomagnetic conditions, regularly allows for transatlantic contacts. For enthusiasts of the "top band"—the 160-meter band—conditions become increasingly favorable, as long nights greatly enhance the potential for long-distance contacts.
There are many indications that November 2026 will offer a rare advantage: while the higher-frequency bands will remain frequently open thanks to a still-active solar cycle, the lower-frequency bands will simultaneously reach their seasonal peak. This means that virtually all amateur radio bands between 160 and 10 meters will be available for engaging DX activity.
The primary uncertainty remains space weather. Strong coronal mass ejections or prolonged periods of intense geomagnetic activity can significantly disrupt short-term propagation, particularly along transpolar paths and at higher frequencies. However, during periods of geomagnetic calm, exceptional DX opportunities can be expected in November 2026.
DX-oriented amateur radio operators can look forward to particularly reliable contacts with North America, South America, and Africa, while Japan, Australia, and New Zealand will offer good opportunities—ideally on the 15, 20, and 30-meter bands during the morning and evening hours. November 2026 could, therefore, prove to be one of the most attractive months of the year for amateur radio.
Source of this article: REF 39 https://ref39.r-e-f.org/topic/index.html
