Commercial Interests Petition FCC for High Power Allocation on Shortwave Spectrum

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The ad hoc group "Shortwave Modernization Coalition" petitioned the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow data communications on multiple bands within the HF 2 - 25 MHz range with up to 20 KW, including in bands immediately adjacent to spectrum allocated to the Amateur Radio Service. This group appears to represent high-speed stock trading interests.

The FCC has assigned it RM-11953. Comments are due by 31 July 2023, and reply comments by 15th August 2023.

While the petitioners exclude the amateur bands, high power operations on immediately adjacent bands are proposed.  The ARRL is reviewing the petition.

A copy of the petition can be found (PDF format) - https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/1042840187330/1.


HamSCI Festivals of Eclipse Ionospheric Science Events

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The HamSCI Festivals of Eclipse Ionospheric Science will occur 14th October 2023 and 8th April 2024 during spectacular North American solar eclipses.​

The Festivals will consist of multiple events, each with a goal of increasing our understanding of sun-ionosphere-earth relationships. ​Participants will include volunteer amateur radio operators, short wave listeners and science researchers from multiple US universities.

Events Include

  • The Solar Eclipse QSO Party

  • The Gladstone Signal Spotting Challenge

  • Time Delay Arrival Event

  • Measuring doppler effects on the reception of WWV and CHU

HamSCI Festivals of Eclipse Ionospheric Science - https://hamsci.org/eclipse

Michigan Hams Exempt from “distracted driving” Law

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Michigan Hams Exempt from “distracted driving” Law

In Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently signed into law a bill making it illegal to manually use a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle on Michigan roads. Under the law, which went into effect 1st July 2023, a driver cannot hold or support a phone or other device with any part of their hands, arms, or shoulders.

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