Recently, NARA has been conducting daytime NVIS propagation tests on 60m… the results were suprising and encouraging; even when band conditions and propagation were sub-prime during a moderate (K5) solar storm.
The recent NARA 60m tests have shown that NVIS on the 60m band can provide reliable daytime regional communications coverage over at least a 250km circle. These tests seem to confirm that 60m NVIS is superior to 80m; particularly during the summer months.
The Canadian Amateur Radio service has been allocated a select set frequencies (channels) and a small frequency agile section on the new 60m band. We are allowed to use 100w EIRP, essentially 100 watts into a classic dipole or EFHW dipole, normally the antenna of choice at these frequencies in any event. This is a much higher p;ower level than is allowed in other countries, many limited to only 15 watts EIRP…or as in the case of Mexico 20 watts.
The advantages of 60M are… this band has most of the characteristics of the more familiar 80m band., It is a good daytime NVIS band, useful for regional communications throuout the day and into the early evenings; with the appearance of DX opportunities later in the evening as the D layer disappears. D layer absorption during the day is significantly less on 60m. As we all know, 80m is almost useless during the day; particularly during the summer months when the sun is high and the D layer becomes most intense. NARA has shown that this is not necessarily the case on 60m, giving excellent daytime NVIS propagation out to at least 250km, even during solar storm conditions. This is ideal for local and regional communications. In fact the Canadian military have numerous frequencies allocated in or near this band as NVIS communications has tactical advantages.
A 60m dipole or EFHW antenna is much shorter than one on 80… only 83′ vs. 132′.. and the antenna can be configured as a traditional flat-top, sloper, or even an inverted vee. The apex of the 60m antenna should be NO higher than 30′ or 35′ for the best 60m NVIS (vertical radiation) pattern.
Most evening or daytime nets are on 80m, so maybe it’s time we started a daily or weekly net on 60m… after all… it may become a case of “use it or lose it”.
There will be another NARA NVIS survey coming up on December 21 2025, if possible, please try to participate, and see for yourself just how well 60m works.
Richard, VA7AA