====== Brew & Activate – One-Page Propagation Checklist ======
“What to Check Before You Throw the Radio in the Car”


===== Quick Space Weather Check (2 min) =====
 

  - Solar Flux (SFI)
  * * 150+ → higher bands might shine (15m / 10m)
  * * 100–149 → normal conditions
  * * <100 → stick to reliable bands

 K Index
  * 0–2 → good day
  * 3 → usable, expect some noise
  * 4+ → grumpy bands, go lower

Activator mindset: You’re just asking “happy or angry sky?”


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MUF & LUF Reality Check (ELI5 Version)

MUF (too high = goes to space)
  * Daytime = higher MUF
  * Night = lower MUF

LUF (too low = eaten by noise)
  * Daytime = higher LUF
  * Night = lower LUF

Your goal: operate between them


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VOACAP / Prop Tool Check (3 min)

Set:
  * Location = your park
  * Time = activation window
  * Mode = SSB or CW/Digital

Note:
  * Best primary band
  * One backup band
  * One save-the-activation band (usually 40m)


Reality Check – Are Bands Alive? (3 min)


DX Heat / RBN
  * Unordered List ItemSeeing spots on your target bands? 

POTA Spots
  * What bands are activators using right now?

Rule: Trust what’s happening now, not yesterday


Make a Simple Band Plan (2 min)

  * Start on: __________
  * Backup band: __________
  * If nothing works, go to: 40m


Field Rule of Thumb

  * No contacts in 10–15 minutes?
  * Change bands, not volume