The background hard X-ray flux (1 to 8 Angstrom wavelength) is still low (A-class).

However, the flux has increased slightly in the past 24 to 48 hours. Trans-polar ionospheric propagation has been moderate to good in the last 24 to 48 hours. Expect the same for the next 24 hours. HF propagation is mostly normal over most paths.

The sunspot count will decrease by tomorrow (late July 8, 2010), and possibly become zero. However, the possible sunspot region that is rotating into view in the next 24 to 32 hours may make brief the zero-sunspot period. Additionally, expect an increase in overall solar energy starting this weekend, strengthening the ionosphere. It is possible that the background hard X-ray flux (1-8 Angstrom wavelengths) will rise into the B class over the weekend and through early next week.

The possible sunspot region that we are seeing rotate into view in the next couple of days, is erupting with flares. If this is a true sunspot region, with flares, expect quite an increase in both Maximum Usable Frequencies (MUFs), but also some periods of Sudden Ionospheric Disturbances lasting from 15 to 60 minutes (when a flare occurs).

Updates will be posted at - as well as near-live images.

Facebook: -- 73 de NW7US, Tomas David Hood ( http://tomas-david-hood.com )

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