K index — What It Means in Ham Radio

K index — How disturbed the earth's magnetic field is.

Zero to nine. Under 3 is quiet and good. Five and above means a geomagnetic storm is degrading HF, especially on paths toward the poles.

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Related words

  • Wavelength — The physical length of one radio wave.
  • Gray line — The band of twilight moving around the earth.
  • Solar flux — A number that tracks solar activity.
  • Band — A range of frequencies set aside for a purpose.
  • FT8 — A weak-signal digital mode.
  • Frequency — How fast a radio wave oscillates.
  • CW — Continuous Wave. Morse code.
  • Sporadic E — Sudden short-lived openings.