Data Sources¶
Four independent networks measuring different layers of HF propagation. Each captures a distinct population of operators, equipment, and signal levels. No single source tells the whole story — together they cover the full dynamic range from minimum-power beacons to contest-grade voice transmissions.
Source Summary¶
| Source | Volume | Years | What It Measures |
|---|---|---|---|
| WSPR | 12.68B spots | 2008–present | SNR floor — path exists at ~200 mW |
| RBN | 2.38B spots | 2009–present | Real operator signals — CW/RTTY measured by automated skimmers |
| PSK Reporter | 7.13B spots (26M/day) | Feb 2026–present | FT8/digital operational contacts, live feed |
| Contest Logs | 384.4M QSOs | 2005–present | SSB/RTTY ceiling at contest power — the only SSB ground truth |
How Sources Complement Each Other¶
WSPR runs 24/7 at fixed low power — it tells you if a path exists at the propagation floor. RBN shows you what a skilled CW operator can work through the noise. Contest logs establish the voice-workable ceiling. PSK Reporter fills in the operational digital layer in real time.
All four sources are solar-joined at 3-hour resolution. Every spot has SFI, Kp, and SSN attached at the time of measurement.
Collection Status¶
| Source | Latest Ingested | Total Rows | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| WSPR | 2026-09-22 | 12.68B | 27 days behind |
| RBN | 2026-09-21 | 2.38B | 28 days behind |
| PSK Reporter | 2026-09-22 | 7.13B | 28 days behind |
| Contest | Archive | 384.4M | Static |