This morning I was on Hoher Peißenberg (DL/AM-001) to observe the eclipse and for some SOTA activity. There were about 50 observers – some with rather big fotocameras and telescopes, and the temperature was about -10 deg C.
There was low fog under the summit, and it was a fantastic view to the Alps rising out of the fog. The partly occulted sun was visible behind some thin high clouds. Altogether it was quite a spectacular view.
During the maximum occultation I was able to make about 10 QSOs with stations from all over Europe on 40m. I thought that the signals might be a bit weaker than usual, but signal reports for me were normal. There was a lot of activity on 30m – only two QSOs for me.
After the eclipse, I made another 50 QSOs – this is one of the highest number of contacts for any of my activations.
In summary I could not find any abnormalities in propagation this morning. I am sure that there has been scientific research on this subject – I will try to find out more!
Thanks to all stations for the support. Martin, df3mc