Alpine Propagation: How Mountains Affect VHF/UHF Propagation

Knife-Edge Diffraction

Mountain ridges act as edges where VHF/UHF signals diffract. Enables QSOs over mountains. 2m/70cm benefit most.

Mountain Reflection

Smooth slopes reflect signals — dual-path effect causes fading.

Optimal Locations

High-elevation sites (alpine meadows, summits) have line-of-sight over vast distances. SOTA at 2500m+ reaches 200-400 km (2m FM).

Temperature Inversion

Cold air in valleys, warm air above → inversion. VHF signals bent downward → ducting. Autumn/winter in Alpine valleys ideal for VHF-DX.

73!

Transparency Notice

AI-assisted (Claude).

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